Flights to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – The Fastest Way to Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Reaching Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has always been part of the adventure. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most remote safari destinations in Africa, tucked away in the misty highlands of southwestern Uganda. For many years, travelers assumed that getting to Bwindi meant enduring long road transfers from Kampala or Entebbe, a journey of 8 to 10 hours by car, winding through rural towns and mountain passes.

But today, there is a faster, more comfortable, and more scenic option: flying directly to Bwindi’s nearest airstrips. Whether you are traveling on a tight schedule or simply want to maximize your time in the forest, a fly-in safari to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park cuts travel time to just over an hour, making it the most convenient way to begin your gorilla trekking adventure.

Flight Routes & Airstrips to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park | Flights to Bwindi

Of course, the main reason travelers choose Bwindi is to experience the world-famous mountain gorilla trekking. Bwindi is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it the ultimate destination for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter. By choosing a domestic flight to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, you spend less time on the road and more time immersed in the jungle, observing gorilla families, exploring lush rainforests, and enjoying luxury lodges hidden deep in the wilderness.

In this complete guide, we will cover everything you need to know about flights to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park including the airstrips that serve the park, updated flight schedules, the airlines operating routes to Kisoro and Kihihi, typical ticket prices and how to connect your flight with other top safari destinations in Uganda and East Africa.

Whether you are searching for “how to fly to Bwindi,” “flights from Entebbe to Bwindi,” “Kisoro airstrip schedule,” or “best way to reach gorilla trekking Uganda”, this guide is designed to answer all your questions and help you plan your dream gorilla safari with confidence.

Airstrips Serving Bwindi Impenetrable National Park | Flights to Bwindi

Because of Bwindi’s remote location, there is no airport directly inside the park. Instead, travelers flying in will land at one of two nearby domestic airstrips: Kisoro Airstrip and Kihihi Airstrip. Both are operated by the Civil Aviation Authority of Uganda and serviced by local airlines, offering safe and scenic flights over Uganda’s breathtaking countryside. Choosing the right airstrip depends on which gorilla trekking sector of Bwindi you plan to visit and where your lodge is located.

Kisoro Airstrip – Best for Rushaga & Nkuringo Gorilla Sectors

If your permit is for the Nkuringo or Rushaga gorilla trekking sectors in southern Bwindi, then Kisoro Airstrip is your best option. Located in the shadow of the Virunga Volcanoes, Kisoro airstrip places you within a short transfer (1–2 hours) to some of Bwindi’s most exclusive lodges and trekking starting points.

Because Kisoro is surrounded by mountains, flights only operate in the morning hours when visibility is safest. This means you will typically depart Entebbe International Airport early in the morning and arrive in Kisoro by mid-morning perfect timing to settle into your lodge and prepare for the next day’s trek.

Sample Kisoro Flight Times (subject to airline schedules):

• Entebbe → Kisoro: 07:00 – 08:15
• Kisoro → Entebbe: 08:35 – 11:25
• Entebbe → Kisoro: 10:30 – 11:45 (mid-morning option)

From Kisoro, you can also connect to other regional airstrips, such as Kihihi (northern Bwindi) or Kasese (for Queen Elizabeth National Park).

Kihihi Airstrip – Best for Buhoma & Ruhija Gorilla Sectors | Flights to Bwindi

Travelers trekking in Buhoma or Ruhija sectors in northern Bwindi should opt for Kihihi Airstrip, which offers more flexible flight schedules and is well-connected to lodges in the northern part of the park. From Kihihi, transfers to Buhoma lodges typically take around 1.5 hours, while Ruhija lodges are about 2.5 hours away.

Unlike Kisoro, flights to Kihihi operate multiple times per day, making it a convenient choice for travelers with varied arrival times into Entebbe or those who want a more relaxed schedule.

Sample Kihihi Flight Times (subject to airline schedules):

• Entebbe → Kihihi: 07:00 – 08:15
• Kihihi → Entebbe: 08:35 – 11:25
• Entebbe → Kihihi: 10:30 – 11:45 (mid-morning)
• Kihihi → Entebbe: 12:05 – 14:25
• Entebbe → Kihihi: 13:00 – 15:30
• Kihihi → Entebbe: 15:50 – 17:15

In addition, Kihihi serves as a hub for connecting flights to Kasese (gateway to Queen Elizabeth National Park and Kibale Forest), making it a great choice if you’re combining gorilla trekking with wildlife safaris or chimpanzee tracking.

Flights to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Routes & Schedules | Flights to Bwindi

Airlines Flying to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park | Flights to Bwindi

Aerolink Uganda

Aerolink Uganda is the most established domestic airline offering scheduled flights to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Operating from Entebbe International Airport, Aerolink runs daily flights to both Kihihi Airstrip (northern Bwindi, close to Buhoma and Ruhija sectors) and Kisoro Airstrip (southern Bwindi, close to Rushaga and Nkuringo).

