7-Day Uganda and Rwanda Double Gorilla Safari: A Complete Day-by-Day Itinerary
Imagine trekking through two different mountain forests and coming face to face with two separate mountain gorilla families during one unforgettable holiday. This is the experience offered by the 7-Day Uganda and Rwanda Double Gorilla Safari, a cross-border adventure combining the exceptional gorilla habitats of Uganda and Rwanda.
The safari takes you to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda. You will trek mountain gorillas in both destinations, discover the different forest environments and enjoy the scenic landscapes of southwestern Uganda and northern Rwanda.
The journey also includes a relaxing stop at Lake Bunyonyi, one of Uganda’s most beautiful highland lakes, before returning to Kigali.
This itinerary is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, couples and travellers who want to experience mountain gorilla trekking in two countries within one week.
Safari overview
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Duration | 7 days / 6 nights |
| Countries | Rwanda and Uganda |
| Starting point | Kigali, Rwanda |
| Ending point | Kigali, Rwanda |
| Main destinations | Volcanoes National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Lake Bunyonyi |
| Main activities | Two mountain gorilla treks, scenic drives and lakeside relaxation |
| Uganda trekking sector | Rushaga, southern Bwindi |
| Rwanda trekking destination | Volcanoes National Park |
| Transport | Private 4×4 safari vehicle |
| Accommodation | 1 night Kigali, 2 nights Volcanoes area, 2 nights Bwindi and 1 night Lake Bunyonyi |
| Best suited for | Wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, couples and adventure travellers |
| Minimum trekking age | Generally 15 years for both gorilla experiences |
Safari highlights
- Trek mountain gorillas in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.
- Experience a second gorilla trek in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
- Visit two different mountain gorilla habitats in neighbouring countries.
- Cross between Rwanda and Uganda through the scenic Cyanika border.
- Explore the beautiful countryside of southwestern Uganda.
- Relax beside Lake Bunyonyi and enjoy its spectacular island scenery.
- Learn about mountain gorilla conservation and responsible wildlife tourism.
- Enjoy a private cross-border safari with an experienced driver-guide.
Detailed 7-day Uganda and Rwanda Double Gorilla Safari itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda – Transfer to Your Hotel
Your double gorilla trekking safari begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital.
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, your driver-guide will welcome you, assist with your luggage and transfer you to your hotel.
Depending on your arrival time, you may have an opportunity to enjoy a short introduction to the city. Kigali is known for its clean streets, green hills, welcoming atmosphere and important historical landmarks.
If your flight arrives early enough, optional activities may include:
- Visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial.
- Exploring local craft markets.
- Enjoying panoramic views from selected city viewpoints.
- Visiting a local restaurant to experience Rwandan cuisine.
The remainder of the day is reserved for relaxation and preparation for your journey to Volcanoes National Park.
Your guide will review the safari programme, discuss the gorilla permit arrangements and explain what to expect during the first trekking experience.
Accommodation: Overnight at a hotel in Kigali.
Meals: Dinner, depending on arrival time and package arrangements.
Day 2: Kigali – Volcanoes National Park – Scenic Drive to Musanze
After breakfast, meet your driver-guide and depart Kigali for Volcanoes National Park in northern Rwanda.
The drive takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. As you travel north, enjoy Rwanda’s beautiful countryside, characterised by rolling hills, cultivated terraces, villages and scenic mountain views.
As you approach Musanze, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic, with the Virunga volcanoes dominating the horizon.
Volcanoes National Park protects an important part of the Virunga mountain ecosystem and is one of the world’s best-known mountain gorilla trekking destinations.
Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and enjoy lunch.
Afternoon at Volcanoes National Park
The afternoon is set aside for relaxation and preparation for the following day’s gorilla trek.
Depending on your arrival time and interests, optional activities may include:
- A visit to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, subject to opening hours and booking arrangements.
- A local cultural experience around Musanze.
