Bwindi & Mount Sabyinyo Hiking Safari
Overview
Safari Overview
This adventure packed itinerary blends the best of Uganda’s south western highlands. Trek through Bwindi’s ancient rainforest to meet the endangered mountain gorillas, then tackle the rugged peaks and ladders of Mount Sabyinyo nicknamed the “Old Man’s Teeth” for breath taking views over three countries. Along the way, enjoy the beautiful scenery, local community culture, and comfortable lodges nestled in the heart of gorilla country.
Safari Highlights
- Track endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Stand at the summit of Mount Sabyinyo where Uganda, Rwanda, and DRC meet
- Hike one of the Virunga volcanoes with experienced guides and rangers
- Explore the scenic Kigezi Highlands, misty forests, and terraced hillsides
- Stay in cozy lodges with stunning views
Included/Exclude
- Airport pick up and drop off in Kigali
- Private 4x4 safari vehicle and English speaking driver/guide
- Accommodation and meals as indicated
- 1 Gorilla trekking permit per person
- Park fees for Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
- Mount Sabyinyo hiking permit and ranger guide
- Bottled drinking water in the vehicle
- International flights
- Rwanda and Uganda visa fees (East Africa Tourist Visa recommended)
- Tips for guides, rangers, and lodge staff
- Personal hiking gear (good boots, rain gear, gloves)
Tour Plan
Arrive at Kigali International Airport (Rwanda) and meet your driver guide. Take a scenic drive through Rwanda’s “Land of a Thousand Hills,” cross the Cyanika or Katuna border into Uganda, and continue through terraced highlands to your lodge near Bwindi. Settle in and prepare for your gorilla trek.
Drive time: ~4 to 5 hours including border crossing
Accommodation: Buhoma Haven Lodge / Rushaga Gorilla Camp / Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
Meal Plan: Dinner
Rise early and transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing. Join your rangers and porters for an unforgettable trek into Bwindi’s dense, misty forest to find a habituated gorilla family. Spend up to one magical hour observing them feed, play, and interact. Return to the lodge for a warm meal and relaxation.
Accommodation: Same lodge as above
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic transfer through the Kigezi Highlands to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, the Ugandan side of the Virunga Volcanoes. Arrive and settle into your lodge near the park gate. Spend the afternoon relaxing or take a short community walk to visit local Batwa communities and learn about their forest traditions.
Drive time: 2 to 3 hours
Accommodation: Mount Gahinga Lodge / Mutanda Lake Resort / Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After an early breakfast, head to the Mgahinga park gate for a safety briefing. With your ranger guides, begin your full day hike up Mount Sabyinyo (3,669 m). This thrilling hike involves muddy trails, wooden ladders over steep ridges, and rewarding views reaching the unique summit where Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC meet. Celebrate your achievement and carefully descend back to the base. Transfer to your lodge for a well-deserved rest.
Hiking time: 7 to 9 hours round trip
Accommodation: Same lodge as above
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, cross back into Rwanda and enjoy the scenic drive to Kigali. If time allows, do a short city tour or visit the craft markets before your driver drops you off at Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.
Drive time: 4 to 5 hours
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
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