Flying from Entebbe to Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking: The Fastest, Easiest Way to See Uganda’s Mountain Gorillas
Fly to Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking – The Smart Traveler’s Choice
For many travelers, the biggest challenge when planning a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda is the long road journey from Entebbe or Kampala to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The drive can take 8–10 hours, winding through bumpy roads and steep mountain terrain. While scenic, it often leaves visitors tired before the real adventure even begins.
That’s where flying safaris come in. By booking a domestic flight from Entebbe to Bwindi’s airstrips (Kihihi or Kisoro), you cut travel time down to just 1 hour 15 minutes. This not only gives you more time in the park but also ensures you arrive fresh, relaxed and ready for your gorilla trekking experience.
At Nextgen Safaris, we specialize in arranging fly-in gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda with flights starting at as little as $200 per person combining speed, comfort and unforgettable adventure. Whether you’re planning a luxury fly-in safari or looking for an affordable group gorilla trekking package, our flight connections make reaching Bwindi Impenetrable National Park easy and stress-free.
Flight Routes to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Save travel time by flying from Entebbe to Bwindi. Choose between Kihihi and Kisoro airstrips, each serving different gorilla trekking sectors. Below is a quick guide to help you pick the best option.
| Route | Duration | Airstrip | Nearby Gorilla Sectors | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entebbe → Kihihi | 1h 10m | Kihihi | Buhoma & Ruhija | Midrange & Luxury |
| Entebbe → Kisoro | 1h 15m | Kisoro | Rushaga & Nkuringo | Adventure Lovers |
If you want to maximize your gorilla trekking safari in Uganda, flying from Entebbe to Bwindi is by far the fastest and most comfortable option.
Exclusive Entebbe–Bwindi Flight Deals with Nextgen Safaris
Skip the long 8–10 hour road transfers and fly in comfort to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Murchison Falls National Park.
These special Aerolink rates (valid until Dec 2026) are available only when you book with Nextgen Safaris.
Fly to Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking Cost Explained
Cost of Flying from Entebbe to Bwindi
One of the most common questions we hear is: “How much does it cost to fly to Bwindi for gorilla trekking?” Flying safaris are increasingly affordable and save you the 8–10 hour road transfer.
| Item | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Entebbe → Bwindi (Kihihi or Kisoro, one way) | $280 – $350 per person |
| Gorilla Trekking Permit (Non-resident) | $800 |
| 3-Day Fly-In Gorilla Safari (luxury, all-inclusive) | From $2,500 per person |
Booking your fly-in gorilla safari Uganda early is key — gorilla permits in Bwindi sell out months in advance, especially during peak season.
Best Time to Fly for Gorilla Trekking
Uganda’s climate allows gorilla trekking year-round, but the timing of your flight to Bwindi for gorilla trekking can enhance your safari experience:
| Season | Months | Why Choose It? |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Season (Best) | June – Sept, Dec – Feb | Drier forest trails, better visibility, and easier trekking conditions. Flights and lodges book up early. |
| Wet Season (Budget) | Mar – May, Oct – Nov | Fewer tourists, lush scenery, and better lodge deals. Occasional heavy rains but great for affordable fly-in gorilla safaris. |
Whether you prefer peak-season reliability or low-season savings, flying from Entebbe to Bwindi guarantees less travel fatigue and more time with the gorillas.
Fly to Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking Options & Routes | Entebbe to Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking
Flying from Entebbe International Airport to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the fastest and most comfortable way to begin your gorilla trekking adventure. Instead of spending 8–10 hours on the road, travelers can take a 1-hour domestic flight that lands right near the park.
Domestic Airlines to Bwindi
Two main safari airlines operate daily routes connecting Entebbe with Bwindi’s airstrips:
- Aerolink Uganda – the most established carrier, offering scheduled flights to both Kihihi and Kisoro.
- Bar Aviation Uganda – newer but fast-growing, with modern aircraft, flexible scheduling, and competitive fares.
Both airlines specialize in safari connections, meaning they link Uganda’s major parks from Murchison Falls to Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi, and Kidepo ensuring smooth multi-destination safaris.
Airstrips Serving Bwindi Gorilla Trekking
- Kihihi Airstrip – Convenient for travelers heading to Buhoma (Northern Bwindi) lodges and safari circuits around Queen Elizabeth NP.
- Kisoro Airstrip – Ideal for those trekking in Rushaga or Nkuringo sectors of Bwindi, with quick access to gorilla families in the southern part of the park.
Both airstrips are less than 1.5–2 hours drive to most gorilla trekking lodges, allowing you to begin your experience almost immediately after landing.
Baggage & Travel Notes (from 2026 Airline Updates)
- Standard baggage allowance: 15kgs per passenger (soft-sided bags recommended).
- Extra baggage options: freight seat purchase (great for photographers or groups) or $5 per kg excess fee on the day of travel
- Group bookings of 10+ passengers and itineraries with 3+ safari circuits often qualify for discounts.
Whether you choose Entebbe to Kihihi flights for Bwindi or Entebbe to Kisoro flights for gorilla trekking, flying safaris save you time, maximize comfort, and guarantee the best start to your gorilla adventure.
