Flying for a Gorilla Trekking Safari: Flights, Airports and Transfers

Gorilla trekking is considered one of the most unforgettable wildlife experiences in Africa. However, reaching the gorilla trekking destinations can sometimes require long hours on the road.

For travellers with limited time, flying for a gorilla trekking safari can be an excellent alternative. By taking a domestic or charter flight, much of the long road journey can be avoided. As a result, more time can be spent enjoying the rainforest, wildlife, and other attractions.

But where should you fly for gorilla trekking? Which airports are used? Is flying better than driving? And how can flights be combined with a safari vehicle?

In this guide, I will explains how flying can be used when planning a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda or Rwanda.

Can You Fly for a Gorilla Trekking Safari?

Yes, gorilla trekking can be combined with air travel.

In Uganda, gorilla trekking is carried out in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These destinations are located in southwestern Uganda, where long road journeys may otherwise be required.

Therefore, domestic or charter flights can be used to reduce the amount of time spent travelling by road.

In Rwanda, gorilla trekking is carried out in Volcanoes National Park. International travellers are normally flown into Kigali International Airport. From Kigali, a road transfer is then used to reach the gorilla trekking area.

Consequently, the most suitable flight option will depend on the country, trekking destination, and itinerary being selected.

Flying for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Uganda is an excellent destination for travellers who want to combine gorilla trekking with a wider wildlife safari.

Most international visitors arrive through Entebbe International Airport. From there, the southwestern region can be reached either by road or by domestic or charter flight.

When flying is selected, travellers can be taken closer to the gorilla trekking region. A road transfer will still be required after landing. Nevertheless, the longest part of the journey can be significantly reduced.

For travellers with only a few days available, this can be particularly useful.

Which Airport Is Used for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

There is not one airport that serves every gorilla trekking sector.

Instead, several airstrips are used for access to different parts of southwestern Uganda.

The appropriate airstrip will depend on where the gorilla permit has been booked.

For example, Bwindi has several trekking sectors, including:

• Buhoma
• Ruhija
• Rushaga
• Nkuringo

Because these sectors are located in different areas, the most convenient flight and road transfer combination will vary.

Therefore, flights should ideally be arranged after the gorilla trekking sector and accommodation have been confirmed.

Flying to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi is one of Uganda’s most popular destinations for mountain gorilla trekking.

The park is located in a mountainous region, and some road journeys to the different sectors can be lengthy.

For this reason, flying can be used to reduce the amount of time spent travelling from Entebbe.

After landing at a suitable airstrip, a safari vehicle is used to transfer travellers to their accommodation.

From there, the gorilla trekking briefing point can be reached according to the selected trekking sector.

As a result, the journey can be made more convenient without removing the road-transfer experience completely.

Flying to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is another important destination for mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda.

The park is located in southwestern Uganda near the borders with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Although the park can be reached by road, flying closer to the region can be considered when time is limited.

Furthermore, Mgahinga can be combined with other destinations in southwestern Uganda, including Bwindi, Lake Bunyonyi, and Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Flying for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda

Rwanda can be particularly convenient for travellers who prefer to arrive by air.

Most international visitors are flown into Kigali International Airport.

From Kigali, a private safari vehicle is normally used to reach Volcanoes National Park.

The journey is relatively manageable compared with some of the longer road transfers required in Uganda.

Therefore, a domestic flight is usually not necessary for a standard Rwanda gorilla trekking safari.

Instead, the international flight into Kigali can be followed by a comfortable road transfer to the gorilla trekking region.

Can You Fly to Kigali and Trek Gorillas in Uganda?

Yes, this can be done.

In fact, Kigali can be used as a convenient starting point for some Uganda gorilla trekking itineraries.

After landing in Kigali, travellers can be driven toward the Rwanda-Uganda border and then continue to Bwindi.

This option can be particularly useful for travellers who want to combine Rwanda and Uganda in one safari.

