Description
5-Day Twice Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga and Bwindi Forest – along with Golden Monkey Safari
Private 5-Day Luxury Double Gorilla Trekking Safari in Mgahinga Gorilla Park & Bwindi Impenetrable Forest from Kigali, Rwanda
Join us on a 5-day luxury safari that offers the unique opportunity to trek mountain gorillas in two distinct habitats—Mgahinga Gorilla Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Only in Uganda can you experience gorilla trekking on the slopes of the Virunga Volcanoes, similar to Rwanda or DR Congo, and in the misty ridges and valleys of Bwindi.
A significant advantage of trekking in Uganda is the cost savings. Gorilla permits for two treks are $1,600, compared to $3,000 in Rwanda—saving you $1,400 per person or $2,800 per couple on permits alone. You’ll also enjoy additional savings on luxury accommodations without compromising on quality or experience. These savings highlight Uganda’s advantage as the premier destination for gorilla trekking, combining affordability with unparalleled wildlife encounters.
Here are the highlights of the 5-day luxury double gorilla trekking safari from the itinerary:
- Double Gorilla Trekking: Trek mountain gorillas twice in Mgahinga Gorilla Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
- Golden Monkey Trekking: Track endangered golden monkeys in the bamboo forests of Mgahinga.
- Luxury Lodges: Stay at exclusive lodges like Mount Gahinga Gorilla Lodge and Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge.
- Scenic Drives: Enjoy beautiful drives from Kigali through lush landscapes and volcanic scenery.
- Lake Mutanda: Optional day to relax with activities like boat rides and birding at Lake Mutanda.
- Cultural Experiences: Engage in activities like Batwa community visits and nature walks.
- Kigali City Tour: Conclude with a tour of Kigali, including a visit to the Genocide Memorial.
- Cost Savings: Save on gorilla permits and luxury accommodations compared to Rwanda.
Arrival in Kigali – Rwanda-The Gateway to Uganda’s Bwindi & Mgahinga Gorilla Park:
You can arrive at either Entebbe International Airport or Kigali International Airport – drive time to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is much shorter from Kigali to Bwindi Forest than it is from Entebbe where it can take from 9 to 10 hours to Bwindi Forest, that is why we have the fly into Kigali – track in Bwindi option.
Please note: Visa – the best visa if you are coming to Kigali would be the online E-Tourism Visa for East Africa, it is 100 USD and covers both countries. It must be applied for with the country you will be visiting first. The other important certificate is the Yellow Fever Immunization – obtain it in your country 30 days prior to arrival – if you do not have it you will be required to obtain it at the airport.
Our Tour Guide will meet you at a nearby Hotel in either Entebbe or Kigali. Both drives are you and take you short—10 minutes in Entebbe and 20 minutes in Kigali.
Meal Plan: Bed and Breakfast
Convenient and Affordable Lodging with free Airport Pickup:
Day 1 – Drive to Mgahinga Gorilla Park:
Your 5-day luxury double gorilla trekking safari begins at 6:30 am from your hotel or Kigali Airport for a scenic 3-hour drive to Mgahinga Gorilla Park. The border crossing typically takes 30 to 45 minutes, and officials on both sides aim to ease the process for tourists. Upon arrival, check into Mount Gahinga Gorilla Lodge.
Mount Gahinga Gorilla Lodge
Nestled in the foothills of the Virunga Volcanoes, this lodge is the only luxury accommodation near Mgahinga Gorilla Park. It features eight luxury bandas and two deluxe bandas, each with a private porch, ensuite shower room, and a personal butler. Non-premium beverages, including local beers, sodas, spirits, and house wines, are included, along with a complimentary half-hour massage. The lodge also has a private trail directly to the park headquarters. Read more about Mount Gahinga Lodge.
Afternoon Activities at Mount Gahinga Lodge: Choose One
- Kisozi Caldera Hike – A scenic hike to a volcanic caldera.
- Batwa Heritage Trail – Explore the forest through the eyes of its first people, the Batwa.
- Gahinga Batwa Village Visit – Visit a village built for the Batwa by the lodge.
- Relax at the Lodge – Read a book or enjoy the lodge’s serene environment.
