3 Day Uganda Gorilla Safari

This thrilling 3-Day Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda offers unforgettable adventure to the mesmerizing beauty and captivating gentle giants. Uganda is one of the best destinations for gorilla trekking in the world, as it is home to more than half of the remaining population of these endangered primates. Uganda has two national parks where you can encounter the gorillas: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Both parks are located in the southwestern part of the country, near the border with Rwanda and Congo.

This 3 Day gorilla trekking Uganda, we will focus on Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which is the most popular and accessible park for gorilla trekking in Uganda. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park covers an area of 331 square kilometers and boasts a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and hosts 19 habituated gorilla families that can be visited by tourists.

A 3 day Uganda gorilla safari will give you enough time to explore Bwindi and enjoy its various attractions. You will also have the opportunity to trek mountain gorillas, interact with the local communities, learn about their culture and traditions, and support their conservation efforts.

This itinerary will also provide you with day by day activities of a 3 Day gorilla Safari in Uganda, tips and guidelines on how to plan and prepare for your trip, what to expect from your gorilla trekking experience, and what other activities you can enjoy during your safari.

3 Day Gorilla Trekking Safari Summary:

• Day 1: Transfer or drive from Entebbe International Airport or Kampala to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. There will be a brief stop at the equator line for photography.
• Day 2: Undertake Mountain Gorilla trekking About 3-6 hours trekking time, with 7 other trekkers in a group and a maximum of 1 hour in the presence of the Mountain Gorillas.
• Day 3: Transfer/drive back to Kampala or Entebbe International Airport.

Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After an early breakfast, depart from Kampala towards southwestern Uganda, where the magnificent Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park awaits. This scenic drive will take you through countless green hills, terraced plantations, and rural villages, providing a glimpse of Uganda’s natural beauty.

Upon reaching the park, settle into your chosen lodge and if time permits, explore the local community or engage in a guided nature walk to familiarize yourself with the surroundings.

Day 2: Undertake Mountain Gorilla trekking

The highlight of the safari beckons on this day – an unforgettable face-to-face encounter with the gentle giants of the forest, the mountain gorillas. After an early morning breakfast, proceed to the park’s headquarters, where you will be assigned a gorilla group to track, accompanied by an experienced park ranger.

The trekking adventure ensues, with the duration depending on the location of the gorilla group and their movements. As you venture through dense foliage and climb up and down rugged terrain, remember to savor the natural beauty surrounding you, including the sights and sounds of various bird species and monkeys.

Upon locating the gorilla family, you will have the privilege of spending a remarkable hour in their presence, observing their behavior, social interactions, and their gentle yet powerful disposition. The encounter offers a rare opportunity to connect with these incredible creatures in their natural habitat, leaving a profound and lasting impact.

Day 3: Transfer/drive back to Kampala or Entebbe

On the final day, bid farewell to the forest and begin your journey back to Kampala or Entebbe, with a stopover at the equator for a photo opportunity. Reflect on the incredible experiences, memories, and photographs gathered during your Uganda gorilla trekking safari

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Why Trek Mountain Gorillas in Uganda?

Uganda is one of only three countries in the world where you can see mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. The other two are Rwanda and Congo. However, Uganda has some advantages over its neighbors that make it a more attractive destination for gorilla trekking.

First of all, Uganda has more gorillas than any other country. According to the latest census conducted in 2018, there are about 1,063 mountain gorillas left in the wild, and 459 of them live in Uganda. That means that Uganda has almost half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas making it the ideal destination for a 3 day Uganda gorilla safari

Secondly, Uganda has more habituated gorilla families than any other country. Habituation is a process of gradually getting the gorillas used to human presence without altering their natural behavior. This allows tourists to observe them from a close distance without disturbing them. Uganda has 19 habituated gorilla families that can be visited by tourists, while Rwanda has 12 and Congo has 8.

Thirdly, Uganda has more diversity in terms of gorilla trekking options than any other country. You can choose your 3 day gorilla trekking Uganda safari between two different national parks (Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park), four different sectors within Bwindi (Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo), and different levels of difficulty depending on the location and terrain of the gorilla family you are assigned to. You can also opt for a longer and more immersive experience called gorilla habituation, where you can spend up to four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla family under the guidance of researchers.