For example, an itinerary could be arranged as follows:

Kigali → Rwanda sightseeing → Uganda border → Bwindi → Gorilla trekking → Uganda wildlife safari.

However, the route should be planned according to the gorilla trekking sector and permit location.

Is Flying Better Than Driving for Gorilla Trekking?

Both options have advantages.

Flying is generally preferred when time needs to be saved. On the other hand, driving can be preferred when a more affordable and flexible journey is wanted.

Flying can be preferred when:

• Limited travel time is available.
• Long road journeys need to be reduced.
• Several destinations need to be visited.
• Greater convenience is desired.
• A private safari experience is being planned.

Driving can be preferred when:

• A lower safari cost is preferred.
• Scenic road journeys are enjoyed.
• Several attractions will be visited along the route.
• More flexibility is required.
• A longer safari has been planned.

Therefore, neither option should automatically be considered better.

Instead, the choice should be based on the traveller’s budget, schedule, comfort requirements, and safari itinerary.

How Much Time Can Be Saved by Flying?

The amount of time saved will depend on the route.

When travelling from Entebbe to southwestern Uganda by road, a large part of the day may be spent travelling.

By comparison, a domestic flight can shorten the longest portion of the journey. However, a road transfer will still be required after landing.

Therefore, flying can be especially beneficial when a short safari has been planned.

For example, travellers with only three or four days available may prefer to fly closer to the gorilla trekking region rather than spend a significant part of the trip on the road.

Do You Still Need a Safari Vehicle After Flying?

Yes.

Even after a flight has been taken, a road transfer will still be required.

The vehicle may be used to:

• Pick you up from the airstrip.
• Transfer you to your lodge.
• Take you to the gorilla trekking briefing point.
• Transfer you between safari destinations.
• Provide transportation for other activities.

For this reason, flights and safari vehicles should be coordinated carefully.

At Berengei Africa Safaris, transportation can be arranged according to the flight schedule, accommodation, trekking sector, and other activities included in the itinerary.

Should You Arrive One Day Before Gorilla Trekking?

Yes, arriving one day before the trek is strongly recommended.

Gorilla trekking normally begins early in the morning. Therefore, arriving on the same day can create unnecessary pressure, particularly if a flight or road transfer is delayed.

By arriving the previous day, enough time can be allowed for:

• Checking into the lodge.
• Resting after travelling.
• Attending any necessary briefing.
• Preparing trekking equipment.
• Reaching the starting point on time.

Furthermore, an extra night can provide a useful buffer against unexpected travel delays.

What Should Be Packed When Flying to a Gorilla Safari?

When a small aircraft is being used, baggage restrictions may be different from those applied to international flights.

Therefore, the airline’s current baggage requirements should be checked before travelling.

Lightweight luggage is generally easier to manage.

For the gorilla trek itself, the following items are recommended:

• Waterproof hiking boots.
• Lightweight hiking trousers.
• Long-sleeved shirts.
• Waterproof jacket.
• Small backpack.
• Reusable water bottle.
• Insect repellent.
• Gardening or hiking gloves.
• Hat.
• Camera.
• Binoculars.
• Personal medication.
• Walking stick if required.

Most importantly, bulky and unnecessary items should be avoided.

Is Flying More Expensive Than Driving?

Generally, flying costs more than travelling by road.

The final price will depend on several factors, including the flight route, travel season, airline, luggage requirements, and whether a scheduled or charter flight is used.

However, the additional cost can sometimes be justified by the amount of time that is saved.

For travellers with limited vacation time, several hours that would have been spent on the road can instead be used for relaxation, sightseeing, or additional safari activities.

Therefore, the cheapest option is not always the most convenient option.

Flying vs Driving for Gorilla Trekking

As can be seen, both options can work well.

The right choice should therefore be based on the type of safari being planned.

Can Flights and Road Travel Be Combined?

Yes. In fact, combining flights and road travel can be one of the best ways to organize a gorilla safari.

