Safari Overview

This 3-Day Uganda Double Gorilla Trek Safari offers a rare, high-intensity encounter with the endangered Mountain Gorillas in two distinct habitats. Starting from Kigali, Rwanda, you will cross into Uganda to explore Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga National Park. This Double Trek is designed for primate enthusiasts who want to compare the dense, ancient greenery of Bwindi with the dramatic volcanic slopes of the Virunga Massif. With two trekking permits included, you maximize your chances of seeing different gorilla family behaviors in the only two parks in Uganda where these giants reside.

 

Safari Highlights

• Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, city tour (Genocide Memorial), and scenic transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
• Day 2: First Gorilla Trek in Mgahinga, Batwa cultural experience, and transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
• Day 3: Second Gorilla Trek in Bwindi Forest and return transfer to Kigali for departure.

 

Detailed Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Mgahinga National Park

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be welcomed by our professional guide. You will start your journey with a brief but poignant tour of the Kigali Genocide Memorial and the vibrant Kimironko Market.

Following lunch, you will begin the 3 to 4-hour drive toward the Uganda border. This route takes you through the Land of a Thousand Hills, offering spectacular views of terraced mountains. After border formalities at Cyanika, you enter the clouds of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, situated on the slopes of the Virunga Volcanoes.

• Accommodation: Kisoro Transit Hotel (Mid-Range) / Trackers Safari Lodge (Luxury)
• Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner

 

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga & Transfer to Bwindi

Your first encounter with the giants begins today. After a pre-trek briefing at the park headquarters, you will enter the bamboo-rich forests of Mgahinga. This park is home to the Nyakagezi gorilla family, known for their frequent sightings and majestic backdrop of the volcanoes.

In the afternoon, engage in a Batwa Cultural Visit. The Batwa (Keepers of the Forest) will share their ancient hunter-gatherer secrets and traditional dances. Later, you will take a short 1 to 2-hour scenic drive to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Rushaga/Nkuringo sector).

• Accommodation: Rushaga Broadbill Gorilla Camp (Mid-Range) / Kiho Gorilla Safari Lodge (Luxury)
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

 

Day 3: Second Gorilla Trek in Bwindi and Return to Kigali

Today provides a completely different trekking aesthetic. Bwindi’s dense undergrowth and ancient canopy offer a jungle experience compared to Mgahinga’s bamboo. Following a briefing by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), you will trek to find your second gorilla family. Witnessing their social grooming and silverback leadership for a second time provides a profound depth to your safari.

After the trek, you will begin your return journey to Kigali. Note: For any journey segments exceeding 6 hours in total travel time for the day, we include scheduled Leg-Stretcher stops at scenic viewpoints and local craft hubs to ensure comfort and photography opportunities. You will arrive in Kigali in the evening for your flight or hotel drop-off.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch

 

Safari Inclusions & Exclusions

Tour Inclusions	Tour Exclusions
1 Bwindi Gorilla Permit ($800)	International & Domestic Flights
1 Mgahinga Gorilla Permit ($800)	Rwanda/Uganda Visa Fees
4×4 Safari Land Cruiser / Van	Travel Insurance
Professional English-speaking Guide	Tips and Gratuities (Approx. $10/day)
Full Board Accommodation	Items of a personal nature
Bottled Drinking Water	Alcoholic Beverages

 

Quick Facts

• Best Time to Visit: June to September and December to February (Dry seasons).
• Trekking Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging (Bwindi is steeper; Mgahinga is higher altitude).
• Starting/Ending Point: Kigali, Rwanda (Offers a shorter drive time than starting from Entebbe).
• Species Encountered: Mountain Gorillas (Gorilla beringei beringei), Golden Monkeys, and various Albertine Rift endemics.

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