Distance Between Volcanoes and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

For travelers planning a gorilla trekking safari, the choice often comes down to Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park or Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. The decision is typically influenced by cost, distance, and accessibility. Mountain gorillas are found in three countries: Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Overview of Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park lies in the northern part of Rwanda, bordering Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mgahinga National Park in Uganda. The park is famous for hosting mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. It also contains five of the eight volcanoes that make up the Virunga mountain range and spans 160 square kilometers.

Overview of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a biodiverse mountainous area in southwestern Uganda, located near the Rift Valley. It is home to half of the world’s endangered mountain gorillas, as well as several other primate species that visitors can track while on safari.

Worldwide, there are only about 1,000 mountain gorillas remaining. Political instability and insecurity in the Democratic Republic of Congo have caused many gorillas to relocate to Uganda and Rwanda, which is why Bwindi and Volcanoes National Park host substantial gorilla populations. As a result, tourists often base their choice between the two parks on distance, cost, and unique experiences.

Travel Between the Two Parks

Travelers often compare the two parks while planning their safari itineraries. Volcanoes National Park is just a three-hour drive from Kigali International Airport, making it easily accessible given Rwanda’s small size. On the other hand, reaching Bwindi Impenetrable National Park from Kampala involves a 600-kilometer journey, which can take 7 to 10 hours by road. However, flights are available from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield to Kihihi or Ishasha airstrips, followed by a short transfer to the park.

The driving distance between Volcanoes National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is approximately 2 hours and 29 minutes, allowing adventurous travelers to visit both parks in one trip. Visitors can combine hiking, chimpanzee trekking, and guided nature walks in Volcanoes National Park with gorilla trekking in Bwindi, making it possible to experience the best of both parks with minimal travel time.

Gorilla Trekking Permit Costs

Gorilla trekking permits differ in price between the two countries. Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda charges $1,500 per person per day, while Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda charges $800 per person per day, making Uganda the more budget-friendly option. Despite the difference in cost, both parks offer unforgettable wildlife encounters and unique trekking experiences that appeal to nature enthusiasts.