5 Days Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Trek – Top Budget Primate Safari 2025
5 Days Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Trek: Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime 5 Days Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Trek and witness the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
This exceptional cross-border primate adventure combines the dense tropical rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda and the misty slopes of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, offering travelers two unique gorilla trekking experiences in East Africa.
Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, conservation supporters, and thrill-seekers, this tour delivers more than just a safari—it’s a profound encounter with nature and culture that will stay with you forever.
The 5-day itinerary is designed for clients seeking immersive jungle exploration, top-notch guiding, safe border crossings, and unforgettable gorilla moments. From navigating forest trails to sitting just meters away from silverbacks, every moment is magical.
Let’s explore all you need to know before booking your Uganda Rwanda gorilla safari, including the itinerary, gorilla permit costs, accommodations, travel requirements, packing list, and expert tips.
Why Choose the 5 Days Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Trek?
This Uganda and Rwanda gorilla safari offers the rare opportunity to trek gorillas in two countries, maximizing your chances of gorilla sightings and gaining perspective on different conservation approaches.
Uganda is renowned for its dense forest trails, while Rwanda boasts easier hikes but a premium gorilla trekking experience. By combining both destinations, this 5-day tour enhances your exposure to East Africa’s biodiversity and cultural richness.
Travelers often choose this package for its balanced itinerary, expertly guided treks, cultural immersion, and comfort accommodations. You not only get to track mountain gorillas in Bwindi and Volcanoes National Park, but you also enjoy scenic drives through rolling hills, local communities, and iconic equator landmarks.
This 5 Days Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Trek is perfect for couples, solo travelers, adventure groups, and wildlife photographers looking for a safe, organized, and ethically responsible primate experience.
Day-by-Day Itinerary: 5 Days Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Trek
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Your tour begins with a warm welcome at Entebbe International Airport, where our safari guide will receive you. After a brief introduction and tour briefing, you’ll start the scenic drive to southwestern Uganda, heading toward the famous Bwindi Impenetrable Forest—home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.
The journey spans approximately 8–9 hours by road, but you’ll enjoy multiple stops for photography, local markets, and lunch in Mbarara or Kabale. Alternatively, clients can choose a domestic flight to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrip to reduce travel time.
You’ll arrive in the evening and check into a lodge near Bwindi’s trekking sector (Rushaga, Buhoma, Ruhija, or Nkuringo), depending on gorilla permit allocation. After a delicious dinner, rest well in preparation for the gorilla trekking in Bwindi the following morning.
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Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – Batwa Cultural Visit
Rise early for a hearty breakfast and transfer to the park headquarters for a comprehensive briefing from Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) rangers. Here, you’ll learn about the rules of gorilla trekking, what to expect, and how to behave when with the gorilla family. You’ll then be assigned a trekking group and set off into the forest, guided by armed rangers and experienced trackers.
The gorilla trekking in Bwindi can last between 2 to 6 hours, depending on the movement of the gorillas and your pace. Once found, you will spend one magical hour observing these gentle giants as they feed, play, groom, and interact in their tight-knit groups.
Later in the afternoon, you’ll visit the Batwa Pygmies, the original forest dwellers, to learn about their traditional lifestyle, forest survival skills, and music. This cultural experience adds a human dimension to your wildlife encounter.
Day 3: Transfer from Bwindi to Volcanoes National Park – Rwanda Border Crossing
After breakfast, you’ll begin the scenic transfer from Uganda to Rwanda via the Cyanika or Katuna border, depending on your lodge’s location. Our team will assist with immigration procedures to ensure a smooth and safe crossing.
The drive into Rwanda’s Northern Province is captivating, with breathtaking views of the Virunga mountain range and the fertile terraced hills of the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
In the afternoon, arrive at Volcanoes National Park, the Rwandan sanctuary for mountain gorillas. Check into your lodge near Kinigi, nestled at the base of the volcanoes. Take time to relax, enjoy views of Mount Sabyinyo, and prepare for another thrilling day of gorilla trekking in Rwanda.
Optional evening activities include visiting the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village to experience Rwandan traditions and dance, or a nature walk along the Twin Lakes of Burera and Ruhondo.
