Uganda · Safari

3-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari with Lake Bunyonyi Stay

3 Days Round trip from Buhoma Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Enjoy a wildlife game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park with chances to spot elephants, antelopes, and other iconic species
02 Visit the Batwa community and experience their ancient forest culture and storytelling traditions
03 Trek through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat
04 Receive a certificate upon completing your gorilla trekking experience
05 Relax by the peaceful shores of Lake Bunyonyi or explore its 29 islands by canoe
06 Stop at craft markets and local shops for unique Ugandan souvenirs

Discover the wild beauty and cultural richness of Uganda on this immersive 3-day safari. Travel through the rolling hills of western Uganda, enjoy a wildlife game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and trek into the misty forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to observe endangered mountain gorillas with expert rangers. Along the way, visit the Batwa community to experience their ancient forest traditions, then unwind at serene Lake Bunyonyi, known for its island-dotted waters and peaceful ambiance.

Spend one magical hour observing the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 3 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Kampala, Entebbe, Masaka, Mbarara, Mount Abu, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Bunyonyi

Languages English, French, German

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Transfer to Bwindi via Queen Elizabeth National Park

Begin the journey with a morning pickup by your professional tour guide and driver from Entebbe International Airport or your Kampala accommodation.
Travel through the picturesque western countryside on a scenic 9-10 hour drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Stop at the Uganda Equator line in Kayabwe for a photo opportunity and a brief educational demonstration.
Enjoy lunch en route in Mbarara town, a bustling city with great culinary options.
Take a detour through Queen Elizabeth National Park for a short game drive and a chance to spot elephants, antelopes, warthogs, and possibly lions.
Arrive at your lodge in Bwindi in the evening, surrounded by dense rainforest and serene views.
Visit the Batwa community in the forest to experience their ancient traditions, music, storytelling, and forest survival skills.

Overnight at a comfortable lodge near the Bwindi forest.

Day 02

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi and Lake Bunyonyi Retreat

Eat an early breakfast and carry a packed lunch from your lodge.
Arrive at the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) briefing point for registration and a briefing about gorilla trekking etiquette.
Watch a local performance by community members before being assigned a gorilla family to track.
Embark on a guided trek through the thick forest, accompanied by an armed ranger.
Spend one magical hour observing the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Receive a trekking certificate upon successful completion of your experience.
Transfer by car to the scenic Lake Bunyonyi, known for its tranquil waters and terraced hills.
Relax by the lakeside or take a canoe ride to explore some of the 29 islands on the lake.
Overnight at a lodge overlooking Lake Bunyonyi.

Day 03

Return to Entebbe via the Uganda Equator

Begin the return journey to Entebbe after an early breakfast.
Stop again at the Uganda Equator line for photos, craft shopping, and an optional water experiment.
Have lunch en route in Mbarara or Masaka, depending on the timing.
If time permits, stop at a local craft market for souvenirs.
Arrive in Entebbe in time for your evening flight or stay overnight based on your travel plans.

Where this trip takes you

Misty Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, island-dotted Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda Equator line in Kayabwe

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Buhoma 8 cities · 3 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

All accommodations (unless listed as an upgrade)
All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
Drinks (as specified in the day-by-day section)
All activities (unless labeled as optional)
Park fees (for non-residents)
A professional driver/guide
Roundtrip airport transfer
All taxes/VAT

What's Not Included

Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Government-imposed increases in taxes and/or park fees
Tips (tipping guideline: US$10.00 per person per day)
International flights (to/from home)

What to bring

Passport and visa valid for at least six months; visa available online or on arrival
Yellow fever vaccination card required for entry
Travel insurance covering medical emergencies and trip cancellations
Printed and digital copies of flight tickets and itinerary
Photocopies of all important documents stored separately from originals
Credit or debit cards and cash; inform your bank of international travel
Lightweight neutral-colored clothing such as long-sleeved shirts and trousers for sun and insect protection
Warm layers including a fleece or jacket for cooler mornings and evenings
Rain gear such as a waterproof jacket or poncho, especially during the rainy season
Comfortable footwear including sturdy hiking boots and sandals for lodge relaxation
Swimwear for lodges with swimming pools
Insect repellent, preferably with DEET, for mosquito protection
Sunscreen and lip balm with high SPF to prevent sunburn
Personal medications including malaria prophylaxis, pain relievers, and prescriptions
Basic first aid kit with antiseptic wipes, bandages, and anti-diarrheal medication
Hand sanitizer and wet wipes for hygiene on the go
Toiletries including toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, and soap
Camera or smartphone for capturing wildlife and scenery
Binoculars for bird watching and spotting distant animals
Power bank to keep devices charged during excursions
Travel adapter compatible with UK-style plugs type G
Flashlight or headlamp for areas with limited lighting
Daypack for carrying essentials during outings
Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
Snacks such as non-perishable energy bars for in-between meals
Books or journals for leisure and recording experiences
Zip-lock bags for protecting electronics and storing wet or dirty items

Know before you go

Visit during the dry seasons from December to February and June to September for optimal wildlife viewing and easier road access.
Travel by road from Kampala via Masindi, taking approximately 5 to 6 hours through Kichumbanyobo or Mubako Gates.
Fly by charter from Entebbe or Kajjansi to Pakuba or Bugungu airstrips, cutting travel time to around 45 minutes.
Stay at Nile Safari Lodge for luxury eco-friendly accommodations along the Nile.
Choose Pakuba Safari Lodge for mid-range comfort and views of the Albert Nile.
Opt for Red Chilli Rest Camp as a budget-friendly choice for backpackers and value travelers.
Take game drives through the northern savannahs to see elephants, giraffes, lions, and other wildlife.
Enjoy boat safaris on the Nile to view hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife, ending at the base of Murchison Falls.
Hike to the top of Murchison Falls for dramatic views and the thrill of standing above the thundering Nile.
Go chimpanzee trekking in Budongo Forest to observe these primates in their natural habitat.
Pack light, breathable clothing for daytime and warm layers for cooler mornings and evenings.
Bring insect repellent with DEET to protect against mosquitoes and tsetse flies.
Use sunscreen, wear a wide-brimmed hat, and carry sunglasses for sun protection.
Wear comfortable walking shoes for hiking and game drives.
Pack swimwear for lodges with pools.
Carry binoculars and a camera with spare batteries to capture wildlife sightings.
Bring a flashlight or headlamp for areas with limited lighting.
Maintain a respectful distance from wildlife and follow your guide's instructions at all times.
Drink only bottled water and consider taking malaria prophylaxis.
Expect limited Wi-Fi and mobile coverage; inform friends and family ahead of time.
Respect local customs and traditions; engage local guides to enhance your cultural experience.