3 Days gorilla trekking Safari tour in Uganda

Planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip to see mountain gorillas? This 3-day gorilla trekking safari in Uganda offers a well-rounded, immersive experience that combines unforgettable wildlife encounters with cultural insights. While the journey involves long travel hours, the rewards of witnessing these gentle giants in their natural habitat make it worth every minute.

What we love about this tour is its personalized touch—with a private guide leading the way, your experience feels tailored and relaxed. The trip includes all essentials like permits, accommodation, meals, and transfers, which means no hidden costs or surprises. Plus, you’ll enjoy the scenic ride through Uganda’s diverse landscapes, from rainforests to lush terraced hills. The visit to Lake Bunyonyi adds a peaceful, scenic finish to the adventure.

One thing to consider is the long drives involved, especially on Day 1 and Day 3, which can be tiring if you’re not used to extensive road trips. This tour is best suited for travelers who are comfortable with some travel hours in exchange for a close encounter with rare wildlife and authentic local culture.

This safari is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and anyone craving a genuine, behind-the-scenes look at Uganda’s natural beauty. If you’re after a meaningful experience that combines wildlife, culture, and comfort, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

• Authentic gorilla encounters in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, with tracking guided by expert local guides.
• All-inclusive price covers permits, accommodations, meals, and transfers, making planning straightforward.
• Comfortable transportation via private 4×4 vehicle ensures smooth travel across Uganda’s diverse terrain.
• Cultural insights with a Batwa community visit and scenic stop at Lake Bunyonyi.
• Long travel hours might be tiring, but they offer a chance to see Uganda’s stunning landscapes.
• Highly rated guides like Hudson and Joyous are praised for their knowledge, safety, and friendliness, enhancing the experience.

An In-Depth Look at the 3-Day Gorilla Trekking Tour

Day 1: From Entebbe to Bwindi – Scenic Drives and Cultural Touches

Starting from Entebbe, you’ll be greeted by a friendly Dav Safaris staff member who briefs you on the exciting days ahead. The drive to Bwindi takes approximately 7 hours, but it’s far from boring. As you leave Uganda’s capital behind, expect to pass through a variety of landscapes—from vibrant rainforests to sprawling savannahs, and the iconic terraced hills of Kigezi, often called the “Switzerland of East Africa.”

Traveling in a private 4×4 grants plenty of room to relax and enjoy the views, as well as snap photos of the countryside. Reviewers often mention how “the scenery alone makes the long drive worth it,” especially as the hills seem to cascade endlessly.

Upon arrival, you’ll check into your lodge, where comfort and a warm atmosphere start your mountain adventure. The evening includes a visit to the Batwa community, a highlight for many. This cultural tour introduces visitors to forest pygmies with storytelling, traditional dances, and insights into their way of life. It’s a genuine chance to connect with Uganda’s diverse heritage before the wildlife adventures begin.

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi – The Main Event

Early morning breakfast kicks off the star of the trip: gorilla trekking. With a picnic lunch packed, you’ll head to the park offices for a briefing from your expert guides, who will explain how to behave during the trek and what to expect.

Expect to hike into the forest for anywhere from 1 to 6 hours, depending on where the gorillas are located. The terrain is challenging but manageable, often involving steep climbs and dense vegetation. Trekking at altitudes of over 7,500 feet adds to the adventure—and the challenge. But as one reviewer puts it, “the hike is tough, but every step is worth it when you see the gentle giants.”

Reviewers rave about how guides like Joyous and Benjamin help make the trek feel safe and enjoyable, providing insightful commentary along the way. The actual gorilla encounters are described as magical—seeing a family of 12 gorillas, with some rubbing up against trekkers or even Silverbacks looming in the background, creates an experience you’ll never forget.

Many mention how knowledgeable guides enhance the trek, sharing facts about gorilla behavior, conservation efforts, and the forest ecosystem. The permits are included, ensuring that your chance to see these primates is secured, and the whole process is seamless from start to finish.

Day 3: Return Journey and Scenic Wrap-up

After breakfast, it’s time to head back towards Entebbe. The drive again takes around 7-8 hours, but the scenery continues to impress. There’s a midway stop at the Equator Line for fun experiments and photo ops—an iconic snapshot of your African adventure.

Most reviewers note that the long drives are tiring but also offer time to reflect on the incredible wildlife encounters. The trip concludes with a drop-off at Entebbe airport around 6 pm, making it suitable for travelers with evening flights.

Valuing the Experience: Is it Worth the Price?

