Uganda Safaris From Kigali
Uganda safaris from Kigali are popular, especially for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and are often structured as multi-day trips that can include other activities like chimp trekking or game drives. These safaris start with a drive from Kigali, often via the Katuna/Gatuna border crossing into Uganda, and then return to Kigali at the end.
You can take Uganda safaris from Kigali, which is a convenient starting point for reaching Uganda’s main national parks due to its proximity. Popular options include multi-day trips to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking, with tours lasting anywhere from 2 days to 8 days or more. Shorter tours, like 1-day trips, are also available, though they require a very early start.
Popular Uganda Safaris From Kigali Options
- 1-Day Gorilla Trek Uganda: A long but feasible option involving a very early start (around 4:00 AM) to drive to Bwindi, trek, and return to Kigali in the evening.
- 2-Day Gorilla Trekking Uganda: A common short trip that typically includes Bwindi National Park for gorilla trekking and allows for a more relaxed pace compared to the 1-day option.
- 3-Day Uganda Gorilla Safari: A popular choice that often includes Bwindi for gorilla trekking and a visit to Lake Bunyonyi for a scenic and relaxing experience.
- 5-Day Gorilla and Game Safari: This itinerary typically involves game drives and a boat cruise in Queen Elizabeth National Park, followed by gorilla trekking in Bwindi.
1 Day Gorilla Trekking Uganda
A one-day gorilla trekking trip in Uganda is possible, typically involving a very early start from Kigali, Rwanda, to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for the trek, and a late return. This is a long and physically demanding day, with a significant amount of driving on either end of the trekking portion, so a multi-day safari is often recommended for a more relaxed experience. The trek itself can last anywhere from 1 to 6 hours depending on the location of the gorilla family.
2 Day Gorilla Trekking Uganda
A two-day gorilla trekking tour in Uganda is logistically challenging but possible, most often involving flying into Kigali, Rwanda, and driving to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. On day one, you travel to Uganda, and on day two, you trek to see the gorillas and drive back to Kigali in the evening. While a tight schedule, this condensed trip provides the experience of seeing mountain gorillas up close.
Gorilla Trekking From Kigali-Rwanda
A 3-day Bwindi gorilla trekking tour from Kigali includes a scenic drive from Kigali, a full day of gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and a return journey to Kigali. The tour involves a 4-5 hour transfer to Bwindi via the Cyanika border, and upon meeting the gorillas, you will spend one hour with them. The cost varies based on the tour operator, group size, and lodge, but often includes permits, accommodation, transport, and meals.
5 Day Uganda Gorilla Safari From Kigali
A 5-day Uganda gorilla safari from Kigali typically involves a road trip to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking, followed by a visit to Queen Elizabeth National Park for a game drive and boat cruise, before returning to Kigali for departure. It includes transfers, accommodations, game drives, and the gorilla trek itself, and is ideal for those with limited time.
Uganda Safaris From Kigali: Key considerations
Border crossing: The most common border crossings are Katuna or Cyanika, which are easily accessible from Kigali.
What to expect: Safari itineraries often include park fees, game drives, boat cruises, and other activities like community walks or chimpanzee trekking.
Costs: Prices vary depending on the tour length, accommodation level, and activities included. For example, a 1-day trip might cost around $1,100 to $1,200, while a 3-day trip could range from $1,400 to $1,700 or more.
