Overview
Embark on a thrilling 3-day gorilla safari in Uganda, home to the majestic mountain gorillas that reside within the lush, misty forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This unforgettable experience offers the chance to trek through dense forests, encounter one of the world’s most endangered species, and explore the stunning natural landscapes of Uganda’s southwest. Below is a detailed breakdown of this adventure, designed for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, your safari guide will warmly welcome you and provide a brief orientation about the journey ahead. Afterward, you’ll embark on a scenic drive towards Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its biodiversity and dense forests. The journey takes approximately 8 to 10 hours by road, passing through the rolling hills, tea plantations, and local villages of southwestern Uganda.
You will stop along the way for lunch in Mbarara town, before continuing the journey to the park. Upon arrival in the late afternoon or evening, you will check into your lodge near the park’s boundaries, where you can relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere of the forested surroundings. Spend the evening savoring a hearty dinner and preparing for the next day’s adventure.
Your second day is the highlight of the safari: gorilla trekking! After an early breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters for a briefing from experienced park rangers who will provide important information about the trekking experience, safety, and the rules for interacting with the gorillas. Trekkers are divided into groups of 8, and each group is assigned to one of the habituated gorilla families.
Led by experienced guides and rangers, the trek begins as you venture into the forest to track these gentle giants. The duration of the trek can vary from 2 to 6 hours depending on the location of the gorillas, but every moment is filled with excitement as you navigate the forest terrain and encounter various wildlife and bird species along the way.
Once you reach the gorilla family, you will have an extraordinary hour observing these magnificent creatures as they go about their daily activities—feeding, grooming, and interacting with each other. This close-up encounter with the mountain gorillas is a humbling and awe-inspiring experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.
After the trek, return to your lodge for a well-deserved rest. Spend the afternoon at leisure, reflecting on your encounter or exploring the community with optional activities like visiting local Batwa pygmy communities or taking a nature walk.
On the final day of your safari, enjoy a relaxed breakfast before starting the journey back to Entebbe or Kampala. If time permits, you can opt for a stop at the Equator for photos and souvenir shopping before continuing the journey. You will arrive in Entebbe or Kampala in the late afternoon or early evening, marking the end of your 3-day gorilla safari in Uganda.
For those flying out of Entebbe, you can schedule your flight for the evening. Alternatively, additional activities such as a visit to the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary or a boat cruise on Lake Victoria can be arranged if time allows.
Cost
The Cost Includes
- Pick-up or Drop-off service from and to Airport(in our own vehicle)
- Transportation to and from!!
- Food all along the trip(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner and a cup of coffee or tea) and accommodations during the trip in hotels with family environment
- Transportation, food, accommodation and insurance of Guide during the trip
- First Aid Medical Kit(Your guide will carry the Medical Kit but we also advise to bring yourself for your own use, as far as possible)
- All the required permits
The Cost Excludes
- International Airfare
- Visa Charges
- Your travel and medical insurance
- Personal Expenses such as shopping, bar bills, hot shower, telephone, laundry, titbits etc
- Services not mentioned or not promised