Fly-In Gorilla Trekking Itineraries | Fly to Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking
Looking for the fastest and most comfortable way to see Uganda’s mountain gorillas? Our fly-in gorilla trekking safaris save you the long 8–10 hour road journeys and instead connect you directly from Entebbe International Airport to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga National Park in just over an hour. Below are some of our most popular luxury fly-in gorilla trekking itineraries:
3 Days Fly-In Gorilla Trekking Safari – Quick Getaway
Perfect for travelers with limited time, this itinerary flies you straight from Entebbe to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrip, cutting travel time dramatically. Spend two nights in a comfortable lodge near Bwindi and enjoy a full day gorilla trekking adventure with expert rangers. Ideal for a weekend safari escape or as an add-on to a Kenya/Tanzania safari.
Highlights:
- Scenic flight over Uganda’s highlands.
- 1 Gorilla trekking permit included.
- Luxury lodge with breathtaking forest views.
- Transfers from airstrip to Bwindi.
4 Days Fly-In Gorilla Trekking & Lake Bunyonyi Safari
This option combines the gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi with a peaceful retreat at Lake Bunyonyi, one of Africa’s most scenic lakes. After flying into Kisoro or Kihihi, trek the gorillas and then enjoy canoe rides, island visits, and birdwatching on Lake Bunyonyi. A great balance between adventure and relaxation.
Highlights:
- 1 Gorilla trekking permit.
- Two destinations in just four days.
- Stay at lakeside lodges overlooking Lake Bunyonyi.
- Perfect for couples, families, or small groups.
5 Days Luxury Fly-In Uganda Safari (Gorillas + Wildlife)
For those seeking a premium Uganda safari, this itinerary combines gorilla trekking in Bwindi with a wildlife safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park. After your gorilla trek, take a short drive to the savannah plains for game drives where you’ll track lions, elephants, buffaloes, and hippos.
Highlights:
- 1 Gorilla permit + full-day game drives.
- Luxury fly-in and 4×4 safari combination.
- Boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel with amazing birdlife.
- Lodges selected for comfort, service, and location.
Whether you are looking for a 3 Day quick gorilla trek, a 4 Day adventure with Lake Bunyonyi, or a 5 Day luxury safari, our fly-in gorilla trekking Uganda itineraries are fully customizable.
Pro Tip: Book early to secure gorilla permits and flight seats, as availability is limited.
Cost of Flying from Entebbe to Bwindi | Fly to Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking
One of the most common questions we receive at Nextgen Safaris is: “How much does it cost to fly to Bwindi for gorilla trekking?”
The good news is that flying safaris are more affordable than ever, especially when compared to the time and fatigue of an 8–10 hour road journey.
- Domestic flights Entebbe → Bwindi (Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips): USD $280–$350 one way per person, depending on the season.
- Gorilla trekking permit: USD $800 per trek (non-residents), USD $700 (residents), with discounted options for East African citizens.
- All-inclusive fly-in gorilla safari packages: Start at USD $2,200 per person for 3 days (luxury lodges, flights, permits, transfers, meals).
This means that when you fly to Bwindi for gorilla trekking, you not only save valuable safari time but also maximize comfort, allowing you to add destinations like Queen Elizabeth National Park or Lake Bunyonyi without the long drives.
Pro Tip: Book your flight and permit early. Bwindi gorilla permits sell out months in advance, especially in peak season (June–Sept & Dec–Feb).
Best Time to Fly to Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking
Timing is everything when planning to fly to Bwindi for gorilla trekking. Uganda’s equatorial climate means you can trek all year round, but conditions vary:
- Dry Seasons (June–September & December–February):
These are the best times to fly Entebbe to Bwindi because forest trails are drier, visibility is clearer, and trekking is easier. Flights are frequent and lodges fill up quickly — so book early. - Wet Seasons (March–May & October–November):
Expect occasional heavy rain, but this comes with fewer tourists, greener scenery, and lower lodge prices. If you’re looking for affordable fly-in gorilla trekking in Uganda, this is a smart choice.
Whether you travel in peak or off-peak months, flying to Bwindi guarantees more safari time and less road fatigue — giving you the best possible gorilla trekking experience
Practical Tips for Flying Safaris
Planning to fly to Bwindi for gorilla trekking is exciting, but a few smart preparations can make your safari seamless and stress-free. Below are essential Uganda fly-in safari tips to keep in mind:
- Pack light: Domestic flights allow approximately 15 kg of luggage per person in soft bags, so plan accordingly.
- Book gorilla permits early: With limited permits available per day, securing your spot months in advance is essential.
- Stay close to your gorilla trekking sector: Choose lodges near Buhoma or Ruhija if flying into Kihihi, and Rushaga or Nkuringo if landing at Kisoro Airstrip.
- Confirm flight schedules: Weather can affect departure times, so keep flexible and coordinate with your operator.
Following these flying to Bwindi gorilla trekking advice points ensures you maximize your time with the gorillas and avoid common logistical challenges.
FAQs About Flying to Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking
How long is the flight from Entebbe to Bwindi?
Flights from Entebbe to Bwindi’s Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips take about 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, saving nearly a full day of road travel.
Which is better, driving or flying to Bwindi?
Flying saves time and provides comfort, while driving offers scenic landscapes and cultural stopovers. Many travelers combine both for a richer experience.
Can I do a fly-in gorilla safari and fly out the same day?
Yes, technically possible, but we recommend at least 2 nights to account for trekking time, acclimatization, and a more relaxed experience.
Which is the best gorilla sector for fly-in safaris?
It depends on your landing airstrip: Kihihi Airstrip connects best with Buhoma and Ruhija sectors, while Kisoro Airstrip serves Rushaga and Nkuringo. Your operator will align flights, lodges, and permits for convenience.
