3-Day Gorilla Tour by Flying to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
The 3 Day Gorilla Tour by Flying to Bwindi forest is one of the much amazing gorilla safaris in Uganda. This three day gorilla safari provides a luxurious and time-saving alternative by flying to either Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips, ensuring a comfortable yet thrilling adventure. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in southwestern Uganda is one of the most sought-after destinations for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers. It is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, offering an unforgettable trekking experience through dense forests and rugged terrain.
Day 1: Flight to Bwindi and Arrival at the Lodge
The journey begins with a domestic flight from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield to either Kihihi Airstrip (for those heading to Buhoma sector) or Kisoro Airstrip (for those trekking in Rushaga or Nkuringo sectors). The flight duration is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, offering breathtaking aerial views of Uganda’s lush landscapes, including Lake Victoria, rolling hills, and dense forests.
Upon landing, visitors are met by a professional guide and transferred to their respective lodges near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The drive from Kihihi to Buhoma takes about 1.5 hours, while the journey from Kisoro to Rushaga or Nkuringo takes approximately 2 hours along scenic countryside roads.
After checking into the lodge, guests have the afternoon free to relax, explore the local communities, or take part in optional activities such as:
- A visit to the Batwa pygmy community to learn about their traditional way of life.
- A nature walk to explore the rich flora and bird species in the forest.
- An evening of cultural entertainment provided by local groups.
Dinner is served at the lodge, where guests can unwind and prepare for the exhilarating gorilla trekking experience awaiting them the next day.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Bwindi
This is the highlight of the safari—gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. After an early breakfast, guests are transferred to the park headquarters for a briefing by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) rangers. During the briefing, trekkers are divided into small groups of 8 people, each assigned to a specific habituated gorilla family. The rangers provide guidelines on gorilla trekking etiquette, safety measures, and what to expect during the hike.
The trek itself varies in duration, lasting anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the gorilla family’s location. The hike takes trekkers through steep slopes, thick vegetation, and high-altitude terrain, making it a physically demanding but rewarding experience. Once the gorillas are located, visitors are allowed one magical hour to observe them up close, witnessing their social interactions, feeding habits, and playful nature.
After the trek, visitors receive a gorilla trekking certificate as a souvenir of their extraordinary encounter. They then return to the lodge for a well-deserved rest, followed by an optional evening activity such as:
- A guided village walk to interact with local communities and visit conservation projects.
- A massage session at the lodge to relieve fatigue from the trek.
- A sundowner experience, enjoying drinks while overlooking the misty Bwindi forest.
Dinner is served at the lodge, allowing guests to share their incredible experiences before retiring for the night.
Day 3: Departure and Scenic Flight Back to Entebbe
After breakfast, guests are transferred back to either Kihihi or Kisoro Airstrip for their return flight to Entebbe. The morning flight offers another opportunity to enjoy spectacular views of Uganda’s diverse landscape, from mountainous regions to rolling savannahs.
Upon arrival in Entebbe, visitors can choose to:
- Connect to their international flight home.
- Extend their stay with a visit to Lake Victoria, the Mabamba Swamp (for birdwatching), or Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary.
This 3-day flying safari to Bwindi ensures that guests experience the best of gorilla trekking while maximizing comfort and reducing travel time. It is perfect for travelers who prefer a shorter yet immersive wildlife experience in Uganda’s most famous rainforest.