Traveling from Rwanda’s Kigali International Airport to Uganda for gorilla trekking.

You may be worried about the cost and logistics if you’re considering gorilla trekking. Rwanda’s Kigali International Airport makes it easier and less expensive to go to Uganda for gorilla trekking than Entebbe does. You can go to Uganda’s gorilla refuge in just five hours, including the border crossing, from Kigali. The drive is spectacular. Compared to the 10- to 11-hour journey from Entebbe International Airport to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, this is significantly faster.

Imagine yourself in the middle of a stunning forest, surrounded by the fascinating sounds of chirping birds and the delightful scent of budding flowers. You’re going to embark on an expedition that will take you far into the dense forest to meet the mountain gorilla, the most magnificent animal in Africa.

These magnificent animals are found only in two places on Earth: the Ugandan Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and the Virunga Mountains, which cross three countries: Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In addition to being exhilarating, the experience aids in the preservation of these exquisite primates.

A once-in-a-lifetime event, gorilla trekking in Uganda appeals to both adventure seekers and environment lovers. And what better way to start this incredible journey than by flying into Kigali International Airport in Rwanda?

This article will examine the nuances, practicalities, and sheer inspiration of traveling to Uganda for gorilla trekking from the country’s capital, Kigali International Airport.

What makes Kigali International Airport the best place to fly?

Kigali International Airport in Rwanda has gained popularity as a gorilla trekking alternative, despite the fact that there are additional airports and border crossings in Uganda.

The closest major international airport to Uganda’s best gorilla trekking destinations is Kigali International Airport, located in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The proximity of the airport allows you to start your journey quickly and saves a significant amount of time on the journey.

Travel Ease:

Rwanda has invested a lot of money in infrastructure, which makes it easier for tourists to reach the airport and Ugandan border. The border crossing process is easy to follow, and the roads are in decent condition.

Rwanda is renowned for its security and political stability. You feel at ease as you drive through its gorgeous landscape.

Gorilla license availability:

Compared to Rwanda, Uganda offers gorilla licenses at a lower cost and with more accessibility. In Rwanda, a permit costs $1500 per person, while in Uganda, it costs $800. Furthermore, compared to Rwanda, Uganda has more habituated gorillas available for observation.

Arrival at International Airport in Kigali

You have to get to Rwanda’s principal airport, Kigali International Airport (also known as Kanombe Airport), before you can start your gorilla trekking adventure.

There are 29 airports worldwide that offer direct flights to Kigali, including

• London Heathrow,
• Amsterdam,
• Brussels,
• Paris,
• Istanbul,
• Dubai,
• Doha,
• Entebbe,
• Nairobi, and
• johannesburg.

Among the airlines that fly to and from Kigali are

• Kenya Airways,
• Rwandair,
• KLM,
• Virgin,
• Egyptair,
• Ethiopian Airlines,
• Qatar Airways,
• Delta,
• JetBlue Airways,
• Air Canada,
• United,
• Brussels Airlines, and
• Lufthansa.

Modern conveniences provided by Kigali Airport guarantee a trouble-free and seamless arrival.

Depending on the exact location in Bwindi you visit, the journey from Kigali International Airport to the impenetrable forest can take four to six hours. It is easier to access the Ruhija Sector in the northwest, Mgahinga, and the Nkuringo and Rushaga sectors in the south of the park. However, it takes longer to go to the park headquarters at Buhoma Sector, which is situated to the north of the park.

Securing a private transfer through a trustworthy travel agency is a delightful and simple approach to visiting Bwindi. The operator will pick you up at the airport and take you in a hassle-free, safe manner to the gorilla trekking spot of your choice.

Public Bus:

Certain public bus services operate in Uganda between Kigali and Kisoro or Kabale for those looking to save money on transportation. This option can be less expensive, but it might take longer to get there and involve more stops.

Self-Drive:

You can rent a car in Kigali and drive to Bwindi if you’d rather have the independence of your own vehicle. Nonetheless, motorists in East Africa need to be aware of the state of the roads, regulations governing border crossings, and other issues.

Visas and Crossing Borders

You are responsible for handling the border crossing procedure when going from Kigali International Airport to Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The following steps must be taken to ensure a smooth transition:

Most travelers to Rwanda and Uganda will need to obtain a visa. It is preferable to obtain these visas in advance via the relevant embassies or internet portals to avoid delays. Apply for an East African visa, which enables you to visit Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya all in one trip, to save having to apply for visas in two different countries. The Rwandan and Ugandan online visa portals, migration.gov.rw/visa and visas.immigration.go.ug, respectively, offer the EA visa.

Yellow Fever immunization:

It’s important to be aware that, in order to enter Uganda and Rwanda, all visitors must possess a current certificate of yellow fever immunization. Don’t forget to grab this certificate before you head out.

Cash Exchange:

Ugandan Shillings, which are widely accepted in Bwindi and other parts of Uganda, can be exchanged for your cash at the border or in nearby cities.

Gorilla Expeditions

The experience can start once you’ve found your way from Kigali International Airport to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and obtained your permit to go gorilla trekking. Here’s a preview of what to expect from your gorilla trekking experience:

Briefing:

Park rangers will conduct a pre-trek briefing the morning of your hike. This takes place at the trekking center listed on your gorilla permit at 7:30 a.m. You will learn about safety protocols, trekking limitations, and gorillas from rangers.

Group Assignment:

You will be placed with a particular gorilla family group, all of which are used to having people around, to ensure a secure and peaceful experience.

Trekking:

Depending on the gorilla troop you are assigned to, the length of time and level of difficulty of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest hike vary. While some gorilla trips span several hours or even the entire day, others may just last as little as thirty minutes. The terrain is rugged, so be ready for high altitudes, sharp slopes, thick undergrowth, and muddy trails.

You will have a wonderful hour to witness and capture images of these amazing primates in their natural environment after you get to the gorilla family. Please observe your guide’s instructions and maintain a respectful distance from the gorillas to ensure your safety and well-being, as well as theirs.