Uganda · Primate Tours

3-Day Gorilla Trekking Safari in Bwindi with Fly-In Transfers

3 Days Round trip from Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Trek through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to see endangered mountain gorillas up close
02 Encounter diverse wildlife, including chimpanzees, primates, and over 360 bird species
03 Experience the local Batwa community and learn about their culture and traditions
04 Enjoy a fly-in safari that minimizes travel time with scenic flights over Uganda's verdant landscapes

Experience the magic of Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable Forest on this immersive 3-day fly-in safari. Trek through lush rainforest to encounter endangered mountain gorillas, observe diverse wildlife, and connect with the local Batwa community. Enjoy seamless transfers, luxurious lodgings, and guided adventures while minimizing travel time. From scenic flights over Uganda's verdant landscapes to intimate moments with gorillas, this journey combines adventure, nature, and culture for wildlife enthusiasts seeking unforgettable encounters in Africa's iconic rainforest.

Experience the magic of Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable Forest on this immersive 3-day fly-in safari.

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 Not applicable

Cities Entebbe, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival and Fly to Bwindi's Buhoma Sector

Arrive at Entebbe International Airport and check in for your domestic flight to Kihihi Airstrip (~7:45 AM - 9:00 AM).
Upon arrival, transfer 1.5-2 hours to the Buhoma sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Check in at your lodge and enjoy a welcome drink.
In the afternoon, enjoy optional activities such as a village walk or a local market visit.
In the evening, have dinner at the lodge and attend a pre-trek briefing.

Overnight: Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Day 02

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Attend an early morning briefing at the lodge (~8:00 AM).
Begin the gorilla trek in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest; trek duration is 2-7 hours depending on gorilla movement.
Spend 1 hour with the gorillas once they are located.
Observe other primates, 113 mammal species, 360 bird species, and forest wildlife.
Return to the lodge for lunch, rest, and optional afternoon activities.

Overnight: Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Day 03

Scenic Return to Entebbe

Have breakfast at the lodge and check out.
Take a scenic road transfer back to Kihihi Airstrip.
Board your domestic flight to Entebbe International Airport (~1 hour 15 minutes).
Arrival in Entebbe marks the end of the tour or your connection to an onward journey.

Overnight: N/A (departure day).

Where this trip takes you

Buhoma sector, endangered mountain gorillas, Kihihi Airstrip

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Bwindi Impenetrable Forest 2 cities · 3 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Park fees
Gorilla permits (one per person)
All activities (unless labeled as optional)
All accommodation (unless listed as an upgrade)
A professional driver/guide
All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
All domestic flights during the tour
All taxes and VAT
Roundtrip airport transfer
Meals as specified in the day-by-day itinerary
Drinking water on all days

What's Not Included

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

What to bring

Passport (valid for 6+ months)
Gorilla trekking permit and park entry receipts
Flight tickets and itinerary
Travel insurance details
COVID/vaccination certificate (if required)
Lightweight long-sleeved shirts and trousers
Waterproof jacket or poncho
Warm fleece or sweater
Comfortable casual wear for lodge time
Quick-dry T-shirts and shorts
Extra socks (preferably thick, moisture-wicking)
Gloves (gardening or trekking gloves)
Waterproof hiking boots (well broken-in)
Lightweight sandals or casual shoes
Small daypack (preferably waterproof)
Refillable water bottle or hydration pack
Walking stick (can be provided at the park gate)
Gaiters (optional but useful for muddy treks)
Binoculars and camera (no flash during the trek)
Extra camera batteries and memory cards
Insect repellent with DEET
Sunscreen and lip balm
Personal medications and a small first aid kit
Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
Toiletries (biodegradable if possible)
Hat or cap for sun protection
Sunglasses
Lightweight travel towel
Power bank for charging devices
Small flashlight or headlamp
Pack light (fly-in safaris often limit luggage to 15-20 kg)
Use a soft duffel bag instead of a hard suitcase
Dress in earth-tone colors (green, brown, grey) to blend with the forest environment

Know before you go

Take a scenic domestic flight from Entebbe to Kisoro or Kihihi Airstrip, reducing travel time to Bwindi Impenetrable or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Luggage is limited to 15-20 kg per person (soft bag only) due to aircraft weight restrictions.
Upon landing, a safari driver-guide will transfer you to your lodge and handle park logistics.
Gorilla trekking can take 2 to 6 hours depending on the gorilla family's movement.
Only 8 visitors are allowed per gorilla group per day.
You will spend 1 hour observing the gorillas once found.
Treks start early, usually by 8:00 AM, so rest well the night before.
Passport and gorilla trekking permit must be presented at the briefing.
Bwindi and Mgahinga are rainforest areas; expect showers at any time.
Best trekking months are June-September and December-February for drier conditions.
Temperatures range from 10°C-25°C (50°F-77°F).
Keep a 7-meter distance from gorillas.
No eating, drinking, or flash photography near gorillas.
Avoid trekking if you are sick, as gorillas are prone to human diseases.
Follow your ranger's guidance at all times.
A moderate fitness level is needed for trekking.
Carry travel insurance and your vaccination card.
Porters are available to help with your bag, supporting the local community.
Respect local communities and wildlife.
Avoid littering and use eco-friendly products where possible.
Support conservation by purchasing local crafts or hiring local porters.
Most lodges accept cards, but carry some cash (UGX or USD) for tips and local purchases.
Expect limited mobile and internet connection in remote areas.
Greet local communities warmly and ask before taking photos.
Visiting the Batwa community adds cultural value to your trip.
Gorilla trekking supports conservation and local livelihoods, helping protect endangered animals.