Welcome to Primate Apes

3 Days Bwindi Gorilla Trekking

Uganda | Family

The 3-day Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that takes you deep into the lush jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, located in southwestern Uganda. This adventure offers an opportunity to track and observe the rare and endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

Starting and ending in Entebbe, this safari combines the thrill of gorilla trekking with a scenic countryside road trip, allowing you to soak in Uganda’s breathtaking landscapes, rolling hills, and rich cultural heritage. You will embark on an exhilarating journey through the misty forest, guided by experienced trackers, to locate a selected family of gorillas and spend a memorable hour observing their daily lives. Accommodations, meals, and expert-guided tours are included, ensuring a seamless experience. This safari is perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and wildlife enthusiasts looking to connect with one of the world’s most incredible creatures.

Trip Highlights

  • Gorilla trekking experience – Track and spend one hour with a habituated mountain gorilla family in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.
  • Scenic countryside road trip – Travel through Uganda’s picturesque landscapes in an open-sided 4×4 safari vehicle or a pop-up roof 4×4 vehicle.
  • Cultural encounters – Optional visit to the Batwa Pygmy community for a firsthand experience of their traditional way of life.
  • Guided nature walks – Explore the rich biodiversity of Bwindi Forest, home to numerous bird species, primates, and plant life.
  • Comfortable accommodation – Stay in eco-friendly lodges or luxury camps, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of nature.
  • Expert-guided tour – Enjoy the expertise of professional guides and rangers who provide insightful information about the gorillas and their ecosystem.
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Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe & Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

  • Distance: Approximately 500 km
  • Driving Time: 8–9 hours
  • Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge / Mahogany Springs Lodge / Gorilla Mist Camp (depending on your preference)
  • Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from Entebbe International Airport or your hotel in Entebbe/Kampala. After a short briefing by your tour guide, you will embark on a scenic road trip towards Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. The drive takes you through the stunning Ugandan countryside, passing rolling hills, tea plantations, and small rural communities. You will have a lunch stop at Mbarara town before continuing your journey through Kabale, often referred to as the "Switzerland of Africa" due to its mountainous terrain. Upon arrival at your lodge in Bwindi, you will check in and relax after the long journey. You can take an evening nature walk around the lodge or simply enjoy the serene forest atmosphere as you prepare for the next day's thrilling gorilla trekking experience.

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

  • Trekking Duration: 2–6 hours (depending on gorilla movements)
  • Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge / Mahogany Springs Lodge / Gorilla Mist Camp
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After an early breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters for a pre-trek briefing by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) rangers. Here, you will be assigned a specific gorilla family to track and briefed on trekking guidelines, safety measures, and what to expect. With experienced guides leading the way, you will venture into the dense rainforest in search of the gorillas. The trek can take anywhere between 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas. The journey through the mist-covered jungle is an adventure in itself, with opportunities to spot other wildlife such as colobus monkeys, forest elephants, and an array of bird species. Upon locating the gorilla family, you will spend one magical hour observing them in their natural habitat. Watch as they feed, groom each other, and interact in their social groups. This is a truly mesmerizing and humbling experience that will stay with you forever. After the trek, you will return to the lodge for a well-deserved rest. In the evening, you can opt for a community visit to the Batwa pygmies to learn about their ancient traditions and way of life.

Day 3: Return to Entebbe & Departure

  • Distance: Approximately 500 km
  • Driving Time: 8–9 hours
  • Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
After breakfast, you will begin your journey back to Entebbe. The return trip provides another chance to admire Uganda’s scenic beauty, with a stopover at the equator for photographs and souvenir shopping. You will arrive in Entebbe in the evening, where you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight or to your hotel if you are extending your stay in Uganda.

Additional Information

  • Gorilla Trekking Guidelines:
    • Only a maximum of 8 people are allowed to visit a gorilla group per day.
    • Visitors must be at least 15 years old.
    • Maintain a distance of at least 7 meters from the gorillas.
    • No flash photography is allowed.
    • If you are feeling unwell, you will not be allowed to trek to protect the gorillas from human diseases.
  • Best Time to Visit:
    • Gorilla trekking is available year-round, but the dry seasons (June–August and December–February) offer the best trekking conditions.
  • Packing List:
    • Sturdy hiking boots
    • Rain jacket/poncho
    • Long-sleeved shirts and trousers
    • Garden gloves for protection
    • Insect repellent
    • Camera (no flash allowed)
    • Small backpack for water and snacks
The 3-day Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Safari is a thrilling and immersive adventure that offers unparalleled opportunities to witness one of the world’s most endangered primates in their natural habitat. This safari not only allows you to trek through the mystical Bwindi Impenetrable Forest but also provides cultural experiences and stunning scenic views along the way. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor to Uganda, this journey will leave you with unforgettable memories of the Pearl of Africa. Book this tour today and embark on an extraordinary gorilla trekking experience in Uganda!  
  • Gorilla trekking permit (worth $700 per person)
  • Airport transfers (from and to Entebbe International Airport)
  • Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof
  • 2 nights’ accommodation in a selected lodge or camp
  • All meals during the safari (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Professional English-speaking driver/guide
  • Bottled drinking water during the safari
  • Park entrance fees and ranger fees

Exclusions:

  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Personal expenses (souvenirs, tips, extra drinks, laundry, etc.)
  • Travel insurance
  • Additional accommodation before or after the tour (available at an extra cost)
  • Optional activities (e.g., Batwa community visit)