Which airports do I fly to see gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda?

Which Airports Do I Fly to See Gorillas in Uganda and Rwanda?

Gorilla trekking is one of Africa’s most extraordinary wildlife experiences, attracting adventurers and nature lovers from all over the world. For travelers planning a gorilla safari in Uganda or Rwanda, the first question is often: Which airports do I fly into?

Both Uganda and Rwanda are home to mountain gorillas, but their habituated gorilla populations are limited to specific parks:

Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Rwanda: Volcanoes National Park

This guide will explain the best airports, charter flight options, travel routes, permits, and tips to plan your gorilla trekking safari successfully.

For a fully organized safari with flights, lodges, and gorilla permits, visit Monumental Expeditions and Safaris

Uganda: Airports for Gorilla Trekking

Uganda has several options for travelers depending on their budget, time, and preferred mode of travel. You can reach Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park by road or by air.

1. Entebbe International Airport (EBB)

Entebbe International Airport is Uganda’s main international airport and the primary gateway for international travelers.

Why Entebbe is important:

Most international flights to Uganda land here
Travelers can hire vehicles or transfer to Kajjansi Airstrip for domestic charter flights
Provides a smooth start to a gorilla trekking safari

From Entebbe, the drive to Bwindi or Mgahinga can take 9–10 hours on scenic roads, but many travelers opt for domestic flights for a quicker and more comfortable option.

2. Kajjansi Airstrip

Located just a few kilometers from Entebbe, Kajjansi Airstrip is a hub for charter flights to gorilla trekking destinations.

Key points about Kajjansi Airstrip:

Owned by Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF)
Serves domestic flights to Kisoro, Kihihi, and other nearby airstrips
Airlines such as Bar Aviation, Aerolink, and Fly Uganda operate here
Flights must be booked in advance to secure your gorilla trek date

Using Kajjansi reduces travel time considerably compared to a road transfer from Entebbe.

3. Kisoro Airport (KSZ)

Kisoro Airport is a domestic airport that provides access to the southern sectors of Bwindi National Park and Mgahinga National Park.

Why Kisoro is ideal:

Located in Kisoro town, southwest Uganda, near the borders of Rwanda and DRC
Close to Lake Mutanda and the Virunga Mountains
Only domestic flights are available
Managed by Uganda’s Civil Aviation Authority

Travelers arriving in Kisoro can take a short 4×4 transfer to their lodges or park headquarters. For trekkers visiting the southern sectors of Bwindi (Rushaga, Nkuringo), Kisoro Airport is the preferred entry point.

4. Kihihi Airstrip (KHX)

Kihihi Airstrip is the main gateway to the northern Bwindi sectors such as Buhoma.

Highlights of Kihihi Airstrip:

Small airport but crucial for gorilla safari access
Managed by the Civil Aviation Authority
Domestic flights operate daily from Kajjansi Airstrip and Entebbe International Airport
Flight time: approximately 1–1.5 hours

Tour operators like Monumental Expeditions and Safaris arrange transfers from Kihihi Airstrip to lodges, usually taking 1 hour by 4×4 vehicle.

Tip: The best months to fly are the dry seasons, June–September and December–February. Flights may be delayed during wet seasons (March–May, October–November).

Rwanda: Airports for Gorilla Trekking

Rwanda offers a premium gorilla trekking experience in Volcanoes National Park, part of the Virunga Massif.

1. Kigali International Airport (KGL)

Kigali International Airport is Rwanda’s main international airport and the primary entry point for gorilla safaris.

Why Kigali is the gateway:

Well-connected with major airlines: KLM, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, South African Airways, Air Canada
Approximately 2–2.5 hours by road to Volcanoes National Park
Close to Kigali city for pre-safari lodging or city tours

Chartered and safari vehicles transfer visitors from Kigali to the park, ensuring a smooth arrival experience.

Permits and Regulations for Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla permits are mandatory for trekking in Uganda and Rwanda. They ensure the safety of both humans and gorillas and help conserve these endangered species.

Permit costs (2025):

Country	Foreign Non-Resident	African Residents	East African Citizens
Uganda	$800	$700	300,000 UGX
Rwanda	$1500	$500	$300

Key rules for gorilla trekking:

Minimum age: 15 years old
Keep 7 meters distance from gorillas
No touching, eating, or drinking near gorillas
Turn off camera flashes
Maximum 8 trekkers per gorilla family per day
Follow guides’ instructions strictly

Book permits at least six months in advance, as they are highly sought-after.

Monumental Expeditions and Safaris can handle permit booking, transfers, and lodging

Things to Bring on Your Gorilla Trek

Successful gorilla trekking requires preparation. Some essential items include:

Neutral-colored long-sleeved shirts and pants
Trek boots and comfortable socks
Insect repellent
Waterproof jacket and warm sweater
Binoculars and camera with extra batteries
Gaiters and gloves for muddy trails
Refillable water bottle and snacks
First-aid kit and personal medications

These items help trekkers stay comfortable and safe in the jungle terrain of Bwindi, Mgahinga, and Volcanoes National Park.

When to Go Gorilla Trekking

The best time for gorilla trekking depends on your priorities: dry trails, wildlife photography, or avoiding crowds.

Ideal trekking months:

Dry season: June–September & December–February (best for trekking, easier trails, clearer skies)
Wet season: March–May & October–November (fewer tourists, discounted rates, lush green scenery)

Gorilla trekking is open year-round, but planning during the dry season ensures the most comfortable experience.

Travel Tips for Airport Transfers

From Entebbe: Book domestic flights from Kajjansi Airstrip for faster access to Bwindi or Mgahinga.
From Kisoro or Kihihi: A 4×4 vehicle is needed for transfer to lodges and park headquarters.
From Kigali (Rwanda): Safari vehicles take 2–3 hours to reach Volcanoes National Park.

Advanced booking with operators like Monumental Expeditions and Safaris ensures smooth airport transfers, permits, and safari arrangements.

Why Book Your Gorilla Safari with Monumental Expeditions and Safaris

Monumental Expeditions and Safaris is a trusted provider for Uganda and Rwanda gorilla safaris, offering:

Customized gorilla trekking itineraries
Domestic charter flights from Entebbe, Kajjansi, Kihihi, Kisoro
Lodging in premium and budget lodges
Safari vehicles and guides
Assistance with permits, park fees, and permits booking
Multi-country safaris including Uganda, Rwanda, and beyond

For expert planning, contact Monumental Expeditions and Safaris.

Conclusion

Flying into the right airport is essential to a smooth gorilla trekking safari in Uganda and Rwanda.

Uganda: Entebbe International Airport → Kajjansi → Kisoro or Kihihi Airstrip → Bwindi/Mgahinga
Rwanda: Kigali International Airport → Volcanoes National Park

Remember to book permits in advance, pack appropriate trekking gear, and schedule your travel during the dry season for optimal experience.

Partnering with a professional safari company like Monumental Expeditions and Safaris ensures your adventure is safe, comfortable, and unforgettable.

Book your gorilla trekking safari today