Lastly, Uganda has more affordable prices for gorilla trekking than any other country. A gorilla permit in Uganda costs $700 per person, while in Rwanda it costs $1,500 and in Congo it costs $400. However, Congo is less stable and secure than Uganda and Rwanda, and its gorilla trekking infrastructure is less developed. Therefore, Uganda offers the best value for money for gorilla trekking in terms of quality and quantity.

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is a unique and unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of these magnificent creatures. You will get to witness their fascinating behaviors, such as grooming, feeding, playing, resting, and communicating. You will also get to appreciate their intelligence, emotions, and personalities. You will feel a connection with them that transcends the boundaries of species. You will realize that they are not so different from us, and that they deserve our respect and protection.

Gorilla Trekking Experience in Uganda

The highlight of your 3 day Uganda gorilla safari is the gorilla trekking experience. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to encounter one of the most endangered and fascinating animals on the planet.

The gorilla trekking experience starts with an early morning briefing at the park headquarters, where you will be assigned to a gorilla family and a ranger guide. There are 19 habituated gorilla families in Uganda, distributed across four sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo) and one sector of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Nyakagezi). Each gorilla family has a unique name, history, and personality.

The ranger guide will lead you into the forest, following the trails and signs left by the gorillas. The trek can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 8 hours, depending on the location and movement of the gorillas. The terrain can be steep, muddy, and slippery, so you need to be physically fit and prepared for a challenging hike.

Once you find the gorillas, you will be allowed to spend one hour with them, observing their behavior, taking photos, and marveling at their beauty and intelligence. You will be amazed by how human-like they are, as they groom each other, play with their young, communicate with vocalizations, and display emotions. You will also be able to witness their unique features, such as their silver backs, muscular arms, expressive eyes, and gentle demeanor.

The gorilla trekking experience is a rewarding and unforgettable adventure that will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for these magnificent creatures.

Gorilla Habituation Experience

If you want to spend more time with the gorillas and learn more about their conservation on this 3 days Gorilla trekking in Uganda, you can opt for the gorilla habituation experience. This is a special activity that allows you to join the researchers and trackers who are habituating a new gorilla family in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

The gorilla habituation experience lasts for 4 hours, and it involves following and observing the gorillas as they get used to the presence of humans. You will also be able to participate in collecting data, taking notes, and recording behaviors. The gorilla habituation experience is a rare and exclusive opportunity that gives you a deeper insight into the lives and personalities of the gorillas.

The gorilla habituation experience costs $1,500 per person per trek, and it is only available in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. There are only two gorilla families that are undergoing habituation, and only four permits are issued per day. Therefore, you need to book your gorilla habituation experience well in advance.

Wildlife and Nature

Besides the mountain gorillas, Uganda has a lot more to offer in terms of wildlife and nature. During your 3 day gorilla trekking Uganda safari, you will be able to explore the diverse flora and fauna of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that covers an area of 331 square kilometers. It is one of the most biodiverse forests in Africa, hosting over 1,200 plant species, 350 bird species, 220 butterfly species, 120 mammal species, and 27 frog species. Some of the wildlife you can encounter in Bwindi include chimpanzees, elephants, duikers, bushbucks, giant forest hogs, civets, mongooses, and various monkeys.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is the smallest national park in Uganda, covering an area of 33.7 square kilometers. It is part of the Virunga Massif, a chain of volcanoes that straddles the borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is home to over 180 bird species, 79 mammal species, and 39 plant species. Some of the wildlife you can encounter in Mgahinga include golden monkeys, buffaloes, leopards, servals, hyenas, jackals, and various antelopes.

Both Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park offer scenic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, rivers, waterfalls, and lakes. You can enjoy nature walks, bird watching, photography, and cultural tours in these parks.

Cultural Encounters

Another aspect of your 3 day gorilla trekking Safari Uganda that you should not miss is the cultural encounters with the local communities. Uganda is a culturally diverse country with over 50 ethnic groups and languages. The people are friendly, hospitable, and proud of their heritage.

One of the most interesting cultural encounters you can have during your safari is with the Batwa pygmies. The Batwa are an indigenous group of hunter-gatherers who used to live in harmony with the forest before they were evicted to make way for gorilla conservation. The Batwa have a rich culture and history that they are eager to share with visitors.