The airline is known for its reliability, modern Cessna Grand Caravans, and seamless connections for international arrivals. Many travelers flying in for gorilla trekking safaris prefer Aerolink for its convenient morning and mid-morning schedules. Aerolink also allows onward flights to Queen Elizabeth National Park (Kasese) and Kibale Forest, making it ideal for multi-park itineraries.

Bar Aviation

Bar Aviation Uganda has quickly become a strong competitor in the domestic aviation sector. It operates scheduled and charter flights to Bwindi’s Kihihi and Kisoro airstrips, with flexible timings and competitive prices. Bar Aviation is popular with safari operators because it offers reliable connections from Entebbe as well as links between national parks such as Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Its modern fleet, professional service, and efficient transfers make Bar Aviation a preferred option for visitors seeking fast, safe, and scenic flights to Bwindi.

Private Charters for Bwindi

For travelers seeking exclusivity, privacy and time-efficiency, private charter flights to Bwindi are an excellent option. Nextgen Safaris arranges bespoke flights directly to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips, with complete flexibility on departure times and routing.

Charters are often chosen by luxury safari clients, small groups, or families who want to avoid fixed schedules and maximize time on the ground for gorilla trekking. In addition, charter flights can be arranged from Kigali (Rwanda), Murchison Falls or Serengeti (via Entebbe), giving high-end travelers a seamless cross-border safari experience.

Cost of Flights to Bwindi

Flying to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is faster and more comfortable than the 8–10 hour road transfer. Typical fares range from USD 270–300 one-way per person, depending on the airline, season, and baggage allowance. Compared to a long road transfer (USD 150–200 per vehicle one way), flights save travelers valuable time for gorilla trekking.

Aerolink Uganda Flight Fares – Exclusive Nextgen Safaris Rates

💡 Pro Tip: Flying saves up to 7 hours of travel time compared to road transfers. With Nextgen Safaris’ discounted flight deals, guests enjoy both affordability and comfort.

Connections to Other National Parks | Flights to Bwindi

One of the biggest advantages of flying to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the flexibility to connect quickly and comfortably to other iconic safari destinations. Instead of spending long hours on bumpy roads, travelers can take short scheduled or charter flights linking Bwindi with Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale Forest, Murchison Falls, and even Kenya’s Maasai Mara. These connections make it easy to combine gorilla trekking with classic game drives and Big Five safaris for a complete East African experience.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to Queen Elizabeth National Park (Kasese Airstrip)

From both Kisoro and Kihihi airstrips, travelers can connect directly to Kasese Airstrip, the entry point to Queen Elizabeth National Park. This short flight takes less than an hour and saves a full day of driving. Once in Kasese, it’s only a short transfer to Mweya, Ishasha, or Kyambura, where game drives, tree-climbing lions, and a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel await.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to Kibale Forest National Park

For those who want to experience both gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking, flights from Kisoro or Kihihi can connect to Kasese Airstrip, located just a 1.5-hour drive from Kibale Forest. This option makes it easy to combine two of Uganda’s top primate experiences, mountain gorillas in Bwindi and chimpanzees in Kibale, without the long road journey.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to Murchison Falls National Park

Travelers looking to extend their safari can also connect Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with Murchison Falls National Park via Entebbe and Pakuba or Bugungu Airstrips. This makes it possible to enjoy the thunderous Murchison Falls, game drives along the Nile delta, and boat safaris to the base of the falls. The combination of gorillas and Murchison’s Big Five game viewing creates one of the most diverse safari experiences in Uganda.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to Maasai Mara (via Entebbe/Nairobi)

For travelers seeking a multi-country safari, flights from Bwindi (Kisoro or Kihihi) connect back to Entebbe, where onward flights to Nairobi or the Maasai Mara are available. This combination allows guests to experience the thrill of gorilla trekking in Uganda followed by the endless savannahs of the Maasai Mara, home to the Great Migration and year-round Big Cat sightings.

Recommended Fly-In Safari Itineraries | Flights to Bwindi

Flying into Bwindi and Uganda’s other national parks allows you to spend less time on the road and more time on wildlife encounters. Whether you want a short gorilla trekking escape or a longer safari combining Uganda’s highlights, Nextgen Safaris offers a range of fly-in safari itineraries designed for comfort, exclusivity, and unforgettable experiences.

Short Fly-In Safaris (2–4 Days) | Flights to Bwindi

• 2 Days Fly-In Gorilla Trekking Safari – A quick getaway for travelers short on time; includes return flights from Entebbe to Kisoro or Kihihi and one unforgettable gorilla trek.
• 3 Days Fly-In Gorilla Trekking Safari – Our most popular short safari: fly to Bwindi, stay in a luxury or midrange lodge, trek gorillas, and return to Entebbe or Kigali.
• 4 Days Gorilla Trekking & Lake Bunyonyi Fly-In Safari – Combines gorilla trekking with a relaxing escape to Lake Bunyonyi, the “Switzerland of Africa,” with scenic canoe rides and island visits.

