Safari Overview
This unforgettable 3-day safari takes you deep into the mystical Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the southwestern region of Uganda on the edge of the Albertine Rift Valley. Spanning over 331 square kilometres, this ancient forest is one of East Africa’s most biologically diverse ecosystems and is famously home to nearly half of the world’s remaining population of mountain gorillas.
Gorilla trekking through Bwindi’s dense vegetation and rugged terrain is a physically demanding but deeply rewarding experience, offering an extraordinary opportunity to observe these majestic primates in their natural habitat. The forest is also home to over 120 species of mammals, 347 species of birds, and a variety of butterflies, making it a haven for nature lovers.
Trip Summary
- Day 1: Transfer from Kampala to Bwindi Forest
- Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest
- Day 3: Return to Kampala
Important Note: Gorilla trekking may take 2 to 8 hours, depending on the movement of the gorillas. Only six permits are issued per gorilla group per day, so early booking—ideally 4 to 12 months in advance—is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.
Itinerary
Day 1: Transfer from Kampala to Bwindi Forest
Your safari adventure begins with an early morning departure from Kampala at around 6:30 AM. After meeting your driver-guide, you’ll head southwest, embarking on a scenic drive through Uganda’s countryside. Along the way, you’ll make a brief stop at the Equator, where you can take photos and enjoy a light breakfast. The journey continues through the fertile lands of Ankole, known for its beautiful long-horned cattle, and on through Mbarara, where a lunch stop will be arranged.
From there, you’ll ascend into the rolling Kigezi Highlands, often called the “Switzerland of Africa,” due to their dramatic terraced hills and panoramic views. As the terrain becomes more mountainous, you’ll gradually approach the borders of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your forest lodge for dinner and a restful overnight stay amid the tranquillity of the forest.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest
After an early breakfast, you’ll transfer to the park headquarters, where you will receive a briefing from the park rangers about gorilla trekking etiquette and safety. You’ll then be divided into small groups and assigned to one of the habituated gorilla families before entering the dense rainforest for your trek. The trek itself is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, with the possibility of walking through thick undergrowth, up and down steep slopes, and across wet and muddy terrain.
Depending on where the gorillas are on the day, the hike may last anywhere from two to eight hours. Once you find them, you will spend a magical hour in their company, observing them in silence as they go about their daily routines, feeding, grooming, and playing. After the trek, you’ll return to your lodge for lunch and a chance to rest. Later in the afternoon, you may opt for a guided community walk to visit local sites such as the Batwa (Pygmy) communities, traditional healers, craft markets, and waterfalls. Dinner and overnight will be at the same lodge.
Day 3: Return to Kampala
Following a relaxed breakfast, you’ll check out and begin your journey back to Kampala. The drive retraces your route through the Kigezi Highlands, descending into the plains of Ankole with another lunch stop in Mbarara. Along the way, enjoy the scenic views and perhaps purchase a few souvenirs. You’ll arrive in Kampala in the evening and be dropped off at your hotel or residence, bringing this memorable gorilla trekking adventure to a close.
End of Service
Optional Activity – Community Walk
You can enrich your experience with a cultural community walk starting from USD 10 per person. Visit any of 15 different sites, including traditional healers, Batwa villages, handicraft centres, and local waterfalls. English-speaking local guides are available, and we advise you to carry drinking water for this activity.
Gorilla Trekking Essentials
Since trekking is physically demanding, it is advised that participants are in good health and physical condition. Anyone exhibiting signs of a transmissible illness will not be permitted to trek. We recommend you bring lightweight rain gear, long-sleeved shirts, waterproof trousers, sturdy hiking boots, gardening gloves, sunscreen, insect repellent, personal medications, and a camera (with extra batteries, as charging options may be limited in the park).
Safari Package Includes
✔ Round-trip transportation in a comfortable safari vehicle
✔ Services of an experienced English-speaking driver-guide
✔ Gorilla trekking permit for one trek
✔ Park entry fees and ranger guide fees
✔ Accommodation and meals as per the itinerary
Excludes
✘ International flights and visa fees
✘ Travel and medical insurance
✘ Alcoholic drinks and sodas (unless provided with meals)
✘ Tips, souvenirs, and items of a personal nature
✘ Optional activities such as community walks (charged separately)
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Booking Requirements
To book this safari, you will need to provide your full name as it appears on your passport, nationality, passport number, and your exact travel dates. Permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis and must be paid for in full at the time of booking.