3-Day Gorilla Trekking Budget Safari in Uganda From Kigali

We’ll pick you up from Kigali Airport or downtown Kigali and take you on a scenic drive to Bwindi National Park. The journey will take you through Rwanda’s charming northwestern town of Ruhengeri, the gateway to Volcanoes National Park, another renowned destination for mountain gorilla trekking. From there, we’ll loop around the mountains and cross into Uganda via the Cyanika or Katuna border posts.

As we continue through the picturesque towns of Kisoro and Kabale—small, serene towns nestled among the lush greenery at the base of the Virunga Mountains and near the shores of Lake Bunyonyi—you’ll be treated to breathtaking views. The winding mountain roads will lead us to Bwindi, where we’ll arrive by early afternoon.

You’ll have the rest of the afternoon to relax or choose from a variety of optional activities. Hike through the stunning hills, visit the local Batwa community, take a coffee-making tour to learn about the region’s largest industry, or enjoy a peaceful canoe ride at sunset on the tranquil Lake Mutanda, with the majestic mountains as your backdrop.

Accommodation Options:

Budget: Gorilla Valley Lodge

Midrange: Mutanda Lake Resort – Standard Cottage

Semi-Luxury: Mutanda Lake Resort – Luxury Cottage

Meal plan: Dinner

Today is the highlight of your adventure—the Uganda gorilla trek! You’ll set off on a thrilling full-day expedition to track the mountain gorillas in Bwindi Forest National Park, home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. This makes Bwindi the ultimate destination for gorilla tracking.

Your day will begin with a briefing on gorilla trekking etiquette and safety to ensure both your well-being and the protection of these magnificent creatures. Then, you’ll embark on the trek through the dense, lush forest, following the guides as they carve a path through the thick vegetation, all leading to a thrilling encounter with the gentle giants. The excitement of spotting the gorillas in their natural habitat is unmatched, and this moment is sure to be one of the most memorable highlights of your journey.

After your encounter, you’ll trek back downhill to the lodge, where you can relax, enjoy a well-deserved dinner, and unwind for a peaceful night’s sleep.

Accommodation Options:

Budget: Gorilla Valley Lodge

Midrange: Mutanda Lake Resort – Standard Cottage

Semi-Luxury: Mutanda Lake Resort – Luxury Cottage

Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

On the final day of your journey, you’ll leave Bwindi National Park and head back to Kigali, marking the end of your trip. But before you go, make the most of your last morning in this UNESCO World Heritage Site by choosing from a range of optional activities. Here’s a list of exciting options to enhance your experience before returning to Rwanda:

• Golden Monkey Trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
• The Batwa Trail Cultural Tour within Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
• Visit the Batwa Community in their village
• Canoe Trekking on Lake Mutanda
• Coffee-Making Experience
• Mabungo Community Village Tour in Kisoro

Accommodation: Not Included

Meal plan: Breakfast and lunch