Duration
Daily Tour
Tour Type
2 Days
Group Size
Max: Unlimited
Languages
English
2 days Uganda Gorilla Experience
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest with our Uganda Gorilla Experience. This package offers you a chance to come face-to-face with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. With convenient pick-up from Kigali, Rwanda, this short but action-packed itinerary is perfect for those with limited time who want to experience the wonder of Uganda’s wildlife and rich biodiversity. Here’s a detailed guide on what you can expect during your incredible 2-day gorilla trek.
Tour Inclusions
- Meals
- Accommodation
- Gorilla Permit
- Driver/guide
- All airport transfers
- Drinks and snacks
- Transportation
Travel Plan
-
01
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Your adventure begins with a warm welcome from our expert guide who will pick you up from Kigali International Airport or your hotel in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital. Kigali is known for its cleanliness, friendly people, and bustling markets, offering an interesting start to your trip. After meeting your guide, you’ll set off on the first leg of your journey—a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial.
Visit to Kigali Genocide Memorial
The Kigali Genocide Memorial is a deeply moving site that commemorates the victims of the 1994 Rwandan Genocide. This visit will take about 1.5 to 2 hours and provides a powerful and poignant insight into Rwanda’s history, resilience, and recovery. The memorial includes exhibitions that document the events leading up to, during, and after the genocide, as well as a beautiful garden that serves as a resting place for over 250,000 victims. This stop is not just a reflection on Rwanda’s past but a testament to the nation’s commitment to peace and unity.Scenic Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
After this profound experience, you’ll begin the scenic drive to Uganda, crossing the border into a land of rolling hills, lush landscapes, and rich biodiversity. The journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is an adventure in itself, offering stunning views of terraced hills, vibrant local villages, and the sprawling tea plantations that define this region of East Africa. During the drive, you’ll have opportunities to stop for photos, stretch your legs, and take in the beautiful scenery. Your guide will share insights about the regions you pass through, enhancing your understanding of the local culture and environment.Arrival and Evening Relaxation at Bwindi
Arriving at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, you’ll check into your accommodation, nestled on the edge of the forest with sweeping views of the dense, mist-covered jungle. Depending on your arrival time, you may have a chance to take a short nature walk, explore the local village, or simply relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. As evening falls, enjoy a delicious dinner featuring local and international cuisine. The night at Bwindi is an experience in itself; the sounds of the forest come alive, with the calls of nocturnal animals and the rustling of leaves providing a unique soundtrack to your stay. -
02
Day 2 :Gorilla Tracking and Return to Kigali
Morning Briefing and Gorilla Tracking Adventure
Rise early for breakfast, with the breathtaking backdrop of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most biologically diverse areas on Earth and is home to nearly half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas. After breakfast, you will proceed to the park’s Visitor Information Center, where you will meet your ranger guide for a mandatory briefing. During this session, you’ll learn the rules and guidelines for gorilla tracking—these include keeping a safe distance, staying quiet, and following instructions from your guide to ensure a safe and respectful encounter with these critically endangered animals.
With anticipation and excitement building, you’ll begin your trek into the forest. The duration of the trek can vary depending on the location of the gorillas, ranging from 2 to 6 hours. The terrain can be steep, muddy, and challenging, but your experienced ranger guide will lead the way, navigating through thick vegetation and sharing fascinating insights about the forest and its inhabitants. Along the way, you may also encounter other wildlife, such as monkeys, birds, and unique plant species that thrive in this ancient ecosystem.Face-to-Face with the Mountain Gorillas
The moment you spot your first gorilla is indescribable. Observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat is an experience that touches the soul. You’ll spend about an hour with a gorilla family, watching as they go about their daily lives—feeding, playing, grooming, and interacting with each other. The silverback, the dominant male of the group, commands respect with his size and strength, while the playful antics of the young ones add a touch of joy to the encounter. This hour is strictly regulated to minimize human impact on the gorillas, but it will undoubtedly be one of the most memorable hours of your life.Return to Kigali
After this extraordinary experience, you’ll trek back to the park headquarters, where you’ll receive a certificate commemorating your successful gorilla tracking adventure. Refreshed and with a sense of accomplishment, you’ll begin the journey back to Kigali. The drive provides time to reflect on the incredible sights and sounds you’ve experienced, and your guide will be happy to answer any final questions you have about the region, its wildlife, and its people.
Upon arrival in Kigali, your guide will drop you off at your hotel or at Kigali International Airport, depending on your onward travel plans. As your 2-day Uganda Gorilla Experience comes to an end, we hope you carry with you unforgettable memories of your close encounter with the mountain gorillas and the beauty of East Africa.