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The shortest way to Bwindi's mountain gorillas, crossing from Rwanda to the southern sector
Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is home to almost half of the world's mountain gorillas. Its southern sectors, Rushaga and Nkuringo, are closer to Kigali than to Kampala, so the quickest way in is to fly to Rwanda and drive across the border at Cyanika or Katuna (about 4 to 5 hours). You trek on day two with a park ranger and spend one unforgettable hour with a habituated gorilla family. Uganda's permit is about half the price of Rwanda's, which makes this the best value gorilla trip in East Africa.
Dry season, firmer forest trails; book permits early
Showers return, permits easier to find
Rainy month, lower permit and lodge rates
Short dry season, green hills
Rains building
Long rains, lower permit and lodge rates
Pick-up in Kigali and drive north through Rwanda's hills to the Uganda border, then on past Lake Mutanda to Rushaga in southern Bwindi (about 4 to 5 hours).
Briefing at the park office at 07:30, then trek into the forest with rangers and trackers to find your gorilla family. You spend one hour with them before walking back. Afternoon free, or a community walk.
Drive back across the border to Kigali (about 4 to 5 hours) for your flight, or stay on for a Kigali city tour.
One night in a mid-range Kigali hotel with breakfast, per person sharing.
Half day with a local guide: markets, Nyamirambo, the Inema Arts Center and the Kigali Genocide Memorial if not already visited.
Trek to a habituated troop of endangered golden monkeys in the bamboo forest of Volcanoes National Park, permit included (USD 100). Minimum age 12.
Tell us your dates and party size — we'll confirm availability and send a clear quote.