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How to Get to Ruhija Bwindi for a Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda.

How to Get to Ruhija Bwindi for a Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda

How to Get to Ruhija Bwindi for a Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda.

Anybody who loves animals will find great adventure in organizing a gorilla trekking safari in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park’s Ruhija area. Compared to the more well-known areas, Ruhija, on the eastern side of Bwindi, provides a more subdued and personal trekking experience.

One of the most satisfying locations to hike mountain gorillas in Uganda is its far distance, high altitude terrain, and calm surroundings. But first you have to know how to reach this one-of- a-kind adventure.

For your gorilla trekking safari, this blog article offers a thorough overview on the many paths and transport alternatives accessible to reach Ruhija.

One drives to Ruhija from Kampala or Entebbe.

The most often used road route to Ruhija provides a picturesque travel throughout Uganda’s verdant countryside.

From Kampala or Entebbe 
Most visitors start their trip from Entebbe International Airport, Uganda’s major point of access from Kampala, the city. About 500 kilometers separate Kampala from Ruhija, and depending on the path and state of the roads, the journey might take 8 to 9 hours.

The most direct path leads you from the southern settlements of Masaka, Mbarara, and Kabale toward Ruhija.
From Masaka to Mbarara, the path winds over undulating hills and little towns. You will have time to halt at the Equator for a stretch and a short picture chance.

Mbarara to Kabale, The route winds over tea estates and provides picturesque views of Uganda’s countryside. Before diving farther into Bwindi, visitors often stop at Kabale to relax and sip some drinks.

States of Roads
Although the route from Kabale to Ruhija is more rocky and uneven, the major roads from Kampala to Kabale are well-paved and in excellent condition. Particularly in the rainy season when the roads may become slick and challenging to drive, 4WD cars are advised. Most safari firms handle transportation, and joining a group tour or hiring a private driver is somewhat usual.

Driving from Kigali, Rwanda, to Ruhija by road

Should you be arriving into Kigali, Rwanda, you may also reach Ruhija by road, providing a quicker travel time than from Kampala or Entebbe.

Route and Travel Time
For those trying to save time, the five to six hours it takes to go from Kigali to Ruhija make an appealing choice. Starting in Kigali, you will pass into Uganda at the Katuna or Cyanika border station and keep on toward Kabale and then Ruhija.

How to Get to Ruhija Bwindi for a Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda.

Why Start from Kigali, Those who want to combine a vacation to Rwanda with a gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda find great appeal in this road. For those with limited time or seeking a quicker, more practical approach to get Ruhija, the shorter trip also makes perfect.

Visa Applications and Border Crossing Rules
Should your trip begin in Rwanda, you will have to make plans for a visa to cross the border into Uganda. Verify visa criteria for both countries and make sure you have the necessary travel paperwork. For those wishing to visit many countries, the East African Tourist Visa is a fantastic choice as it permits simple transit between Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya.

By Air, Gorilla Trekking from Ruhija

Especially if you want to skip the lengthy travel hours, flying is the shortest and most practical means to get to Ruhija. Domestic flights to airstriks close to Ruhija save you time and provide amazing aerial views of Uganda’s terrain.

Flights to Kisoro Airstrip or Kihihi
Two closest airstriks to Ruhija are Kisoro Airstrip and Kihihi Airstrip. Regular flights from Entebbe International Airport to both airstriks are run by domestic carriers like Aerolink Uganda and Fly Uganda.

The short and picturesque trip from Entebbe to Kihihi or Kisoro takes around 1.5 hours.
From Kihihi or Kisoro, you will require a road transport to Ruhija from which it takes two to three hours from either airstrip. Most safari companies or resorts will set up this transfer.

Time-saving benefits of flying Flying greatly reduces your travel time, particularly if you have limited time or would rather have a more pleasant trip.
Avoiding the lengthy road drive can help you to be fresher and more energy for your gorilla adventure.
Booking your travel far in advance is advised, particularly in busy gorilla trekking seasons when seats fill up fast.

 Travel Alternatives and Transfers

Whether by road or air, once you are close to Ruhija you will require a dependable transport to your lodging and the park headquarters. The following are few possibilities.

Individual Transfers
From main cities like Kabale, Kisoro, or airstrips like Kihihi, most safari firms provide private transports. These private transfers guarantee your a dependable and stress-free travel to Ruhija and are pleasant.

Group Movements
Joining a group transport is a cheap approach for frugal tourists to access Ruhija. Many tour companies provide shared transportation, which lets you meet other guests and helps to save expenses.

Mass Transportation
Although there is little public transportation to Ruhija, minibusses and shared taxis abound in surrounding areas.

Public transportation is less pleasant and less dependable, especially on hilly terrain, nevertheless. Arranging individual or group transports ahead of time via your tour operator or accommodation is advised.

Where in Ruhija should one stay?

From cheap to luxury hotels, Ruhija has a range of lodging choices. Since most hotels are near the park headquarters, it is simple for hikers to reach the beginning of gorilla treking.

Premium hotels

A high-end resort providing opulent suites with breathtaking views of Bwindi Forest is Ruhija Gorilla Safari resort.
Agandi Uganda Eco-resort, Comfortable lodging and expansive views abound at this lovely environmentally friendly resort.

Mid-range lodges

Bakiga Lodge, Perfect for mid-range visitors, this community-run lodge has cosy cabins.

Budget Shelters

More reasonably priced and with simple but comfortable lodging are Trekker’s Tavern Cottages.

Though the journey to Ruhija for a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda may be adventure in itself, the benefits are well worth the work. Whether you decide to fly or drive, knowing the paths and making before preparations guarantees a seamless and fun trip.

Arriving to one of the most isolated and calm areas of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, you will be treated to an amazing encounter with the mountain gorillas. Prepare for the journey, appreciate the breathtaking scenery, and be ready for a once-in- a-lifetime meeting with these amazing animals.

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