- A short guided walk near your accommodation.
- Enjoying the mountain scenery from your lodge.
Your guide will confirm the gorilla trekking arrangements and remind you to prepare suitable clothing, waterproof hiking boots, gloves and a small daypack.
Accommodation: Overnight at a lodge near Volcanoes National Park.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner, depending on the package.
Day 3: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Today is your first major wildlife experience: mountain gorilla trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.
Wake up early and enjoy breakfast before driving to the park headquarters at Kinigi. Registration and briefing generally begin around 7:00 am.
Park officials will verify your permit, explain the trekking regulations and allocate visitors to available habituated gorilla families.
After the briefing, meet your ranger guide and begin the trek into the forest.
The gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda
Volcanoes National Park lies within the Virunga mountain range and is characterised by volcanic slopes, bamboo forests and montane vegetation.
The trek takes you through natural forest habitat in search of your assigned gorilla family. The time required to find the animals varies depending on their movements and location.
Some treks may be relatively short, while others involve several hours of walking over steep or muddy terrain.
Your ranger guide will lead the search, interpret signs of gorilla activity and help you navigate the forest safely.
Meeting the mountain gorillas
Once the gorilla family is located, visitors are allowed a maximum of one hour to observe the animals, subject to park regulations.
During this encounter, you may see:
- A dominant silverback watching over the family.
- Mothers caring for their young.
- Juvenile gorillas playing and interacting.
- Adults feeding on vegetation.
- Different members of the family resting, moving and communicating.
Mountain gorillas are fascinating because of their close family relationships and complex social behaviour. Observing them in their natural environment is one of Africa’s most memorable wildlife experiences.
Photography is permitted, but flash photography is not allowed. Follow all instructions from your ranger and maintain the required distance from the animals.
After the trek, return to the park headquarters and meet your driver-guide. Depending on the duration of the experience, you may arrive back at your lodge around midday or later in the afternoon.
Spend the remainder of the day relaxing and preparing for the cross-border journey into Uganda.
Accommodation: Overnight at the same lodge near Volcanoes National Park.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner, depending on the package.
Day 4: Volcanoes National Park – Cyanika Border – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda
After breakfast, check out of your lodge and begin the journey to Uganda.
Today is an exciting part of the safari because you will cross from Rwanda into Uganda, travelling through the scenic highlands around the Virunga Mountains.
The route uses the Cyanika border crossing, which is convenient for accessing the Kisoro region and the southern sectors of Bwindi.
Complete the immigration and customs formalities before continuing into Uganda.
The journey to the Rushaga sector of Bwindi takes several hours, depending on border procedures, road conditions and your lodge location. Allow most of the day for this transfer.
Discover Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of Africa’s most important rainforest conservation areas. It is internationally recognised for protecting a significant population of endangered mountain gorillas.
Unlike the volcanic slopes of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, Bwindi is characterised by dense tropical rainforest, steep hills, tangled vegetation and narrow forest trails.
This creates a different trekking environment and makes your second gorilla encounter a distinct experience.
Upon arrival in the Rushaga area, check in at your lodge and enjoy lunch or refreshments, depending on your arrival time.
The remainder of the day is reserved for relaxation and preparation for the next morning’s gorilla trek.
Your guide will confirm your assigned trekking sector and briefing arrangements.
Accommodation: Overnight at a lodge in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner, depending on the package.
Travel note: The exact transfer duration depends on your lodge in Rwanda, border processing and accommodation location in Bwindi. The trekking sector must be confirmed before permits and accommodation are finalised.
Day 5: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda
Today you experience your second mountain gorilla trek, this time in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Wake up early for breakfast before travelling to the designated Rushaga briefing point.
Upon arrival, park officials will verify your permit and provide a briefing about the trekking regulations, forest conditions and responsible gorilla viewing.
You will then be assigned to a habituated gorilla family and introduced to your ranger guides.
