From Kigali: Uganda Mountain Gorilla Trekking Day Trip

Join a full-day gorilla trekking experience from Kigali, including scenic drives and a guided forest trek, with a unforgettable one-hour observation of mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Embark on a meaningful, flight-free conservation journey to observe the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This meticulously planned day trip departs from Kigali, taking you across the scenic border into Uganda's protected rainforests. Under the guidance of official park rangers, you will contribute directly to the preservation of this endangered species while experiencing one of nature’s most profound and ethical wildlife encounters.

3:00 AM – Pickup in Kigali Your professional driver-guide will collect you from your accommodation in a private 4×4 safari vehicle. Enjoy a brief orientation over coffee, tea, and light snacks before beginning the journey toward the volcanoes.

3:15 AM – Scenic Drive to the Border Travel through Rwanda’s iconic "Land of a Thousand Hills" as the sun begins to rise. We reach the Cyanika border crossing into Uganda around 6:30 AM for a seamless transition into the Ugandan highlands. (Note: Please ensure your East African Tourist Visa or Ugandan visa is arranged in advance).

7:30 AM – Arrival in Kisoro & Ranger Briefing Enjoy a breakfast stop in Kisoro town, offering stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes. Afterward, we proceed to the park headquarters to register permits and join a mandatory safety and conservation briefing led by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) rangers. You will learn about the forest ecosystem and the strict rules that ensure the gorillas' protection.

8:30 AM – The Trek into the Wild Depending on permit allocation, you will explore one of two world-renowned conservation sites:

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park: Trek through misty bamboo forests and alpine meadows. These treks are typically shorter (1–3 hours) with dramatic volcanic backdrops.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring dense, ancient rainforest. Home to roughly half the world’s mountain gorilla population, treks here range from 2–6 hours through vibrant, untouched terrain.

11:00 AM – 1:00 PM – Ethical Gorilla Observation Spend a strictly monitored 60-minute period observing a wild gorilla family. Following official UWA protocols, you will maintain a respectful distance of 8–10 meters. This is a rare, non-intrusive opportunity to witness natural social behaviors and learn about the intensive anti-poaching and veterinary efforts that have made this one of the world's most successful conservation stories.

1:30 PM – Post-Trek Lunch Refuel with a hearty, celebratory meal at a local lodge near the park, featuring fresh regional ingredients and stunning views (vegetarian/vegan options available).

2:30 PM – Return Journey to Kigali Relax in your 4×4 as we descend from the highlands and cross back into Rwanda (~4:00 PM).

5:00 PM – 7:00 PM – Drop-off in Kigali Arrive back at your hotel or Kigali International Airport, perfectly timed for late evening flight departures or a restful night after a life-changing day.

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.