3-Day Bwindi Gorilla Trekking & Lake Bunyonyi Safari (Budget Tour)
Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park & Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda
Theme: Primate adventure, scenic relaxation, cultural connection
Ideal for: Budget-conscious travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla encounter and serene lakeside retreat
From the Jungle to the Lake
This short but unforgettable safari takes you deep into the misty jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to nearly half of the world’s endangered mountain gorillas, before unwinding at the tranquil shores of Lake Bunyonyi, Africa’s second-deepest lake. You’ll trek through lush rainforest, encounter gentle giants in their natural habitat, and soak in the beauty of Uganda’s “Switzerland of Africa.”
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Kampala/Entebbe → Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Drive Time: ~8–9 hours (with scenic stops)
Activities:
- Scenic Road Transfer to Bwindi Depart early from Kampala or Entebbe, traveling through Uganda’s lush countryside, tea plantations, and rolling hills.
- Stop en route for lunch in Mbarara. Duration: Full-day transfer with breaks
- Evening Community Walk (Optional) Upon arrival, stretch your legs with a guided walk to a nearby village to learn about local traditions and daily life. Duration: 1–1.5 hours
Accommodation: Budget Option: Buhoma Community Rest Camp / Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge
Amenities: En-suite rooms or bandas, mosquito nets, restaurant, bar, hot showers
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Adventure → Lake Bunyonyi
Activities:
- Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing. Trek through dense forest with experienced rangers to find your assigned gorilla family. Spend a magical hour observing their behavior, taking photos, and absorbing the moment. Duration: 2–6 hours depending on gorilla location
- Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi After trekking, enjoy lunch before driving (~2–3 hours) to Lake Bunyonyi. Check into your lakeside lodge and relax with sunset views over the islands. Duration: Afternoon transfer
Accommodation: Budget Option: Bunyonyi Overland Resort / Byoona Amagara Island Retreat
Amenities: Lakeside views, restaurant, bar, Wi-Fi (in some areas), canoe rentals
Day 3: Lake Bunyonyi Exploration → Return to Kampala/Entebbe
Activities:
- Morning Canoe Ride or Island Visit Glide across the calm waters in a traditional dugout canoe, visiting islands such as Punishment Island or Kyahugye Island for birdwatching and cultural stories. Duration: 1.5–2 hours
- Return Journey to Kampala/Entebbe Depart mid-morning for the scenic drive back, stopping for lunch en route and crossing the Equator for a photo opportunity. Duration: ~8–9 hours
Key Tour Highlights
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Scenic drives through Uganda’s highlands and tea plantations
- Relaxation at Lake Bunyonyi’s serene shores
- Cultural encounters with local communities
- Optional canoe rides and island visits
Major Attractions
Location | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Bwindi Impenetrable NP | Endangered mountain gorillas, rainforest trails |
| Lake Bunyonyi | Scenic islands, birdlife, canoeing |
| Equator Crossing | Iconic photo stop |
✅ Inclusions
- Transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle with driver-guide
- 2 nights budget accommodation (Bwindi & Lake Bunyonyi)
- Meals as per itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)
- Gorilla trekking permit (USD 800 per person as of 2025)
- Park entry fees and ranger guides
- Canoe ride on Lake Bunyonyi
- Bottled drinking water during transfers
❌ Exclusions
- International flights
- Uganda entry visa
- Travel insurance
- Tips and personal expenses
- Optional activities not listed
- Alcoholic beverages
Accommodation Overview
Lodge Name | Location | Key Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Buhoma Community Rest Camp | Bwindi | En-suite bandas, hot showers, restaurant |
| Bunyonyi Overland Resort | Lake Bunyonyi | Lakeside bar/restaurant, canoe rentals |
Ready for Your Gorilla & Lake Adventure?
This budget safari is perfect for travelers who want to experience Uganda’s most iconic wildlife and landscapes without compromising on authenticity.
Email: info@nileabenteuer.com
Website: www.nileabenteuersafaris.com
Call: +256 393 000382
WhatsApp: +256 742 603325