4-Day Gorilla Trekking Safari with Lake Bunyonyi and Kigali City Tour

Gorillas Safari

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Highlights

Drive through scenic terraced hills known as the “Switzerland of Uganda”

Relax along the shores of Lake Bunyonyi, one of Uganda’s most beautiful lakes

Trek endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Spend one hour observing gorillas in their natural forest habitat

Cruise across Lake Bunyonyi and explore its picturesque islands

Enjoy birdwatching and views of local life along the lakeshore

Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial for historical and cultural insight

Kigali, Lake Bunyonyi, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

nature, photography, Wildlife

Private Tour

4 Days

Medium

English, French, German

Description

Embark on a memorable 4-day journey beginning in Kigali and continuing to Uganda’s breathtaking Lake Bunyonyi and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Track endangered mountain gorillas through dense rainforest, cruise the tranquil waters of Lake Bunyonyi, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the terraced highlands. The tour concludes with a cultural exploration of Kigali, including visits to the Genocide Memorial and local craft markets, offering a perfect blend of wildlife, nature, and heritage.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
- Arrive at Kigali International Airport and complete all arrival formalities.
- Meet your professional guide who will warmly welcome you to the region.
- Transfer to your hotel in Kigali for check-in and relaxation.
- Choose to unwind at the lodge or take a guided stroll through the vibrant streets of Kigali.
- Enjoy your first evening in Rwanda with dinner and overnight stay.
Day 2: Drive to Lake Bunyonyi
- Take breakfast at your accommodation and begin your scenic journey to Uganda.
- Drive through the lush and terraced highlands known as the "Switzerland of Uganda."
- Cross the border into Uganda and continue toward Lake Bunyonyi.
- Marvel at panoramic views of rolling hills and calm waters.
- Arrive in the evening and settle into your lakeside accommodation.
- Spend the evening relaxing in preparation for the next day's adventure.
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi and Lake Bunyonyi Exploration
- Have an early breakfast and transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
- Attend a briefing session before starting your gorilla trekking experience.
- Trek through the thick forest under the guidance of experienced rangers and trackers.
- Encounter a family of endangered mountain gorillas and spend one unforgettable hour with them.
- Learn about their behavior, social structure, and conservation status.
- Return to Lake Bunyonyi for lunch and a relaxing afternoon boat cruise.
- Explore the scenic islands of the lake and observe birds and local fishing life.
- Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 4: Drive to Kigali and Departure
- Take breakfast and begin your drive back to Kigali.
- Upon arrival, enjoy a guided city tour of Kigali.
- Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local craft markets, and cultural sites.
- Shop for souvenirs and learn more about Rwandan heritage and resilience.
- Transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.

What's Included

Gorilla trekking permits (for non-residents): 1 permit or 2 permits per person

All activities mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)

All accommodations mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrades)

All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)

Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)

Park fees (for non-residents)

A professional driver/guide

Roundtrip airport transfer

All taxes/VAT

What's Excluded

Excluded: International flights to and from the client's home country

Excluded: Personal items such as souvenirs, travel insurance, and visa fees

Excluded: Additional accommodation before and after the tour

Excluded: Government-imposed increases in park fees or taxes

Excluded: Alcoholic and soft drinks unless otherwise specified

Tips: Tipping is not mandatory but highly appreciated

Tips: Suggested tipping guideline per person per day for the guide and crew ranges from US$ 5.00 to US$ 100.00 depending on level of satisfaction and service quality

Tips: No tip is expected if the service does not meet expectations

Know Before You Go

Murchison Falls National Park covers approximately 3,893 km⊃2; and is Uganda’s largest national park.

The larger Murchison Falls Conservation Area (MFCA), including Karuma and Bugungu Wildlife Reserves, spans around 5,072 km⊃2;.

The best time for wildlife viewing is during the dry seasons from December to February and June to September.

The park is about 305 km from Kampala, taking roughly 4 to 6 hours by road via Masindi and the southern gates (Kichumbanyobo or Masindi South).

Northern gates like Tangi, Purongo, and Chobe also offer good access to game-rich areas.

Park entry fees are US$45 for foreign non-residents, US$35 for foreign residents, and UGX 25,000 for East African citizens per 24 hours.