At $2,600 per person, this tour might seem steep at first glance. However, considering the all-inclusive package—permits, accommodation, meals, transfers, and cultural activities—it’s quite competitive, especially given the exclusivity and quality of the experience.

Seeing mountain gorillas is often a once-in-a-lifetime moment, and licensed permits are limited, adding to the tour’s value. Many travelers mention how guides’ insights and personalized service elevate the experience beyond just a wildlife sighting.

The comfortable transportation in a private vehicle and the accommodations in scenic lodges ensure you’re relaxed and well-cared-for before and after the treks. Plus, the inclusion of cultural visits and Lake Bunyonyi adds variety, making the trip feel complete and well-rounded.

What Reviewers Say

One reviewer describes the tour as “an incredible 3-day journey” that combines gorilla tracking, canoeing, and cultural interactions. They highlight how the guides “had confidence and helpfulness” which made the experience smooth and memorable.

Another mentions how the guides “shared so much about their culture” and helped organize porters, making the trek more accessible. The scenic drives and peaceful lakeside stop on Lake Bunyonyi are often praised for adding a relaxing, scenic dimension to the adventure.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

Transportation: Expect a private 4×4 vehicle that provides comfort and space; the long drives, though tiring, are part of the adventure, offering views of Uganda’s diverse landscapes.

Timing: The tour starts with your arrival in Entebbe, with a full day dedicated to transfer and cultural visit, followed by two days of trekking and sightseeing.

Guides: Guides like Hudson, Joyous, and Benjamin are highly rated for their knowledge, safety, and friendly demeanor, making the experience more meaningful.

Inclusions: The price includes permits, accommodations, meals, transfers, and cultural activities, which simplifies planning and avoids hidden costs.

Duration: The 3-day schedule is tight but well-paced, balancing travel, adventure, and relaxation.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This safari suits wildlife lovers eager for an authentic gorilla experience, especially those comfortable with long travel days. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers who value cultural encounters and scenic road trips alongside wildlife viewing. If you’re seeking a stress-free, inclusive package that delivers high-quality guides and memorable encounters, this tour offers excellent value.

While it involves some strenuous hiking, most reviews highlight the guides’ support and the breathtaking rewards. Plus, the cultural side trips make it more than just a wildlife safari—they’re an enriching window into Uganda’s vibrant traditions.

The Sum Up

This 3-day gorilla trekking safari in Uganda strikes a nice balance between adventure, culture, and comfort. The inclusion of permits, meals, transportation, and cultural activities means you can focus on enjoying the moment without worrying about hidden costs or logistics. Expect long drives, but also stunning scenery that makes every hour worth it.

The highly praised guides, like Hudson and Joyous, elevate the experience, offering insider knowledge and safety. The opportunity to see mountain gorillas in their natural environment—sometimes just a few meters away—is truly a life-changing moment that justifies the investment.

If you’re after an authentic, well-organized, and immersive Ugandan adventure, this tour offers a fantastic value. It’s best suited for those who want to combine wildlife encounters with cultural insight and don’t mind a bit of travel time to get there.

FAQ

Is the price of $2,600 per person all-inclusive?
Yes, the price covers permits, accommodation, meals, transfers, and cultural activities, making it a comprehensive package.

How long is each gorilla trek?
Trekkings can take anywhere from 1 to 6 hours depending on the gorilla family’s location and terrain, but guides do their best to make the experience manageable.

Are guides experienced and knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews consistently praise guides like Hudson, Joyous, and Benjamin for their confidence, safety awareness, and insights into Uganda’s wildlife and culture.

What should I pack for the trek?
While not detailed in the info, expect to need comfortable hiking shoes, rain gear, long sleeves, and insect repellent, given the forest terrain and altitude.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Since it’s a private tour, solo travelers will enjoy personalized attention and flexibility.

Can I book this tour if I have limited time?
The 3-day schedule is tight but feasible if you have a window between flights or a short layover in Uganda.

What cultural experiences are included?
A visit to the Batwa community offers authentic insight into Uganda’s forest pygmies, adding cultural depth to your wildlife adventure.

How are the accommodations?
Most reviewers mention the lodges as comfortable and scenic, providing a relaxing retreat after active days.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Gorilla trekking, cultural visits, scenic drives, Lake Bunyonyi canoe ride, and the chance to see Uganda’s diverse landscapes and wildlife.

Is there a risk of hidden costs?
No—since transfers, permits, accommodation, and meals are included, you won’t face surprises during your trip.

This safari offers a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation—perfect for anyone eager to see Uganda’s iconic mountain gorillas in a respectful and well-organized way.