Gorilla trekking in the Rushaga sector
Rushaga is one of Bwindi’s southern gorilla trekking sectors. It is known for its habituated gorilla families and offers access to a variety of forest environments.
Your trek will take you through dense vegetation, steep slopes and sometimes muddy trails as you search for the assigned family.
The time required to locate the gorillas varies. Some groups may be found relatively quickly, while others require several hours of walking.
The experience is physically demanding in some conditions, but the opportunity to encounter a mountain gorilla family in the ancient rainforest is extraordinary.
Your second mountain gorilla encounter
Once the gorillas are located, visitors are allowed a maximum of one hour with the family, following park regulations.
You may observe:
- Silverbacks resting or moving through the forest.
- Mothers caring for their infants.
- Young gorillas playing among the vegetation.
- Adult gorillas feeding on leaves and other plants.
- Different family members interacting and communicating.
Although both treks involve the same species, the experience in Bwindi can feel very different from Volcanoes National Park.
Bwindi’s dense rainforest, steep terrain and thick vegetation create a distinctive environment. You will also be visiting a different habituated gorilla family, providing a second opportunity to appreciate the behaviour of these endangered primates.
After the encounter, return to the briefing point and meet your driver-guide.
Depending on the trekking duration, you may arrive back at your lodge around midday or later in the afternoon.
Spend the rest of the day relaxing and reflecting on your two gorilla trekking experiences.
Accommodation: Overnight at the same lodge in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner, depending on the package.
Day 6: Bwindi – Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi – Lakeside Relaxation
After breakfast, check out of your lodge and travel towards Lake Bunyonyi.
The journey from the Rushaga area to Lake Bunyonyi takes approximately 3–4 hours, depending on your exact starting point, road conditions and accommodation location.
Enjoy the beautiful scenery of southwestern Uganda as you travel through rolling hills, terraced farmland, villages and mountain landscapes.
Discover Lake Bunyonyi
Lake Bunyonyi is one of Uganda’s most beautiful lakes and a wonderful place to relax after the two physically demanding gorilla treks.
Located in southwestern Uganda, it is surrounded by steep green hills and dotted with numerous small islands. Its peaceful atmosphere makes it a favourite destination for travellers seeking nature, photography and quiet lakeside experiences.
Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and enjoy lunch.
Optional activities at Lake Bunyonyi
Depending on your interests and available time, you can enjoy:
Boat excursion: Explore the lake by traditional canoe or motorboat, visiting selected islands and enjoying scenic views.
Island exploration: Discover some of Lake Bunyonyi’s well-known islands and learn about their local history and communities.
Canoeing: Enjoy a peaceful canoeing experience with a local guide.
Birdwatching: Lake Bunyonyi is a rewarding destination for bird enthusiasts, with a variety of waterbirds and other species.
Lakeside relaxation: Spend the afternoon enjoying the beautiful views from your lodge, reading, taking photographs or simply resting.
In the evening, enjoy dinner overlooking the lake and prepare for the return journey to Kigali.
Accommodation: Overnight at a lodge near Lake Bunyonyi.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner, depending on the package.
Day 7: Lake Bunyonyi – Katuna Border – Kigali – Departure
Enjoy your final breakfast beside Lake Bunyonyi before checking out and beginning the journey back to Rwanda.
The route generally uses the Katuna border crossing, also known as Gatuna, before continuing towards Kigali.
Complete the required immigration procedures at the border and continue through Rwanda’s scenic countryside.
The journey from Lake Bunyonyi to Kigali can take approximately 4.5–6 hours or longer, depending on road conditions, traffic and border processing.
Enjoy the final views of Uganda and Rwanda’s beautiful highlands as you make your way back to Kigali.
If your departure schedule allows, you may arrange lunch or a short city visit before heading to Kigali International Airport.
Your driver-guide will drop you off at the airport or your preferred hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, with lunch depending on departure arrangements.
End of the 7-day Uganda and Rwanda Double Gorilla Safari.
