The border between Rwanda and Uganda is a stunningly beautiful frontier, winding for 172 kilometers through the lush, green, and intensely cultivated hills of the Great Rift Valley. This is a passage through the “land of a thousand hills” and the “pearl of Africa,” a region known for its dramatic landscapes and primate populations.
You have two main crossings to choose from. The busiest is the Gatuna (Rwanda) and Katuna (Uganda) border, located on the main highway between the capitals of Kigali and Kampala. A second, often quieter option is the Cyanika crossing, which is conveniently located for those traveling between the gorilla trekking areas of Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda.
The crossings are modern and efficient, with One-Stop Border Posts at both locations to simplify the procedures. The process is generally straightforward, but the political relationship between the two countries can sometimes be tense, leading to occasional delays or increased scrutiny.
The journey to either crossing is a scenic delight, with winding roads offering spectacular views of the Virunga mountains and the surrounding terraced hillsides. It is a key route for both regional trade and tourism, particularly for travelers on the popular East African gorilla tracking circuit.