Medium Fly-In Safaris (5–8 Days) | Flights to Bwindi

• 5 Days Fly-In Gorilla & Wildlife Safari – Fly to Bwindi for gorillas, then connect to Queen Elizabeth National Park for game drives and a Kazinga Channel boat cruise.
• 6 Days Primates & Wildlife Fly-In Safari – Trek gorillas in Bwindi, chimpanzees in Kibale, and enjoy a wildlife safari in Queen Elizabeth NP.
• 7 Days Fly-In Gorilla & Big Five Safari – A full week of adventure: Bwindi gorillas, Queen Elizabeth’s tree-climbing lions, and game drives across the savannah.
• 8 Days Fly-In Uganda Highlights Safari – Combines Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth, Kibale Forest, and Murchison Falls for a diverse safari covering gorillas, chimps, and the Big Five.

Longer Fly-In Safaris (9–15 Days) | Flights to Bwindi

• 9 Days Uganda Luxury Primate & Safari Fly-In Tour – Gorillas, chimpanzees, golden monkeys, and Big Five wildlife all in one seamless flying safari.
• 10 Days Fly-In Uganda & Rwanda Safari – Trek gorillas in Bwindi or Volcanoes NP, then connect to Rwanda for golden monkeys and Kigali cultural experiences.
• 12 Days Ultimate Uganda Fly-In Safari – Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth, Kibale, and Murchison Falls with luxury lodge stays and optional private charters.
• 14 Days East Africa Fly-In Grand Safari – Uganda gorillas combined with Kenya or Tanzania for the Great Migration or classic savannah game viewing.
• 15 Days Ultra-Luxury Fly-In Safari – The pinnacle of adventure: Uganda’s primates, the Nile at Murchison Falls, the endless plains of the Serengeti or Maasai Mara, and cultural add-ons in Rwanda.

At Nextgen Safaris, every itinerary is fully customizable. Whether you’re traveling as a couple on honeymoon, a family with kids, or a group of friends, we tailor your fly-in safari to include your choice of luxury lodges, family-friendly camps, or exclusive private charters.

Booking Tips for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Flights | Flights to Bwindi

Flying to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of the most efficient ways to maximize your safari time in Uganda, but planning requires careful coordination. Here are essential tips to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience:

1. Book Flights Early

Seats on domestic flights to Kisoro and Kihihi are limited, with most aircraft carrying fewer than 15 passengers. During peak gorilla trekking seasons (June–September and December–February), flights sell out quickly. Reserving your seat early guarantees availability and better coordination with your overall safari itinerary.

2. Match Your Flight With Your Gorilla Permit

Every gorilla trekking permit is tied to a specific sector of Bwindi: Nkuringo, Rushaga, Buhoma, or Ruhija. It’s important that your flight lands at the nearest airstrip to your trekking sector. For example, travelers trekking in Rushaga or Nkuringo should fly to Kisoro, while those trekking in Buhoma or Ruhija are better served by Kihihi. At Nextgen Safaris, we align your flights with your gorilla permit to avoid long road transfers.

3. Pack Light for Domestic Flights

Most flights to Bwindi have strict baggage policies, usually a 15 kg limit per passenger (including hand luggage). Soft-sided bags are recommended as they fit more easily into small aircraft compartments. If you have excess luggage, we can help arrange safe storage in Entebbe or transfers by road.

4. Work With a Trusted Tour Operator

Arranging gorilla permits, domestic flights, airstrip transfers, and lodge bookings can be complex if done separately. By booking through a professional operator like Nextgen Safaris, everything is seamlessly coordinated. Our team ensures that your gorilla trekking permit, flights, driver-guide, and lodge are perfectly aligned, saving you time, stress, and potential costs from misaligned bookings.

Conclusion | Flights to Bwindi

Flying to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is without doubt the fastest and most comfortable way to experience gorilla trekking in Uganda. Instead of spending 8–10 hours on the road, a short flight from Entebbe or Kigali gets you closer to your trekking sector in just about an hour. Whether you are planning a short 3 Days fly-in Gorilla Trekking Safari or a longer itinerary that connects Bwindi with Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale Forest or even Maasai Mara, flights save time and enhance your comfort.

At Nextgen Safaris, we make the process seamless from securing your gorilla permits, booking your domestic flights, arranging airstrip transfers, to reserving your lodges. All you have to do is focus on enjoying your once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Contact Nextgen Safaris today to plan your tailor-made fly-in safari to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park combining flights, gorilla trekking permits, and luxury or midrange accommodations in one easy package.