You can join the Batwa Experience or the Batwa Trail to learn about their traditional way of life in the forest. You will see how they made fire, hunted animals, collected honey, harvested plants, built shelters, and performed rituals. You will also enjoy their music, dance, stories, and crafts.

Another cultural encounter you can have during your safari is with the Bakiga people. The Bakiga are an agricultural group who live in the highlands around Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. They have a vibrant culture and a strong sense of community. You can visit their villages and farms to see how they grow crops, raise animals, make handicrafts, and celebrate festivals. You can also interact with them and learn about their customs, beliefs, and values.

Cultural encounters are a great way to enrich your 3 day Uganda gorilla safari by gaining a deeper understanding of the people and places you visit. You will also be able to support the local communities by buying their products or donating to their projects.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Parkl is one of the oldest and most biologically diverse forests in Africa. It dates back to over 25,000 years ago and has survived the last ice age. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a biodiversity hotspot, hosting over 1,200 plant species, 310 butterfly species, 88 moth species, 51 reptile species, 120 mammal species, and 350 bird species.

The park is located in the southwestern part of Uganda, near the border with Rwanda and Congo. It covers an area of 331 square kilometers and ranges in altitude from 1,160 meters to 2,607 meters above sea level. The park has a tropical climate with two rainy seasons (March-May and September-November) and two dry seasons (June-August and December-February).

The park is divided into four sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Each sector has its own gorilla families, accommodation options, and attractions. The sectors are connected by roads that can be accessed by 4×4 vehicles. However, the roads are often rough and muddy, especially during the rainy season. Therefore, it is advisable to hire a reliable tour operator or driver who knows the area well.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the most popular and accessible park for gorilla trekking in Uganda. It hosts 19 habituated gorilla families that can be visited by tourists. Each gorilla family has a unique name, history, and composition. Some of the most famous gorilla families in Bwindi are:

• Mubare: The first gorilla family to be habituated in Bwindi in 1993. It is located in the Buhoma sector and has 8 members, including one silverback named Kanyonyi.
• Rushegura: A splinter group from Mubare that was formed in 2002. It is also located in the Buhoma sector and has 19 members, including one silverback named Kabukojo.
• Habinyanja: Another splinter group from Mubare that was formed in 1997. It is also located in the Buhoma sector and has 17 members, including two silverbacks named Makara and Rwansigazi.
• Bitukura: A relatively young gorilla family that was habituated in 2008. It is located in the Ruhija sector and has 14 members, including four silverbacks named Ndahura, Karamuzi, Rukara, and Rukumu.
• Oruzogo: Another relatively young gorilla family that was habituated in 2011. It is also located in the Ruhija sector and has 17 members, including one silverback named Tibirikwata.
• Nshongi: The largest gorilla family in Bwindi that was habituated in 2009. It is located in the Rushaga sector and has 26 members, including two silverbacks named Nshongi and Kakono.
• Mishaya: A splinter group from Nshongi that was formed in 2010. It is also located in the Rushaga sector and has 12 members, including one silverback named Mishaya.
• Kahungye: Another splinter group from Nshongi that was formed in 2011. It is also located in the Rushaga sector and has 13 members, including three silverbacks named Rumansi, Rwigi, and Ruhamuka.
• Bweza: Another splinter group from Kahungye that was formed in 2012. It is also located in the Rushaga sector and has 9 members

How do you get to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest?

The quickest way to reach Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is by flying into Entebbe International Airport, located near the capital city of Kampala. From there, you can either take a domestic flight to Kihihi or Kisoro Airstrip, or embark on a scenic road trip to the forest.

For those choosing the cheaper road option, booking a guided 3 Days Gorilla trekking safari with a tour operator is highly recommended. The journey from Entebbe to Bwindi takes approximately 8-10 hours, depending on the route taken and traffic conditions. If not in a rush, it is advisable to break the journey with an overnight stop to enjoy the stunning landscapes along the way.

At Tusker Trails Holidays, as part of our 3-Day Gorilla trekking Uganda Safari, we provide reliable transportation services to ensure a smooth and convenient journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. From airport transfers to comfortable vehicles for your entire expedition, we take care of all your travel needs.