Departure planning note: Allow sufficient time between your return to Kigali and your international flight. For early departures or flights with strict check-in deadlines, consider adding an extra night in Kigali.
Uganda versus Rwanda: Comparing the two gorilla trekking experiences
One of the most rewarding aspects of this safari is experiencing mountain gorillas in two different national parks.
Although the animals belong to the same species, the forest environments and trekking experiences differ.
| Feature | Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda | Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda |
|---|---|---|
| Landscape | Virunga volcanic slopes | Ancient tropical rainforest |
| Main vegetation | Bamboo and montane forest | Dense rainforest and montane vegetation |
| Trekking terrain | Steep volcanic slopes and forest trails | Steep, muddy and densely vegetated trails |
| Main experience | Gorilla trekking in the Virunga range | Gorilla trekking in the Bwindi rainforest |
| Viewing time | Maximum 1 hour | Maximum 1 hour |
| Minimum age | 15 years | 15 years |
Both destinations provide exceptional opportunities to observe endangered mountain gorillas. The duration and difficulty of each trek depend on the location and movement of the assigned family.
Where you will stay during the safari
The safari includes six nights of accommodation across Kigali, Volcanoes National Park, Bwindi and Lake Bunyonyi.
Accommodation can be selected according to your preferred budget and comfort level.
Kigali – 1 night
Budget: Hotel Chez Lando or a selected guesthouse.
Mid-range: Hotel des Mille Collines or Park Inn by Radisson Kigali.
Luxury: Kigali Serena Hotel or The Retreat by Heaven.
Volcanoes National Park – 2 nights
Budget: Hotel Muhabura or a selected guesthouse near Musanze.
Mid-range: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel or Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge.
Luxury: Bisate Lodge, Singita Kwitonda Lodge or One&Only Gorilla’s Nest.
Bwindi – 2 nights
The lodge should be located in or near the Rushaga trekking sector to minimise the morning transfer.
Budget: Rushaga Gorilla Camp or a suitable local guesthouse, subject to current availability.
Mid-range: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge or Four Gorillas Lodge.
Luxury: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge or selected high-end properties serving the southern Bwindi sectors.
Lake Bunyonyi – 1 night
Budget: Bunyonyi Overland Resort or a selected local guesthouse.
Mid-range: Arcadia Lodges Lake Bunyonyi or BirdNest Resort.
Luxury: Selected premium lakeside accommodation, subject to availability and your preferred location.
Accommodation examples are not confirmed bookings. Availability, operating status and room categories should be checked for your travel dates.
Gorilla trekking permits in Uganda and Rwanda
This safari requires two separate mountain gorilla trekking permits: one for Rwanda and another for Uganda.
Rwanda gorilla trekking permit
A mountain gorilla permit is required for Volcanoes National Park.
The Rwanda Development Board’s published standard foreign visitor rate is USD 1,500 per person. Other visitor categories and promotional arrangements may have different conditions.
The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years, and the viewing period is limited to one hour.
Uganda gorilla trekking permit
A separate permit is required for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Uganda’s permit fees depend on visitor category and the applicable UWA conservation tariff. Confirm the current rate for your travel date before preparing a quotation.
For foreign non-residents, UWA’s published purchase guidance states that gorilla permits must be purchased through a tour operator licensed by the Uganda Tourism Board.
Important booking advice
Because this safari involves two countries and two separate gorilla trekking dates, we recommend securing both permits before confirming the remaining travel arrangements.
Your passport details must be provided accurately when arranging permits. The assigned trekking sectors and accommodation should also be coordinated to avoid unnecessary transfers.
Border crossing and visa arrangements
The itinerary crosses the Rwanda–Uganda border twice.
- Day 4: Cross from Rwanda into Uganda through Cyanika.
- Day 7: Return from Uganda to Rwanda through Katuna/Gatuna.
Travellers must carry valid passports and comply with the immigration requirements applicable to their nationality and travel status.
