Step into the ancient forests of southwestern Uganda for an unforgettable encounter with the mountain gorillas of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that protects almost half of the world’s mountain gorillas.
This three-day safari combines the thrill of gorilla trekking with breathtaking landscapes and an opportunity to experience the warmth and culture of communities surrounding the forest.
Highlights
Mountain gorilla trekking: Experience one of Africa's most extraordinary wildlife encounters.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: Explore an ancient rainforest recognised for its exceptional biodiversity.
Gorilla photography: Capture unforgettable moments while following responsible wildlife-viewing guidelines.
Forest adventure: Trek through diverse vegetation and challenging but rewarding terrain.
Scenic landscapes: Enjoy the dramatic hills and beautiful countryside of southwestern Uganda.
Community experiences: Connect with communities living around Bwindi.
Culture & traditions: Where selected, experience local music, dance, storytelling and crafts.
Conservation & livelihoods: Discover the connection between tourism, forest conservation and community wellbeing.
Itinerary
Day by Day
3 days·2 nights
Open a day to see it on the map
Tour durationAbout 9 to 10 hours
Tour distanceAbout 500 km
AccommodationLodge or camp near Bwindi
MealsLunch & dinner
Begin your journey with an early morning departure from Kampala or Entebbe towards southwestern Uganda and the beautiful highlands surrounding Bwindi. The road takes you through Uganda’s scenic countryside and rural communities, with views of rolling hills, plantations, forests and local settlements. You stop for breakfast or refreshments along the way, and again for lunch en route.
The landscape keeps changing as you approach the southwest, until you arrive at your lodge near your selected gorilla trekking sector. Relax and prepare for the next day’s trek, then enjoy dinner and an overnight stay surrounded by the peaceful forest.
Tour durationTrek of 2 to 8 hours
AccommodationLodge or camp near Bwindi
MealsBreakfast, lunch & dinner
Today is the highlight of your safari: an extraordinary journey into the ancient Bwindi forest in search of a habituated mountain gorilla family. After an early breakfast at the lodge, you transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers and guides, who explain the gorilla trekking guidelines and responsible visitor behaviour.
You then trek through the dense forest, walking through beautiful rainforest vegetation while searching for your assigned gorilla family and taking in the sounds, sights and atmosphere of one of Africa’s most remarkable forests. During your allocated viewing time you observe the gorillas in their natural habitat, from their social interactions, feeding and grooming to their movements through the forest, and capture photographs while respecting the park’s photography and wildlife guidelines.
After the encounter you trek back to the park headquarters, where you are awarded a certificate on reaching the starting point, and return to your lodge for lunch and relaxation. Depending on your interests and available time, you can enjoy an optional community or cultural experience: meet local community members, discover aspects of life around Bwindi, enjoy traditional music, dance, storytelling or local crafts, and learn how tourism contributes to conservation and community livelihoods. The day ends with dinner and an overnight stay at your lodge.
Tour durationAbout 9 to 10 hours by road
Tour distanceAbout 500 km
MealsBreakfast & lunch
Enjoy your final morning in the beautiful Bwindi region before beginning your journey back to Kampala. After breakfast at the lodge, take in the views of the surrounding hills and forest and, where time allows, enjoy a final short community or cultural visit.
Then check out and begin the journey back, stopping for lunch along the way and continuing through Uganda’s scenic countryside to arrive in Kampala in the evening. Your 3 Days Gorilla Trekking Safari comes to an end with unforgettable memories of Uganda’s mountain gorillas, ancient rainforest and local communities.
This itinerary is a guide. Driving times depend on road and weather conditions, and your trekking sector is confirmed when we secure your permit.
Uganda Wildlife Authority park entry fees associated with the trekking experience
Services of Uganda Wildlife Authority ranger guides during gorilla trekking
Gorilla trekking briefing
Community or cultural experience where specified
Drinking water during the safari
All activities specified in the itinerary
International flights
Uganda entry visa
Personal expenses
Alcoholic and other personal beverages
Tips and gratuities
Porter services, unless requested
Activities not specified in the itinerary
Gorilla trekking runs all year. The drier months, December to February and June to September, usually make the trails easier underfoot. The rest of the year is greener and quieter, with more rain on the trails.
Treks last between 2 and 8 hours on steep, sometimes muddy forest trails, at altitudes between 1,160 and 2,607 m. Porters can be hired locally to carry your bag and help on the slopes.
Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots
Long trousers and long-sleeved tops
A light rain jacket
Gardening gloves for gripping vines
Insect repellent and a hat
A small daypack and a camera without flash
Most visitors need a visa for Uganda. Check your own requirements well before you travel, and speak to your doctor about recommended vaccinations and malaria prevention.
Gorilla permit fees support the national park, its rangers and the communities around it. Visits are limited to one hour with a habituated gorilla family, in a small group, and visitors keep their distance as the park rules require.
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