Self-Drive from Rwanda to Uganda for Gorilla Trekking
How to self-drive from Rwanda into Uganda for gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Mgahinga: permits, border crossing and the best 4x4 to hire.
Many visitors combine Rwanda with gorilla trekking in Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga. With the right paperwork, you can self-drive across the border in a hired 4x4. Here is how it works.
Can you take a rental car into Uganda?
Yes, with advance approval. Cross-border travel needs extra documentation and insurance, which we arrange with notice. See the full rules in our cross-border car rental guide.
The route and border
From Kigali, the main crossings toward Bwindi are Cyanika and Katuna (Gatuna). Roads on the Rwanda side are excellent, while some final stretches to the trailheads in Uganda are rough, so a high-clearance 4x4 is important.
Best vehicle
Choose a Land Cruiser or Prado from our fleet. These handle the muddy forest tracks to the gorilla sectors with ease. Read do I need a 4x4.
Permits and planning
- Buy Uganda gorilla permits well in advance, they are limited and separate from the car.
- Carry your passport, licence, International Driving Permit and vehicle cross-border papers.
- Allow a full day to reach the trailhead region and rest before the trek.
Plan your cross-border trip
Give us your dates and destinations on WhatsApp +250 791 356 080 and we will prepare a cross-border ready 4x4 and the paperwork.
