Embark on an extraordinary wildlife adventure with this 4-day double gorilla trekking experience in Uganda’s magnificent Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site harbors nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population and offers you the rare opportunity to encounter these majestic primates in their natural habitat on two separate occasions. Each trek provides a unique window into the lives of different gorilla families as you navigate through ancient forests with towering trees and mist-covered hillsides. Beyond the treks themselves, you’ll engage with local communities and gain insights into crucial conservation efforts. This carefully balanced itinerary combines thrilling wildlife encounters with comfortable accommodations, creating the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation in one of Africa’s most biodiverse landscapes.
Day 1: Arrival & Preparation
Your adventure begins with your arrival at Entebbe International Airport where you’ll meet your dedicated tour guide and driver at approximately 10:00 AM. From there, embark on a scenic 7-8 hour road transfer to Bwindi, traveling through Uganda’s stunning countryside with brief stops at the equator and for lunch along the way. As evening approaches, you’ll check into your accommodation near Bwindi National Park. Enjoy a welcome dinner around 7:00 PM, during which you’ll receive a comprehensive briefing about gorilla trekking protocols and what to expect in the coming days. An early night is recommended to ensure you’re well-rested for your first trek.
Accommodations:
- Budget: Bwindi Backpackers Lodge – Simple but clean rooms with shared facilities, hot water, and basic amenities in a friendly community setting.
- Mid-range: Engagi Lodge – Comfortable cottages with private verandas overlooking the forest, en-suite bathrooms, and a cozy communal dining area.
- Luxury: Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp – Exclusive luxury tents with four-poster beds, private decks, and en-suite bathrooms featuring bathtubs overlooking the rainforest.
Day 2: First Gorilla Trek
Rise early with a 5:30 AM wake-up call followed by a hearty breakfast at your lodge by 6:00 AM. At 7:00 AM, your guide will transfer you to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park headquarters for registration and a thorough safety briefing conducted by experienced park rangers. By 8:00 AM, you’ll begin your first gorilla trek, journeying through the dense forest to locate your assigned gorilla family – a trek that could last anywhere from one to five hours depending on the gorillas’ location. Once you find them, you’ll have the privilege of spending one full hour observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. After this unforgettable experience, you’ll return to your lodge for a well-deserved lunch and afternoon rest. Your evening includes dinner and an optional cultural entertainment session performed by local community groups.
Accommodations: (Same as Day 1)
Day 3: Second Gorilla Trek
Following the same early morning routine as the previous day, you’ll wake at 5:30 AM and enjoy breakfast by 6:00 AM. At 7:00 AM, transfer to the park headquarters, potentially to a different sector of Bwindi to encounter a new gorilla family. After registration and another briefing, you’ll set off by 8:00 AM on your second gorilla trek, offering another precious hour with a different gorilla family. Upon returning to the lodge for lunch, your afternoon presents the opportunity for a community walk to visit the local Batwa community or browse local craft shops from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Conclude your day with dinner and a final night at your accommodation, reflecting on the day’s extraordinary experiences.
Accommodations: (Same as previous nights)
Day 4: Departure
Begin your final day with a leisurely breakfast at 7:00 AM. Before checking out, you can participate in an optional nature walk around the lodge or enjoy some bird watching from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM. At 10:30 AM, check out of your accommodation and commence your return journey to Entebbe, with stops along the way for lunch and souvenir shopping. You’ll arrive in Entebbe by evening, in time for your onward flight, carrying with you memories of an incredible wildlife experience that few are fortunate enough to have.
Important Notes:
Gorilla permits must be purchased in advance (currently USD 700 per person per trek). Wear appropriate clothing: long pants, long-sleeved shirts, gardening gloves, and hiking boots. Pack rain gear regardless of season. Bring a water bottle, insect repellent, sunscreen, and a camera (no flash photography allowed). A porter can be hired (recommended) to help carry your backpack during the trek. The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years.
To book a 4-day gorilla trekking safari in Bwindi National Park- simply get in touch with us by sending an email to info@mumwesafarisuganda.com or call us now on +256-700135510. We will help you secure gorilla permits at very low discharge and also book the accommodations for you.