Quick answer: Rwanda is not an AFCON 2027 host, but it is the fastest place to see mountain gorillas from Kampala or Nairobi. Fly to Kigali (about an hour from Entebbe), drive two to two and a half hours to Volcanoes National Park, trek the next morning and fly back. A 2 to 3 day trip fits between matches. A Rwanda gorilla permit costs US$1,500.
- Park
- Volcanoes National Park, northern Rwanda
- Entebbe to Kigali flight
- About 1 hour
- Kigali to the park
- About 2 to 2.5 hours by road
- Permit
- US$1,500 per person
- Shortest trip
- 2 days
- Extras nearby
- Golden monkeys, Dian Fossey hike, Lake Kivu
Many AFCON 2027 fans will want a gorilla trek but will have only a short window between matches. Rwanda solves that problem. Kigali has good air links with Entebbe and Nairobi, and Volcanoes National Park is a short drive from the capital on good roads. The permit costs more than in Uganda, but you save travel time.
Why choose Rwanda during AFCON?
- Speed: A flight plus a short drive puts you in the park the same day.
- Simple logistics: Roads from Kigali to Musanze are paved and well maintained.
- Good from Kenya too: Fans based in Nairobi can fly directly to Kigali.
- Extra experiences: Golden monkey tracking and the hike to Dian Fossey’s grave are close by.
Sample 2-day plan from Kampala
- Day 1: Morning flight from Entebbe to Kigali, drive to Musanze or a lodge near the park, early night.
- Day 2: Early briefing at Kinigi park headquarters, gorilla trek, drive back to Kigali and fly to Entebbe if a flight time allows. Otherwise, return the next morning.
This is the idea behind our 2-Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Express. If you have one more day, the 3-Day Rwanda Gorilla Safari from Kigali is more relaxed.
Uganda or Rwanda: which suits your AFCON trip?
| Uganda (Bwindi) | Rwanda (Volcanoes) | |
|---|---|---|
| Permit 2027 | US$800 | US$1,500 |
| From Kampala | 8 to 10 hours by road, or a domestic flight | 1-hour flight plus 2 to 2.5 hours by road |
| Minimum trip | 3 days by road, 2 by air | 2 days |
| Terrain | Dense forest, steep valleys | Bamboo and volcano slopes |
If you have time, Uganda gives better value. If time is short, Rwanda is often the smarter option. You can also do both with our 5-Day Uganda and Rwanda Gorilla Safari.
Entry requirements
Check whether you need a visa for Rwanda. Many nationalities can get one on arrival, and the East Africa Tourist Visa covers Rwanda, Uganda and Kenya together. Read our guide to East Africa Tourist Visa multiple-entry rules before you travel between countries.
Book early
June and July are high season in Rwanda as well, and AFCON visitors will add to demand. Permits are limited to eight people per gorilla family per day. Read AFCON 2027 and gorilla trekking for planning tips.
Frequently asked questions
Is Rwanda hosting AFCON 2027 matches?
No. The co-hosts are Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania. Rwanda is a popular side trip for gorilla trekking.
Can I trek gorillas in Rwanda and return to Kampala in two days?
Yes, if flight times work. Many travellers prefer three days so they are not rushing after the trek.
Why is the Rwanda permit more expensive?
Rwanda prices its permit higher as part of a low-volume, high-value tourism model. The experience of an hour with the gorillas is similar.
Short on time during AFCON? We can arrange flights, permit, transfers and a lodge in Rwanda.
