2 Day Bwindi Gorilla Safari via Kigali
2 Day Bwindi Gorilla Safari via Kigali
Overview
This 2 day Bwindi gorilla safari via Kigali is perfect for travelers who want to experience Uganda’s mountain gorillas in the shortest time possible. Starting from Kigali, Rwanda, this itinerary offers a shorter and more scenic 4–5-hour drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park compared to the 9–10 hours from Entebbe. It’s ideal for those with limited time who still want a life-changing gorilla trekking experience in Uganda at a more affordable permit cost of USD 800 per person.
Whether you’re short on time or want to avoid long drives, our 2-day Bwindi gorilla safari through Kigali is the perfect choice.
Safari Highlights
-
Starts and ends in Kigali, Rwanda
-
Cross the border into Uganda via Katuna
-
Track endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
-
Scenic drive through Rwanda’s “Land of a Thousand Hills”
-
Gorilla permit included – $800 USD per person
-
Private 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof or open-sided option
-
Solo travelers welcome | Daily departures available
Cost Includes
- Airport transfers on first and last day,
- Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Services of an English speaking driver guide
- Fuel for the whole trip
- Accommodation and meal plan as per the itinerary
- All park entrance fees
- Drinking water while in the vehicle
- Gorilla trekking permit
Cost excludes
- Pre and post tour accommodation in Entebbe or Kampala
- International airfares
- Uganda Visa (USD50.00 which can be paid on arrival at the Airport
- Items of personal nature such as tips and drinks
Trip Itinerary
Morning:
Our professional driver-guide will pick you up from Kigali International Airport or your hotel in Kigali. You’ll begin your journey with a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a moving and insightful tribute to Rwanda’s history.
Afternoon:
Continue your drive through Rwanda’s lush hills, crossing into Uganda at the Katuna border. Enjoy scenic views along the way before stopping in Kabale for lunch. Afterward, proceed to your lodge near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Evening:
Arrive at your lodge, check-in, and relax. Dinner will be served at the lodge.
-
Drive Time: 4–5 hours
-
Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation Options:
-
Budget: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge / Bakiga Lodge
-
Mid-range: Four Gorillas Lodge / Gorilla Leisure Lodge / Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
-
Luxury: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge / Gorilla Heights Lodge / Kiho Gorilla Lodge
Morning:
After an early breakfast, head to the Bwindi park headquarters for a pre-trek briefing. You’ll learn the gorilla trekking rules and be assigned a gorilla family group. Trekking can last from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the location of the gorillas and your fitness level.
Once you find the gorillas, you’ll spend one unforgettable hour observing them in their natural habitat — watching them eat, play, and interact.
Afternoon:
Return to the starting point, receive your gorilla trekking certificate, and begin your drive back to Kigali. You’ll cross the border again at Katuna, arriving in Kigali in time for an evening flight or an overnight stay.
Note: If you plan to fly out the same day, book a flight that departs after 8:00 PM to allow enough time for travel.
-
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch
Request a Quote
Recommended Safari Experiences
Looking to extend your journey? These related safaris provide fantastic opportunities to add variety and depth to your trip—combining thrilling wildlife encounters with authentic cultural moments.
