This 3-day, 2-night Uganda Gorilla Trekking safari takes you to the heart of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, one of the world’s most celebrated wildlife reserves. You’ll embark on an unforgettable trek to encounter the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This adventure offers you the rare chance to observe these incredible primates up close and learn about the conservation efforts to protect them. In addition to the gorilla trekking experience, you’ll also enjoy scenic views of the lush Ugandan highlands, making this a perfect short but thrilling wildlife adventure.
Morning Briefing After breakfast, meet your ranger guides for a briefing on the guidelines for gorilla trekking. Your guides will then lead you into the lush rainforest of Bwindi, where you'll begin your thrilling journey to locate the assigned gorilla family.
Gorilla Encounter Once you find the gorillas, you’ll spend an unforgettable hour observing their natural behaviors, from feeding to social interactions. These moments will be the highlight of your 3-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari.
Wildlife Encounters As you trek, keep an eye out for other wildlife such as forest elephants, buffaloes, and a variety of bird species. Every moment in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest offers a unique experience with nature.
Transfer to Kihihi After breakfast, your guide will transfer you back to Kihihi Airstrip for your return flight to Entebbe. During the flight, enjoy one last glimpse of Uganda's stunning landscapes.
Arrival in Entebbe Upon landing in Entebbe, your guide will meet you and transfer you to the airport. From here, you can continue your onward journey or board your flight back home, cherishing the memories of your 3-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari.
Inclusions
Private airport transfers: Including transfers between Entebbe, Kihihi, and Bwindi
Accommodation: In a mid-range lodge with meals as listed in the itinerary
Gorilla trekking permits: Necessary permits for tracking mountain gorillas
Internal flights: Entebbe to Kihihi and return
Ranger-guided trek: Professional guides leading you through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Cultural experience: Visit to a local community (optional, time permitting)
All transport and transfers: Including airport, airstrip, and lodge transfers
Meals and drinks as per the itinerary: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during your stay
Exclusions
International flights: Flights to and from Entebbe are not included
Visa fees: Depending on your nationality, you may need to arrange for a visa
Personal expenses: Souvenirs, laundry, and other personal items
Tipping: It is customary to tip your guides and lodge staff
Additional activities: Any additional excursions or services not mentioned in the itinerary
Gorilla trekking is a unique and life-changing activity where you hike through the forest to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. It is a physically demanding experience that involves walking through thick jungle terrain, sometimes for several hours.
The best time for gorilla trekking in both Rwanda and Uganda is during the dry seasons, which are from June to September and December to February. These months offer the best weather conditions for trekking.
The difficulty of the trek depends on the gorilla family you are assigned to and the location of the family. Treks can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 4 hours or more, depending on the terrain and the gorilla’s location. A reasonable level of fitness is required, and hiking boots and a rain jacket are essential.
To minimize impact on the gorillas, only 8 people are allowed to trek with each gorilla family per day. This makes the experience more intimate and ensures the protection of these endangered animals.
Comfortable hiking bootsA rain jacket (weather can be unpredictable)Long pants to protect your legs from vegetationInsect repellentWater (you will be hiking for several hours)Camera with a zoom lens (flash photography is not allowed)
The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years in both Rwanda and Uganda. This is a policy to ensure that trekkers are physically capable of handling the strenuous hike.
Seeing gorillas in the wild is not guaranteed, but the chances of seeing them are very high. If for any reason your trek is unsuccessful, you can usually go on a second trek the following day.
Yes, both Rwanda and Uganda require proof of a Yellow Fever vaccination for entry. It is advisable to get vaccinated before your trip and carry the vaccination certificate with you.
Gorilla trekking permits should be booked as far in advance as possible, especially during peak seasons. It is recommended to book 6 to 12 months ahead of your intended trek date to secure your spot.
Yes, gorilla trekking is safe when conducted through reputable tour operators. The rangers and guides are highly experienced and trained to ensure the safety of both trekkers and gorillas. The trekking routes are well-marked, and the gorillas are accustomed to human presence.
It’s recommended to wear long-sleeved clothing to protect yourself from insects, thorny plants, and the cool weather in the forest. Hiking boots with good ankle support, gloves, and a rain jacket are essential.
Yes, you can take pictures of the gorillas, but flash photography is not allowed as it may disturb them. Ensure your camera is set to low light and that you use a zoom lens to avoid getting too close to the gorillas.
We Gemfinders Safaris specialize in crafting unique itineraries that explore East Africa’s most mesmerizing locations. Whether you’re interested in cultural immersion, thrilling adventures, peaceful relaxation, or luxurious experiences, our personalized tours are tailored to accommodate every type of traveler.