3 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi.

Embark on an exhilarating 3-day Uganda gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, starting from Kigali, Rwanda, or Entebbe/Kampala, Uganda. Starting in Rwanda offers a shorter drive, making the journey more convenient.

Trip Highlights:

  • Cultural Experience: Visit the Batwa pygmies, the original inhabitants of Bwindi, for an enriching cultural encounter.
  • Prime Location: Bwindi, located along Uganda’s border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, is adjacent to Virunga National Park.
  • Biodiversity: Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bwindi boasts 163 tree species, 348 bird species, and 120 mammal species.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Spot chimpanzees, elephants, Colobus monkeys, and mountain gorillas among others.
  • Unique Habitats: Bwindi’s gorillas, known for their fruit-heavy diet, often climb trees—an unusual behavior for silverbacks.
  • Gorilla Trekking: With 15 habituated gorilla groups, Bwindi offers unparalleled trekking opportunities, including the exclusive 3-day gorilla habituation experience.
  • Conservation Efforts: Learn about the importance of gorilla conservation and the relocation of Batwa pygmies to protect these endangered primates.

Experience the magic of Bwindi, where breathtaking biodiversity meets profound cultural history, ensuring an unforgettable adventure.

Day 1: Pick up and Transfer to Bwindi National Park

Your journey begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Kigali, Rwanda, or Entebbe/Kampala, Uganda. The drive from Kigali to Bwindi takes about 4 hours, with stops to enjoy the scenery and lunch. If starting from Kigali, you’ll have the chance to join the famous Kigali City Tour, including visits to the genocide memorial center, artisan shops, and the main city market.

If starting from Entebbe or Kampala, the drive to Bwindi takes 8 to 9 hours. En route, you’ll stop at the equator crossing and the Igongo Cultural Centre in Mbarara. Once you arrive in Bwindi, you’ll have time to refresh and relax at your hotel.

Accommodation Options:

  • Luxury: Mahogany Springs, Four Gorillas Lodge, or Gorilla Leisure Lodge
  • Mid-range: Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge
  • Budget: Bakiga Lodge

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking and Batwa Pygmies Visit

The day starts with a 7:30am briefing by the Warden and Rangers at the park offices. The briefing covers what to expect during the gorilla trek. Depending on your fitness level, you’ll be assigned a gorilla group to track. Gorilla trekking is challenging but incredibly rewarding. Watching a family of mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is an awe-inspiring experience. Remember to follow your guide’s instructions and avoid sudden movements around the gorillas.

After spending an hour with the gorillas, you’ll return to the starting point where your guide will take you back to the hotel for lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Batwa Pygmy cultural community. The Batwa, originally forest dwellers, were relocated to aid gorilla conservation efforts.

Accommodation Options:

  • Luxury: Mahogany Springs, Four Gorillas Lodge, or Gorilla Leisure Lodge
  • Mid-range: Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge
  • Budget: Bakiga Lodge

Day 3: Transfer Back for Departure

After an early breakfast, your driver will start the journey back to Kigali or Kampala. If you missed the Kigali City Tour or the equator crossing, this will be your opportunity. Your driver will ensure timely arrival for your departure flight or hotel drop-off.

 Included in the Safari

  • Transportation: Comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for game viewing.
  • Accommodation: One-night stay at a safari lodge.
  • Meals: Full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
  • Park Entry Fees: Entrance Park fees .
  • Professional Guide: Services of an experienced English-speaking guide.
  • Game Drives: Guided game drives on Park.
  • Bottled Water: Complimentary bottled water during the safari.
  • Airport Transfers: Pick-up and drop-off .
  • Safari Insurance: Basic insurance coverage for safari activities.
  • Government Taxes: All applicable taxes and levies.

 

Not Included in the Safari

  • International Flights: International Airfare to and from.
  • Visa Fees: Cost of obtaining a Entry  visa.
  • Travel Insurance: Personal travel insurance.
  • Tips and Gratuities: Tips for guides, drivers, and lodge staff.
  • Personal Expenses: Items of a personal nature such as souvenirs and phone calls.
  • Alcoholic Beverages: Drinks are not included in the full-board meals.
  • Laundry Services: Personal laundry services at the lodge.
  • Optional Activities: Additional activities not included in the itinerary.
  • Medical Expenses: Any medical expenses not covered by basic safari insurance.
  • Extra Meals: Meals or snacks outside the full-board plan.

How to Book

Frequently Asked Questions about the 3-Day Uganda Gorillas trek

The best time to visit Bwindi for gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, when the trails are less muddy and more accessible.

Essentials include sturdy hiking boots, long-sleeved shirts, waterproof jackets, gloves, insect repellent, a hat, sunscreen, and a good camera with extra batteries.

Gorilla trekking can be physically demanding, involving several hours of hiking through dense forest, steep terrain, and varying weather conditions. A moderate level of fitness is recommended.

The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Uganda is 15 years old, ensuring participants can safely handle the physical demands of the trek.

Each gorilla trekking group is limited to a maximum of 8 visitors to minimize disturbance to the gorillas and enhance the experience.

The permit fee includes park entry, the gorilla trekking experience, services of a guide, and security provided by park rangers. It does not cover accommodation, meals, or tips.

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Visitors should be in good health, as gorillas can catch human illnesses. It is advisable to have up-to-date vaccinations and consider taking anti-malarial medication. It’s also recommended to carry a personal first aid kit.

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