Overview
This concentrated 3-day Uganda Gorilla safari takes you to the heart of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a pristine forest that has survived since the ice age, spanning over 25,000 years. Covering 321 square kilometers, this ancient forest is home to 23 habituated mountain gorilla groups available for trekking experiences.
Bwindi’s rich biodiversity extends far beyond its famous gorillas. The forest hosts an impressive array of wildlife including 120 mammal species, 51 reptile species, 310 butterfly species, 27 species of frogs and geckos, and more than 350 bird species (including 23 Albertine rift endemics). The plant life is equally diverse, featuring 163 tree species, 104 fern species, and 1,000 flowering plant species.
Trip Highlights
Your journey combines wildlife encounters and cultural experiences:
- Gorilla trekking in one of Africa’s most ancient forests
- Opportunities to spot diverse primates including red-tailed monkeys, chimpanzees, and black and white colobus monkeys
- Cultural immersion with the Batwa people
- Relaxation at the scenic Lake Bunyonyi, surrounded by terraced hills
- Optional activities including canoeing, bird watching, and community walks
- Visits to local craft communities
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Your adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Entebbe or Kampala at 07:00. After a comprehensive safari briefing, you’ll travel to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in southwestern Uganda. The journey includes a fascinating stop at a local drum and craft-making community.
Journey Time: 5-7 hours
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge
Included Meals: Lunch and dinner, drinking water throughout
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking, Batwa Cultural Experience, and Lake Bunyonyi
Begin your day early with breakfast and packed lunch before heading to the park headquarters for a briefing by park rangers. The gorilla trekking experience takes place in spectacular rainforest terrain, with dramatically steep, densely forested landscapes crisscrossed by animal trails. Trekking duration varies between 2-8 hours depending on gorilla movement, but the reward is a precious hour in the presence of these gentle giants.
After your gorilla encounter and a chance to freshen up, experience the Batwa trail and enjoy cultural dances before proceeding to Lake Bunyonyi. The lake is a stunning location framed by green-terraced hills reaching heights of 2,200-2,478m, dotted with 29 islands of various shapes and sizes.
Journey Time: 2-4 hours to Lake Bunyonyi
Accommodation: Arcadia Lodge
Included Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, drinking water throughout
Highlights: Gorilla trekking, cultural performances, lake views
Day 3: Lake Bunyonyi Activities and Return to Kampala/Entebbe
Your final day offers flexibility to explore Lake Bunyonyi through various optional activities (additional cost):
- Community walks
- Canoe rides
- Boat rides
- Bicycle rides
- Bird watching
- Cray fishing
After your chosen activities, begin your return journey to Kampala/Entebbe, where you’ll be dropped at either the airport or your hotel.
Included Meals: Breakfast and lunch, drinking water throughout
Tour Rate Includes
The package includes:
- Park fees (for non-residents)
- Gorilla permit (one per person, non-resident)
- All specified activities
- Batwa Cultural Experience
- All accommodation
- Professional driver/guide
- All transportation
- All taxes/VAT
- Airport transfers
- Specified meals and drinks
Tour Rate Excludes
The following are not included:
- International flights
- Additional accommodation before/after the tour
- Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
- Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government-imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
Important Notes
The gorilla trekking experience requires a moderate level of fitness, as the trek can be challenging depending on gorilla movement patterns. The reward of spending time with these endangered giants makes the effort well worthwhile.