What is the easiest Boarder to access Bwindi from Rwanda?
Boarder to access Bwindi from Rwanda. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, one of Uganda’s top destinations for gorilla trekking, is easily accessible from Rwanda via multiple border crossings. The most convenient and efficient route is through the Cyanika border, especially for visitors heading to the southern sectors of the park, such as Rushaga. This sector is particularly popular among travelers due to its high concentration of habituated gorilla families, making it a prime location for trekking experiences.
Although the Cyanika border is a well-used route, the Gatuna border is the most frequently utilized crossing point between Uganda and Rwanda. Situated closer to Kabale town, Gatuna serves as a major transit route, facilitating movement between the two countries. Travelers coming from Kigali who opt for the Gatuna border should expect a two-hour drive to the Ugandan side, followed by an additional hour’s journey to reach Bwindi.
For those planning to visit Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which is near Bwindi, Cyanika offers the fastest and most direct access from Kigali. This route is ideal for tourists seeking a seamless travel experience with minimal delays. While both border points are viable options for accessing Uganda’s gorilla trekking destinations, Cyanika remains the preferred choice for those heading specifically to the Rushaga sector due to its proximity and convenience. Travelers should consider their itinerary, time constraints, and the specific gorilla trekking locations they plan to visit when choosing between Cyanika and Gatuna.
How far is Kigali to Bwindi National Park?
The distance from Kigali, Rwanda, to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda varies depending on the entry point and the specific sector of the park you are visiting. The shortest and most commonly used route is through the Cyanika border, which leads to the southern sectors of Bwindi, particularly Rushaga and Nkuringo. This journey from Kigali to Bwindi covers approximately 170 km (105 miles) and takes about 4 to 5 hours by road, depending on border crossing procedures and road conditions.
Alternatively, travelers can use the Gatuna border, which is more frequently used but slightly longer. From Kigali, it takes about 2 hours to reach Gatuna and then an additional 3 hours to Bwindi, depending on the sector. The total journey can take 5 to 6 hours.
For those visiting Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Cyanika remains the best route, offering the fastest access from Kigali with a drive time of around 3 to 4 hours.
How long does it take driving from Kigali to Mgahinga and Bwindi National Parks with the car?
Driving from Kigali to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park via the Cyanika border takes approximately 3 to 4 hours (about 140 km / 87 miles). This is the fastest route for those visiting Mgahinga from Rwanda.
For Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, travel time varies based on the sector:
- Rushaga/Nkuringo sectors (southern Bwindi) – 4 to 5 hours via Cyanika (170 km / 105 miles).
- Buhoma sector (northern Bwindi) – 5 to 6 hours via the Gatuna border and Kabale town.
What is the cheapest way to do Gorilla Trekking?
The cheapest destination to see gorillas is the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where gorilla trekking permits are significantly more affordable compared to Uganda and Rwanda. In Virunga National Park, a gorilla permit costs USD 400 per person during the high season, which runs from mid-December to mid-March and June to October.
For budget travelers, the low season offers an even better deal, with permits priced at just USD 200 per person. This discounted rate applies from mid-March to mid-May and mid-October to mid-December annually.
This makes Congo the most budget-friendly option for those eager to experience gorilla trekking. Despite the lower cost, the experience is equally thrilling, with opportunities to encounter mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. However, travelers should check for security updates and park accessibility before planning their trip, as the region’s conditions can vary.
Is it possible to do a one day gorilla trekking in Uganda from Kigali?
Yes, it is possible to do one-day gorilla trekking in Uganda from Kigali. This option is ideal for travelers with limited time who want to experience the incredible mountain gorillas without an overnight stay.
The journey may begin early in the morning at 4:00 AM when you set off from Kigali, Rwanda. You will drive toward Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, passing through the Cyanika border. The drive takes about 3 hours, meaning you will arrive at the park headquarters by 7:00 AM, just in time for the pre-trekking briefing by the park rangers.
After the briefing, you will embark on an unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure, which can last between 2 to 5 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family you are tracking. Once you complete the trek, you will start your return journey to Kigali at around 1:00 PM.
The drive back takes another 3 hours, ensuring that you arrive in Kigali by late afternoon or early evening. This itinerary allows you to experience gorilla trekking in Uganda while still staying in Kigali, making it a convenient and cost-effective option. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended for a smooth and comfortable journey.
