Uganda wildlife safari starting from Kigali-Rwanda

Uganda wildlife safari starting from Kigali-Rwanda : Uganda wildlife safaris, easily accessible from Kigali Rwanda, are increasingly in demand. Many tourists are now choosing Uganda wildlife safaris begin their journey in Kigali- Rwanda.  This popularity is largely due to the convenient travel links between Kigali and Uganda’s top attractions. Instead of along drive from Entebbe, flying into Kigali-Rwanda provides a much faster route to your chosen destination, Uganda. Embarking on a Uganda wildlife safari from Kigali- Rwanda offers a wealth is unforgettable travel experiences. We at achieve global safaris specialize in crafting personalized Uganda wildlife safari itineraries that begins in Kigali.

Uganda wildlife safaris starting from Kigali- Rwanda

Many people visiting Uganda for the chance to see mountain gorillas often begin their journey in Kigali, Rwanda, before traveling to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Tourists typically arrive at Kigali International Airport and then cross the border, either at Katuna in Kabale or Cyanika in Kisoro, to reach the parks. Getting to Bwindi is usually easier through the Katuna border, while Mgahinga is easier through the Cyanika border.

The trip from Kigali to Bwindi or Mgahinga takes about 4 to 4.5 hours by car, which is quicker than the full day’s drive from Entebbe Airport. Trekking to see mountain gorillas is a very popular activity in southwestern Uganda, with Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park being the main destination. This park is home to about half of the world’s total mountain gorilla population.

The Bwindi Forest has four different areas for gorilla trekking, each with different gorilla families. In total, Bwindi has over 500 mountain gorillas living in 21 different groups. These groups include Mubare Gorilla Family, Habinyanja Gorilla Family, Rushegura, Bitukura, Oruzogo, Nkuringo, Nshongi, Mishaya, Kahungye, Bweza, Busingye and Kyaguriro among others. While Mgahinga Gorilla National Park has one gorilla family known as Nyakagezi. Every gorilla trek is a unique experience that offers amazing opportunities to see these incredible animals. Few visitors go to Mgahinga for gorilla tours despite having one of the largest gorilla families anywhere around.

Keep in mind that you’ll need a gorilla permit in Uganda, which costs $800 for international visitors, $700 for residents of foreign countries, and UGX300,000 for citizens of East African countries.

 Gorilla habituation experience

The only place you can take part in a gorilla habituation experience is in Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda, just south of the park, and conveniently accessible from Kigali- Rwanda.  Gorilla habituation is a process where wild mountain gorillas are trained to get used to people (Not actual definition). Gorilla Habituation may take between two to three years to be completed and during this time, researchers keep on visiting an identified Wild gorilla group on a daily basis.  This exciting activity allows tourists to pend more time (four hours) with mountain gorillas compared to gorilla trekking, which is restricted to only one hour. Tourists can join with a team of conservationists, researchers, and park rangers

This exclusive activity is limited to only four individuals, focusing on two specific gorilla families within the Bwindi Forest. Similar to gorilla trekking, a permit is essential, priced at $1500, which grants you an intimate four-hour encounter with these incredible, endangered primates.

Golden monkey tracking

Golden monkey tracking is another popular safari activity that most tourist starting their wildlife safari in Uganda from Kigali- Rwanda can embark on. This thrilling activity is mostly done on Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and it is the only national park in the country where you can see the endangered Golden monkey.

Note that, a Uganda Golden monkey tracking permit cost $100 and this permit allows you to trek and observe these playful primates in their natural habitat.

Batwa Cultural Trail

A trip to the Batwa Cultural Trail in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a chance to step into the world of the Batwa pygmies. You’ll journey into the Mgahinga Gorilla Forest, guided by the Batwa, and witness their traditional way of life firsthand. You’ll learn about their skills like gathering honey, starting fires, finding fruits, hunting, seeking shelter in caves, and using plants for medicine.

During the visit, you will be entertained by Batwa performances which include traditional dances, songs, poems, and stories. These share how they co-existed with the wildlife in the forest prior to the start of gorilla conservation and tourism in the area.

Volcano climbing

From Kigali- Rwanda, you can begin your adventure to climb any of the three Virunga Mountains found in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These three volcanic mountains, Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabyinyo, stand where Uganda shares a border with Rwanda. These impressive peaks are among the eight volcanoes that make up the broader Virunga Conservation Area.

Exploring lake Bunyonyi

 Embarking on an unforgettable journey to the stunning lake Bunyonyi, starting from Kigali. This remarkable lake, located in Uganda’s kabale district, is a true Ugandan wonder, known for being Africa’s second deepest lake.  Imaging the land is dotted with 29 islands, enriched by stunning hills, Lake Bunyonyi is a hidden gem you need to explore. While on a safari here, you’ll embark on about trip to explore the islands, enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding farms, charming local homes and the lake’s expanse. Bunyonyi offers a lot of experiences such as Ziplining, community tours to Batwa and Bakiga communities, Picnic to the top of the mountain, birdwatching, Nature walks, farmland tours, and bicycling among others. You’ll find a variety of lodging options around Lake Bunyonyi to suit every budget, from simple to luxurious, all offering comfortable places to sleep and delicious meals. Consider staying at well-regarded spots such as arcadia lodges lake, lake Bunyonyi eco resort and lake Bunyonyi rock resort among others.

Contact our trusted tour operators for more information about Uganda wildlife Safari starting from Kigali-Rwanda’s capital nand then book with our tours and travel companies such as; Achieve Global safaris who offer the best tour packages while on your wildlife safari in Uganda.