When planning for a gorilla tracking safari from Rwanda, you wish to drive from Rwanda, to Uganda basically for gorilla trekking. Most travelers do this, just to dodge the high fees of gorilla trekking in Rwanda, which is two times Uganda’s gorilla tracking permit.

In most cases, most travelers choose to do few activities in Rwanda like Cultural Tours like visiting Iby’Iwacu also known as Gorilla Guardian Village, City Tours,  nature walk,  wildlife encounters like visiting Akagera National Park, Nyungwe for Chimpanzee Tracking and others.  And they mostly go to Uganda for Gorilla trekking.

Driving from Kigali Rwanda to Bwindi or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Driving from Kigali, Rwanda to either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park involves a scenic yet adventurous journey through the rugged terrain of southwestern Uganda. Here’s a brief overview of the drive to each park:

To Bwindi Impenetrable National Park:

1. Distance and Duration: The drive from Kigali to Bwindi ranges from approximately 120 to 150 kilometers (75 to 93 miles) and typically takes about 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
2. Route: You’ll travel via the Cyanika border post near Kisoro, which is the most commonly used crossing point. The route involves navigating through mountainous and sometimes uneven roads, so a 4×4 vehicle is recommended.
3. Road Conditions: The roads can be bumpy and winding, particularly as you approach Bwindi. The final stretches can be quite rough, especially during the rainy season, making it essential to be prepared for varying conditions.

To Mgahinga Gorilla National Park:

1. Distance and Duration: The drive from Kigali to Mgahinga is approximately 120 to 150 kilometers (75 to 93 miles) and usually takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.
2. Route: The most common route is through the Gatuna or Cyanika border posts. From there, you’ll head towards Kisoro and then onto Mgahinga. This route is somewhat less challenging than the road to Bwindi but still requires careful navigation.
3. Road Conditions: Similar to the route to Bwindi, the roads can be rough and hilly. A 4×4 vehicle is advisable due to the potential for muddy and uneven terrain.

For both destinations, it’s important to plan for possible delays, check border crossing requirements, and ensure your vehicle is well-maintained for the journey. Having a local guide or driver with experience in the region can greatly enhance your travel experience and ease the journey.

Comparing Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda Vs Uganda

Rwanda: Gorilla trekking in Rwanda primarily takes place in Volcanoes National Park, located in the northwest of the country. The park is renowned for its high-density gorilla population, which makes sightings relatively easier. Rwanda’s trekking experience is often characterized by shorter treks due to the proximity of gorilla families to the park’s boundary. The terrain is generally less challenging, making it accessible for a wider range of fitness levels. Rwanda’s park is also known for its well-maintained infrastructure and higher-priced permits, which currently cost around $1,500 per person. The country’s focus on conservation and eco-tourism ensures that the gorilla trekking experience is both impactful and sustainable. Additionally, Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park is part of the Virunga Mountains, offering stunning landscapes and a chance to combine trekking with other activities like golden monkey tracking and cultural visits.

Uganda: In Uganda, gorilla trekking occurs in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Bwindi, being more expansive and home to a larger number of gorilla families, offers a diverse trekking experience. The terrain can be more rugged and challenging, often involving longer treks through dense forest, which might appeal to more adventurous travelers. Permits in Uganda are priced at around $800, making it a more budget-friendly option compared to Rwanda. Bwindi is renowned for its high level of biodiversity, providing opportunities to see various wildlife and bird species. Mgahinga, while having only one habituated gorilla family, offers a quieter and more exclusive experience. Uganda’s parks provide a more remote and rugged trekking experience, adding to the sense of adventure.