4-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari

Uganda

This 4-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari is designed for travelers who want to experience the magic of mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park within a short time. The journey takes you through the heart of Uganda’s diverse landscapes—from the tropical greenery of central Uganda to the rolling savannah plains and finally to the breathtaking highlands of southwestern Uganda, often referred to as the “Switzerland of East Africa.”

American zoologist George Schaller, one of the first people to study gorillas in the wild, once said:

“No one who looks into the eyes of a Gorilla, gentle and vulnerable, can remain unchanged.”

Arrival for 4-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport (EBB), you will be warmly welcomed by a professional guide from Nextgen Safaris. The guide will assist you with any necessary formalities before transferring you to Airport Guest House, Entebbe, where you can relax after your journey.

If you arrive early, you may explore Entebbe’s attractions, such as the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre, Botanical Gardens, or enjoy a sunset cruise on Lake Victoria (at an extra cost).

Main Destination: Entebbe, Uganda
Accommodation: Airport Guest House (Mid-range)
Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
Drinks: Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Day 1: Arrival in Uganda – Welcome to the Pearl of Africa

Your 4-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari adventure, the Pearl of Africa, officially begins as you land at Entebbe International Airport. Located on a scenic peninsula on the shores of Lake Victoria, the airport is Uganda’s main international gateway.

After clearing immigration, you will be greeted by a Nextgen Safaris representative, who will brief you about the trip before escorting you to your accommodation. The drive to Airport Guest House Entebbe is short, giving you time to relax, recover from your flight, and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.

Depending on your arrival time, you may choose to explore Entebbe’s charming attractions, such as:

The Entebbe Botanical Gardens, home to diverse bird species, monkeys, and stunning tropical flora.
The Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC), where you can see rescued wildlife, including chimpanzees and lions.
A Lake Victoria sunset boat cruise, offering picturesque views of Africa’s largest lake.

Your overnight stay at Airport Guest House ensures you are well-rested before the journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park the next morning.

Day 2: Scenic Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Your gorilla trekking adventure truly begins today with a scenic drive from Entebbe to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, depending on where your gorilla trekking permit has been secured.

After an early breakfast, your guide will pick you up from the hotel, and you will embark on a full-day road trip through Uganda’s diverse landscapes. The journey, though long, is incredibly rewarding, offering breathtaking views of rolling hills, lush banana plantations, and small rural villages.

Highlights of the Journey:

Equator Stop at Kayabwe: About two hours into the journey, you will stop at the Uganda Equator Line, where you can take memorable photos, perform the famous water experiment, and purchase local crafts from souvenir shops.
Mbarara Town – The Land of Milk and Honey: You will pass through Mbarara, Uganda’s largest western town, known for its vast cattle ranches and Ankole long-horned cows. A lunch stop will be made in Mbarara before continuing the journey.
The Beautiful Kigezi Highlands: As you approach southwestern Uganda, the landscape changes dramatically into rolling hills and mist-covered valleys, earning the region the nickname “The Switzerland of Africa.”

After approximately 8-9 hours on the road, you will arrive at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Upon arrival, check in at Engagi Lodge or a similar mid-range lodge, where you will be welcomed with a refreshing drink and enjoy a delicious dinner overlooking the lush rainforest.

Main Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Accommodation: Engagi Lodge (Mid-range)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Drinks: Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking & Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi

Today is the highlight of your Uganda safari—the unforgettable gorilla trekking experience!

Morning Gorilla Trekking Experience

You will wake up early for breakfast and set off at 6:00 AM for a short drive to the park headquarters. Here, you will receive a briefing from the Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers, who will provide guidelines and safety measures for trekking in the dense rainforest.

Once assigned to a specific gorilla family, the trek begins. The duration of the trek varies from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas. The hike through thick vegetation, misty hills, and muddy trails is challenging yet extremely rewarding.

Upon encountering the majestic mountain gorillas, you will spend one magical hour observing them in their natural habitat—watching the silverback assert its dominance, juveniles play, and mothers nurture their young. This intimate wildlife experience is truly life-changing.

After the trek, you will return to the park headquarters to receive a gorilla trekking certificate before having lunch and embarking on a 2-hour drive to Lake Bunyonyi, one of Africa’s most beautiful lakes.

Afternoon at Lake Bunyonyi

Upon arrival at Bird Nest Resort Bunyonyi, you can unwind and take in the breathtaking scenery. Lake Bunyonyi is a serene and picturesque lake with 29 islands, surrounded by lush terraced hills. Depending on your energy levels, you can:

Take a canoe ride to explore the famous Punishment Island.
Go for a swim in the bilharzia-free waters of Lake Bunyonyi.
Relax at your lodge’s balcony, enjoying the cool breeze and stunning views.
Main Destination: Lake Bunyonyi
Accommodation: BirdNest Resort (Mid-range)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Drinks: Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Day 4: Return to Entebbe & Departure

After a relaxing night by the lake, you will wake up early for breakfast with stunning sunrise views before embarking on the return journey to Entebbe International Airport.

The 7-hour drive back includes:

A lunch stop in Mbarara or at the Equator Crossing, depending on time.
A final photo stop at the Equator, if you didn’t get the chance on Day 2.

Upon arrival in Entebbe, your guide will transfer you directly to the airport for your international departure flight, marking the end of an incredible Uganda gorilla safari adventure.

Main Destination: Entebbe
Accommodation: No accommodation (End of Tour)
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch (Dinner not included)
Drinks: Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

End of 4-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari
Additional accommodation can be arranged upon request.