The East African Tourist Visa allows eligible visitors to travel between Uganda, Rwanda and Kenya for tourism, with multiple entries during its validity. It is valid for 90 days and must be issued by the country of first entry into the participating region.
Visa eligibility, fees and documentation should be checked with the relevant immigration authority before travel. Travellers who do not qualify for the East African Tourist Visa may need different entry arrangements.
Best time to enjoy the Uganda and Rwanda Double Gorilla Safari
Gorilla trekking is available throughout the year in both Uganda and Rwanda. However, weather conditions influence forest trails, road travel and the overall trekking experience.
June to September
This is generally part of the longer dry season in both countries.
It is a popular time for gorilla trekking because trails may be less muddy and travel conditions can be more comfortable.
Permits and accommodation should be booked well in advance because demand can be high.
December to February
These months are generally another relatively dry period.
They are suitable for travellers combining gorilla trekking with scenic activities around Lake Bunyonyi.
March to May
This is generally a wetter period. Forest trails may become muddy and slippery, making trekking more challenging.
However, the landscapes are lush and green, which can be attractive for photography.
October to November
The shorter rainy season may bring occasional heavy showers. Trekking remains possible, but visitors should be prepared for changing weather.
Our recommendation: June to September and December to February are good starting points for planning this safari. However, gorilla sightings and trekking conditions are influenced by natural factors and cannot be guaranteed.
What is included in the 7-day Uganda and Rwanda Double Gorilla Safari?
A typical private safari package can include:
- Airport pick-up and drop-off in Kigali.
- Private 4×4 safari vehicle with an experienced driver-guide.
- Cross-border transport between Rwanda and Uganda.
- Fuel and road transport throughout the itinerary.
- One night of accommodation in Kigali.
- Two nights of accommodation near Volcanoes National Park.
- Two nights of accommodation near Bwindi’s Rushaga sector.
- One night of accommodation near Lake Bunyonyi.
- Meals as specified in the final quotation.
- Rwanda mountain gorilla trekking permit.
- Uganda mountain gorilla trekking permit.
- Relevant park and activity arrangements.
- Border-crossing assistance and itinerary coordination.
- Bottled drinking water during road transfers.
- Safari planning and pre-travel assistance.
Your final quotation should clearly identify both gorilla permits, accommodation, meals and all included transport arrangements.
What is not included?
Unless specifically stated in your quotation, the following may be excluded:
- International flights.
- Visa fees, where applicable.
- Travel insurance and emergency evacuation cover.
- Personal expenses and souvenirs.
- Tips and gratuities.
- Porter services during gorilla trekking.
- Optional cultural activities.
- Additional meals and drinks not specified in the package.
- Extra accommodation before or after the safari.
- Optional activities around Lake Bunyonyi.
What to pack for the Uganda and Rwanda Double Gorilla Safari
Because the itinerary includes two forest treks, suitable hiking clothing and equipment are essential.
We recommend packing:
- Waterproof hiking boots with good grip.
- Long-sleeved shirts and long trekking trousers.
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
- Gardening or trekking gloves.
- Warm fleece or sweater for cool mornings.
- A small daypack.
- Reusable water bottle.
- Sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Hat and sunglasses.
- Camera with flash switched off during gorilla viewing.
- Spare socks and a change of clothes.
- Personal medication and basic first-aid supplies.
- Binoculars, if desired.
- Travel documents and suitable insurance.
A walking stick can be useful on steep or muddy forest trails. Porters are available for hire at both trekking destinations and can help carry your daypack.
Responsible mountain gorilla tourism
Mountain gorillas are endangered and vulnerable to human disturbance and infectious diseases. Visitors must follow strict conservation guidelines in both countries.
For a responsible experience:
- Do not trek if you are unwell or have symptoms of a contagious illness.
- Follow the instructions of your ranger guides.
- Maintain the required viewing distance.
