Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Safari from Kigali City: A 2 Days Thrilling Adventure into the Wild

A 2-day Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Safari from Kigali is the perfect escape for wildlife lovers, offering an exceptional opportunity to come face-to-face with the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This expertly planned journey takes you from the bustling Kigali City, through the scenic landscapes of Rwanda, into Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, one of the world’s most renowned gorilla trekking destinations. Although brief, this adventure is packed with awe-inspiring moments, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the untouched wilderness of East Africa, while engaging in one of the most profound wildlife experiences—gorilla trekking.

This 2-Day Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Safari, beginning and ending in Kigali, is designed to offer maximum convenience to international travelers, cutting down on long drives while ensuring that you get the most out of your two days. Whether you’re an avid adventurer, nature enthusiast, or just seeking a short but impactful 2-Day Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Safari experience, this package has it all.

Uganda Gorilla Trekking Experience

Day 1: Pickup from Kigali Airport and Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Ruhija Sector)

Your 2-Day Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Safari adventure begins as you land at Kigali International Airport, where your experienced safari guide will warmly welcome you. After a brief orientation, you’ll embark on a scenic drive towards Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda’s Ruhija sector. This drive, which typically takes 4-5 hours, offers spectacular views of Rwanda’s rolling hills, quaint villages, and lush tea plantations. Along the way, your guide will point out landmarks, cultural highlights, and provide insights into the region’s history.

As you approach the Ugandan border, you will notice a change in terrain as the misty forests of Bwindi start to reveal themselves. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famed for its biodiversity and the dense, ancient jungle that is home to half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas. The Ruhija sector, one of the four trekking regions in Bwindi, is known for its remote and peaceful atmosphere, making it a preferred trekking spot for travelers seeking a more intimate 2-Day Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Safari experience.

Once you arrive at your lodge or camp in the Ruhija sector, you can relax and enjoy the evening at leisure. You’ll be surrounded by breathtaking views of the forest canopy, and, if you’re lucky, you might hear the distant calls of wildlife. Dinner is served at your lodge, where you can prepare for the next day’s adventure.

Accommodation: Ruhija Gorilla guest house

What to See?

• Scenic landscapes of Rwanda and Uganda
• Lush green hills and tea plantations
• Local Rwandan and Ugandan villages
• Bwindi Impenetrable Forest’s dense and misty jungle

Inclusions for Day 1:

• Pickup from Kigali International Airport
• Road transfer to Bwindi via the scenic route
• All meals and accommodation in a mid-range lodge in Ruhija
• Expert guide and driver services

Uganda Gorilla Trekking Experience

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest and Transfer Back to Kigali Airport

Day two is the pinnacle of your 2-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari in the world-renowned Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. After an early breakfast, you’ll head to the Bwindi Park headquarters where you will meet your trekking guides and receive a briefing on the gorilla trekking protocols. You’ll then set off into the forest, led by professional rangers who are familiar with the whereabouts of the gorilla families. Bwindi’s thick forest terrain can be challenging, with steep hills and muddy paths, but the effort is always worth it.

After trekking for anywhere between one to four hours (depending on the location of the gorillas), you will come face-to-face with a gorilla family in their natural habitat. This awe-inspiring moment is likely to be one of the most memorable experiences of your life. You’ll have one full hour to observe the gorillas as they interact, feed, play, and care for their young. Make sure to capture photos, but more importantly, soak in the experience as you connect with these majestic creatures.

Following the trek, you’ll return to the lodge to freshen up before your return journey to Kigali. You’ll retrace your route back to Kigali Airport, where your safari will officially end. Depending on the time of your flight, there may be an opportunity for a brief city tour in Kigali to explore cultural landmarks such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial.

What to See?

• The incredible mountain gorillas of Bwindi
• Unique flora and fauna of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
• The vibrant wildlife of the forest floor, including birds and primates
• Optional city tour of Kigali (depending on time)

Inclusions for Day 2:

• Early morning gorilla trekking permit
• Guided gorilla trekking experience with professional rangers
• Return transfer to Kigali International Airport
• All meals and lodge facilities until check-out
• Optional Kigali city tour (subject to time)

Where to Adventure on the 2-Day Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Safari?

About Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a dense tropical rainforest located in southwestern Uganda. Spanning over 321 square kilometers, it is home to nearly half of the world’s mountain gorilla population, making it a prime destination for gorilla trekking safaris. The forest is renowned for its biodiversity, housing over 120 mammal species, 348 bird species, and 220 butterfly species. Bwindi’s name, “impenetrable,” is apt due to its dense undergrowth, vines, and thick canopy, which makes navigating the forest an adventurous task. However, it’s this very ecosystem that sustains the mountain gorillas and many other rare species.

Besides gorillas, Bwindi is home to chimpanzees, elephants, and various species of antelope, making it one of the most biologically diverse rainforests in East Africa.

The Uganda Gorilla Trekking Experience

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that allows travelers to observe mountain gorillas in their natural environment. This experience is physically demanding yet highly rewarding. Trekking takes place in small groups, ensuring minimal disturbance to the gorillas while enhancing the intimacy of the 2-Day Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Safari experience.

Uganda offers more affordable trekking permits compared to neighboring Rwanda, making it a popular choice for tourists seeking a cost-effective yet incredible gorilla experience. In Bwindi, you can choose from four trekking sectors—Ruhija, Buhoma, Nkuringo, and Rushaga—all offering excellent gorilla encounters. The best time to visit for trekking is during Uganda’s two dry seasons, from June to August and December to February, when the forest trails are less slippery and visibility is optimal.

After completing your trek, you’ll receive a certificate acknowledging your participation in the conservation of these critically endangered animals.

2-Day Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Safari Inclusions and Exclusions

Safari Inclusions:

• Pickup and drop-off at Kigali International Airport
• Private transport in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle
• Services of a professional driver/guide
• Full board accommodation for one night in Bwindi
• All meals as specified in the itinerary
• Gorilla trekking permit (worth $800)
• Bottled water while on safari

Safari Exclusions:

• International flights
• Rwanda and Uganda visa fees
• Personal expenses (e.g. laundry, tips, beverages)
• Travel insurance
• Optional activities or city tours in Kigali
• Any other expenses not listed in the itinerary

Conclusion

The 2-Day Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Safari from Kigali offers an exceptional opportunity to experience Uganda’s wilderness in a short yet impactful journey. From the breathtaking drive through Rwanda’s rolling hills to the heart-pounding adventure of trekking mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, this safari ensures an unforgettable experience that will remain etched in your memory. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first African adventure, this itinerary offers the perfect mix of nature, wildlife, and convenience.