3-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari from Entebbe
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Uganda’s pristine wilderness with this 3-day gorilla trekking safari to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Starting and ending in Entebbe, this short but immersive adventure offers a rare opportunity to encounter endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, explore the scenic beauty of southwestern Uganda, and experience one of Africa’s most awe-inspiring wildlife experiences. 3-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari from Entebbe
Day 1: Pick-Up from Entebbe and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Your adventure begins early in the morning with a warm welcome from your professional driver-guide at Entebbe International Airport. After a short safari briefing, you’ll set off on a scenic 8–9 hour drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in Uganda’s southwest.
The journey offers enriching cultural and natural encounters. Travel through the towns of Masaka and Mbarara, with vibrant roadside markets and banana plantations, and admire the iconic Ankole long-horned cattle grazing in open pastures. One of the key highlights is a stop at the Equator line in Kayabwe, where you can take memorable photos and witness a Coriolis water demonstration.
Continue your drive through the Kigezi Highlands, famous for their terraced hills and misty vistas, before arriving at Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, your base for the next two nights. Nestled near the southern gate of Bwindi, the lodge offers cozy en-suite cottages and panoramic forest views. After check-in, enjoy a hot meal and unwind as you prepare for tomorrow’s unforgettable gorilla encounter.
- Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge
- Meals Plan: Full Board
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After an early breakfast and with your packed lunch ready, you’ll head to the nearby Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, one of the world’s richest ecosystems and home to nearly half of the planet’s mountain gorillas.
At the park headquarters, Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers will conduct a pre-trek briefing covering gorilla behavior, safety guidelines, and trekking protocols. You’ll then be assigned to a habituated gorilla family and begin your trek, which can last 2 to 6 hours depending on the gorillas’ location.
The trek takes you through rugged terrain, muddy trails, and dense vegetation—but the reward is extraordinary. Once you locate the gorilla family, you’ll spend one magical hour observing them up close. Watch them forage, play, groom each other, and interact in their natural world. This intimate wildlife moment is both humbling and exhilarating.
After your trek and packed lunch, the rest of the afternoon is free to relax or participate in optional activities such as a Batwa community visit, local village walk, or simply enjoying the serene forest views. Dinner is served at the lodge.
- Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge
- Meals Plan: Full Board
Day 3: Transfer Back to Entebbe and End of Safari
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and check out from the lodge. Begin your return journey to Entebbe retracing your scenic route through Uganda’s picturesque countryside.
Stop in Mbarara for a hearty lunch at a local hotel or restaurant. Reflect on your once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience as you pass the rolling hills and tea plantations on your way back.
Arrive in Entebbe in the late afternoon or early evening. Your guide will drop you off at your hotel or Entebbe International Airport, concluding your incredible 3-day Uganda Gorilla Safari.
- Meals Plan: Breakfast and Lunch
What’s Included
- Gorilla trekking permit (1 per person, non-refundable)
- All transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle with fuel
- English-speaking, professional driver/guide
- Accommodation for 2 nights
- All meals as per itinerary
- Bottled drinking water during transit
- Park entry fees and trekking activity fees
- Visit to the Equator and photographic stop
- All applicable government taxes and VAT
What’s Not Included
- International flights to/from Uganda
- Visa fees for Uganda (apply online in advance)
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Tips/gratuities for guide and lodge staff
- Optional activities (e.g., Batwa community visit)
- Personal expenses such as laundry and souvenirs
What to Pack for a Gorilla Trekking Safari
Proper packing enhances your comfort and safety during the gorilla trek. Here’s what you should bring:
Essential Clothing & Footwear
- Long-sleeved shirts and long trousers (for protection against insects and vegetation)
- Waterproof hiking boots with good grip
- Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
- Warm sweater or fleece for cool evenings
- Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
Gear & Accessories
- A day backpack for your water, lunch, and personal items
- Insect repellent with DEET
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Reusable water bottle
- Gardening gloves (to help grip branches while trekking)
- Walking stick (can be provided at the park)
Optional but Useful
- Binoculars (for bird watching)
- Camera with extra batteries (flash not allowed during gorilla viewing)
- Power bank or solar charger
- Basic first-aid kit
Why Choose This Gorilla Safari?
This 3-day Uganda gorilla trekking safari from Entebbe offers a perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and conservation. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time safari-goer, this itinerary is crafted to maximize your wildlife experience in a short, well-paced trip. You’ll witness the majestic mountain gorillas in the wild, discover Uganda’s landscapes, and support sustainable tourism that protects endangered species.
