3-Day Gorilla Trek from Kigali to Bwindi | Budget Uganda Gorilla Safari

3-Day Gorilla Trek from Kigali to Bwindi

Overview

A compact, high-impact safari designed for travelers based in Rwanda who want to experience Uganda’s legendary mountain gorillas at a lower cost. Starting and ending in Kigali, this tour maximizes your time by taking you directly to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—for an unforgettable gorilla trekking encounter. The itinerary also includes a scenic escape to the tranquil Lake Bunyonyi, offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in just three days.

Trek Endangered Mountain Gorillas: Spend a life-changing hour with a habituated gorilla family in the ancient forests of Bwindi.
Scenic Cross-Border Journey: Travel through Rwanda’s “Land of a Thousand Hills” and into Uganda’s dramatic highlands.
Cultural Encounter: Optional visit to the indigenous Batwa community to learn about their forest heritage and traditions.
Relax at Lake Bunyonyi: Unwind after your trek at one of Africa’s most beautiful lakes, known for its 29 islands and stunning scenery.
Kigali Genocide Memorial Visit: A complimentary, poignant stop at this important memorial to understand Rwanda’s history (on request, Day 1).

Itinerary

Day 1: Kigali to Bwindi – Into the Impenetrable Forest

Meet your guide in Kigali (hotel or airport) for a briefing. Optionally, visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial (complimentary). Then, embark on a scenic 4-5 hour drive across the border into Uganda, passing rolling hills and terraced farmland. Arrive at your lodge near Bwindi. If energy permits, enjoy an optional cultural visit to a Batwa community.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Bweza Gorilla Lodge (Mid-range) or similar

Border Note: Your guide will assist with all Uganda visa formalities (ensure you have the required visa/EA Tourist Visa in advance).

Day 2: The Apex Experience – Gorilla Trekking & To Lake Bunyonyi

An early start for the day’s highlight. After breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for a comprehensive briefing. Then, begin your gorilla trek! The hike can be strenuous (2-8 hours round-trip) through dense, steep terrain, but the reward is unparalleled: one magical hour observing a gorilla family. After trekking and lunch, receive your trekking certificate and drive to the serene Lake Bunyonyi. Relax or take an optional evening boat ride.

Key Packing: Sturdy hiking boots, rain jacket, gloves, daypack, camera (no flash).

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation: Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort (Mid-range)

Day 3: Serenity & Return – Lake Bunyonyi to Kigali

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with breathtaking lake views. Opt for a morning boat cruise to explore the islands if you haven’t already. Afterwards, begin the return journey to Kigali, crossing back into Rwanda. You will be dropped off at your hotel or at Kigali International Airport (KGL) for your onward flight, filled with incredible memories.

Meals: Breakfast

Travel Time: Approximately 4-5 hours drive.

Inclusions & Exclusions

All airport/hotel pick-ups and drop-offs.
Full-time services of a professional, English-speaking driver/guide.
All ground transportation in a customized 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof.
Accommodation for 2 nights as specified (Mid-range lodges).
One Gorilla Trekking Permit per person (valued at $800).
Meals as indicated in the itinerary
Bottled drinking water in the vehicle.
Complimentary visit to Kigali Genocide Memorial (on request, Day 1).