Gorilla Trekking is undeniably the most exciting wildlife experience, drawing thousands of travellers from across the World into Uganda. Mountain gorillas are currently trekked in the countries-Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo but Uganda shelters the highest number of these Great apes in two National Parks – Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks. There are over 60% of the World’s mountain gorillas living in the jungles of these two parks with over 21 habituated gorilla families.
Uganda obviously offers the highest number of gorilla permits at even affordable rates ($700) compared to the neighboring Rwanda but visitors sometimes opt for the latter because of the long driving distance from Uganda’s Capital to Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks. Gorilla Trekking in Uganda from Kigali is therefore the best option for most travellers with flights to Rwanda’s Kigali International Airport, and then continue to Uganda’s Bwindi or Mgahinga National Parks by road with border crossings at either Cyanika border point (Kisoro) or Katuna (Kabale). This option also favors travellers who are limited by time yet wish to experience the adventure from Uganda. This also means that the gorilla safari kicks off and ends in Kigali.
A valid passport and Visa, preferably the East African Tourist Visa allowing you to visit Rwanda and Uganda during the same safari. This Visa can be booked online through Immigration website of Rwanda or Rwandan Embassy in country of Origin and will be issued on arrival at Kigali International Airport.
Reasons to undertake Gorilla Trekking in Uganda from Kigali.
Travellers can opt for gorilla trekking in Uganda from Kigali for a number of reasons and these include;
Cheaper option.
Gorilla Trekking in Uganda from Kigali is relatively cheaper than it is in Rwanda. A gorilla permit in Rwanda costs $1500 per person per trek while it is $800 less when done in Uganda. Gorilla permits for Uganda cost $700 for foreign non-residents, $600 for foreign residents as well as only UG. Shs. 250, 000 for East African residents.
Shorter driving distance and time saving.
Driving from Kampala to Bwindi Impenetrable or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in the south-western side of the country lasts 8-9 hours yet it is only 3-4 hours when connecting from Kigali, Rwanda. Therefore travellers who prefer shorter driving distance can undertake gorilla treks in Uganda from Kigali and also with this option, it is possible to undertake short gorilla safaris of even one or two days.
For 1 day gorilla trekking in Uganda from Kigali, travellers will be expected to hit the road by 4:00am so as to start the adventure by 7:00am with briefing. Undertake the 2-5 hours’ gorilla trekking adventure and even return back to Kigali the same day, which wouldn’t be possible if the safari started from Kampala or Entebbe.
Possibility to visit two countries during the same gorilla safari.
Undertaking gorilla trekking in Uganda from Kigali makes it possible to explore two countries in the same gorilla safari. You will arrive through Rwanda where you will be treated to awe-inspiring views of Rwanda’s thousand hills as well as City excursion through its historical sites then travel to Uganda for the gorilla safari in Bwindi or Mgahinga National Parks.
It is therefore possible to take part in the Gorilla Habituation Experience involving semi-habituated gorillas and provides 4 hours in the presence of mountain gorillas.
Best time to do gorilla trekking in Uganda from Kigali.
Gorilla trekking safari in Uganda from Kigali can be undertaken all year round but has to be booked at least 6 months in advance. This allows advance planning and makes it possible to book gorilla permits, plan accommodation as well as transport on time.
