2 Day Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Through Kigali

DAY 01: Pick Up From Kigali/Lodge to Start Your 2 Day Gorilla Trekking Safari from Kigali

Morning: Early pickup from Kigali (around 8:00 AM). Drive to the Rwanda-Uganda border via Cyanika or Katuna, depending on the sector of Bwindi you will trek in.
The drive is approximately 4-5 hours.

Midday: Arrive at your accommodation in Bwindi. Have lunch and check in.

Afternoon: You can relax at the lodge or take a community or nature walk in Bwindi to explore the surroundings and local culture.

Evening: Dinner and overnight at the lodge, getting an early night in preparation for the trek.

Drive time: Approximately 4-5hours
Lodge: Bakiga lodge/Rushaga Gorilla havens lodge
Meal plan: Lunch and dinner

DAY 02: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park after Transfer Back To Kigali to End your Tour.

Early Morning: After breakfast, at 7 am head to the park headquarters for a briefing on the gorilla trekking experience (starts around 8:00 AM).

Morning to Afternoon: Begin the trek into the forest to locate a gorilla family. The trek can last from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the gorilla group’s location.

Midday: Once you find the gorillas, you’ll spend one hour observing them in their natural habitat.

Afternoon: After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch.

Mid-Afternoon: Drive back to Kigali, arriving in the evening (around 6:00 to 7:00 PM).

This itinerary is designed to fit a short timeframe while allowing for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience.

Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch

End of the tour 

What is the Gorilla Trekking Like in Bwindi and what to expect;

During a gorilla trek in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, you can expect an unforgettable experience filled with adventure and close encounters with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Here’s what to anticipate:

1. Briefing and Start of the Trek

Morning briefing: The day starts early at the park headquarters with a briefing from park rangers. They explain the trekking guidelines, safety measures, and the importance of keeping a safe distance from the gorillas.
Assignment of groups: Trekkers are divided into groups of 8, each assigned to track a specific gorilla family. The groups are typically based on your fitness level and preference for a shorter or longer trek.

2. The Trek Itself

Terrain: The trek through Bwindi’s dense rainforest can be challenging, with steep and muddy trails. The altitude ranges from 1,160 to 2,600 meters, so expect some physical exertion, especially if it has rained recently. The forest is dense with thick vegetation, sometimes requiring the rangers to clear a path with machetes.
Duration: Treks can take anywhere from 1 to 6 hours (or more), depending on the location of the gorillas. The terrain and pace vary, so be prepared for a full day’s experience.
Scenery and wildlife: As you hike, you’ll experience stunning views of the forest, mountains, and valleys. You’ll also come across other wildlife, like birds, monkeys, and other mammals.

3. Gorilla Encounter

Finding the gorillas: When your group finally reaches the gorillas, you’ll spend up to one hour observing them. The gorilla families are habituated, meaning they are used to human presence but are still wild animals.
Close proximity: You’ll likely be just 7 meters (about 23 feet) away from the gorillas, and if you’re lucky, they may come even closer. During this time, you can observe their behavior—playing, feeding, grooming, and interacting within the family group.
Unique experience: Each family has its own dynamic, often led by a dominant silverback male. Watching a silverback interact with his family and seeing the young ones play can be a powerful and humbling experience.

4. Ranger Guidance and Rules

Stay quiet and calm: You’re required to remain calm and quiet in the presence of the gorillas. The rangers will guide you on how to behave and what to do if a gorilla approaches you.
No touching: While the gorillas may come close, it is prohibited to touch them to protect both humans and gorillas from transmitting diseases.
Photography: You can take photos and videos, but no flash photography is allowed, as it may disturb the gorillas.

5. Post-Trek

Sense of achievement: The trek can be physically demanding, but the reward of seeing these majestic creatures in their natural environment is worth it. The memories from this once-in-a-lifetime experience often leave trekkers with a deep sense of awe and appreciation for wildlife conservation.
Certificate: At the end of the trek, you may receive a certificate recognizing your participation in the trek.

Tips for a Successful Trek:

Fitness: A moderate level of fitness is recommended, as the trek can be strenuous, especially in steep or muddy conditions.
Dress appropriately: Wear sturdy hiking boots, long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, and bring waterproof gear. Bwindi is a rainforest, so rain is common.
Insect repellent: There can be mosquitoes and other insects, so it’s advisable to wear insect repellent.
Stay hydrated: Bring plenty of water and energy snacks to keep you going during the hike