Accessing the Ruhija Sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park from Kigali
February 9, 2026
Accessing the Ruhija sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park from Kigali is an ideal and possible option since it takes significantly less time—approximately 4 to 5 hours from Kigali to Ruhija side of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park—compared to the 8 to 9-hour drive from Entebbe or Kampala by road. Encounter Africa safaris operates daily Gorilla trekking safaris from Kigali to Ruhija region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, ranging from 2-day gorilla trips to 3 or more days, which can be combined with other site seeings, chimp trekking in Kibale, or game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Ruhija is located on the Eastern side of Bwindi Impenetrable National park is popular for gorilla trekking and research since gorilla families in this region are reserved for gorilla trekking and research purposes.
2 Day Bwindi Gorilla Safari through Kigali
4 Day Rwanda gorilla trekking & wildlife viewing safari
3 Days Rwanda Gorilla Tracking Safari
4 day gorilla trekking & Dian Fossey tomb visit
4 Day Uganda Safari via Kigali
14 Day Uganda Safari via Kigali
3 Day Akagera National Park Safari
3 Day Bwindi Double trek via Kigali
Accessing Ruhija region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park from Kigali involves flying into Kigali International Airport and then proceed by road transfers to Ruhija via either Katuna (Gatuna) boarder on the Kabale side or Kyanika (Cyanika) boarder on the Kisoro side.
If you choose Katuna border, expect to drive from Kigali international Airport and if time allows, do a Kigali city tour for sightseeing before proceeding to Uganda via Katuna border to Kabale town onwards to Ruhija. On the Kabale-Kisoro road, you will then turn right at Ikumba to Ruhija.
The journey from Kabale to Ruhija will see you drive through communities, forests and of course the Kigezi rolling hills.
Cyanika boarder route is another option for accessing the Ruhija sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park from Kigali. This route is often preferred if one is combining activities in Mgahinga or Kisoro before proceeding to the Ruhija region of Bwindi. If not, then we advise you stick with Katuna border crossing since it is the most preferred.
Ruhija region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has several accommodation options to cater to your budget and interests. Such lodges include, Ruhija safari Lodge, Bakiga Lodge, Trakers Tervan, Broadbill and many more.
![]()
More still, tourists can decide to stay in Kabale Town or Lake Bunyonyi, where a variety of Lodges such as Birdnest, Acadia Cottages, Bunyonyi Overland and many more can be booked.
For more information about visiting or accessing Ruhija region of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park from Kigali, please contact Encounter Africa safaris and we will be more than glad to advise you on how to secure permits, accommodation and best time to visit Ruhija region.

EARLY BIRD SAFARI DISCOUNTS FOR 2026-27
Take a budget gorilla trip into Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to trek mountain gorillas and stay in low-cost camps and gorilla lodges.
We care about the communities and environment we take our travellers to. Sustainable travel will keep us in business, so we have a responsible travel policy. Take a look!.
Follow our community blog and keep up-to-date with travel news that will help you plan your safari trip
Our Safari consultants are ready to answer all your questions. Kindly fill out the form below, and we will respond to you as soon as possible
Read the real stories and experiences shared by fellow travellers who've travelled with Encounter Africa Safaris.
Our Safari consultants are ready to answer all your questions. Kindly fill out the form below, and we will respond to you as soon as possible