Day 1: Pickup from Entebbe or Kigali and Transfer to Kisoro Town

Your Mgahinga Gorilla safari begins with pickup from Entebbe International Airport (Uganda) or Kigali International Airport (Rwanda). Enjoy a scenic drive through Uganda’s rolling hills and terraced farmland, or cross from Rwanda via the Cyanika border, toward Kisoro town in the shadow of the Virunga Mountains. The journey takes approximately 8-9 hours from Entebbe or 4-5 hours from Kigali, with stops for lunch and photography along the way. Arrive at your lodge near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in the late afternoon, with views of the Sabyinyo, Gahinga, and Muhabura volcanoes.

• Meal Plan: Half-Board
• Accommodation: Ikaze Cottages (Budget) | Ichumbi Hotel (Mid-Range)

Day 2: Mgahinga Gorilla Trekking Experience

After an early breakfast, head to Ntebeko Trailhead for briefing ahead of your gorilla trekking permit-holder adventure. Trek through Mgahinga’s bamboo forests and montane vegetation in search of the Nyakagezi gorilla family, the park’s only habituated group. Trekking duration varies from 2-6 hours depending on the gorillas’ location, rewarding you with one unforgettable hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, relax at your lodge or opt for an optional nature walk around Lake Mutanda, famous for its scenic island views.

• Meal Plan: Full-Board
• Accommodation: Ikaze Cottages (Budget) | Ichumbi Hotel (Mid-Range)

Day 3: Mt. Sabyinyo Summit Hike – Three Countries, One Peak

Embark on the challenging but rewarding Mt. Sabyinyo hike, one of East Africa’s most unique climbing experiences. This dormant volcano straddles the borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and reaching the third peak allows you to stand in all three countries simultaneously. The hike takes 6-8 hours round trip, involving steep sections, wooden ladders, and ridge walking through Afro-montane and bamboo forest, rewarded with panoramic views of the Virunga Massif and surrounding crater lakes. Alternatively, choose a shorter golden monkey trekking excursion for a lighter-paced day. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

• Meal Plan: Full-Board
• Accommodation: Ikaze Cottages (Budget) | Ichumbi Hotel (Mid-Range)

Day 4: Transfer to Kigali or Entebbe International Airport

Following breakfast, check out and begin your return journey. Guests departing from Kigali International Airport will enjoy a shorter scenic drive through southwestern Uganda before crossing into Rwanda and continuing to Kigali. Travelers with flights from Entebbe International Airport will drive across Uganda with a lunch stop along the way before arriving later in the day. Your guide will ensure a timely airport drop-off, bringing your memorable 5-Day Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking Safari to a successful conclusion.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch
• Accommodation: None unless requested