3 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking from Kigali: Best Short Safari Itinerary (2025/2026)
Do you want a short but memorable gorilla trekking experience? This 3 days Uganda gorilla trekking tour from Kigali is ideal for travelers wanting a short safari to see mountain gorillas without the long drive from Kampala or Entebbe. Beginning in Kigali, Rwanda, this itinerary provides a quicker, more visually appealing journey to Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where about half the world’s mountain gorillas live. If you’re short on time or wish to explore Rwanda and Uganda efficiently, this cross-border gorilla safari is ideal for 2025/2026.
This tour begins with travel from Kigali to Bwindi, including a border crossing at Katuna. A major highlight of this safari is gorilla trekking, where you’ll can come face to face with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat and unwind at Lake Bunyonyi in Kabale District, creating a transformative experience without compromising quality. Below are the trip highlights for the 3-day Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Tour from Kigali:
Highlights of the 3 Days Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Tour from Kigali
- Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Day 2: Gorilla Trekking and transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
- Day 3: Return to Kigali and end of the safari
Details of the 3 Days Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Tour from Kigali
Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Your journey starts with a pickup from your chosen location in Kigali by your safari guide for the next three days. The guide/driver will give a brief introduction to the tour before departing Kigali and heading to the Katuna border point. Please have your necessary documents ready for crossing into Uganda from Rwanda. After about a three-hour drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, you will stop for lunch in Kabale. Eventually, arrive at your lodge and check in.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for housing the largest population of mountain gorillas globally, making it a prime trekking destination. This park boasts one of Africa’s most diverse rainforests, with over 350 bird species and various wildlife. Enjoy a relaxed dinner and a peaceful overnight stay at the lodge.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Bwindi Forest and Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
Wake up early for breakfast and then drive to the park headquarters. A briefing on gorilla trekking will outline the rules and guidelines for observing the gorillas. After the briefing, park rangers will assign you to a specific habituated gorilla family, and you will then begin your trek to find these gentle creatures. Upon encountering them, you’ll spend one hour observing their behavior, learning about their lifestyle, before returning to the starting point for lunch with your guide.
In the afternoon, transfer to Lake Bunyonyi in Kabale, which is halfway to Kigali.
Lake Bunyonyi, the third deepest lake in Africa, is a popular spot following the gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, offering a peaceful setting for relaxation and stunning lake views. With over 29 islands rich in cultural history, such as Punishment Island, the lake provides insight into the region’s heritage.
Upon arrival at the lake, partake in an evening boat ride to explore some islands while your guide shares traditional stories about the lake and its inhabitants. Later, check into your lodge for a relaxing dinner and overnight stay.
Day 3: Return to Kigali and End of Safari
In the morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the lodge. Depending on your schedule or flight, you may choose to take another scenic boat ride around the lake or visit nearby communities to learn more about local culture. Later, drive back to the Katuna border and cross into Rwanda once again. Enjoy a scenic drive through rolling hills, winding roads, and lush vegetation as you conclude your amazing 3-day Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Tour from Kigali.
This 3 days Uganda gorilla trekking tour from Kigali perfectly combines adventure, efficiency, and incredible encounters with endangered mountain gorillas. Beginning your trip in Kigali not only reduces travel time to Bwindi but also offers a convenient international airport. No matter your experience level, this African safari offers an unparalleled wildlife adventure. Shall we go see some gorillas in the wild? Book now your unforgettable 3 days gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi from Kigali today; we’ll craft memories to last a lifetime.
