Which airports can I fly to, to see mountain gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda?
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park, both located in southwestern Uganda, are renowned for mountain gorillas trekking. To reach these parks, visitors can choose between road and air transport. While road travel takes about 9 to 10 hours, flying offers a quicker and more luxurious option. Charter flights are available from Entebbe International Airport and Kajjansi Airstrip to the nearby Kisoro Airstrip and Kihihi Airstrip. However, it’s important to note that additional ground transportation is required from these airstrips to the respective park headquarters.
Airports for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Here are the key airports facilitating access to Bwindi and Mgahinga National Parks:
a. Entebbe International Airport
As the primary international gateway to Uganda, Entebbe International Airport is crucial for tourists embarking on gorilla safaris. Upon arrival, visitors are either driven to Kajjansi for flights to Bwindi or can board flights directly from Entebbe airport.
b. Kajjansi Airstrip
Situated along Entebbe Road, Kajjansi Airstrip is a hub for chartered flights to Bwindi and Mgahinga. Despite being close to Entebbe International Airport, travelers should account for potential traffic delays and ensure timely arrival for their flights.
c. Kisoro Airport
Kisoro Airport, located in the southwestern town of Kisoro, serves as a convenient access point to Bwindi and Mgahinga. While it’s not an international airport, it facilitates domestic flights, especially for those preferring a shorter drive from Rwanda.
d. Kihihi Airstrip
Kihihi Airstrip, among the main airstrips in southwestern Uganda, is instrumental for reaching the northern sector of Bwindi, specifically Buhoma. Flights from Entebbe International Airport and Kajjansi Airstrip are available through companies like Aerolink Uganda, Bar Aviation Uganda, and Fly Uganda.
Flight Logistics and Timetables
For travelers opting for air transport, it’s essential to plan and book in advance. Flights operate from Entebbe and Kajjansi to Kihihi and Kisoro airstrips. The flight schedule includes morning, afternoon, and late afternoon departures. However, weather conditions, particularly during the rainy season from March to May and October to November, may lead to occasional delays. Despite potential weather-related challenges, flying during the rainy season could offer cost savings due to discounted tickets.
Airports for Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda
Rwanda is a unique destination for mountain gorillas trekking, located in the Volcanoes National Park within the Virunga region. The park, about 2 to 2.5 hours from Kigali, is home to over 400 mountain gorillas, with 10 habituated gorilla families available for trekking throughout the year.
Kigali International Airport
Kigali International Airport serves as the main gateway for tourists heading to Rwanda for gorilla safaris. Conveniently located in the capital city, Kigali, the airport connects with various international airlines. Rwanda Air, a prominent airline in Africa, offers smooth travel to Rwanda from different destinations. Airlines such as KLM, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airways, South African Airways, Air Canada, Brussels Airlines, Kenya Airways, Precision Air, Ethiopian Airways, and US Airways have scheduled flights to Rwanda. Kigali International Airport, identified by the code KGL, facilitates access to not only Volcanoes National Park but also Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda.
Gorilla Permits and Planning
Gorilla permits are crucial for gorilla trekking and must be obtained from the Uganda Wildlife Authority in Uganda or the Rwanda Development Board in Rwanda. The cost varies, with Rwanda charging $1500 for foreign non-residents, $500 for citizens of other African countries, and $200 for East African citizens. In Uganda, the permits are comparatively lower, priced at $800 for foreign non-residents, $700 for foreign residents, and 300,000 UGX for East African citizens. Gorilla habituation, conducted in Bwindi, requires a permit costing $1500 per person. Due to high demand, it is advisable to book permits at least six months in advance.
Gorilla Trek Rules and Regulations
Both Uganda and Rwanda share similar rules and regulations for gorilla trekking, established to protect the gorillas. The minimum age limit is 15 years in Rwanda and 12 years in Uganda. Trekking groups are limited to a maximum of eight people per day, maintaining a 7-meter distance from the mountain gorillas. Visitors are prohibited from eating, drinking, or touching the gorillas, and noise should be kept to a minimum. Flash photography is not allowed, and all rubbish must be properly disposed of in designated areas within the national parks.
What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking
Packing appropriately is essential for a comfortable gorilla trekking experience in the diverse terrains of national parks. Consider including long-sleeved shirts and trousers in neutral colors, insect repellent, comfortable hiking boots, a flashlight with spare batteries, warm socks, a waterproof jacket, sandals, camera equipment (extra batteries, lenses, tripod, and lens cleaners), sunscreen, binoculars, gaiters, gardening gloves, a first aid kit, a refillable water bottle, snacks, and a warm sweater.
Best Time to Go for Gorilla Trekking
The optimal time for gorilla trekking in Rwanda is from June to September and December to February, characterized by favorable weather conditions. This period, known as the dry season, attracts many tourists for gorilla safaris. However, trekking can still be done during the wet season from March to May and October to November, offering a chance to avoid large crowds and save on costs for those who don’t mind some rain. Overall, Rwanda and Uganda are year-round gorilla safari destinations.
Why Choose Iconic Africa Safaris
Booking your gorilla safari with Iconic Africa Safaris ensures a pocket-friendly and well-organized experience. The company provides guidance on booking and planning, offering a range of gorilla safari packages throughout the year, catering to different budgets and preferences. Check their website for more information on gorilla trekking and travel to Rwanda or Uganda. Feel free to contact them for personalized assistance and details about their safari offerings.