Flying into Kigali Rwanda and crossing to trek gorillas in Uganda has presently become popular. When Rwanda hiked her gorilla permits, most travelers could not afford to pay $1500 for a single permit to Volcanoes National park. The immediate and reliable alternative was to fly into Rwanda and drive to trek gorillas in Uganda where gorilla permits are quite cheap ($600) and affordable. Here travelers fly direct from their origins to Kigali International airport, they then drive for 5 hours to Bwindi Impenetrable forest National park and Mgahinga gorilla national parks both in southwestern Uganda to track and visit mountain gorillas. Gorilla Trek Africa offers you guidance on the entry point between Rwanda and Uganda to ensure timely, peaceful and enjoyable gorilla trekking tour. Rwanda Uganda gorilla safaris require travelers to cross borders that connect the two countries. The basic entry points for Rwanda Uganda gorilla tours include:
Cyanika Border
Located in kisoro district, Cyanika border is the easiest entry point to Uganda from Rwanda. Travelers through Cyanika border easily connect to Rushsaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Rushaga is the most visited gorilla sector in Bwindi forest. The reasons for popular visits to this sector include presence of many habituated gorilla families, (Bweza, Busingye, Oruzogo, Mishaya, Kahungye, and Nshongi) availability of numerous lodges/ camps and ease of access. For those trekking in Mgahinga gorilla national park, Cyanika border is roughly 30 minutes drive to the park. The short distance from the border to these two parks enable the traveler to trek gorillas and be part of this memorable encounter in the shortest time possible.
Katuna Border
Also known as Gatuna border, this is the close entry point to the northern part of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Travelers from Kigali through Katuna border pass via Kabale town proceeding to Buhoma sector north of Bwindi forest. The recent closure of Katuna border was a great disruption for Uganda gorilla tours from Rwanda. However, great thanks to respective governments who resolved the issues and reopened the park to enhance smooth operations. Gorilla families popularly trekked through Katuna borders are Mubare, Rushegura, and Habinyanja all in Buhoma sector.
Border crossing requirements
Travelers crossing from Rwanda to Uganda or Vice Versa are required to present some travel documents. These include valid passports, visas, and medical letters among others. Interestingly, travelers can use single east African visas that allow one to visit and stay in Uganda and Rwanda for 90 days. Also, travelers must have a travel itinerary and the company he/she is traveling with for clarification. In other words, you must present a genuine reason as to why you are crossing from one country to another.
Why cross from Rwanda to trek gorillas in Uganda
High gorilla tour costs in Rwanda is a major reason why most travelers opt to fly into Rwanda and cross to Uganda. In May 2017, Rwanda hiked her gorilla prices from $750 to $1500 compared to $600 in Uganda. The news was shocking to the public especially travel operators and travelers but RDB’s decision was final. Uganda has, therefore, become the best gorilla safari destination for most travelers especially those traveling on a budget.
How to book a Rwanda Uganda gorilla tour?
Gorilla Trek Africa is your number one travel company widely known for organizing memorable gorilla trips to Uganda and Rwanda. With offices in Rwanda and Uganda, Gorilla Trek Africa has for 15 years organized successful, enjoyable and affordable gorilla safaris tailor-made to meet satisfy and exceed every traveler’s expectations. GTA help you book gorilla permits, reserve accommodations, and transport at affordable prices.
What to pack for gorilla trekking
Remember to carry necessities for your gorilla trip. The recommended attire for gorilla trekking include:
• Hiking boots
• Gardening gloves
• Sunglasses
• Long-sleeved shirts
• Rain jackets
• A hat
• A scuff
• Insect repellant
• Long pants
Also, remember to carry enough water and energy drinking snacks to keep you Strong throughout hiking.
When to book a gorilla tour
For timely permit bookings and hotel reservations, travelers are advised to book as early as 5 months before the trekking date, Gorilla tracking a dream for most travelers’ hence high demand for permits. Permits are served at first come first serve basis, which limits the chances for last time bookings.
Book a gorilla trek in Uganda from Rwanda with Gorilla Trek Africa today, meet face to face with mountain gorillas in the jungle and enjoy this one in a lifetime experience at affordable rates.
