Embark on an exceptional Gorilla Trekking Safari that takes you deep into Uganda’s Bwindi Forest National Park and Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. This adventure provides a unique chance to observe mountain gorillas in their natural environment, offering not just one, but two unforgettable wildlife encounters with these endangered primates.

Exploring these ancient rainforests is a stunning experience in itself. These ecological gems are home to a remarkable array of wildlife, birds, insects, and plant life, including many rare and endemic species that contribute to their status as a true biodiversity hotspot.

The 6-Day Uganda & Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari features comfortable, high-quality accommodations, private transfers, a knowledgeable personal guide, an unforgettable golden monkey tracking experience in Volcanoes National Park, and an enriching tour of Kigali City.

Itinerary for this Tour

Gorilla trekking
Gorilla and baby in Rwanda by Derek Keats
Scenery-in-Kibale
Baby gorilla
Safari vehicle
Rwanda gorillas by Joachim Huber
Gorilla
Jungle
Volcanoes gorilla by Joachim Huber

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe or Kampala, Uganda

Upon your arrival at Entebbe International Airport, the gateway to Kampala, you will receive a warm welcome from our guide, signaling the beginning of your journey in Uganda. After your introduction, you will be taken to your first overnight accommodation nearby.

Take some time to relax and savour a delightful dinner at your lodging, allowing yourself to unwind after your travels.

Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Journey from Kampala to Bwindi National Park – Uganda

Your day starts early at 7:00 AM, as your guide arrives to collect you from the guest house for a picturesque drive to Bwindi National Park.

Leaving Entebbe and Kampala behind, we travel southwest through Masaka towards Mbarara, which is about 283 kilometres from Kampala. Along the way, we will stop at the equator for some photos and light snacks. Following this, we will visit the Igongo Cultural Centre and delve into the intriguing Ankole Museum before enjoying lunch at a local motel in Mbarara.

Post-lunch, we will continue our journey into the stunning highlands of Uganda, drawing nearer to the ancient rainforests of Bwindi. These verdant forests are among the oldest ecosystems in Africa, boasting a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna.

Tonight, you will stay at a lodge located on the edge of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. With views of peaceful tea plantations and lush rainforests, this serene retreat is the ideal setting for the unforgettable gorilla trek that awaits you tomorrow. Enjoy dinner at the lodge as you relax and gear up for the adventure ahead.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel Time: Approximately 8 hours

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi National Park – Uganda

Today marks the beginning of an extraordinary adventure as we set out on our first mountain gorilla trek—a memory to cherish for a lifetime!

The day starts with breakfast at the lodge, followed by a transfer to the headquarters of Bwindi Forest National Park. Be sure to pack essentials such as a rain jacket, drinking water, snacks, and the packed lunch provided by the lodge. Sturdy trekking boots are a must for navigating the swamps and dense jungle terrain.

At 8:00 AM, staff from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) provide a briefing session at the headquarters, explaining the procedures for gorilla trekking. After this introduction, UWA rangers accompany us into the lush and mystical Bwindi Forest, home to nearly half of the world’s mountain gorilla population.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognised for its global significance in harbouring mountain gorillas and its incredible biodiversity. Strolling through this ancient jungle is an unforgettable experience; exotic birds, insects, mammals, and reptiles are common sights amidst the dense undergrowth and twisting vines. The forest is home to 11 primate species, around 90 mammal species, and a diverse array of birds and butterflies. Our trek through this remarkable wilderness will last between two and six hours. Though physically demanding, the journey is undeniably rewarding.

Upon locating the assigned gorilla group, we pause to observe them in their natural habitat for a full hour. With only about 1,000 wild gorillas remaining globally, nearly half reside in Bwindi within four family groups. Watching these fascinating creatures interact—grooming, feeding, playing, relaxing—offers one of the most emotional and profound wildlife experiences imaginable.

After returning from our memorable encounter with the gorillas, we visit Buhoma Village in the afternoon. Starting at the Buhoma Community Rest Camp, a guide leads us on a walking tour of the village. This provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with locals, learn about their way of life, and contribute directly to the community.

The day concludes back at the lodge, where we enjoy a hearty dinner before retiring for a well-earned rest.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Bwindi to Volcanoes National Park – Rwanda

Begin your morning surrounded by the stunning views of verdant forested hills as you enjoy a delicious breakfast at the lodge. After bidding farewell to Bwindi Forest and its magnificent gorillas, we set out on a journey across the border into Rwanda’s breathtaking countryside—aptly nicknamed the ‘Land of a Thousand Hills.’

The day’s destination is Ruhengeri, now known as Musanze, which serves as the gateway to exploring Volcanoes National Park. Upon arrival in this picturesque region at the base of the Virunga Mountains, we visit the spectacular Twin Lakes—Lake Ruhondo and Lake Burera. Surrounded by rolling green hills with the majestic Virunga Massif as a backdrop, it’s a perfect spot to take in the serene beauty before moving on.

After immersing ourselves in this tranquil lakeside environment, we head to our accommodation for dinner and some well-deserved relaxation.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park – Rwanda

The fifth day starts with an early breakfast before departing for Volcanoes National Park, recognised as one of the top global destinations for mountain gorilla trekking.

Upon reaching the park headquarters, your driver-guide will take care of the necessary paperwork while park rangers give a comprehensive briefing about the trek ahead. After that, prepare for an extraordinary second gorilla trekking experience, delving into the lush rainforests of Central Africa.

Volcanoes National Park spans an impressive 160 square kilometres, characterised by afro-montane and bamboo forests that showcase its pristine beauty. This protected area derives its name from the five majestic volcanoes within its territory, but is most famous for being home to the iconic African mountain gorillas. In addition to the gorillas, the park is rich in biodiversity, featuring approximately 200 bird species along with a remarkable array of flora, fauna, and insects—including numerous rare and endemic species. You will be assigned to track one of the ten habituated gorilla groups, accompanied by park rangers who skillfully locate them in their natural environment.

Once the gorilla group is located, you will have the exceptional opportunity to spend a full hour observing these remarkable primates. Watching them engage in activities such as grooming, playing, resting, and feeding provides a rare glimpse into their behavior—a profoundly moving experience that underscores their gentle nature and strikingly human-like interactions.

After this unforgettable encounter, you will trek back to the park headquarters before returning to your accommodation to enjoy dinner and some well-deserved relaxation.

Meals provided: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6: Golden Monkey Tracking in Volcanoes National Park and Kigali, Rwanda

On the last day of our journey, we head back to Volcanoes National Park, this time to track the endangered golden monkeys, a species that is unique to the Virunga Mountains region.

This adventure entails a relatively easy hike through the lush bamboo forests located on the lower slopes of the park. We spend an hour observing these rare and lively animals as they leap from tree branches and scurry across the forest floor. Their energetic and social behaviour makes this encounter a memorable wildlife experience.

After the trek, we have lunch in Ruhengeri before travelling southeast to Rwanda’s capital, Kigali. During the journey, we stop several times to admire the stunning views of the rolling green hills that characterise Rwanda’s picturesque landscape.

Upon reaching Kigali, we begin a city tour that includes visits to the significant Genocide Memorial and a lively arts and crafts market. At the end of the tour, you will be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your onward journey.

Meals Provided: Breakfast and Lunch

Uganda & Rwanda Safari Accommodation

This gorilla trekking package provides both budget-friendly and mid-range accommodation choices. For detailed pricing and additional information, please consult the full pricing details.