Gorilla Trekking & Classic Uganda Wildlife Experience
Tour Summary
Mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Big game drives and a boat safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park
It is the perfect balance of primate adventure and classic African savannah wildlife viewing.
Why this safari is so popular
This itinerary gives you:
✔ Face-to-face encounter with endangered mountain gorillas
✔ Lions, elephants, buffaloes, hippos, leopards & antelopes
✔ A scenic boat cruise along the famous Kazinga Channel
✔ Diverse landscapes: rainforest, crater lakes, savannah plains
✔ Excellent value for time and budget
✔ Ideal mix of adventure and relaxation
It is perfect for adventure seekers, wildlife lovers, photographers, couples, and small private groups.
Everything Guests Must Know
This itinerary shows all the day to day activities through out the days in Uganda's Bwindi
Your Nile Abenteuer Safaris professional driver-guide will pick you up from Kampala or Entebbe for a scenic journey to southwestern Uganda.
Travel Details:
Duration: 8–9 hours by road
Scenic countryside views
Equator photo stop
Rolling hills of Kigezi region
Optional domestic flight (Entebbe to Kihihi/Kisoro)
Arrival at your lodge near Bwindi in the evening. Dinner and briefing about the gorilla trek.
This is the highlight of your safari.
After early breakfast, transfer to park headquarters for registration and briefing.
Gorilla Trekking Experience
Small groups of 8 people per gorilla family
Trekking duration: 2–6 hours (varies by group location)
One full hour allowed with the gorillas
Professional ranger guide included
Armed ranger for safety
You will hike through thick rainforest terrain until you locate your assigned gorilla family. Observing a silverback protecting his group or juveniles playing is an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Gorilla Permit Information
Permit cost: USD 800 per person (subject to change)
Minimum age: 15 years
Advance booking required (high demand year-round)
Nile Abenteuer Safaris secures your permit upon deposit confirmation.
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required. Terrain can be steep and muddy. Porters are available and highly recommended.
After breakfast, depart Bwindi and enjoy a breathtaking drive toward Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Scenic Highlights:
Ishasha sector (famous for tree-climbing lions)
Crater lakes and savannah plains
Wildlife sightings en route
Drive time: Approximately 4–5 hours depending on route and game viewing stops.
Evening relaxation at your safari lodge.
Today is dedicated to classic African safari experiences.
Morning Game Drive
You may spot:
Lions
African elephants
Buffalo herds
Uganda kob
Waterbucks
Warthogs
Leopards (rare but possible)
The park is home to over 95 mammal species and 600+ bird species.
Afternoon Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel
The Kazinga Channel connects Lake Edward and Lake George and offers one of Africa’s most concentrated wildlife viewing experiences.
Expect to see:
Hundreds of hippos
Nile crocodiles
Buffaloes grazing along shores
Elephants bathing
Numerous bird species
The boat cruise provides incredible photography opportunities at close range.
After breakfast, drive back to Kampala or Entebbe.
Optional stops:
Craft markets
Equator monument
Lunch in Mbarara
Arrival in late afternoon or evening.
What's included?
- Gorilla trekking permit (official Uganda Wildlife Authority permit)
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide
- 4x4 safari vehicle with fuel
- 4 nights’ accommodation (full board)
- Bottled drinking water
- All park entrances
- Community walk
- Kazinga Channel boat cruise
- Meals as per itinerary
What's Not Included
- International flights
- Uganda visa fees
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Tips and personal expenses
- Alcoholic beverages
- Gifts and souvenirs
- Extra accommodation
- Optional activities
Gorilla Permit Information (must know)
Nile Abenteuer Safaris secures your permit once deposit is confirmed.
Permit Information
Gorilla permits are limited and must be secured in advance. Booking early (3–6 months prior) is strongly advised, especially in peak seasons (June–September & December–February).
Age Limit
Minimum trekking age: 15 years.
Permit Availability
Advance booking required (high demand year-round)
Permit cost
Uganda gorilla permit cost: USD 800 per person (subject to change)
What to Pack for Gorilla Trekking
Porters are highly recommended for comfort and to support local employment.
- Rain jacket
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Light rain jacket
- Long-sleeved shirts and trousers
- Gardening gloves (for gripping vegetation)
- Insect repellent
- Camera (no flash photography)
- Small backpack
- Reusable water bottle
Best Time to visit
Gorilla trekking is available year-round.
Best conditions (dry seasons):
June to September
December to February
These dry seasons offer easier hiking conditions. However, the green season provides lush landscapes and fewer visitors.
Green Season (Lower rates & fewer tourists)
March – May
October – November
Wildlife viewing is good throughout the year.
Travel Options & Upgrades
To improve comfort and reduce driving time, you may upgrade to:
Domestic flights from Entebbe to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips
Extra night before or after trek
Luxury lodge upgrade
Additional chimpanzee or wildlife extension
Safety & Professional Standards
Nile Abenteuer Safaris works directly with Uganda Wildlife Authority and licensed professional guides. Gorilla trekking is well regulated, safe, and conservation-focused. Your visit directly supports:
Ranger protection
Anti-poaching initiatives
Local community development
Who this safari is Ideal for
Wildlife lovers
Adventure travelers
Couples & honeymooners
Photographers
Small private groups
First-time safari visitors
It provides maximum diversity within just five days.
Health & Safety
Yellow fever vaccination required
Travel insurance recommended
Gorilla trekking rules strictly enforced
Minimum 7-meter distance from gorillas
Visitors with flu-like symptoms cannot trek
Your safety and wildlife protection are top priority.
Accommodation Options
We tailor accommodation according to your preference and budget:
All properties are selected based on safety, comfort, and proximity to the trekking sector.
Budget ($50-$90)
Community eco-lodges near the parks or inside
Clean and comfortable guesthouses
Mid-Range ($100-$250)
Forest-view lodges with private bathrooms
Hot showers and quality dining
Luxury ($250+)
Premium safari lodges with panoramic forest views
High-end service and gourmet meals
Ready to Experience Bwindi?
Contact Nile Abenteuer Safaris today and begin planning your unforgettable 5-Day Uganda Gorilla & Wildlife Safari Combo, Gorilla Trekking & Classic Uganda Wildlife Experience.
Get a free quote