Planning and Preparation

Planning and preparation are essential for a successful and enjoyable 3 day Uganda gorilla safari. Here are some of the things you need to consider before you embark on your journey:

Gorilla Permits

You need a gorilla permit to be able to trek the mountain gorillas in Uganda. A gorilla permit costs $700 per person per trek, and it includes park entry fees, ranger guides, and a one-hour interaction with a gorilla family. You can book your gorilla permit through a reputable tour operator or directly with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). Gorilla permits are limited and sell out quickly, so it is advisable to book them at least 6 months in advance.

Packing List

You need to pack wisely for your 3 day gorilla trekking Uganda safari, as you will be trekking in a tropical rainforest with varying weather conditions. Some of the essential items you need to pack are:

1. A valid passport and visa
2. A yellow fever vaccination certificate
3. A printed copy of your gorilla permit
4. Comfortable hiking shoes or boots
5. Long-sleeved shirts and trousers
6. A waterproof jacket or poncho
7. A hat and sunglasses
8. A pair of gloves
9. A pair of binoculars
10. A camera and extra batteries
11. Insect repellent and sunscreen
12. A small backpack with snacks and water
13. A first aid kit and personal medication

The Best time to Go Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

The best time to embark on this 3 Days Gorilla trekking Uganda safari is during the dry seasons, which are from June to August and December to February. During these months, the trails are less slippery and the weather is more favorable. Nevertheless, Uganda’s gorilla parks are open all year long making it possible to trek these majestic apes throughout the year

Where to Stay on our 3-Day Gorilla Trekking Bwindi?

There are various accommodation options available near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, ranging from budget campsites to luxury lodges. You can choose your accommodation based on your budget, preference, and location. Some of the recommended lodges near Bwindi are Agandi Lodge, Buhoma Lodge, and Silverback Lodge. Some of the recommended lodges near Mgahinga are Mount Gahinga Lodge, Travellers Rest Hotel, and Lake Chahafi Resort.

At Tusker Trails Holidays, we understand the importance of comfortable accommodation after a day of trekking through the forest. That’s why we ensure that our accommodations are carefully selected to offer comfort, cleanliness, and a warm atmosphere to relax and unwind.

Why Choose Our 3-Day Gorilla Trekking Uganda Safari?

When it comes to planning a gorilla trekking Uganda safari, it is essential to choose a reputable and experienced safari company that can provide an unforgettable experience.

With years of experience in organizing gorilla trekking expeditions, Tusker Trails Holidays has garnered a solid reputation for providing exceptional services. knowledgeable guides ensure your safety and offer insightful information about the gorillas and the forest.

Our team of highly trained guides are not only passionate about gorilla conservation but also well-versed in the behavior and habits of these remarkable creatures. They will accompany you throughout your 3-day gorilla trekking Uganda, providing valuable guidance and making the experience both educational and thrilling.

We believe in providing personalized service to each and every guest. We take pride in tailoring your 3 Days gorilla trekking Uganda safari to meet your specific requirements, ensuring that your trip is a truly unique and memorable experience.

Embark on our 3-day gorilla trekking Uganda safari and delve into the world of these magnificent creatures. Witness the wonders of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, accompanied by experienced guides, comfortable accommodations, and personalized service.

Safari in Uganda

Uganda is one of the best places to go on a safari, as it offers a variety of landscapes, habitats, and activities. You can see savannahs, forests, mountains, lakes, and rivers, and enjoy game drives, boat safaris, hiking, and more. Uganda is also home to some of the most unique and endangered wildlife in the world, such as mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and tree-climbing lions.

Uganda has a remarkable diversity of wildlife, with over 300 mammal species and 1,000 bird species. Some of the animals you can see in Uganda are found nowhere else in the world, such as the mountain gorillas and the Rothschild’s giraffes. You can also encounter chimpanzees, elephants, zebras, buffaloes, leopards, hyenas, antelopes, and many more. Uganda has several national parks and reserves where you can see these animals in their natural habitats, such as Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and Kidepo Valley National Park.

