Many travellers want to see mountain gorillas in both Uganda and Rwanda. The two countries share the Virunga volcanoes region, sit about half a day apart by road, and offer different gorilla experiences: Rwanda’s polished, easily reached Volcanoes National Park and Uganda’s dense Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Afraeka Adventures plans combined Uganda and Rwanda tours from start to finish, including your gorilla permits for both countries, the border crossing, lodges, transfers and guides.
Our Uganda and Rwanda tours
| Trip | Length | Route and highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 5-Day Uganda and Rwanda Gorilla Safari | 5 days | Gorillas in Volcanoes National Park and Bwindi, with the Cyanika border crossing |
| 7-Day Uganda-Rwanda Primates Safari | 7 days | Primate tracking in both countries |
| 10-Day Rwanda and Uganda Gorillas, Chimpanzees and Wildlife Safari | 10 days | Gorillas in both countries, Queen Elizabeth National Park and Kibale chimpanzees |
| 16-Day Rwanda and Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Big Five Safari | 16 days | A long, comprehensive circuit across both countries |
Every itinerary is flexible. Tell us your dates, group size and interests, and we will adjust the route, lodges and pace and send you a personal quote.
How a combined Uganda and Rwanda trip works
Permits for both countries
We arrange your gorilla trekking permits in Rwanda and Uganda for your exact travel dates. Permits are date-specific and paid in full at booking, so we recommend booking early for June to September and December to February. See our guides to gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Uganda gorilla permits and costs.
The border crossing
The most common route between the two gorilla areas is the Cyanika border crossing, with other crossings used depending on your itinerary. We help with the formalities and plan the transfers on both sides. Read our Kigali to Bwindi border crossing guide for the details.
Which direction should you travel?
You can start in Kigali and finish in Uganda, start in Entebbe and finish in Rwanda, or return to your arrival airport. Starting and ending in different airports saves backtracking, and we can help you find suitable flights.
Entry rules
Check the visa options for both countries before you travel, including the East Africa Tourist Visa, which may suit visitors travelling in more than one country. Rules can change, so confirm the latest requirements for your nationality.
Uganda or Rwanda for gorillas: how they compare
Rwanda’s permit costs more, and its trekking base is closer to the capital. Uganda has lower permit prices and more gorilla families across several sectors, plus a wider range of other primates and wildlife. Many travellers choose to do both. Read our comparisons: Uganda vs Rwanda gorilla trekking and price and value.
Best time for a Uganda and Rwanda gorilla safari
Gorilla trekking is possible all year. The dry seasons, from June to September and from December to February, give the easiest trails. The rainy months bring greener scenery, muddier paths and fewer visitors.
Frequently asked questions
Can I see gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda on one trip?
Yes. The two gorilla areas are connected by road, and a combined trip can be as short as five days.
Do you arrange both permits?
Yes, we arrange both gorilla permits as part of your trip.
Do I need two gorilla permits?
Yes. Each country issues its own permit, and a permit is valid only for the country, park and date shown on it.
What is the minimum age for gorilla trekking?
The minimum age is 15 in both countries.
How much does a combined trip cost?
The cost depends on your dates, number of travellers, accommodation level and itinerary. Contact us with your plans and we will send a personal quote.
Plan your Uganda and Rwanda tour
Request a free quote or message us on WhatsApp. You may also like our guides to gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda and Uganda gorilla safari combinations.