Nestled in the southwestern corner of Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is one of the most iconic wildlife destinations in Africa. Famous for its population of endangered mountain gorillas, Bwindi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers visitors the rare and exhilarating opportunity to go gorilla trekking. This ancient rainforest, with its mist-covered hills and dense vegetation, is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
In addition to the gorillas, Bwindi is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 350 species recorded. The park’s remarkable biodiversity also includes a wide variety of primates, reptiles, and insects, making it a truly immersive rainforest experience. After an exciting trek to encounter the gorillas, nearby Lake Bunyonyi offers a peaceful and picturesque retreat. Known as the “Switzerland of Uganda,” Lake Bunyonyi is a serene, crater lake surrounded by lush hills and dotted with islands. It’s an ideal place to relax and unwind after the adrenaline-packed experience of gorilla trekking.
Destination | Bwindi Forest |
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Depature | Yes Required |
Departure Time | 08.00AM |
Return Time | After 2 days |
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Morning:
7:00 AM – Departure from Kampala/Entebbe
Begin your journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The drive from Kampala or Entebbe to Bwindi takes approximately 8-9 hours, depending on road conditions. Enjoy the scenic drive through the beautiful Ugandan countryside, passing lush landscapes and villages.
1:00 PM – Arrival and Check-in at Lodge
Arrive at your lodge or camp near the park, such as Silverback Lodge or Buhoma Lodge. Check-in and relax while enjoying the serene atmosphere of the rainforest surroundings.
Afternoon:
2:30 PM – Optional Cultural Experience or Nature Walk
After checking in, you can either participate in a cultural experience with the local Batwa community or enjoy a nature walk in the forest around the lodge. The Batwa, who once lived as hunter-gatherers in Bwindi, share fascinating insights into their culture and way of life.
6:00 PM – Dinner and Relaxation
Return to your lodge for dinner. Enjoy the peaceful setting and prepare for the exciting gorilla trekking experience the next day.
Morning:
6:00 AM – Early Breakfast and Transfer to Trekking Point
After an early breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for briefing. You’ll be assigned to a gorilla group and meet your experienced guide.
8:00 AM – Gorilla Trekking Begins
Embark on your gorilla trekking adventure. The trek may take anywhere from 1 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas, but the reward is immense. Once you find the gorilla family, you’ll spend an hour with them, observing their behavior, interactions, and the fascinating dynamics of these gentle giants. It’s a truly unforgettable experience.
Afternoon:
12:30 PM – Return to Lodge and Lunch
After your trek, return to your lodge for a well-deserved lunch. You’ll have the opportunity to reflect on your extraordinary encounter with the gorillas.
2:30 PM – Optional Nature Walk or Visit to the Local Community
After lunch, you can take a nature walk in the surrounding forest or visit the nearby community for a cultural exchange. The walk offers a chance to explore Bwindi’s rich flora and fauna, while the community visit allows you to engage with the Batwa people and learn about their traditional practices.
6:00 PM – Dinner and Relaxation
Return to the lodge for dinner, and unwind after a full day of adventure.
Morning:
7:00 AM – Breakfast and Departure for Lake Bunyonyi
After breakfast, check out of your lodge and begin the scenic drive to Lake Bunyonyi, a 2-3 hour journey. The route offers breathtaking views of the rolling hills, terraced farmlands, and the tranquil lake that awaits you.
10:30 AM – Arrival at Lake Bunyonyi
Upon arrival at Lake Bunyonyi, check into your lakeside lodge, such as Lake Bunyonyi Overland Resort or Bunyonyi View Resort. Take in the stunning views of the lake surrounded by hills, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Afternoon:
12:30 PM – Lunch with Lake Views
Enjoy a delicious lunch at your lakeside lodge, overlooking the serene waters of Lake Bunyonyi.
2:00 PM – Boat Ride on Lake Bunyonyi
After lunch, embark on a relaxing boat ride on the lake. Explore some of the small islands scattered across the lake, such as Akampene Island (also known as “Punishment Island”) and Bushara Island. This peaceful boat ride offers a chance to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of this picturesque location.
4:00 PM – Leisure Time at Lake Bunyonyi
Spend your afternoon at leisure, either lounging by the lake, hiking the hills around the lake for stunning views, or simply relaxing at your lodge.
Evening:
6:00 PM – Return to Kampala/Entebbe
After a relaxing day, check out of your lodge and start the journey back to Kampala or Entebbe. The drive will take about 6-7 hours.
8:00 PM – Arrival in Kampala/Entebbe
You will arrive back in Kampala or Entebbe by the evening, marking the end of your unforgettable Bwindi & Bunyonyi Gorilla Trekking adventure.
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