Is it safe to cross the border by land?

Yes, the Cyanika border crossing is standard for tourists. Ensure your driver-guide has the necessary permits for the vehicle to cross, or arrange for a vehicle swap at the border.

Do I need to tip the trackers?

Tipping is expected. Budget $20 per person for the lead guide and $10 for the porters after a successful gorilla trek.

Planning a Gorilla Trekking and Safari Itinerary in Uganda and Rwanda

To see both countries, fly into Kigali, Rwanda, and out of Entebbe, Uganda. Spend 10 days covering Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park for gorillas, then drive north to cross the border into Uganda for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Secure your permits first. Gorilla permits are limited and sell out months in advance. Rwanda permits cost $1,500; Uganda permits cost $800. Book these through a licensed operator before you book any flights.
Map your route. Start in Kigali (Rwanda) as it is the easiest arrival point. Travel north to Musanze, cross the border at Cyanika to enter Uganda, then loop through Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park before heading to Entebbe for your flight home.
Hire a private driver-guide. Public transport is unreliable for safari circuits. Hire a 4x4 vehicle with a local guide for the full duration. This usually costs $150–$200 per day including fuel.
Arrange your East Africa Tourist Visa. Apply for the East Africa Tourist Visa online before you leave. This covers both Uganda and Rwanda (and Kenya) for 90 days, saving you from buying individual visas.

Is it safe to cross the border by land?: Yes, the Cyanika border crossing is standard for tourists. Ensure your driver-guide has the necessary permits for the vehicle to cross, or arrange for a vehicle swap at the border.
Do I need to tip the trackers?: Tipping is expected. Budget $20 per person for the lead guide and $10 for the porters after a successful gorilla trek.