Embarking on a 3-days group safari through Uganda, starting from Kigali, offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the majestic wilderness of East Africa and encounter some of the world’s most elusive wildlife. This safari is particularly special as it focuses on the gorilla trekking experience within Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its profound biodiversity and home to almost half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas.
This safari is not just about seeing gorillas; it is an immersive experience that offers insights into the geography, culture, and wildlife conservation efforts in Uganda and Rwanda. Highlights include:
The adventure begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s capital and largest city. Known for its vibrant culture and tragic history, Kigali is a city of recovery and peace. Participants gather in the morning, often at a designated meeting point such as a hotel or directly at the Kigali International Airport. Here, the group will meet their safari guide who will brief them on the journey ahead, ensuring all necessary precautions and insights are shared to guarantee a safe and enjoyable experience.
After the initial briefing, the journey kicks off towards the Uganda border. The drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is as scenic as it is exhilarating, winding through the rolling hills and lush landscapes of Rwanda and Uganda. Along the way, there are scheduled stops at places of interest such as local markets or historical sites, offering a glimpse into the daily lives and rich histories of the local communities.
Upon crossing into Uganda, the change in landscape is noticeable. The terrain becomes increasingly hilly and verdant, setting the stage for the upcoming gorilla trekking experience. The group will check into a lodge near the park, where they can relax and enjoy a hearty dinner. The evening might include a briefing on the next day’s activities, emphasising the importance of respecting wildlife and adhering to park regulations during the gorilla trek.
The second day is the highlight of the safari: gorilla trekking in Bwindi. After an early breakfast, the group will head to the park headquarters where they are divided into smaller groups, each led by a trained ranger. The trek begins with a walk through the park’s dense, mist-covered forests. This part of the journey can be quite challenging due to the uneven and sometimes muddy terrain, coupled with the park’s high altitude.
The time it takes to find the gorillas varies widely, typically ranging from a few hours to the whole day, depending on where the gorillas are located in the forest. During the trek, participants get to see various other species of wildlife and learn about the rich ecosystem of Bwindi.
The encounter with the gorillas is a profoundly moving experience. Participants usually have around one hour to observe the gorillas in their natural habitat, an encounter that is respectful and minimises human impact on the wildlife. The sight of gorillas going about their daily activities—feeding, playing, resting, and interacting with each other—is mesmerizing and often described as a life-changing experience.
On the final day, the group departs from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and begins the journey back to Kigali. The drive allows for reflection on the profound experiences of the previous days. It’s also an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Uganda and Rwanda one last time.
Once back in Kigali, participants may have some time to explore the city, visit the Genocide Memorial, or do some last-minute shopping, depending on their flight schedules. The tour typically concludes at the Kigali International Airport, where farewells are exchanged and participants depart, carrying with them memories and a deeper appreciation of nature and conservation.
Overall, a 3-day group safari from Kigali to Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a compact yet rich journey that combines adventure, education, and conservation in one of the most unique settings on earth.
At Volcano Gorilla Tours, a proud division of Pillars of Africa Safaris, we are dedicated to providing exceptional safari experiences that immerse you in the heart of Africa’s wilderness. Our passion is to create unforgettable journeys that bring you closer to nature, wildlife, and the captivating landscapes of the wild.
