Day 1: Arrival & Transfer to Rushaga + Evening Batwa Cultural Experience

Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, your safari guide will warmly welcome you and assist with your transfer. From Kigali, you will embark on a scenic drive towards Rushaga, located in the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This journey will take approximately 4 to 5 hours, passing through lush green landscapes, terraced hillsides, and picturesque rural villages. Along the way, there may be an opportunity to stop for refreshments or to take in the stunning views.

Upon arrival in Rushaga, you will check in at your lodge, which is situated near the park entrance. After settling in, you will have some time to relax before embarking on a cultural journey in the late afternoon. You will visit the Batwa people, the indigenous forest dwellers who lived in Bwindi before the park was established. The Batwa will give you a glimpse into their unique lifestyle, showcasing traditional dances, hunting methods, and their deep connection with the forest. This experience provides an enriching cultural insight into the history and traditions of the Batwa. After the cultural experience, you will return to your lodge for a delicious dinner and spend the night there, preparing for the exciting adventure the next day.

Day 2: Gorilla Tracking + Afternoon & Evening Photo Editing

On the second day of your safari, you will begin early with a hearty breakfast at your lodge, as your gorilla trekking adventure is about to begin. After breakfast, you will be transferred to the park headquarters for a briefing session. The park rangers will explain the rules and safety guidelines before you embark on the trek to find the mountain gorillas. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi is a magical experience, where you’ll hike through the dense, mist-covered forest, guided by expert rangers who are skilled at locating the gorilla families. The trek can range from one hour to several hours, depending on the location of the gorillas on that particular day.

Once you locate the gorillas, you will have the rare opportunity to spend an hour with them. The sight of these gentle, intelligent creatures in their natural environment is both humbling and awe-inspiring. You’ll be able to observe their interactions, watch them feed, and take photographs that will be cherished for a lifetime. After your hour with the gorillas, you will begin your hike back to the park headquarters. Along the way, you will enjoy a packed lunch, which your lodge will prepare for you.

In the afternoon, after returning to the lodge and resting for a while, you will have a dedicated session for photo editing. If you are an enthusiast or a professional, you’ll have the chance to enhance and fine-tune your images from the trek, guided by your photographer or guide. The afternoon will be spent going over your photographs from the gorilla trek, ensuring that your memories are captured beautifully. As the evening sets in, you will have the option to relax at the lodge and enjoy a sumptuous dinner while reflecting on the day’s adventure.

Day 3: Breakfast & Departure to Kigali + Kigali Genocide Memorial (Optional)

On your final day, you will wake up to a delicious breakfast at your lodge before checking out and beginning your journey back to Kigali. The drive from Rushaga to Kigali takes around 4 to 5 hours, and along the way, you will enjoy the scenic drive through the picturesque Ugandan and Rwandan countryside. You may stop along the way to stretch your legs, capture a few more photos, or take in the sights.

If time permits, and depending on your flight schedule, you will have the opportunity to visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial. Located in the heart of Rwanda’s capital, this powerful memorial is dedicated to the memory of the victims of the 1994 Rwandan Genocide. The memorial offers a deeply moving insight into the events of the genocide and the subsequent efforts of reconciliation. Visitors can learn about the personal stories of those affected and reflect on the resilience of the Rwandan people. This visit adds a profound layer of historical context to your journey, offering a chance for reflection before your departure.

After the visit to the memorial (if time allows), you will be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your flight, marking the end of your unforgettable 3-day gorilla safari in Uganda and Rwanda.

End of the Trip

Cost $1,660

Inclusions

Gorilla Trekking Permit (Uganda) – $800 per person
✔ All park entrance fees
✔ Accommodation (2 nights) at a midrange lodge in Rushaga (full board)
✔ All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the trip
✔ Private 4×4 Safari Vehicle & Fuel for all transfers
✔ English-speaking driver/guide for the entire trip
✔ Batwa Cultural Experience
✔ Drinking water during transfers & activities
✔ Packed lunch on Gorilla Trekking Day
✔ Airport transfers (Kigali International Airport to Rushaga & back)

Exclusions

✖ International flights
✖ Visa fees (Uganda & Rwanda, if required)

✖ Personal expenses (souvenirs, extra drinks )

✖ Premium drinks at hotels.

✖ Travel Insurance

✖ Tips &Gratuities for guides, driver & lodge staff