- Do not feed, touch or attempt to attract the gorillas.
- Avoid loud noises and sudden movements.
- Do not use flash photography.
- Respect the one-hour viewing limit.
- Do not leave rubbish in the forest.
- Consider hiring local porters to support communities around the parks.
- Respect local communities and conservation rules.
Responsible gorilla tourism helps support conservation programmes, protect mountain gorilla habitat and provide economic opportunities for communities living near the parks.
Frequently asked questions about the 7-Day Uganda and Rwanda Double Gorilla Safari
1. What is a double gorilla trekking safari?
A double gorilla trekking safari is a journey that includes two separate mountain gorilla trekking experiences. This itinerary allows you to trek gorillas once in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park and a second time in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
2. Can I trek mountain gorillas in both Uganda and Rwanda in seven days?
Yes. Seven days is sufficient for two gorilla trekking experiences, provided both permits are secured and the itinerary is carefully organised. The route includes Kigali, Volcanoes National Park, Bwindi and Lake Bunyonyi.
3. Why combine Uganda and Rwanda for gorilla trekking?
Combining the two countries allows you to experience two important mountain gorilla habitats. Rwanda offers the Virunga volcanic landscape, while Uganda’s Bwindi provides an ancient and densely vegetated rainforest environment.
4. How much do the two gorilla permits cost?
The Rwanda Development Board publishes a standard foreign visitor permit rate of USD 1,500. Uganda’s applicable permit fee depends on the visitor category and current UWA tariff. Both permits must be secured separately, and the current rates should be confirmed before booking.
5. What is the minimum age for gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda?
The minimum age is generally 15 years in both countries. Travellers should confirm the applicable age and documentation requirements when arranging their permits.
6. Which border crossing is used between Rwanda and Uganda?
This itinerary uses Cyanika when travelling from Volcanoes National Park to southern Bwindi. The return journey from Lake Bunyonyi to Kigali generally uses Katuna/Gatuna. Border arrangements may be adjusted depending on the final accommodation and route.
7. Is gorilla trekking difficult?
Gorilla trekking can be moderately difficult or strenuous, depending on the terrain, weather and location of the assigned family. Bwindi’s steep rainforest trails can be particularly challenging. A reasonable level of fitness and suitable footwear are recommended.
8. Will I see the same gorilla family twice?
No. The permits are arranged for different trekking experiences in two different national parks. You will be assigned to habituated families according to the park’s allocation system.
9. Can I add golden monkey tracking to this safari?
Yes. Golden monkey tracking can be added in Volcanoes National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, subject to permit availability. However, adding the activity may require an extra day or adjustments to the current itinerary.
10. Can I start the safari in Uganda instead of Rwanda?
Yes. The itinerary can be reversed or redesigned to start in Entebbe or another suitable location in Uganda. The best arrangement depends on international flights, gorilla permit availability and the preferred trekking sectors.
11. Is Lake Bunyonyi included in the safari?
Yes. The itinerary includes one night at Lake Bunyonyi after the second gorilla trek. This provides time to relax, enjoy the scenery and take an optional boat or canoe excursion.
12. Can I extend the safari?
Yes. The journey can be extended to include Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Mburo, Kibale Forest, golden monkey tracking or additional nights at Lake Bunyonyi.
Book your 7-Day Uganda and Rwanda Double Gorilla Safari
Experience the extraordinary opportunity to encounter mountain gorillas in two countries on one carefully planned journey.
From the volcanic forests of Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park to the dense rainforest of Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, this seven-day safari offers two distinct trekking experiences and a deeper appreciation of mountain gorilla conservation.
After your second trek, unwind beside the peaceful waters of Lake Bunyonyi before returning to Kigali.
We can tailor the safari to your preferred travel dates, accommodation category, trekking sectors and permit arrangements.
Contact our safari team to request a quotation for your 7-Day Uganda and Rwanda Double Gorilla Safari and begin planning your cross-border primate adventure.