Are you planning a Uganda gorilla trekking safari starting from Kigali – Rwanda? Gorilla trekking in Africa is one of the most popular safari activities that have come out to get the most attention across the world. More so, gorilla trekking tours in the world can be done in Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In the past accessing any of these countries was cumbersome. Unlike today, one can do a gorilla trekking trip or tour from anywhere at any time. Mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda is done in two major safari destinations. These include; Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These parks are located closer to Rwanda they are closer to Kampala. All Uganda safaris used to start from Kampala or Entebbe International Airport. These days, it is possible to start your Uganda gorilla trekking safari from Kigali and then go to either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

By the time you read this article to the end, you will have had an insight into the real meaning of gorilla trekking tours or safaris from Kigali to Bwindi. By answering the frequently asked questions about Bwindi gorilla trekking tours from Kigali, you will be one step away from booking your trip with us. Just read on.

Is Bwindi National Park located in Rwanda or Uganda?

Quite several potential safari goers or first-time travelers get confused about whether Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is found in Uganda or Rwanda. Drop all your confusion now. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is located in southwestern Uganda covering the districts of Kabale and Kanungu. The park is close to the borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Nestled in the magical Virunga Massif, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one place that should not be missed on every traveler’s list. The Virunga Conservation area comprises other 3 national parks full of different primate species. These parks include; Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Is it possible to start my Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Safari from Kigali?

One thing you need to know is that although Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is located in Uganda, it can be easily accessed from Kigali than Kampala. It takes about 2 hours to drive from Kigali International Airport to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. On the other hand, it takes about 7 hours to drive from Kampala to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This does not mean that driving the long road is boring. It is such a rewarding experience as it comes with views of the lush green vegetation. A photography moment at the Uganda Equator is one of the highlights of the 7-hour drive from Kampala to Bwindi.

From Kigali, travelers usually do a city tour and visit places like the Genocide Museum as well as the local markets. Later on, travelers cross the Gatuna OR Katuna border to Uganda. This road is a combination of rolling hills and lush green vegetation. A delicious lunch in Kabale town is a good introduction to Uganda for your gorilla trekking adventure. From here, it will not take more than one hour before you check in to your accommodation facility in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This implies that your gorilla trekking adventure will start the following morning. Depending on your itinerary, you may visit the neighboring Batwa communities upon arrival.

Which places can I visit before heading to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park from Kigali?

A typical Bwindi gorilla trekking safari from Kigali comes with extraordinary places to visit. Below are some of the places to look out for while planning a Uganda gorilla trekking safari from Kigali.

The Genocide Memorial Sites in Kigali

Rwanda has never separated from its sad history. Although the country is enjoying stable peace, we cannot neglect its history. Gorilla trekking tours to Bwindi from Kigali usually include visiting some of the genocide memorial sites in Kigali. Some of these places include; the Kigali Genocide Museum, the King’s Palace, and Nyamatta Church. At the Kigali Genocide Memorial Museum, you will see the remains of thousands of people who lost their lives during the 1994 Rwanda Genocide. You must be emotionally strong to visit this place.

The local markets

A Kigali city tour also involves visiting the local markets. This is a chance for you to interact with the local members of the communities. The people of Rwanda are hospitable and they showcase creativity. From the craft shops to fresh-fruit markets, a visit to the local markets in Rwanda is an epic scene. Talking of markets, you may as well visit Kabale markets just after you have crossed to Uganda. The hospitality of Ugandans will leave you amazed. Interacting with the locals is one way of supporting sustainable tourism. More so, it is a chance to turn moments into memories.

Lake Bunyonyi

Nestled in the southwestern region of Uganda, Lake Bunyonyi is a stunning safari destination. The lake is famous for being home to many bird species. More so, Lake Bunyonyi is Uganda’s deepest lake and Africa’s second deepest.  While on a Bwindi gorilla tour from Kigali, you will pass by this amazing lake. Here, you will tour the 27 islands while learning about their history. The most popular island is the Akempene (punishment). Back in the day, this island was a banishment area for girls who acquired pregnancies before marriage. several other activities are done on Lake Bunyonyi. These include; boat cruises, swimming, high ropes, guided nature walks, cycling tours, and many more.

What is the best time to visit Bwindi from Kigali?

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is an open safari destination that can be visited at any time of the year. However, the best time to visit the park is during the dry season. The season runs from June to September and December to February. This is when trekking gorillas is less challenging. On the other hand, the rainy seasons are good for budget travelers. This is because there is low traffic and companies and lodges offer discount rates.

In a nutshell, taking a gorilla trekking safari to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park from Kigali is a possible and rewarding venture. If you wish to start planning your itinerary, we are here to assist you.