3 Days Gorilla Trekking Uganda

3 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari in Bwindi National Park

A 3 days Uganda gorilla trekking safari in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers an unforgettable adventure into one of Uganda’s most iconic wildlife experiences. This park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to almost half of the world’s mountain gorillas. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is an alternative destination for gorilla trekking in Uganda. Below is a detailed itinerary.

Day 1: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park from either Kampala or Kigali in Rwanda

From Kampala to Bwindi, it is approximately 8-10 hours by road (500 km) or a 1-hour domestic flight. The journey begins with an early morning departure from Kampala or Entebbe. Travel through picturesque landscapes, including the Equator crossing where you can stop for photos and souvenirs. Pass through rolling hills, banana plantations, and traditional villages of southwestern Uganda. Enjoy lunch en route, typically in Mbarara City. Arrive in Bwindi in the late evening. Check in at your lodge and relax in preparation for the next day’s gorilla trek.

Alternatively, this 3 day gorilla safari may also begin from Kigali in Rwanda. A gorilla tour from Kigali, Rwanda, to Uganda is a popular option for travelers looking to visit Uganda’s renowned gorilla trekking destinations, such as Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Kigali is often preferred as a starting point because it is closer to these parks compared to Uganda’s Entebbe or Kampala. The Travel Time from Kigali to Bwindi in Uganda takes around 3 to 5 hours, depending on the specific trekking sector. Transfer from Kigali to Mgahinga is about 3 to 4 hours on the road.

Kindly note that the lodge facilities can change depending on the park or sector you are visiting to trek gorillas. Even the transfer directions or routes can change accordingly. Usually, the gorilla permit availability determines the trekking sector, the gorilla park and the accommodation options.

Accommodation stay at Silverback Lodge or Mahogany Springs in Buhoma, Gorilla Mist Camp in Ruhija or Gorilla Safari Lodge in Rushaga area on full board.

Day 2: Uganda Gorilla Trekking Experience in Bwindi Forest

Begin the day with an early breakfast and then transfer to the park headquarters for a pre-gorilla trek briefing by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) guides and rangers at 7:30 AM. Gorilla trekking starts around 8:00 AM and can take 2-8 hours depending on the location of the gorilla family you are tracking on that particular day. Trek through dense forests, navigating rugged terrain, guided by expert trackers. Upon bumping into them, spend one magical hour observing a habituated gorilla family in their natural surroundings. Watch them feed, play and interact to your amazement. When time is up, your guide and rangers will lead you out of the park to the starting point where waiting drivers take you back to the lodge.

In the afternoon or evening, you may take optional activities including a visit to a local Batwa (Pygmy) community to learn about their culture and traditional forest practices. Alternatively, you may decide to relax at your lodge or enjoy nature walks around the area. Accommodation stay is same lodge as Day 1.

Day 3: Return to Kampala/Entebbe or Kigali in Rwanda

After breakfast, start your journey back to Kampala or Entebbe. Stop en route for lunch and more sightseeing opportunities, such as local crafts markets at the Uganda Equator or Mpambire area. Arrival in Kampala/Entebbe by late afternoon or early evening, marking the end of the three days gorilla safari in Uganda.

In case the tour began from Kigali, it would still end in the same place. On this third day, you will drive back to Kigali and your guide will either drop you at your hotel or at the airport for your next flight. When to be dropped is usually determined by the visitor’s program on that day.

Safari Inclusions

  • Gorilla trekking permit (typically $800 for foreign non-residents, $600 for foreign residents, and UGX 250,000 for East African citizens).
  • Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle or domestic flights.
  • Accommodation for two nights.
  • All meals during the safari.
  • Services of an experienced guide.
  • Park entrance fees and activities.

What to Pack for Gorilla Trip?

  • Hiking boots.
  • Rain gear (jacket and pants).
  • Long-sleeved shirts and trousers.
  • Garden gloves for trekking.
  • Insect repellent and sunscreen.
  • Reusable water bottle.
  • Camera (without flash).

This safari provides a unique opportunity to connect with nature, experience the beauty of Uganda’s highlands, and create lifelong memories with the endangered mountain gorillas.

10 Vital Tips for Gorilla Trekking

Going on a 3 days Uganda gorilla trekking tour is an unforgettable experience! Here are some keys tips to help you make the most of your trip:

Choose the Right Destination

The popular locations for gorilla trekking include Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda. Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic Congo. Try to make research on the unique offerings, accessibility and costs by each destination.

Book Permits in Advance

Gorilla trekking permits are limited and often sell out months in advance. So work with your chosen tour operator or book directly through the respective park authority. Gorilla Permit cost as follow Rwanda: $1,500, Uganda: $800 and DR Congo $400. Please note that a permit for habituation experience in Uganda is at $1500.

Physical Fitness

Gorilla trekking can be strenuous, often involving steep and muddy terrain. Ensure that you prepare with regular hikes and cardiovascular exercises before the trip.

What to Pack

Clothing: Among the clothing items, come with:-

  • Long-sleeve shirts and long pants (protection from bugs and vegetation)
  • Waterproof hiking boots.
  • Lightweight rain jacket.
  • Gardening gloves (helpful for gripping plants and protecting hands).

Gear: Under these, carry a a day pack, Walking stick (often provided by guides but can bring your own), high-quality binoculars and Camera (non-flash photography only).

Essentials: pack reusable water bottle or hydration pack, snacks or energy bars, sunscreen and insect repellent and first-aid kit.

Follow Guidelines

  • Maintain a distance of at least 7 meters (23 feet) from the gorillas.
  • Avoid direct eye contact with gorillas and sudden movements.
  • Speak in a low voices
  • Do not visit if you are feeling unwell to prevent transmitting diseases.

Hire a Porter

Porters assist with carrying your gear and help you navigate challenging terrain and hiring their services supports local communities.

Respect and Support Local Communities

Learn about the culture and customs of the local people and also purchase souvenirs from local artisans to support the incomes.

Be Prepared for the Experience

Treks can last anywhere from 1 to 8 hours depending on gorilla location. The sight of gorillas in their natural habitat is worth every step!

Travel Insurance

Make sure that your travel insurance covers adventure activities like gorilla trekking.

Be Patient and Enjoy

Gorillas are wild animals and the trek is unpredictable, so embrace the journey and take time to appreciate the environment.

3 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking