Rwanda, Uganda · Up-Close Animal Experiences

3-Day Gorilla Trekking Tour in Bwindi with Lake Mutanda

3 Days Round trip from KN 5 Rd Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Feel the thrill of encountering mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
02 Enjoy a scenic drive through the Virunga Mountains and lush landscapes
03 Relax by the serene shores of Lake Mutanda
04 Ride a traditional dugout canoe or visit Punishment Island on Lake Mutanda

Embark on a 3-day adventure from Kigali to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, combining scenic drives through Ruhengeri, Kisoro, and the Kisoro-Kabale hills with an unforgettable mountain gorilla trekking experience. Venture into Bwindi's dense forest for a close encounter with these gentle giants, then unwind on the serene shores of Lake Mutanda. This journey blends wildlife, highland landscapes, and peaceful lakeside moments across Rwanda and Uganda.

Today is the moment you've been dreaming of - an unforgettable encounter with the gentle giants of Bwindi.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 3 Days

Tour type Shared

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Ruhengeri, Kigali, Kabale, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kisoro, Volcanoes National Park

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Kigali and Scenic Transfer to Bwindi

Arrive at Kigali International Airport and meet your guide for a warm welcome. Begin your journey to Bwindi, Uganda, traveling through Rwanda's northwestern town of Ruhengeri, the gateway to Volcanoes National Park.

After approximately 3 hours, arrive at the Rwanda-Uganda Cyanika border post and enter Kisoro, a charming town nestled in the lush foothills of the Virunga Mountains. Continue along the winding roads through the picturesque hills of Kisoro and Kabale, reaching Bwindi after about an hour.

Settle into the lodge and enjoy the rest of the day at your own pace. Optional activities include a guided walk through the surrounding hills, a cultural visit to the Batwa community, or a hands-on coffee-making experience with local farmers.

Day 02

Bwindi Gorilla Trekking and Transfer to Lake Mutanda

Today is the moment you've been dreaming of - an unforgettable encounter with the gentle giants of Bwindi. Begin with a detailed briefing on gorilla trekking guidelines to ensure your safety, the safety of others, and the protection of the gorillas and their habitat.

Led by an experienced guide and ranger, venture into Bwindi's dense forest. The trek winds through lush vegetation until that magical moment when you come face-to-face with the mountain gorillas, a humbling and life-changing experience.

After the trek, descend from the forest and journey back to Kisoro to the serene shores of Lake Mutanda, a tranquil highland lake cradled in the green hills of Kisoro. Unwind, enjoy a peaceful dinner, and settle in for a well-earned rest - time to reflect on the day's unforgettable encounter.

Day 03

Lake Mutanda Experience and Return to Kigali

Start your day to the soothing chorus of birdsong at Lake Mutanda, with stunning views of the Virunga Volcano Mountains providing a beautiful backdrop to the lake.

Make the most of the crisp morning air with a refreshing swim, a tranquil ride in a traditional dugout canoe, a zipline over the lake, or a visit to the legendary Punishment Island, steeped in folklore and local history.

After lunch, begin your scenic drive back to Kigali. You'll be dropped off at Kigali International Airport.