One of the most amazing experiences you can have in Uganda is gorilla trekking. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Uganda has two parks where you can go gorilla trekking: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Both parks are part of the Virunga Massif, a mountain range that spans across Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo. To go gorilla trekking, you need to obtain a permit in advance and join a guided group of up to eight people. You will then hike through the dense forest until you find a gorilla family. You will be able to spend up to an hour with them, observing their behavior and interactions.

Other Primates

Besides gorillas, Uganda has many other primate species that you can see on your safari. The most popular ones are chimpanzees, which are closely related to humans and share many traits with us. You can go on chimpanzee trekking or habituation experiences in parks like Kibale Forest National Park, Budongo Forest Reserve, and Kyambura Gorge. You can also see other primates like golden monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and baboons.

Birding Safaris

If you are a bird lover, Uganda is a paradise for you. Uganda has over 1,000 bird species, making it one of the most diverse birding destinations in the world. You can see colorful birds like turacos, bee-eaters, kingfishers, hornbills, sunbirds, and weavers. You can also see rare and endemic birds like the shoebill stork, the green-breasted pitta, and the African green broadbill. Some of the best places to go birdwatching in Uganda are Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale Forest National Park.

National Parks and Reserves

Uganda has 10 national parks and several game reserves that offer different attractions and experiences for safari-goers. Some of the most notable ones are:

• Queen Elizabeth National Park: This is one of the most visited parks in Uganda, as it has a variety of ecosystems and wildlife. You can see lions, elephants, hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes, and more. You can also go on boat safaris along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway that connects Lake Edward and Lake George. –
• Murchison Falls National Park: This is the largest park in Uganda, and it is famous for its spectacular waterfall, where the Nile River plunges through a narrow gorge. You can see animals like giraffes, elephants, lions, leopards, hyenas, and more. You can also go on boat safaris along the Nile River, where you can see hippos, crocodiles, and birds.
• Kidepo Valley National Park: This is one of the most remote and unspoiled parks in Uganda, located in the northeast corner of the country. It has a rugged landscape of mountains, valleys, and plains. You can see animals like zebras, cheetahs, ostriches, buffaloes, and more. You can also interact with the local Karamojong people, who are nomadic pastoralists.
• Lake Mburo National Park: This is one of the smallest parks in Uganda, but it has a unique charm and beauty. It has a lake that attracts many animals and birds. You can see animals like impalas, zebras, eland, topi, and more. You can also go on boat safaris on the lake, where you can see hippos, crocodiles, and birds.

Boat Safaris

One of the best ways to enjoy the scenery and wildlife of Uganda is by going on boat safaris. You can cruise along the rivers and lakes of Uganda, and see animals and birds that you might not see on land. Some of the most popular boat safaris in Uganda are:

• The Nile River is the longest river in the world, and it flows through Uganda from Lake Victoria to Lake Albert. You can go on boat safaris along the Nile River, and see animals like hippos, crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes, and more. You can also see the stunning Murchison Falls, where the river drops 43 meters in a thunderous roar.
• The Kazinga Channel is a natural waterway that connects Lake Edward and Lake George in Queen Elizabeth National Park. You can go on boat safaris along the Kazinga Channel, and see animals like hippos, crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes, and more. You can also see a variety of bird species, such as pelicans, flamingos, fish eagles, and kingfishers.
• Lake Mburo is one of the five lakes in Lake Mburo National Park. You can go on boat safaris on Lake Mburo, and see animals like hippos, crocodiles, impalas, zebras, and more. You can also see a variety of bird species, such as African fish eagles, African finfoot, African jacana, and malachite kingfisher.

Cultural Experiences

Uganda is not only rich in nature, but also in culture. Uganda has over 50 ethnic groups, each with their own traditions, languages, and customs. You can learn about the culture of Uganda by interacting with some of the local tribes, such as:

• Batwa: The Batwa are one of the oldest indigenous people in Africa, who used to live as hunter-gatherers in the forests of Uganda. They are also known as pygmies, because of their short stature. You can visit some of the Batwa communities near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and learn about their history, lifestyle, and challenges.
• Karamojong: The Karamojong are a nomadic pastoralist tribe that live in the arid lands of northeastern Uganda. They are known for their colorful attire, distinctive hairstyles, and cattle-keeping culture. You can visit some of the Karamojong villages near Kidepo Valley National Park, and learn about their traditions, beliefs, and rituals.