1 Day Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda. Embark on an unforgettable adventure with a 1-day gorilla trekking safari in Uganda, offering a rare opportunity to encounter the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This thrilling day trip is perfect for travelers short on time but eager to experience one of Africa’s most profound wildlife encounters. You will have the option to trek in either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dense rainforest and high population of gorillas, or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, a scenic gem nestled in the Virunga Mountains, offering a more intimate trekking experience.

Your journey begins early with a transfer from a nearby town or lodge to the park headquarters, where you will receive a briefing and be assigned to a gorilla group. Led by experienced guides and trackers, the trek can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours depending on the gorillas’ location. Once located, you will spend a magical hour observing these gentle giants—watching them feed, interact, and care for their young.

This one-day safari is an intense yet rewarding experience, combining adventure, conservation, and cultural insight into Uganda’s rich biodiversity. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime encounter that leaves a lasting impact.

If you want to explore more days you can check out our 7-Day Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Golden Monkeys Safari in Uganda. 

Can I Do a One Day Gorilla Safari in Uganda?

Yes, you can absolutely do a one-day gorilla safari in Uganda. While most gorilla trekking safaris are typically planned over several days to allow for travel and acclimatization, it is possible to experience this incredible adventure in just one day—especially if you plan well and stay within close proximity to the parks.

One Day Gorilla Safari Options

If you’re short on time but still want to witness the awe-inspiring mountain gorillas, you have a few options. One of the most convenient routes is starting your journey early in the morning from Kigali, Rwanda. With an early departure, you can reach Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda in time for the morning briefing. After the gorilla trekking experience, which typically lasts a few hours, you can return to Rwanda the same day. This route is ideal for travelers already in Rwanda who want a quick and memorable wildlife experience in Uganda.

Another viable option is to base yourself in Kabale, a southwestern Ugandan town located relatively close to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. From Kabale, you can drive early to Bwindi, participate in the gorilla trekking activity, and return to Kabale by evening.

Why Mgahinga is the Best for a One-Day Trek

While both parks offer excellent gorilla trekking experiences, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is considered the best choice for a one-day gorilla safari. The park is closer to the Rwandan border, making it more accessible for those starting from Kigali. Additionally, Mgahinga often offers shorter and less physically demanding treks compared to Bwindi, allowing for a more manageable one-day experience.

A one-day gorilla trekking safari in Uganda is not only possible but also incredibly rewarding with the right planning.

How much does a 1 day gorilla trekking safari cost in Uganda?

Kenlink Tours offers an unforgettable 1-day gorilla trekking safari in Uganda, ideal for travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience within a limited timeframe. This safari takes you to either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, both of which are home to the rare and endangered mountain gorillas. The trek provides an intimate, guided encounter with these gentle giants in their natural rainforest habitat—an experience that is both humbling and awe-inspiring. The total cost for a one day gorilla trekking safari in Uganda from Rwanda ranges from USD 1200 to USD 1400 with everything included. 

The total cost of the safari includes the gorilla trekking permit, which is priced at $800 for foreign non-residents, $700 for foreign residents, and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens. In addition to the permit, the package typically covers transportation, professional guides, park entry, and bottled water. Kenlink Tours takes care of all the logistics, ensuring a smooth and enriching journey from start to finish. Starting points such as Kisoro, Kabale, or even Kigali (with early departure) can be arranged based on your preference and location.

To book your 1-day gorilla trekking experience or inquire about availability, please contact Kenlink Tours directly via email at info@kenlinktours.com or kenlinktours@gmail.com. You can also visit our Our Booking Page