2 Days Gorilla Safari Uganda, Bwindi Gorilla Trekking
A 2-day gorilla safari in Bwindi is one of the best short safaris in Uganda for travellers who want to see mountain gorillas but have limited time. This trip is designed for visitors who may be on a business trip, a short holiday, or already in Kigali and want a quick but rewarding gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Depending on your travel plan, the safari can start from Kigali for a shorter road transfer, or from Kampala if you are already in Uganda. However the trip will have to end in Rwanda Kigali, because we can not drop off in Kampala due to a long drive. If one wishes to start and end their trip in Kampala, then the 3 days gorilla tracking safari option would be perfect for them.
Bwindi is one of Africa’s most important gorilla destinations and is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The park is divided into different trekking sectors, including Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo, and your lodge should always match the sector where your permit is booked. This short safari gives you a well-planned way to enjoy gorilla trekking, overnight accommodation, and private transfers without stretching the trip into several days.
Safari Highlights
- Gorilla trekking experience with expert ranger guidance
- Suitable for travellers with limited time
- Start from Kigali or Kampala, depending on your route
- Scenic drive through southwestern Uganda
- Overnight stay near the trekking sector
- Ideal for short holidays, business travellers, and East Africa add-on trips
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1, Transfer from Kigali or Kampala to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Your 2-day gorilla safari in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park starts with pick-up from your hotel in Kigali or Kampala, depending on your travel plan. Pick-up is at 8 am after breakfast, before beginning the journey to Bwindi in Kanungu District. If you start from Kampala, you may stop at the Equator for photographs before continuing to the Igongo Cultural Centre to learn more about Ankole culture. Please note that the drive from Kampala to Bwindi usually takes between 7 and 9 hours. Travellers who prefer a shorter journey can also fly from Kampala to Bwindi at an extra cost. If you start from Kigali, the drive to Bwindi takes about 4 to 5 hours, making it the more practical option for a short gorilla safari. Overnight stay at Bakiga Lodge [budget], Gorilla Mist Camp [mid-range], or Gorilla Safari Lodge [luxury], depending on availability and your permit sector.
Day 2, Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi, return to Kigali
Have an early breakfast before 8 am, then transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing. During the briefing, rangers will explain the gorilla trekking rules, safety guidelines, and what to expect during the trek. The gorilla trek may take between 2 and 6 hours, depending on the movement and location of the gorilla family assigned to your group. Once the gorillas are found, you will be allowed to spend 1 hour with them while observing their behaviour and taking photographs. After the trek, begin the transfer back to Kigali. Arrive in Kigali in the evening. This marks the end of your 2-day gorilla safari in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Inclusions
- Gorilla trekking permit
- Private transport in a safari vehicle
- English-speaking driver guide
- Park entry and ranger briefing
- One night accommodation
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary
- Bottled drinking water during the road trip
Exclusions
- International flights
- Uganda visa or East Africa tourist visa
- Porter fees during trekking
- Personal travel insurance
- Tips and gratuities
- Alcoholic drinks and extra beverages
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary