Destinations
3 day gorilla trekking tour in Uganda
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a breathtaking expanse of ancient forest along Uganda's Albertine Rift, home to an incredible range of biodiversity. With habitats stretching from lowland forests at 1,160m to Afromontane vegetation above 2,600m, Bwindi nurtures unique ecosystems that support over 120 mammals, 350 bird species, and 310 types of butterflies, along with many reptiles and rare plant species.
The star attraction is, of course, the endangered mountain gorillas—Bwindi shelters around 459 gorillas across 50 family groups, making it a premier gorilla-tracking destination. With five tracking areas (Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, Nkuringo, and Mgahinga) and 21 habituated families for visitors, Bwindi offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with these gentle giants. Plus, other primates like chimpanzees, blue monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys add to the park's diverse wildlife experience.
Planning Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
1. Gorilla Trekking Permits
Secure your permits several months in advance, ideally 2-5 months, as they’re in high demand, especially during peak seasons. Permits can be purchased up to two years ahead and must be registered under your name.
2. Trekking Duration & Time with Gorillas
Gorilla treks can last anywhere from a few hours to a full day, depending on the gorillas’ movements. Once you reach them, you’ll spend one hour observing these incredible animals. Gorillas prefer minimal human interaction, so timing is carefully regulated.
3. Best Seasons for Trekking
The best trekking seasons are the dry periods from June to mid-September and December to February, which offer optimal trail conditions. During rainy seasons (March-May and mid-September-November), trails can be muddy, but permits are occasionally discounted. Temperatures range from 7°C to 20°C, and Bwindi can be quite chilly in the morning and evening.
4. Gorilla Families & Trekking Sectors
Bwindi is home to 50 gorilla groups, with 21 habituated for tourism. Key trekking areas include Buhoma (five groups), Ruhija (four groups, including a scenic three-hour hike to Mubwindi Swamp), Rushaga (ten groups, including the large Nshongi group with 36 members), and Nkuringo (two groups). Each sector offers unique trekking experiences, with Nkuringo about 10km from Buhoma.
5. Trekking Guidelines and Safety
Park guides accompany all treks, ensuring both safety and adherence to rules, such as keeping a 7-meter distance from gorillas. Follow your guide’s instructions closely, as gorillas are susceptible to human illnesses. Walking sticks are available at trailheads, helping navigate Bwindi's steep, dense terrain.
6. Extra Activities in Bwindi
Bwindi’s wonders go beyond gorilla tracking. Visitors can enjoy a cultural visit with the Batwa community, nature walks, birdwatching, and cycling. The park hosts 23 Albertine Rift endemic bird species and seven IUCN Red Data List species, including the African green broadbill and the blue-headed sunbird. The River Ivi Trail and Buhoma’s Munyaga River Trail are birding highlights, while the Waterfall Trail leads through pristine rainforest to three stunning waterfalls. The Rushura Hill Trail rewards trekkers with sweeping views of the Albertine Rift Valley, Lake Edward, and the Rwenzori Mountains.
7. Accommodation Options
Bwindi offers a variety of accommodation choices from budget to luxury lodges, ensuring a comfortable retreat after your adventure in the Impenetrable Forest. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a haven for nature lovers, offering close encounters with mountain gorillas and a wealth of activities in one of the world’s most biodiverse rainforests.`
Itinerary
Day 1: Transfer from Kampala/Entebbe to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Start your adventure with an early breakfast, departing from Kampala at 7:00 am for an 8-hour drive southward to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The journey follows a scenic route via Rukungiri, with views of the equator, plantations, rolling hills, and glimpses of local village life.
Lunch:Â Pause for lunch en route in Mbarara at Ajip Motel.
In the late afternoon, arrive at your lodge just outside the park’s southern boundary, where you can relax, take in the stunning landscape, and prepare for the trek ahead.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking
After Breakfast, grab a packed lunch and enough drinking water before heading to the trekking briefing point by 7:30 am. Following registration, you’ll receive an essential orientation on the trekking guidelines and safety precautions.
Trekking Experience, You’ll be assigned a gorilla family and set o with a ranger guide into the dense, misty rainforest. Expect a challenging hike through Bwindi’s wet, muddy, and often steep terrain. The park is home to 21 habituated gorilla groups spread across four main tracking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Each trek offers the chance to see diverse bird and butterfly species, providing color and life along your journey.
Gorilla Encounter: Upon locating your assigned gorilla group, enjoy a magical one-hour encounter with these gentle giants, observing their daily routines and family interactions.
Return to Lodge: After your trek, return to the lodge to rest and reflect on the unforgettable experience.
Day 3: Return to Kampala/Entebbe
After breakfast embark on the journey back to Kampala or Entebbe, carrying memories of Bwindi’s remarkable beauty and your unique encounter with Uganda’s mountain gorillas.
