Overview

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is located in southwestern Uganda’s Kanungu District, on the edge of the Albertine Rift at elevations from 1,160 to 2,607 meters. Its equatorial proximity ensures consistent temperatures around 23°C during the day, dropping to 11°C at night.

The park’s name derives from the Runyakitara word “Mubwindi” meaning “a place full of darkness.” Covering 321 km², the forested area includes bamboo and shrub sections. The dense canopy receives rainfall year-round, maintaining cool temperatures even during dry seasons elsewhere.

While Bwindi harbors over 200 tree species, 104 fern species, 1,000 flowering plants, nearly 200 butterfly species, forest elephants, and various antelopes, it’s renowned as one of few places where chimpanzees and mountain gorillas share habitat. The park protects over half the world’s mountain gorilla population.

BRIEF ITINERARY

Day 1: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Day

Day 3: Transfer to Entebbe for Flight

DETAILED ITINERARY

DAY 1: TRANSFER TO BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST

Meet your safari guide at the airport for a brief introduction to your 3-day gorilla trekking safari. Begin the 8-9 hour journey southward. After 72km, stop at the Equator for photos, then continue to lunch depending on time. Proceed to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, observing roadside vegetable markets, local drum makers in Mpambire, food plantations, and landscapes along the way. Arrive at the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation: Buhoma Community Lodge

Day 2: GORILLA TREKKING DAY

Your guide will transfer you to the briefing point at 7am before the forest opens. While waiting, enjoy cultural entertainment by Bakiga women. After the briefing, a ranger guide will assign you to a gorilla family. Begin your trek into Bwindi’s mountains. If needed, hire porters to carry your backpack or assist on steep, slippery paths. Spend one hour with the gorillas taking photos and selfies. After the trek, journey through mountains and villages to your lodge at Queen Elizabeth National Park’s southern sector.

Accommodation: Topi Lodge

Day 3: TRANSFER TO ENTEBBE FOR FLIGHT

Embark on the long drive to Kampala/Entebbe for optional activities or your flight home, concluding your 3-day gorilla trekking safari.

End of Safari