Do I need to carry cash?

Yes. While lodges take cards, tipping guides and buying local crafts requires USD (post-2009 notes) or local currency.

Is it safe to drink the tap water?

No. Only drink bottled or filtered water provided at your lodges.

How difficult is the gorilla trek?

It is strenuous. You may hike for 1 to 6 hours in dense, humid forest. You should be comfortable walking on uneven, muddy terrain.

Planning a Two-Week East African Gorilla and Safari Circuit

To cover Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda in 14 days, prioritize one major national park per country and book internal regional flights to minimize time on the road. You must secure your Gorilla trekking permits at least 6 months in advance, as they are strictly capped.

Secure your permits. Gorilla trekking permits in Uganda (Bwindi) cost $800 and in Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park) cost $1,500. Book these through the official wildlife authority websites or a licensed operator as soon as your dates are set.
Route your flights. Fly into Nairobi (NBO) for your Kenya leg, take a regional flight (Kenya Airways or RwandAir) to Entebbe (EBB) for Uganda, and finish by driving or flying from Uganda to Kigali (KGL) for your Rwanda exit.
Coordinate your Visas. Apply for the East Africa Tourist Visa ($100). It covers Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda for 90 days. Apply online at least 3 weeks before departure.
Book regional transport. Do not attempt to cross these borders via public bus on a 14-day schedule; the infrastructure is unreliable. Use private transfers or regional bush flights to save 10-15 hours of transit time per leg.

Do I need to carry cash?: Yes. While lodges take cards, tipping guides and buying local crafts requires USD (post-2009 notes) or local currency.
Is it safe to drink the tap water?: No. Only drink bottled or filtered water provided at your lodges.
How difficult is the gorilla trek?: It is strenuous. You may hike for 1 to 6 hours in dense, humid forest. You should be comfortable walking on uneven, muddy terrain.