3-Day Fly-In Gorilla Trekking Safari
Uganda · Comfort · Exclusivity · Privacy
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3-Day Fly-In Gorilla Trekking Safari

Designed for travelers with limited time and those who value comfort, exclusivity, and privacy, this 3-day fly-in safari offers an efficient way to experience Uganda's iconic mountain gorillas without the long overland journey from Entebbe.

Instead of spending many hours on the road, you'll fly directly toward Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, with the flight taking approximately 1½ hours. From the airstrip, a scenic road transfer of about 1½ hours connects you to the Buhoma or Ruhija sectors of Bwindi, depending on your trekking location.

For travelers visiting the southern side of the park, Kisoro Airstrip provides convenient access to the Rushaga and Nkuringo sectors of Bwindi. It also offers access to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, home to the Nyakagezi gorilla group.

This fly-in option is ideal for guests who want to maximize their time in Uganda while enjoying a more relaxed and private journey. With less time spent on the road, you can focus on the experience that matters most—trekking through the ancient rainforest in search of Uganda's remarkable mountain gorillas. Bwindi National Park has about 25 gorilla habituated families, of which 9 families can be tracked every single day and 1 has been left for research and conservation.

Fly-in gorilla trekking Uganda
Journey Highlights
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 — Domestic Flight to Bwindi National Park

On this day, your safari guide will collect you from your preferred location and drive you to Entebbe International Airport for your scheduled flight to southwestern Uganda. Depending on the sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park you are visiting, you will fly into either Kihihi Airstrip, which serves the northern and eastern sections, or Kisoro Airstrip, ideal for the southern sectors of Bwindi and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Flights from Entebbe to Bwindi are available in the morning and afternoon, allowing you to select the departure that best fits your itinerary. The morning service generally departs Entebbe at approximately 7:45 am, while the afternoon flight leaves at around 12:30 pm. For travelers heading to the southern sector, flights to Kisoro operate in the morning at approximately 7:45 am. This schedule is influenced by the area's mountainous terrain and frequent morning mist, which can affect visibility and flight operations.

The flight to the Bwindi region takes approximately 1½ hours, although the actual duration may vary depending on the day's flight routing and weather conditions. Upon arrival, your waiting safari guide will meet you at the airstrip and begin your road transfer to your carefully selected private lodge. Settle in, relax, and enjoy the beautiful landscapes surrounding Bwindi as you prepare for the exciting experiences ahead.

Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Bwindi Lodge or equivalent

Day 2 — Unforgettable Gorilla Trekking Experience

After an early breakfast, collect your specially prepared packed lunch before departing for the park headquarters. Upon arrival, you will complete the registration process and attend a pre-trekking briefing, where your guides will explain the essential safety guidelines and responsible trekking practices.

The gorilla trek begins at approximately 8:00 AM. Accompanied by experienced guides and, if required, porters, you will venture deep into Bwindi's lush rainforest in search of a habituated gorilla family. The duration of the trek is unpredictable and may range from about one hour to as long as seven hours, depending on where the gorillas are located that day.

As you make your way through the dense vegetation, tangled vines, steep slopes, and natural forest trails, you may encounter signs of other wildlife along the route. The highlight, however, is the unforgettable moment when you finally come face-to-face with a gorilla family in its natural habitat. Watching these magnificent and endangered primates at close range is a truly memorable wildlife experience.

After the trek, return from the forest and enjoy your packed lunch before continuing with the day's activities or relaxing at the lodge.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Bwindi Lodge or similar

Day 3 — Return Flight to Entebbe

After breakfast, your guide will drive you to either Kihihi or Kisoro Airstrip, where you will board your scheduled flight to Entebbe International Airport. Upon arrival in Entebbe, guests with onward international flights can proceed with their departure from Uganda. Alternatively, you may arrange a private transfer to your preferred hotel in Entebbe or Kampala for an overnight stay.

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Accommodation Alternatives
BudgetBakiga Lodge / Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
Mid RangeBuhoma Haven Lodge / Gorilla Safari Lodge / Engagi Lodge
Luxury LodgesMahogany Springs Lodge / Bwindi Lodge / Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge
Package Inclusions & Exclusions

Inclusions

  • National Park entry fees
  • Gorilla trekking permit fees
  • Professional safari driver-guide
  • Full board accommodation and meals
  • En route lunches where applicable
  • 4×4 Safari Landcruiser
  • Domestic flights as per itinerary

Exclusions

  • Visa fees
  • International flights
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Laundry services
  • Personal expenses
  • Porter services when trekking
  • Any other services or expenses not mentioned in the itineraries
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