Overview

Uganda, often referred to as the “Pearl of Africa,” is renowned for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and the rare opportunity to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This itinerary recount a thrilling day by day 4 days double gorilla trekking adventure, providing a vivid description of each day’s activities, the beauty of the Ugandan wilderness, and the profound encounters with one of the world’s most endangered species.
Uganda offer one of the fascinating gorilla trekking experiences which allows you to have a personal encounter with the gentle giants in their Natural habitat. while on this trip, you will have an opportunity to see the gorillas in Bwindi. The park has got several habituated gorilla families with different traits and x-tics therefore, Bwindi offers an opportunity to explore two different gorilla families.

Tour Highlights

Day 1: pick from Hotel in Entebbe/Kampala and transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
Day 2: First Gorilla trekking and afternoon transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Day 3: Second Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga and transfer to lake Bunyonyi
Day 4: Morning canoer boat in lake Bunyonyi and Departure

Day 1 :

Pick up from hotel in Entebbe/Kampala and drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

The company driver guide will meet you at your hotel after morning breakfast followed by a brief introduction and a rundown of the itinerary and thereafter, we embark on a scenic drive towards Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to nearly half of the world's mountain gorilla population, the drive takes about 8-9 hours.
The journey, though long, is an immersive introduction to Uganda's natural beauty. As we travel westward, we traverse the lush landscapes of central Uganda, with rolling hills and expansive tea plantations stretching as far as the eye can see. Our guide provides insightful commentary on the history and culture of the regions we pass through, adding depth to the visual feast outside our windows.
We stop for lunch in Mbarara, a bustling town known for its vibrant markets and friendly locals. Here, we enjoy a delicious Ugandan meal and after, we continue our journey, the landscape gradually transforming into a dense, mountainous forest as we approach Bwindi Forest. Upon arrival at our lodge, nestled on the edge of the forest, lodge built with local materials and designed to blend seamlessly with its surroundings offering stunning views of the forest canopy. Check in to the lodge for a rest, Later dinner and overnight stay.
Accommodation options: Mahogany springs/Nkuringo Bwindi Lodge (Luxury), Ichumbi Gorilla lodge/Elephant Hab Lodge (Mid-range), Rushaga Haven Lodge/Trekkers Tavern cottages (Budget).
Meal plan: Lunch and Dinner

Day 2 :

First Gorilla Trek in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Transfer to Mgahinga gorilla Park

The second day begins before dawn with a hearty breakfast, essential for the physically demanding trek ahead. We then drive to the park headquarters, where we are divided into small groups and assigned specific gorilla families to track. After a detailed briefing by the park rangers, who provide information on the gorillas' behavior and the rules of engagement, we set off into the dense forest.
The initial part of the trek is relatively easy, following established trails through the forest. As we progress deeper into the jungle, the terrain becomes more challenging, with steep slopes and thick undergrowth. The rangers skillfully navigate the terrain, using machetes to clear a path and tracking signs of gorilla activity. Along the way, we encounter other wildlife, including colorful birds, chattering monkeys, and an array of plant species.
The trek may last for about 2-8 hours depending on the location of the Gorillas. As we approach the gorillas, the park rangers signal us to stop and whispers that the gorillas are nearby. We proceed cautiously, our hearts pounding with anticipation. Suddenly, we find ourselves in the presence of a family of mountain gorillas, including a majestic silverback, playful juveniles, and nurturing mothers. The experience is surreal and profoundly moving. We spend an hour observing these magnificent creatures, capturing photographs and silently marveling at their human-like behaviors.
After, we make our way back to the park headquarters, then to the lodge and transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park located in the Virunga Mountains along the borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. This park is part of the larger Virunga Conservation Area and is home to a smaller population of mountain gorillas. Upon arrival, you proceed and check in to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Accommodation options: Travelers Rest Kisoro (Budget), Ichumbi lodge Kisoro (Mid-range).
Meal plan: Breakfat, lunch and dinner

Day 3 :

Second Gorilla trekking different group and afternoon transfer to Lake Bunyonyi.

On the third day, we rise early and have morning breakfast and drive to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park headquarters where you will attend another briefing on the dos and the don’ts for gorilla trekking. After, the ranger guide will accompany you to the starting point of the trek.
The terrain in Mgahinga is different from Bwindi, characterized by bamboo forests, montane forests, and open grasslands. As we set off into the park, the hike is again challenging, with steep ascents and dense vegetation. The rangers are once more our guides, expertly leading us through the wilderness.
After a few hours of trekking, we encounter our second gorilla family. This time, the group is smaller but equally captivating. We observe the gorillas in their natural habitat, their interactions and behaviors providing an intimate glimpse into their lives. The highlight of this trek is witnessing a mother cradling her infant, a tender moment that underscores the fragility and resilience of these endangered creatures. The hour with the gorillas passes quickly, and we reluctantly begin our trek back to the park headquarters, then continue to Lake Bunyonyi which offers peaceful night after along day gorilla trek. Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge.
Accommodation options: Bird nest lake Bunyonyi (Luxury), Bunyonyi Rock Resort/ Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort (Mid-range), Bunyonyi overland Resort/Carter Bay cottages (Budget).
Meal plan: Breakfat, lunch and dinner

Day 4 :

Morning canoe boat and Departure

Wake up to morning breakfast and after, go for a canoe boat in lake Bunyonyi where you will get to explore several attractions in the lake including the Islands, there over 29 Islands with historical beliefs. The guide will explain some of them to you as well as spot little birds and the locals in the community going about their daily activities. After you will return to the lodge and check out by 10:30 am and start you return journey back to Kampala with enroute lunch in Mbarara town and another stop at the equator for photoshoot and stretching. Embark on your journey arriving in Kampala in the late afternoon. The guide will drop you off at Entebbe airport for your departure flight or at the drop of point of your choice.
Meal plan: Breakfast and lunch