6-Day Gorillas & Walking Safari in Uganda

6 Days

Overview

This immersive 6-day safari is tailored for adventurous travelers eager to encounter mountain gorillas and explore Uganda’s beautiful highland trails on foot. From serene canoe rides to community encounters and forest hikes, this journey blends nature, culture, and conservation into one unforgettable wilderness experience.

Highlights

  • Gorilla tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
  • Scenic drive through Lake Mburo and the Kigezi Highlands
  • Optional cultural encounters with Batwa and Nkuringo communities
  • Guided walking safaris and forest hikes
  • Stunning views of the Virunga volcanoes and Lake Mutanda
  • Optional cultural encounters with Batwa and Nkuringo communities

Itinerary

  • Day
    01

    Arrival in Entebbe & Optional Mabamba Swamp Tour

    Arrive at Entebbe International Airport and transfer to Papyrus Guest House for a restful start to your journey.
    Optional activity: Visit Mabamba Swamp in the afternoon to spot the iconic shoebill stork and enjoy a sundowner on Lake Victoria.

    • Accommodation: Papyrus Guest House (Garden Room)
    • Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast

  • Day
    02

    Drive to Lake Mburo National Park

    After breakfast, head west across Uganda’s rolling hills and banana plantations. Stop at the Equator for photos and visit a traditional drum workshop in Mpambire.
    Arrive at Lake Mburo for lunch, then enjoy a game drive spotting zebra, impala, and buffalo.
    Optional: Join a short boat safari, bike ride, or guided nature walk in the park.

    • Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock Lodge (Cottage)
    • Meal Plan: Full Board

  • Day
    03

    Scenic Transfer to Bwindi via the Highlands

    Enjoy a morning game drive as you exit the park, then drive through the beautiful Kigezi Highlands toward Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
    Arrive in Nkuringo by late afternoon and settle into your lodge overlooking the forest and volcanoes.
    Optional: Take a guided village walk or birdwatch in Nombe Forest.

    • Accommodation: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge (Standard Cottage)
    • Meal Plan: Full Board

  • Day
    04

    Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

    Start early with a briefing at the park HQ before setting off into the rainforest to track a family of endangered mountain gorillas.
    Spend up to one magical hour observing them in their natural habitat—an unforgettable and emotional experience.
    Return to the lodge to relax or take an evening stroll to the “Top of the World” viewpoint.

    • Accommodation: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
    • Meal Plan: Full Board

  • Day
    05

    Walking Safari & Lake Mutanda Canoe Adventure

    After breakfast, enjoy a guided hike through local villages and hills toward Lake Mutanda (approx. 2–3 hours, 9 km).
    At the lake, hop into a dugout canoe for a gentle 1.5–2-hour paddle across the serene waters with views of the Virunga volcanoes.
    Meet your driver and transfer back to the lodge.
    Optional: Swap with a guided Batwa forest walk or volcano trek.

    • Accommodation: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
    • Meal Plan: Full Board

  • Day
    06

    Departure – Transfer to Entebbe

    After breakfast, begin the scenic journey back to Entebbe (approx. 8–9 hours by road).
    Lunch en route and transfer to the airport in time for your evening international flight.
    Optional: Add a night in Entebbe or a day room for comfort.

    • Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch

Cost Includes

  • Accommodation and meal plan as described.
  • 1 Gorilla permit per person ($800 value)
  • All transfers & road transport in private 4x4 vehicle
  • All the excursions and activities indicated above under the supervision of a
  • professional experienced English-speaking guide.
  • Lodging in eco-lodges & guesthouses
  • All meals as indicated in itinerary
  • Drinking water in the vehicle
  • AMREF emergency evacuation insurance

Cost Excludes

  • International flights
  • Uganda Entry Visa fee
  • Optional activities (e.g., canoe, forest hike, Batwa walk)
  • Tips, drinks & personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Extra night/day room in Entebbe

Route Map