Experience the magic of Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest with Facile Safaris on a 5-day gorilla trekking adventure, immersing you in one of the world’s most extraordinary wildlife encounters. Home to nearly half the planet’s mountain gorillas, Bwindi offers unparalleled opportunities to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat, complemented by lush forest trails, vibrant birdlife, and rich cultural interactions with the Bakiga community. With expert guides, eco-friendly lodges, and seamless logistics, Uganda gorilla trekking tours by Facile Safaris deliver an intimate journey through the misty forests of the “Pearl of Africa,” blending adventure, conservation, and cultural discovery.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Journey to Bwindi Begins
Your adventure starts as you arrive at Entebbe International Airport, where a Facile Safaris guide greets you and arranges a domestic flight or private transfer to Kihihi airstrip near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Upon arrival, transfer to the cozy Mahogany Springs Lodge, nestled amidst the forest’s edge with stunning views. After settling into your private room, enjoy a guided evening walk around the lodge grounds, spotting birds like the African green pigeon and learning about Bwindi’s unique ecosystem from your guide. Savor a welcome dinner featuring Ugandan dishes like matoke, relaxing under the stars as you anticipate the days ahead.
Day 2: Bwindi – First Gorilla Trekking Experience
Rise early for a thrilling gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi’s Buhoma sector, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After a briefing at the park headquarters, venture into the dense forest with expert trackers, navigating lush trails to encounter a gorilla family. Spend an hour observing these majestic creatures, marveling at their interactions, while spotting forest birds like the short-tailed warbler. Return to Mahogany Springs Lodge for a hearty lunch and a relaxing afternoon, perhaps enjoying a book on your private veranda. Enjoy a fireside dinner, sharing stories of your gorilla encounter with fellow travelers.
Day 3: Bwindi – Nature Walks and Birding
After breakfast, explore Bwindi’s rich biodiversity on a guided nature walk along the Munyaga River trail, an easier path offering scenic waterfalls and chances to spot primates like L’Hoest’s monkeys and birds such as the bar-tailed trogon. Your guide shares insights into the forest’s flora and fauna, making this a perfect complement to gorilla trekking. Return to Mahogany Springs for lunch, followed by a free afternoon to relax at the lodge or join an optional birding session, seeking the elusive African green broadbill. Savor a romantic dinner under the forest canopy, with lantern-lit ambiance enhancing the evening.
Day 4: Bwindi – Cultural Encounter and Second Gorilla Trek
Begin the day with an optional second gorilla trek in Bwindi’s Rushaga sector for a deeper experience, tracking a different gorilla family through the forest’s misty trails, or choose a relaxed morning at the lodge if one trek is sufficient. After lunch at Mahogany Springs, visit a nearby Bakiga community for a cultural experience, learning about traditional crafts like basket weaving and joining a dance performance, fostering a connection with local heritage. Return to the lodge for a leisurely evening, enjoying a special dinner featuring Ugandan wines and reflecting on your forest adventures.
Day 5: Bwindi to Entebbe – Farewell to Uganda
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Mahogany Springs, soaking in Bwindi’s misty forest views. Transfer to Kihihi airstrip for a domestic flight or private vehicle back to Entebbe, with a stop at a local craft market to browse handmade souvenirs like wooden carvings. Arrive in Entebbe for a farewell lunch at a lakeside restaurant, reflecting on your gorilla trekking and cultural experiences. A Facile Safaris representative transfers you to Entebbe International Airport, leaving you with cherished memories of Bwindi’s gorillas and Uganda’s wild beauty, courtesy of Facile Safaris Uganda.
Estimated Price for 2 People Sharing
The estimated cost for this 5-day gorilla trekking tour with Facile Safaris is $4,200 for two people sharing, based on double occupancy. This includes mid-range accommodations (Mahogany Springs Lodge), daily breakfast, select lunches and dinners, all ground and domestic air transfers, park fees, one gorilla trekking permit per person (additional trek optional at extra cost), guided nature walks, and cultural activities with expert guides. Prices exclude international flights, additional meals, personal expenses, and optional activities. Rates are subject to availability and may vary by season; contact Facile Safaris for a tailored quote.