For example, a traveller visiting Uganda could fly from Entebbe toward southwestern Uganda.

After arrival, a private safari vehicle could be used for the transfer to the lodge.

The following day, gorilla trekking could be carried out.

Afterwards, the safari could continue by road toward another destination such as Queen Elizabeth National Park.

In this way, time can be saved without giving up the opportunity to enjoy Uganda’s landscapes and communities along the road.

Why Should You Book Flights With a Safari Operator?

Planning flights, gorilla permits, accommodation, and transfers separately can sometimes become complicated.

A safari operator can coordinate the different parts of the journey.

For example, the flight can be selected according to the gorilla trekking sector. Accommodation can then be booked close to the appropriate briefing point.

Furthermore, the airport transfer can be arranged around the flight arrival time.

This is particularly important because gorilla trekking permits are booked for specific dates.

A well-coordinated itinerary can therefore reduce unnecessary delays and travel complications.

Tips for Flying for a Gorilla Trekking Safari

Before your trip, the following tips should be considered:

1. Book your gorilla permit first.
   Your trekking date should be confirmed before the rest of the itinerary is finalized.
2. Choose the correct flight route.
   The most convenient airstrip will depend on your trekking sector.
3. Arrive before your trekking day.
   A previous-day arrival is recommended.
4. Check baggage restrictions.
   Small aircraft may have stricter luggage requirements.
5. Arrange airport transfers in advance.
   Your vehicle should be ready when you land.
6. Allow extra travel time.
   Flight and road schedules should not be planned too tightly.
7. Use a reliable safari operator.
   Flights, accommodation, permits, and transfers should be coordinated properly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fly to Bwindi for gorilla trekking?

Yes. Domestic and charter flights can be used to reach airstrips serving the southwestern Uganda safari region. A road transfer will then be required to reach your lodge and trekking sector.

Can I fly directly to the gorillas?

No. Flights do not normally land directly at the gorilla trekking trailhead. A road transfer will still be required after landing.

Is flying worth it for a gorilla safari?

Flying can be worthwhile when limited time is available. Although it can cost more than driving, significant road travel time can be saved.

Which is better, flying or driving?

Flying is generally better for short itineraries and travellers who value time. Driving can be better for travellers who want a more affordable safari and enjoy scenic road journeys.

Can I fly from Entebbe for gorilla trekking?

Yes. Domestic or charter flight options can be used from the Entebbe area toward southwestern Uganda, depending on the trekking destination and available flight schedule.

Can I fly to Kigali and trek gorillas in Uganda?

Yes. Kigali can be used as a starting point for some cross-border gorilla trekking itineraries. A road transfer can then be made from Kigali into southwestern Uganda.

Should I book a flight before my gorilla permit?

It is better to confirm the gorilla trekking date and sector first. The flight can then be selected around the permit, accommodation, and transfer requirements.

Conclusion

Flying for a gorilla trekking safari can be an excellent way to reduce long road journeys while making the most of limited travel time.

In Uganda, domestic or charter flights can be used to reach airstrips closer to the gorilla trekking region. In Rwanda, international travellers can fly into Kigali and then continue by road to Volcanoes National Park.

However, flights should not be planned in isolation. Instead, the gorilla permit, trekking sector, accommodation, flights, and road transfers should all be coordinated.

By doing so, unnecessary delays can be avoided and more time can be dedicated to the actual safari experience.

Plan Your Flying Gorilla Safari with Berengei Africa Safaris

At Berengei Africa Safaris, your gorilla trekking adventure can be carefully planned from arrival to departure.

Flights, airport transfers, 4×4 safari vehicles, accommodation, gorilla trekking permits, and other safari activities can all be arranged according to your travel plans.

Whether you are planning a short gorilla trekking trip or a longer Uganda and Rwanda safari, a suitable itinerary can be created around your time, budget, and interests.

Contact Tarce gorilla safaris today and let us help you plan a comfortable and unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure.