Safari Overview

Experience the ultimate primate odyssey with this 4-day Double Gorilla Trekking Safari, spanning the two premier gorilla destinations in the world. This cross-border adventure begins in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Virunga Mountains, and concludes in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

By trekking in both countries, you will witness the differences in terrain—from the bamboo-covered volcanic slopes of Rwanda to the ancient, dense rainforests of Uganda—while encountering two distinct gorilla families. This safari is intricately crafted for those who want to maximize their time with these gentle giants while supporting vital conservation efforts across East Africa.

 

Safari Highlights

• Day 1: Arrive in Kigali, visit the Genocide Memorial, and transfer to the home of the gorillas.
• Day 2: First Gorilla Trek in Rwanda and a scenic border crossing to Uganda.
• Day 3: Second Gorilla Trek in Uganda, followed by an authentic Batwa Cultural experience.
• Day 4: Scenic drive through the Kigezi Highlands back to Kigali for your departure.

 

Detailed Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Kigali City Heritage & Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be met by your professional guide. Your journey begins with a somber but vital visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, offering deep insight into Rwanda’s history and its inspiring journey of rebuilding. Afterward, you will visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, a state-of-the-art conservation center dedicated to protecting gorillas.

Following lunch, enjoy a 3-hour scenic drive north to the base of the Virunga Volcanoes.

• Accommodation: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge (Mid-range) / Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel (Luxury)
• Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner

 

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda & Crossing to Bwindi (Uganda)

After an early breakfast and briefing at the park headquarters, you will enter Volcanoes National Park. The trek here often leads through bamboo forests, where you will spend one hour with a Rwandan gorilla family.

After the trek, you will begin your transfer to Uganda.

Travel Note: This journey to the Bwindi/Nkuringo region takes approximately 3–4 hours, including border crossing formalities. As you cross the border, you will be treated to the spectacular sight of the thousand hills meeting the rugged ridges of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

• Accommodation: Gorilla Mist Camp (Mid-range) / Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge (Luxury)
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

 

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi & Batwa Cultural Encounter

Today, experience the contrast of trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The jungle here is thicker and older, offering a different atmosphere for your second gorilla encounter. Following the trek, you will visit the Batwa Cultural Village. The Batwa were the original keepers of the forest, and they will demonstrate their traditional hunting techniques, fire-making skills, and medicinal plant knowledge.

• Accommodation: Gorilla Mist Camp (Mid-range) / Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge (Luxury)
• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

 

Day 4: Scenic Drive to Kigali & Departure

Enjoy a final breakfast overlooking the misty forest canopy. You will then begin your return journey to Kigali.

Travel Note: This drive takes roughly 4–5 hours. We include a stopover for photography and a stretch to admire the rolling hills of Kisoro and the Virunga peaks before arriving at Kigali International Airport for your evening flight.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch

 

Tour Inclusions & Exclusions

Category	Inclusions (Included)	Exclusions (Not Included)
Permits	1 Rwanda Gorilla Permit ($1,500) & 1 Uganda Gorilla Permit ($800)	International & Domestic flights
Transport	Exclusive use of a 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser	Entry Visa fees (East Africa Tourist Visa recommended)
Activities	Genocide Memorial & Ellen DeGeneres Campus visit	Optional activities in Kigali or Bwindi
Cultural	Batwa Community Visit	Tips and Gratuities for guides & staff
Accommodation	Full Board (Lodging, Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)	Personal Travel Insurance
Transfers	Airport & Inter-hotel transfers	Items of a personal nature (Laundry, Mini-bar)
Refreshments	Bottled mineral water in the vehicle	Alcoholic and soft drinks at lodges

 

 

Quick Facts

• Destinations: Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda) & Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Uganda).
• Key Highlight: Double Trekking, seeing two different gorilla families in two different countries.
• Travel Tip: This route is best served by an East Africa Tourist Visa, which allows multiple entries between Rwanda and Uganda.
• Best Time to Visit: Dry seasons (June–August and December–February) for easier trekking conditions.
• Conservation Impact: Your permits directly support the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund and Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers.

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