Experience a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Forest National Park on this all-inclusive 4-day Uganda Safari, including flights from Entebbe to Bwindi and back.
This fly-in Bwindi gorilla trekking safari brings you face-to-face with rare African mountain gorillas in their natural habitat and you’ll embark on an enriching cultural experience with the local community on the Batwa Trail. With round-trip flights from Entebbe to Bwindi, this Uganda Safari is ideal for travellers on a tight schedule. Transport is in 4x4 safari vehicles and accommodation is in comfortable budget, standard, or luxury lodges.
This Bwindi gorilla trekking safari begins when you are collected from Entebbe International Airport upon arrival in Uganda and transferred to your preferred accommodation in Entebbe for an overnight stay. Entebbe, nestled on the shores of Lake Victoria, is a charming gateway to exploring Uganda. Easy to navigate on foot or via the local boda bodas, it boasts attractions like the Botanical Gardens filled with diverse birds and monkeys. Birdwatchers can revel in the rare shoebill sightings at Mabamba Swamp. Depending on the time of your arrival, you can engage with rescued primates at Ngamba Chimpanzee Sanctuary, visit craft markets, mingle with locals over traditional beer, or enjoy a soothing sunset boat cruise on the lake.
Your driver/guide ensures a seamless transition from your accommodation in Kampala or Entebbe, providing a prompt transfer to Entebbe International Airport for your scheduled scenic flight to Bwindi Forest National Park. Flexible scheduling allows for a morning or afternoon departure to suit your convenience. As we traverse the skies for approximately two hours, you'll be captivated by the aerial view of the ever-evolving landscape below. Our journey takes us over dense rainforests and habitats to a rich tapestry of wildlife, stunning valleys, papyrus swamps and serene hills. Upon landing at Kihihi or Kisoro Airstrip, you will be fetched and taken to your chosen lodge for your stay in Bwindi.
In the afternoon we embark on an enriching guided Batwa trail experience as we are immersed in the Batwa community's rich history and cultural heritage and who have lived in harmony with the ancient woods of Bwindi Forest for generations. As the original stewards of this forest, the Batwa people will engage us with demonstrations of their age-old forest survival techniques including foraging, hunting practices, and the crafting of bamboo vessels. We get a glimpse into their rich culture through folk songs, dances, and storytelling. At the same time, they illuminate their methods of traditional agriculture, archery skills, and the gathering of wild honey and medicinal herbs. While efforts have been made to relocate the Batwa for conservation purposes, their connection to the land remains strong, allowing us to appreciate their traditions through engaging narratives and demonstrations.
We return to our accommodation after this enriching encounter where we can relax, enjoy dinner and fall asleep to the sounds of the African forest, waking refreshed for our gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Forest in the morning.
Our gorilla trekking adventure begins bright and early with breakfast at our lodging, followed by a scenic drive to the Bwindi Forest National Park headquarters. At 8 AM, we'll receive a briefing from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) staff in anticipation of our journey into the dense, vibrant Bwindi Forest. Bwindi's ecosystem, a treasure trove of biodiversity, is a primary factor behind Uganda's moniker, the 'Pearl of Africa.' It is home to over 120 mammal species, 345 bird varieties, 200 butterfly species, and 160 types of trees. The Bwindi National Park plays a crucial role in the survival of the endangered Mountain Gorillas, harbouring roughly half of the global population. With only about 1000 of these majestic creatures remaining in the wild, this encounter promises to be the most memorable experience of your Uganda safari.
Skilled rangers and trackers will guide us from the Gorilla Sanctuary gateway deep into the emerald wilderness, sharing their vast knowledge of these rare animals throughout our excursion.
Given that gorilla tracking may involve traversing steep inclines, ravines, and thickets for 2 to 6 hours, physical fitness is essential, along with sturdy walking boots. Equipping oneself with a raincoat, water, and snacks is advisable for maximum comfort. Upon finding a gorilla troop, we'll witness their fascinating behaviours as they feed, groom, play and rest from a respectful 10-meter distance for about an hour—a reward that far outshines the effort of the hike. After this extraordinary experience, we'll return to our preferred lodge for a well-deserved dinner and relaxation, carrying the day’s echoes into another serene night.
Our incredible Uganda gorilla trekking safari ends today with two scheduled flight options for your return flight to Entebbe to choose from. There is a morning flight that departs from Bwindi at 09: 45, arriving in Entebbe at 11:25, or an afternoon flight that departs Bwindi at 14:45 and arrives in Entebbe at 16:15. Whichever flight you choose, your guide will be available to drive you to the airstrip for your preferred scheduled flight back to Entebbe.
On this Bwindi gorilla trekking safari, you can choose between mid-range, budget and luxury accommodation options based on your budget and preferences. For more information see the Full Tour Pricing.
This tour does take children.
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