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Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park – Dian Fossey Legacy Experience
This is the second highlight of your 5 Days Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Trek. Start your day early with a light breakfast and head to the Kinigi park headquarters for your briefing by Rwanda Development Board (RDB) guides. Rwanda’s gorilla trekking is generally easier than Uganda’s, due to shorter distances and clearer terrain.
After being assigned a gorilla group, begin your trek into the misty bamboo forests. Within a few hours, you’ll meet another group of mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, offering you the rare privilege of observing gorilla behavior in a different ecological setting.
The hour with these majestic creatures will give you ample opportunity for photography, silent observation, and emotional connection. Upon return, you may choose to relax or take an optional excursion to the Dian Fossey Grave Site or the Ellen DeGeneres Gorilla Fund campus to learn about gorilla conservation.
Day 5: Transfer to Kigali – City Tour and Departure
After breakfast, you’ll drive to Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, for a city tour and transfer to the airport. The drive takes approximately 2.5 hours, offering scenic views of Rwanda’s green countryside. Depending on your departure time, we include a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local artisan markets, and a lunch break at a panoramic city restaurant.
If time permits, you can also stop at the Kimironko Market, where you can interact with locals and shop for Rwandan crafts. After the city tour, you’ll be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your flight home, concluding your unforgettable 5 Days Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Trek.
End of 5 Days Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Trek
Gorilla Permit Information
Gorilla trekking requires an official permit issued by the respective country’s wildlife authority.
Uganda Gorilla Permits:
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Cost: $800 per person (foreign non-residents)
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Issued by: Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA)
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Includes: 1-hour gorilla viewing, guide, ranger protection
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Location: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Rwanda Gorilla Permits:
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Cost: $1500 per person (foreigners)
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Issued by: Rwanda Development Board (RDB)
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Includes: 1-hour gorilla viewing, park guide, conservation fees
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Location: Volcanoes National Park
We handle all permit bookings and logistics in advance. Due to limited availability, we advise clients to confirm their 5 Days Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Trek at least 3–6 months before travel.
Accommodation Options
We offer three accommodation tiers depending on your budget:
Budget Option:
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Buhoma Community Rest Camp (Uganda)
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La Locanda or Muhabura Hotel (Rwanda)
Mid-Range Option:
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Gorilla Mist Camp or Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge (Uganda)
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Le Bambou Lodge or Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (Rwanda)
Luxury Option:
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Buhoma Lodge or Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge (Uganda)
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Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge or Bisate Lodge (Rwanda)
All properties offer en-suite bathrooms, hot water, comfortable bedding, local and continental meals, and breathtaking forest views.
What to Pack for Your Gorilla Trekking Safari
Gorilla trekking is an active adventure and requires proper preparation. Here’s what to pack:
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Waterproof hiking boots
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Lightweight rain jacket
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Long-sleeved shirts and trousers
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Gardening gloves (for gripping branches)
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Insect repellent and sunscreen
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Reusable water bottle
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Camera with extra batteries
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Daypack for essentials
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Passport and permit printouts
We also recommend physical preparation for the hikes, especially if you’re not used to walking long distances on steep terrain.
Travel Tips for a Successful Safari
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Book early: Gorilla permits are limited and in high demand.
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Vaccinations: Yellow fever vaccination is required for entry into both countries.
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Visas: Consider the East African Tourist Visa ($100), which covers Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya.
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Currency: Uganda uses the Ugandan Shilling (UGX); Rwanda uses the Rwandan Franc (RWF), but USD is accepted.
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Tipping: Guides and porters greatly appreciate tips. Budget around $10–$15 per service provider.
Book Your 5 Days Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Trek Today
Experience the soul of Africa on this unforgettable 5 Days Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Trek. With two gorilla treks, scenic drives, cultural immersion, and expertly managed logistics, this safari is designed to satisfy even the most seasoned traveler.
Whether you’re seeking a thrilling wildlife adventure or a meaningful connection with nature, this safari delivers it all. Let us handle the permits, accommodation, transportation, and guiding—while you focus on making lifelong memories in the heart of East Africa.