Overview on 2 day bwindi gorilla trek
This 2-day Bwindi Gorilla Trek offers you a rare chance to encounter the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Located in southwestern Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. This UNESCO World Heritage Site provides an exceptional opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures up close while also enjoying the rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes of the park.
This short yet enriching safari is perfect for travelers with limited time who still wish to experience Uganda’s most iconic wildlife adventure. The tour includes a gorilla trekking permit, expert guides, comfortable accommodation, and transportation from and back to Entebbe or Kampala. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, an adventurer, or a nature lover, this tour guarantees an unforgettable experience.
Highlights on 2 day bwindi gorilla trek
- Witness the rare and endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat
- Explore the UNESCO-listed Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Enjoy a scenic drive through Uganda’s beautiful countryside
- Stop at the Equator for a unique photo opportunity
- Learn from expert guides and park rangers about gorilla conservation efforts
- Experience Ugandan hospitality with comfortable accommodation and delicious meals
- Receive a trekking certificate as a memorable souvenir
- Early Breakfast and Briefing: Wake up early for breakfast and head to the park headquarters for a mandatory briefing from the Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. The briefing covers the rules and guidelines for trekking, gorilla behavior, and safety measures.
- Gorilla Trekking Adventure: Led by experienced trackers and guides, you will venture deep into the dense forest in search of a habituated gorilla family. Trekking can last anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas.
- Encounter with Mountain Gorillas: Once you find the gorillas, you will spend an awe-inspiring one hour observing them in their natural habitat. Watch as they feed, play, groom each other, and interact. This intimate experience provides unparalleled photographic opportunities and lifelong memories.
- Certificate of Participation: After the trek, you will return to the park headquarters to receive a certificate, a token of your incredible experience with the mountain gorillas.
- Lunch and Return Journey: Enjoy lunch at your lodge before beginning the return journey to Kampala or Entebbe. Expect a late arrival in Kampala or Entebbe, around 7:00-9:00 PM.
Itinerary
Day 1: Transfer from Kampala/Entebbe to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Early Morning Pick-up: Your adventure begins with an early morning departure from Kampala or Entebbe at around 6:00 AM. Your professional driver-guide will pick you up from your hotel or the airport and start the scenic journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
- Road Trip Through Uganda’s Countryside: The drive, approximately 8-10 hours long, takes you through the picturesque landscapes of central and western Uganda. You will pass through rolling hills, lush greenery, and rural communities, providing a glimpse into the everyday life of Ugandan people.
- Equator Stopover: A brief stop at the Uganda Equator in Kayabwe allows you to take photos, purchase souvenirs, and witness the famous water demonstration that shows the effects of being in both hemispheres.
- Lunch Break in Mbarara: A delicious lunch will be served at a reputable restaurant in Mbarara, the largest city in western Uganda. Here, you can enjoy local and international cuisine before continuing the journey.
- Arrival at Bwindi National Park: By late afternoon or early evening, you will arrive at your accommodation near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. After checking in, you can relax, enjoy the breathtaking forest views, and prepare for the next day’s adventure.
- Dinner and Briefing: A hearty dinner is served at the lodge, followed by a briefing from the lodge or guide about the next day’s gorilla trekking experience. Get an early night’s rest, as the trek demands physical endurance and early rising.
Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Buhoma Lodge, Gorilla Forest Camp
- Mid-range: Silverback Lodge, Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
- Budget: Buhoma Community Rest Camp, Rushaga Gorilla Camp
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Experience and Return to Kampala/Entebbe
- Early Breakfast and Briefing: Wake up early for breakfast and head to the park headquarters for a mandatory briefing from the Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. The briefing covers the rules and guidelines for trekking, gorilla behavior, and safety measures.
- Gorilla Trekking Adventure: Led by experienced trackers and guides, you will venture deep into the dense forest in search of a habituated gorilla family. Trekking can last anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas.
- Encounter with Mountain Gorillas: Once you find the gorillas, you will spend an awe-inspiring one hour observing them in their natural habitat. Watch as they feed, play, groom each other, and interact. This intimate experience provides unparalleled photographic opportunities and lifelong memories.
- Certificate of Participation: After the trek, you will return to the park headquarters to receive a certificate, a token of your incredible experience with the mountain gorillas.
- Lunch and Return Journey: Enjoy lunch at your lodge before beginning the return journey to Kampala or Entebbe. Expect a late arrival in Kampala or Entebbe, around 7:00-9:00 PM.
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Inclusions
- Gorilla trekking permit ($700 per person for foreign non-residents, $600 for foreign residents, and UGX 250,000 for East African citizens)
- 4×4 safari vehicle with a professional English-speaking guide
- Pick-up and drop-off in Kampala/Entebbe
- One night’s accommodation in a selected lodge
- All meals as per the itinerary
- Bottled drinking water throughout the trip
- Park entry fees
- Ranger and guide fees
- Government taxes and service fees
Exclusions
- International and domestic flights
- Visas and travel insurance
- Additional meals and drinks not mentioned in the itinerary
- Personal expenses such as tips, laundry, and souvenirs
- Optional activities not included in the itinerary
A 2-day Bwindi Gorilla Trek offers a short yet intense adventure, allowing you to witness the majestic mountain gorillas in their wild home. Despite the limited time, this tour provides an immersive wildlife experience, stunning landscapes, and cultural insights. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, this safari guarantees an unforgettable wildlife encounter that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for Uganda’s rich biodiversity.
Book your Bwindi Gorilla Trek today and embark on a life-changing journey into the heart of Africa’s most remarkable rainforest!
