5-Day Uganda & Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari – Experience Two Countries, Two Treks, One Extraordinary Adventure
Double your gorilla trekking experience with East Africa’s most rewarding cross-border safari.
Why choose between Uganda and Rwanda when you can experience both? This exclusive 5-Day Uganda & Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari takes you deep into the ancient rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda and the breathtaking volcanic landscapes of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda for two unforgettable encounters with the world’s endangered mountain gorillas.
This carefully crafted safari offers an incredible opportunity to compare two world-famous gorilla destinations in one seamless journey. Trek through the mystical jungles of Bwindi, home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, before crossing into Rwanda to explore the scenic Virunga Volcanoes, where conservation history and exceptional wildlife experiences come together.
Whether you’re an avid wildlife enthusiast, photographer, or first-time safari traveler, this itinerary delivers the ultimate gorilla trekking adventure, complemented by spectacular scenery, authentic cultural encounters, and personalized service throughout your journey.
Safari Highlights
- Two unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences in Uganda and Rwanda
- Trek mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Experience a second gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park
- Scenic cross-border journey through Uganda and Rwanda
- Travel through the beautiful Kigezi Highlands, famously known as the “Switzerland of Africa”
- Stop at the Equator for memorable photographs
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- Flexible departure from Kampala or Kigali
- Ideal for travelers seeking the most comprehensive gorilla trekking experience in East Africa
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Kampala – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Your extraordinary journey begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Kampala. Leave the bustling city behind as you travel through Uganda’s picturesque countryside towards the legendary Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Along the way, pause at the Equator for photographs and refreshments before continuing to Mbarara for lunch. The journey then unfolds through the rolling grasslands of Ankole, where the iconic long-horned Ankole cattle graze peacefully against a backdrop of spectacular landscapes.
As you approach southwestern Uganda, the scenery transforms into the lush Kigezi Highlands, affectionately known as the “Switzerland of Africa” because of their dramatic terraced hills and winding mountain roads. Depending on your allocated gorilla family, you may travel through Kabale or Kisoro before arriving at your lodge nestled on the edge of the ancient rainforest.
Spend the evening relaxing while surrounded by the sounds of one of Africa’s oldest and most biodiverse forests.
Accommodation Options
Luxury
- Gorilla Forest Camp
- Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
- Bwindi Lodge
- Gahinga Lodge
Mid-range
- Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
- Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
Budget
- Buhoma Community Rest Camp
- Bwindi View Bandas
- Nkuringo Campsite
- Virunga Hotel
- Nkuringo Safari Centre
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Today is one of the highlights of your safari.
After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a comprehensive briefing by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers before entering the dense rainforest in search of one of Bwindi’s habituated mountain gorilla families.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s oldest tropical rainforests, dating back over 25,000 years. Its rich biodiversity and rugged terrain make every trek a genuine adventure.
Your experienced ranger guide will lead you through towering trees, tangled vines, and lush vegetation while tracking fresh gorilla signs. Depending on the gorillas’ movements, the trek may last anywhere from a few hours to most of the day.
Then comes the unforgettable moment.
Standing just a few meters away from a family of wild mountain gorillas is an emotional experience unlike any other. Watch the dominant silverback calmly observe his family, mothers gently care for their infants, and playful juveniles tumble through the forest with remarkable curiosity.
You’ll spend one magical hour with these gentle giants—an experience that remains one of Africa’s greatest wildlife encounters.
Return to your lodge for a well-deserved evening of relaxation.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Following breakfast, continue your adventure across the Uganda–Rwanda border into the breathtaking Virunga mountain region.
After completing immigration formalities, enjoy a scenic drive through Rwanda’s famous “Land of a Thousand Hills.” Rolling green valleys, terraced farms, charming villages, and magnificent volcanic peaks create one of Africa’s most beautiful landscapes.
Volcanoes National Park is internationally renowned as the home of mountain gorillas and the place where pioneering primatologist Dian Fossey dedicated her life to gorilla conservation.
Upon arrival, check into your lodge and spend the afternoon relaxing while enjoying spectacular views of the Virunga Volcanoes.
Accommodation Options
Luxury
- Bisate Lodge
- One&Only Gorilla’s Nest
- Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
- Virunga Lodge
Mid-range
- Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Budget
- La Palme Hotel
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
Another incredible gorilla adventure awaits.
After breakfast, transfer to the Volcanoes National Park headquarters for a briefing before setting off into Rwanda’s magnificent rainforest.
The trek begins through cultivated foothills before entering bamboo forests and lush montane vegetation beneath the towering Virunga volcanoes.
As you hike through the forest, keep an eye out for colorful birdlife, playful golden monkeys, forest buffalo, and breathtaking panoramic views across Rwanda’s volcanic landscape.
Eventually, your guide will locate your assigned gorilla family.
Spend one unforgettable hour observing these extraordinary primates in their natural habitat as they feed, groom, interact, and care for one another. Every gorilla family displays unique behaviors, making this second trek a completely different experience from your first encounter in Uganda.
Capture incredible photographs, create lifelong memories, and appreciate one of the world’s greatest conservation success stories.
Return to your lodge for dinner and your final overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Return to Kigali or Kampala
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before beginning your return journey.
Depending on your travel plans, your guide will transfer you either to Kigali International Airport or back to Kampala, marking the end of an extraordinary cross-border gorilla trekking adventure.
You’ll leave with unforgettable memories, remarkable photographs, and the rare privilege of having experienced mountain gorillas in two of Africa’s most celebrated national parks.
Meals: Breakfast
Safari Inclusions
- Airport or hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Private 4×4 safari vehicle with fuel
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- Four nights’ accommodation
- Gorilla trekking permit in Uganda
- Gorilla trekking permit in Rwanda
- All meals as specified in the itinerary
- Bottled drinking water during road transfers
- Government taxes and park entry fees where applicable
Safari Exclusions
- International and domestic flights
- Rwanda and Uganda visa fees (where applicable)
- Travel and medical insurance
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Laundry services and telephone charges