Experience the Magic of Mountain Gorillas in Uganda’s Ancient Forest
Embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of Africa’s oldest rainforests with our 3-day gorilla safari in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This immersive experience brings you face-to-face with one of our closest relatives in the animal kingdom – the endangered mountain gorilla. As you trek through the lush, mist-covered hillsides of southwestern Uganda, each step brings you closer to an encounter that few will ever experience. Bwindi’s ancient forest, with its rich biodiversity and ethereal beauty, creates the perfect backdrop for this life-changing adventure that combines wildlife, culture, and the raw power of untamed wilderness. 
Bwindi Gorilla Safari Highlights
- Intimate Gorilla Encounter: Spend a precious hour observing a habituated gorilla family in their natural habitat, witnessing their human-like behaviors and social dynamics.
- Expert-Guided Forest Trek: Journey through diverse ecosystems with knowledgeable local guides who share insights about the forest’s flora, fauna, and conservation efforts.
- Cultural Immersion: Engage with local communities surrounding the park, including the indigenous Batwa people who share their traditional forest knowledge and vibrant cultural performances.
- Scenic Mountain Landscapes: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Virunga Mountains and the surrounding “Switzerland of Africa” landscapes of terraced hillsides and volcanic peaks.
- Comfortable Accommodations: Rest and rejuvenate at carefully selected lodges that blend comfort with natural surroundings, offering authentic Ugandan hospitality and cuisine.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Morning: Your adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your Kampala hotel or Entebbe Airport. Travel southwest through Uganda’s scenic countryside, passing rolling hills, traditional villages, and tea plantations. Enjoy a stopover at the Equator for photos and demonstrations of the Coriolis effect.
Afternoon: Continue your journey with a lunch stop in Mbarara, the largest city in western Uganda. As you approach Bwindi, the landscape transforms dramatically with misty mountains and terraced hillsides emerging on the horizon. Arrive at your accommodation in the late afternoon.
Evening: After check-in, enjoy a briefing about your upcoming gorilla trek while savoring a delicious dinner featuring local cuisine. Take time to relax on your private veranda, taking in the sounds of the forest as you prepare for the adventure ahead.
Accommodation: [Select from mid-range or luxury options near your designated trekking sector]
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Day
Early Morning: Rise with the sun for an early breakfast before transferring to the park headquarters for a comprehensive briefing at 7:30 AM. Park rangers will cover trekking protocols, gorilla etiquette, and safety measures while assigning you to a gorilla family based on your fitness level and preferences.
Morning to Afternoon: Begin your trek through the forest with a team of experienced guides and trackers. The hike can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 5 hours depending on gorilla movement, through varying terrain of dense vegetation, steep slopes, and humid forest floors. The anticipation builds with every step as you follow fresh gorilla signs.
Upon locating your assigned gorilla family, you’ll have a strictly enforced one hour to observe these magnificent creatures. Watch silverbacks lead their family, mothers tend to infants, and juveniles playfully tumble through the undergrowth. Maintain the required 7-meter distance as you photograph and absorb this rare, privileged encounter.
Late Afternoon: Return to your accommodation, often tired but exhilarated. Your guides will help you navigate back through the forest to the trailhead where transport awaits.
Evening: Enjoy a celebratory dinner as you share stories of your gorilla experience. Your lodge may offer optional massage services to soothe tired muscles after the trek.
Accommodation: Same as previous night
Day 3: Community Experience and Return Journey
Morning: After breakfast, immerse yourself in local culture with a guided community walk or visit to a Batwa cultural experience. Learn how these former forest dwellers have adapted to life outside their traditional home while maintaining their unique cultural identity. Visit local handicraft markets where you can purchase souvenirs that directly support community livelihoods.
Midday: Enjoy lunch at your lodge or at a community restaurant before beginning your return journey.
Afternoon: Depart Bwindi with a camera full of memories and a heart full of stories. The return route offers different perspectives of Uganda’s diverse landscapes. Your guide can make stops at points of interest along the way.
Evening: Arrive back in Kampala or Entebbe in the evening, concluding your gorilla safari experience.
What to Pack
- Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support
- Long-sleeved shirts and trousers (neutral colors preferred)
- Rain jacket or poncho (forest weather is unpredictable)
- Garden gloves for gripping vegetation during steep climbs
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
- Hat and sunglasses
- Camera with zoom lens (no flash photography allowed with gorillas)
- Sufficient water and snacks for the trek
- Walking stick (available at the park headquarters)
Important Information
- Gorilla permits cost $800 per person (foreign non-residents) & $700 per person for foregn residents while East African citiznes pay UGX 300,000 per person.
- Minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years
- Maximum group size is 8 tourists per gorilla family
- A reasonable level of fitness is required for the trek
- Porters are available for hire ($15-20) to carry your daypack and assist on difficult terrain
- Tipping is customary for guides, porters, and lodge staff
This 3-day gorilla safari offers the perfect introduction to Uganda’s natural wonders. For those with more time, consider extensions to Queen Elizabeth National Park for big game viewing or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park to trek golden monkeys.
END OF SAFARI
To inquire or book a gorilla safari in Bwindi forest, You can send us an email to info@ugandacarrentalservices.com or call us on +256-700135510/ +256-414699459 to speak with the reservations team.We will book the gorilla permits plus accommodation to enure you have a memorable trip in one of Africa’s oldest rain forests.
