Safari overview:
Our tour representative is ready to take you to the home of gorillas in Bwindi National Park. You will encounter different creatures while on this safari such as the duikers, elephants, civets, golden cats, different bird species and many more. Not forgetting the beautiful landscapes in Kigali Rwanda and Kigezi in Uganda, places in the city of Kigali like the genocide memorial centre, art and gallery villages, and local markets will also be visited. Also, explore the unique and most attractive culture in Uganda the Batwa pygmies which will take you through their traditional dances.
Discover Our Rates & Accommodations for This Tour
Mid-Range Class
All of our tours can be personalised. For most safari itineraries, we can offer luxury, mid-range or budget versions upon request. To find out more, contact us directly
| 2 people sharing | 4 people sharing | 6 people sharing | Single supplement ⓘ |
|---|---|---|---|
| From $1,899 p/p | From $1,686 p/p | From $1,599 p/p | From $419 |
Prices indicated are per person (p/p).
Detailed itinerary
Day 1: The Scenic Drive from Kigali to Bwindi
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, or from your hotel, you will be met by your Epic Uganda Vacation guide. Immediately, we begin our journey northwest toward the Uganda border. Notably, the 4–5 hour drive offers breathtaking views of Rwanda’s “thousand hills” before we cross via the Katuna (Gatuna) Border. Following immigration, we enter the Kigezi highlands—often called the “Switzerland of Africa.” We arrive at the Gorilla Leisure Lodge in the Rushaga sector, perfectly positioned for your trek tomorrow.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking & The Batwa Heritage Experience
At dawn, after a hearty breakfast, we head to the park headquarters with packed lunches. Following a briefing on forest etiquette—such as maintaining a safe distance and avoiding flash photography—you will enter the ancient rainforest. Indeed, the trek can last from 2 to 8 hours as you track the gorillas through the dense canopy. Once found, the one hour spent in their presence is a profound, life-altering experience.
In the afternoon, we visit the local Batwa (Pygmy) Community. Furthermore, this cultural encounter is an educational journey; you will witness traditional fire-making, listen to ancient forest songs, and see how this indigenous tribe lived in harmony with the jungle for millennia.
Day 3: Kigali City Tour & Departure
Following your final breakfast in the forest, we drive back across the border into Rwanda. Upon arrival in Kigali, we take a short but poignant city tour. Specifically, we visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial to pay our respects and explore local art galleries and craft markets for high-quality souvenirs. Finally, we enjoy a traditional Rwandan lunch before your transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
Safari Planner: What You Need to Know
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Border Crossing: The Katuna border is fully operational 24/7. However, ensure you have your East Africa Tourist Visa ($100) in advance, which allows multiple entries between Rwanda and Uganda.
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Permit Costs: Uganda Gorilla permits remain at $800 USD for 2026. These must be secured at least 4 months in advance.
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Accommodation: The Gorilla Leisure Lodge is a luxury eco-lodge located just 5 minutes from the Rushaga briefing point, minimizing early morning travel.
Before Booking, Please Read the Following Carefully
- Prices are valid for 2024, 2025 and 2026.
- The itinerary mentioned for this tour is an example which can be tailored to your wishes.
- The Gorilla Tracking included in this safari depends on the availability of gorilla trekking permits at the time of booking. These permits are strictly limited and sold out in advance, especially during peak seasons of Christmas and school holidays. We therefore strongly recommend booking early.
- The safari indicated here is essentially an offer. Changes in the course of the journey, the duration of your tour, the number of travellers, as well as the choice of accommodation are subject to availability, although we always endeavour to stick as closely as possible to this programme. For most itineraries, we can offer luxury, mid-range or budget versions of this safari upon request.
- Sometimes it is not possible to adhere to the travel plan as described in this itinerary, due to weather and road conditions, authority regulations, organisational requirements, etc. Occasionally, the planned route of the tour has to change according to the situation on the ground. We must therefore explicitly refuse liability for adherence to the journey plan.
- By booking this safari, the client accepts Epic Uganda Vacations Terms and Conditions of business.
