This 5-day signature gorilla trekking safari in Uganda focuses on the unforgettable experience of tracking mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, combined with a scenic visit to Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda’s deepest lake. The safari is designed at a comfortable pace, blending adventure with relaxation while staying in carefully selected mid-range lodges on a full-board basis.
Gorilla permits ($800 per person for foreign non-residents, current as of 2026) are pre-booked to secure your trekking experience. The itinerary covers two key locations: Bwindi (Buhoma sector for easier access) and Lake Bunyonyi for scenic island views and downtime.
Pickups are flexible from either Entebbe International Airport (EBB) or Kigali International Airport (KGL). Kigali is often preferred due to the shorter driving time of approximately 4–5 hours compared to 8–10+ hours from Entebbe.
From Entebbe (EBB): Private pickup at arrivals by your experienced driver guide. Transfer via a scenic 8–10 hour drive southwest through Kampala, the Equator crossing at Kayabwe (photo stop), roadside pineapple markets, and the rolling hills of Kabale. Alternatively, upgrade to a 1-hour charter flight to Kihihi Airstrip (approx. $250–450 per person). Route: Entebbe → Bwindi (Buhoma/Rushaga). Return on Day 5 to Entebbe by road or flight.
From Kigali (KGL): Meet your driver guide at arrivals for a smooth 4–5 hour drive northwest via Musanze, crossing the Cyanika border into Uganda. Paperwork assistance is provided. Route: Kigali → Bwindi sectors. Return to Kigali on Day 5 or connect onward to Entebbe if required.
Expect a profound wildlife encounter as you trek through ancient, mist-covered rainforest on moderate to challenging hikes lasting between 2–7 hours. You’ll spend one magical hour with a habituated mountain gorilla family, observing silverbacks, mothers, and playful juveniles up close.
The journey features dense equatorial vegetation, waterfalls, butterflies, and over 350 bird species. You’ll stay in cozy mid-range lodges offering en-suite rooms, hot showers, forest or lake views, and hearty meals prepared with local Ugandan flavors. Optional cultural experiences, including Batwa community visits, enrich the safari while supporting conservation efforts.
Pickup from Entebbe or Kigali followed by a private transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Enjoy scenic views of rolling hills, tea plantations, and terraced farms. Arrive in Buhoma sector by afternoon and check into your lodge with en-suite cottages and forest views. Evening briefing on gorilla trekking and a welcome dinner featuring fresh local cuisine.
Overnight: Haven Lodge, Buhoma
Meals: Dinner
Early breakfast before transferring to the park headquarters for briefing and group allocation (maximum 8 guests per gorilla family). Trek through vines, forest trails, and muddy paths for 2–7 hours. Spend one unforgettable hour observing the gorillas. Return to the lodge for lunch and enjoy a free afternoon for relaxation, birdwatching, or a short nature walk. Evening fireside stories and dinner.
Overnight: Haven Lodge, Buhoma
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Choose between an optional second gorilla trek (additional permit required) or a guided forest walk spotting colobus monkeys, waterfalls, and birdlife. After lunch, visit the Batwa community for a cultural experience featuring dances, storytelling, and traditional forest knowledge. Return to the lodge for relaxation and dinner.
Overnight: Haven Lodge, Buhoma
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda’s deepest lake, surrounded by terraced hills and dotted with over 28 islands. Check in at your lakeside eco-resort. Enjoy a gentle island walk, optional swimming, and a sunset boat cruise across the calm waters. Evening relaxation by the campfire with dinner.
Overnight: Kyahugye Island Eco Resort
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy your final breakfast before transferring back to Entebbe or Kigali. Stop for souvenirs, equator photos, or a cultural center depending on time. Arrive at the airport by early afternoon for onward flights.
Meals: Breakfast
