Gorilla Trekking in Uganda from Kigali: Why do a Uganda gorilla trekking safari from Kigali? Uganda is an African country located in the Eastern part that is blessed with a lot of beautiful nature, ranging from natural physical features like mountains and plateaus to water bodies like Lake Victoria, the largest freshwater lake in Africa, to unique cultures, which number over 50.
Among the physical features that are found in Uganda are national parks, which are ten in number. All these national parks are home to unique attractions; in Kibale National Park, there are over 13 different species of primates, Lake Mburo National Park is home to zebras, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park are home to mountain gorillas that bring thousands of travelers each year.
Are you ready for an unforgettable adventure? Gorilla trekking in Uganda is one of the most incredible wildlife experiences you can have, and starting your journey from Kigali, Rwanda, is a convenient option. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about planning your gorilla trekking safari in Uganda.
Mountain gorillas are great apes with developed brains, and they live in mountainous areas, like their name suggests. These gorillas live in groups, and in Uganda, there are 22 gorilla families, with 21 of these living in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and the other one living in Mgahinga National Park. This makes Bwindi a home to half of the remaining population of mountain gorillas in the world.
Though these mountain gorillas are endangered, everyone on this planet dreams about seeing them. For you to be among those who trek mountain gorillas, you need to either come to Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, or Rwanda, which are all gorilla destinations, and you must have a gorilla permit. A permit in Uganda costs USD 800 while in Rwanda, it costs USD 1500. When you want to trek mountain gorillas in Uganda, you can land in Entebbe or Kigali city of Rwanda, and then you can easily transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga National Park in southwestern Uganda.
Why Choose Uganda for Gorilla Trekking?
Uganda is home to approximately half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. The lush landscapes of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offer a unique habitat for these majestic creatures. Here are some reasons why Uganda should be your gorilla trekking destination:
Rich Biodiversity: Beyond gorillas, Uganda boasts diverse wildlife, including elephants, chimpanzees, and various bird species.
Cultural Experiences: Interact with local communities and learn about their traditions and lifestyles.
Stunning Landscapes: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Albertine Rift and the stunning hills of southwestern Uganda.
Getting There: Kigali to Uganda
Traveling from Kigali to Uganda is straightforward, with several options available:
Road Transfer: The drive from Kigali to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park takes about 4-5 hours. Enjoy scenic views along the way.
Private Shuttle Services: Several companies like Native Africa Tours offer shuttle services, providing a comfortable and convenient option.
Border Crossing: Ensure you have the necessary travel documents, including a valid visa for Uganda.
Planning Your Gorilla Trekking Safari
Best Time to Visit
The best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the dry seasons, from June to August and December to February. During these months, trails are less muddy, making hiking easier.
Gorilla Trekking Permits
Permits are essential for gorilla trekking and should be booked in advance. In Uganda, a permit costs $800. These permits allow you to spend one hour with the gorillas, ensuring a memorable experience.
What to Pack
Hiking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof boots are crucial for trekking through rugged terrain.
Clothing: Wear lightweight, long-sleeved clothing to protect against insects and vegetation.
Rain Gear: The weather can be unpredictable, so pack a rain jacket.
Binoculars and Camera: Capture the stunning wildlife and landscapes.
Choosing a Tour Operator
Selecting a reputable tour operator can enhance your experience. Look for operators that offer:
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides can enrich your trek with insights about gorillas and the ecosystem.
Customizable Itineraries: Choose a package that suits your interests and schedule.
What to Expect During Your Trek
Gorilla trekking typically starts early in the morning. After a briefing, you’ll head into the forest with your guide. Expect a challenging hike, as gorillas often move to higher altitudes. Once you find a gorilla family, you’ll have the chance to observe them in their natural habitat for one hour, an experience that is both thrilling and humbling.
Additional Activities
Consider adding extra activities to your trip, such as:
Bird Watching: Uganda is a birding paradise, home to over 1,000 species.
Cultural Tours: Visit local communities to learn about traditional crafts and music.
Nature Walks: Explore the stunning landscapes and diverse flora.
Call to Action
Ready to embark on your gorilla trekking adventure? Contact a local tour operator today to secure your permit and start planning the trip of a lifetime! Travelers who trek mountain gorillas in Uganda prefer passing through Rwanda because the distance is shorter compared to that from Entebbe / Kampala in Uganda. Traveling from Kigali to Bwindi will only take about 3-4 hours’ drive, but if traveling from Kampala to Bwindi, you would take almost 10 hours’ drive. This makes travelers prefer trekking mountain gorillas in Uganda through Kigali in Rwanda.
Trekking mountain gorillas in Uganda from Kigali is economical as travelers benefit from the permits since a gorilla permit in Uganda is cheaper than that of Rwanda, and thus favors the budget travelers because you spend less and get the best gorilla trekking experience ever in the world.
You will visit two countries at the same time when you trek gorillas in Uganda from Kigali. This will give you a chance to visit some other places in Kigali on your first like the Kigali and Gisozi genocide memorial sites, art centers and museums, and visit Kimironko Market.
On the second day, drive from Kigali to Bwindi via the Cyanika border and trek the mountain gorillas where you will be allowed to watch them do their daily behaviors for one hour but you can spend approximately 7 hours searching the gorilla group that is allocated for you to trek, then after coming back in Rwanda rest and the next day fly back to your home country if you are having a 3 days gorilla trekking safari.
For the one planning a short safari of 1,2, and 3 days, this favors you a lot because you will have less time and want to do gorilla trekking, so it is recommended for those with short safaris to trek mountain gorillas in Uganda from Kigali, for you to satisfy your dream holiday.
Conclusion
A gorilla trekking safari in Uganda from Kigali is an adventure of a lifetime. With breathtaking scenery, rich wildlife, and cultural experiences, it’s a journey that promises to leave you with unforgettable memories. Start planning your trip today, and get ready to encounter the gentle giants of the forest!