Meal Plan: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2- Your First Gorilla Trek in Mgahinga Gorilla Park:
After an early breakfast, you’ll head to the park headquarters using the lodge’s private trail for a briefing by the Uganda Wildlife Authority Rangers. They will provide essential information about gorilla trekking, safety protocols, and what to expect on the trek. Wearing the right gear is key—long pants, sturdy hiking boots, and gloves help protect against the dense vegetation. Read more about Gorilla Gear and Wear here.
The trek to the Nyakagezi Gorilla Family begins with a gradual ascent through bamboo forests along the slopes of the Virunga Volcanoes. The journey offers breathtaking views and opportunities to learn about the park’s unique ecosystem from your guides. The Nyakagezi Family is special due to its composition of five silverbacks, which is rare among gorilla groups.
The trek typically lasts four to five hours, including the cherished hour spent with the gorillas. Watching them interact, feed, and play is a profound experience, offering rare insights into the lives of these majestic creatures. After the trek, return to the lodge for a well-deserved rest or take part in optional afternoon activities offered by the lodge.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking & Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Begin your day with a trek to see the endangered golden monkeys in Mgahinga Gorilla Park. This 4-hour trek takes you to the bamboo forest where you’ll encounter a group of lively, colorful monkeys. You can also opt for a Golden Monkey Habituation Experience for a more immersive encounter.
After the trek, drive to the Rushaga area of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Check into Four Gorillas Lodge or the exclusive Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge. Drive time is about 1½ hours, depending on road conditions.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Add a Day – Relax and Unwind at Lake Mutanda:
Consider extending your safari with a day at Chameleon Hill Lodge, renowned for its vibrant colors and fairy-tale castle theme. Enjoy a sundowner boat ride, paddling a dugout canoe, birding walks, or exploring the nature trails along Lake Mutanda.
Day 4: 2nd Gorilla Trek – Rushaga Region, Bwindi Forest
After breakfast, you’ll head out for your second gorilla trek—a 45-minute to 1-hour scenic drive to either the Nkuringo or Rushaga area of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Trekking the three Nkuringo families is considered the most challenging due to the initial 600-meter descent and the strenuous 600-meter uphill climb at the end. However, there are also easier treks available on more level terrain and shorter routes.
The trekking routine and recommended clothing will be the same as for your first trek. While the porter we provide will be different, so too will be the group of trekkers you join for this experience. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest involves traversing varied terrain, often going up and down trails until you find your gorilla family. Although the experience is distinct from Mgahinga Gorilla Park, it is equally rewarding.
Exclusive Option: Instead of the standard one-hour visit with a gorilla family, you can opt for a Gorilla Habituation Experience, where you spend up to four hours with a family under the guidance of researchers. This special permit costs 1,500 USD. It is a pilot program in Uganda, limited to only four visitors per group, and involves a full day of trekking.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lodging: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge or Upmarket Gorilla Safari Lodge.
Day 5: Return to Kigali
Based on your departure time from Kigali, enjoy morning activities before the 4-hour drive back, gaining an hour as you cross back into Central African Time. In Kigali, enjoy lunch at the famous Hôtel des Mille Collines (“Hotel Rwanda”) and visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial or other sites before your flight.
Meal Plan: Breakfast
What’s Included in Your 5-Day Luxury Double Gorilla Trekking Safari?
- Experienced Ugandan Driver Guide: Knowledgeable and professional local guides enhance your safari experience.
- Meet and Greet at the Airport: Includes a welcome gift and safari informational packet.
- Full-Board Lodging: All meals included, except alcoholic drinks and snacks ordered separately.
- Private 4×4 Land Cruiser with Pop-Up Roof: Equipped with a car fridge, WiFi, and bottled water.
- Gorilla Trekking Permits & Porter Services: Permits included with porters, walking sticks, and bottled water.
- WiFi Access: MiFi routers provide internet access in your room or cottage.
- Special Dietary Needs: Vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and Halal options are available; kosher meals are not available.
- AMREF-Flying Doctors Air-Medivac Insurance: Coverage in case of a medical evacuation.
Not Included: Visas, travel insurance, tips, laundry, alcoholic drinks, sodas, and optional activities.
Contact Us Today to Book Your Safari!
We’re here to help with any questions about itineraries, pricing, or services. Call or email us anytime to plan your perfect African adventure.
Contact us anytime to book the Safari tour. We’re happy to help with any questions you have about our itineraries, pricing, or services. Call or email us today. the porter assist you in traversing the not-so-tricky trail.