The boat launch trip to the base of the falls costs US$30 for foreign non-residents.

The guided hike to the top of the falls is US$15, and access to the viewing platform only is US$10.

Sport fishing permits cost US$50 per day or US$150 for four days, excluding park entry.

UWA’s official site provides up-to-date information on fees and bookings.

Must-do activities include classic game drives (especially in the north), boat cruises to the falls, delta cruises for birding, and the short hike to the top of the falls.

Sport fishing for Nile perch and catfish is popular with proper permits.

A yellow fever vaccination is required for entry into Uganda; carry your certificate.

Malaria is present across Uganda; consult your doctor about prophylaxis and insect bite prevention.

Avoid blue and black clothing to reduce bites from tsetse flies; wear neutral, lightweight long sleeves and trousers.

Do not swim in the Nile due to strong currents and the presence of crocodiles and hippos.

Use only licensed boat operators such as UWA and authorized concessionaires.

Essential documents include your passport, yellow fever card, payment cards, and Ugandan shillings in small denominations.

Clothing should include neutral-colored long sleeves, a wide-brimmed hat, light rain gear, and sturdy shoes.

Sun and insect protection is essential—bring high-SPF sunscreen, insect repellent, after-bite cream, and sunglasses.

Essential gear includes binoculars, a dust-protected camera, and a dry bag for boat excursions.

Book your activities and permits in advance, especially during peak months, through your lodge or UWA.

A 4×4 vehicle is strongly recommended for navigating park roads, which are often dirt tracks.

Begin game drives early in the morning to avoid mid-day heat and increase wildlife sightings.

The best chance to see the rare shoebill is on the delta cruise—bring your binoculars.

What To Bring

Carry a valid passport with at least six months validity and a Ugandan visa

Present a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate as it is mandatory for entry

Secure comprehensive travel insurance covering health, emergencies, and cancellations

Consult a doctor for recommended vaccinations and bring essential medications including anti-malarials

Pack lightweight neutral-colored clothing such as khaki or olive long-sleeved shirts and trousers

Include warm layers like a fleece or light jacket for cooler evenings

Bring a waterproof jacket or poncho for rainy conditions

Wear sturdy hiking boots for treks and walking safaris

Pack sandals or flip-flops for lodge relaxation

Carry swimwear for pools or potential swimming opportunities

Use a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protection sunglasses for sun defense

Bring binoculars for birdwatching and distant wildlife spotting

Pack a good camera with extra batteries and memory cards

Use a daypack for daily excursions and essentials

Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated

Apply insect repellent with DEET to avoid bites

Use high-SPF sunscreen and lip balm to protect against sun exposure

Carry a flashlight or headlamp for low-light or night activities

Pack biodegradable toiletries and personal hygiene items

Include a first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptics, and pain relievers

Bring hand sanitizer and wet wipes for cleanliness

Keep photocopies of important travel documents in a separate location

Carry small denominations of Ugandan Shillings for tips and minor purchases

Bring a power bank and universal adapter for device charging

Pack lighter clothing for the dry season but include warm layers for evenings

Use waterproof and quick-drying gear during the wet season for comfort and mobility

Meeting Point

Rwanda

Cancellation Policy

For cancellations upto 2 days before the tour -

Refund of 80% of the tour price.

Price

Adult
1 to 10	/person
Child
1 to 10	/person
This is a private tour

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4-Day Gorilla Trekking Safari with Lake Bunyonyi and Kigali City Tour

Highlights

Description

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali

Day 2: Drive to Lake Bunyonyi

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi and Lake Bunyonyi Exploration

Day 4: Drive to Kigali and Departure

What's Included

What's Excluded

Know Before You Go

What To Bring

Meeting Point

Cancellation Policy

Price

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4-Day Gorilla Trekking Safari with Lake Bunyonyi and Kigali City Tour

Highlights

Description

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali

Day 2: Drive to Lake Bunyonyi

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi and Lake Bunyonyi Exploration

Day 4: Drive to Kigali and Departure

What's Included

What's Excluded

Know Before You Go

What To Bring

Meeting Point

Cancellation Policy

Price

Check Availability Hide

Starting from

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Create your own adventure!

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