1-Day Gorilla Trekking in Uganda: The Fastest Way to See Mountain Gorillas
For travelers with very limited time, it is still possible to experience the thrill of gorilla trekking in Uganda on a 1-day tour. While Uganda is usually known for longer safaris that combine gorillas with wildlife and culture, a short one-day trek focuses purely on the bucket-list adventure of meeting mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Though intense and fast-paced, this trip is designed for those who cannot spare several days but still want the unforgettable memory of standing a few meters away from these gentle giants.
How a 1-Day Gorilla Trek Works
A one-day gorilla trekking tour is only practical if you are starting from Kigali, Rwanda, rather than from Kampala or Entebbe in Uganda. The reason is simple: Entebbe to Bwindi or Mgahinga is about 8–9 hours by road one way, which makes a same-day trek impossible. However, from Kigali to southern Bwindi or Mgahinga, the drive is around 4–5 hours, meaning you can cross the border early in the morning, trek gorillas, and return the same evening.
Your day begins very early with a pick-up from Kigali (usually around 3:30–4:00 a.m.) to drive to the Ugandan border. After completing immigration, you continue to Bwindi or Mgahinga National Park for a briefing with rangers before the trek. You then head into the forest in a small group to track a habituated gorilla family. The trek can last anywhere from one hour to five, depending on where the gorillas are located. Once you find them, you spend a magical one hour observing and photographing the gorillas before returning to the trailhead and driving back to Kigali in the evening.
Why Choose a 1-Day Gorilla Tour
The main reason travelers opt for this ultra-short tour is time. Business visitors in Kigali, or tourists exploring Rwanda with only a day to spare, often find it the easiest way to see gorillas without needing a longer safari. Another motivation is cost: Uganda’s gorilla permits are priced at $800, compared to Rwanda’s $1,500. This significant difference makes crossing into Uganda a very attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.
Despite being short, the 1-day trek still delivers the full emotional impact of gorilla trekking. The anticipation during the hike, the breathtaking forest scenery, and the powerful moment when you meet a silverback and his family up close are experiences that no traveler ever forgets, regardless of how short the trip is.
Travel Tips for 1-Day Gorilla Trekking
Since time is tight, preparation is key. Booking your permit well in advance is essential because spots are limited and high in demand. You’ll need your passport for the border crossing, and visas should be arranged in advance or through an East African Tourist Visa, which allows easy travel between Rwanda and Uganda.
Because the trek involves steep, muddy terrain, sturdy hiking boots, a rain jacket, gloves, and long-sleeved clothes are highly recommended. Hiring a porter is very helpful, both for carrying your bag and for supporting local communities. Finally, be prepared for a long day—up to 14–16 hours of combined driving and trekking—so keeping hydrated and carrying snacks is important.
