In this 4-day Bwindi Impenetrable and Lake Bunyonyi safari, you will have an unforgettable reunion with mountain gorillas in the forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, followed by relaxation at Lake Bunyonyi, surrounded by over 27 islands and a wide range of bird-life.
This trip packs a lot into 3 days and 2 nights. The safari starts and ends in Entebbe, or any other location agreed in advance, and offers a comfortable, well-organized trip at a fair price.
4-Day Gorillas and Lake Bunyonyi Tour Highlights
- Day 1: Pickup and transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
- Day 2: Morning gorilla trekking and Batwa encounter
- Day 3: Depart Bwindi for Lake Bunyonyi, traditional canoeing experience
- Day 4: Guided nature walk and departure
Detailed 4-Day Gorillas and Lake Bunyonyi Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Pickup and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Meet your expert driver-guide for a briefing and a glass of juice before setting off on a 5 to 6 hour scenic drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas, which share close to 98% of their DNA with humans.
The drive is smooth, with plenty to see along the way, including the landscape, local infrastructure, long-horned cattle, and scattered homesteads. On arrival, head straight to your lodge for dinner and rest.
Day 2: Morning Gorilla Trekking and Batwa Encounter
Start the day with a full breakfast before heading to the sector headquarters for registration and a briefing. The pre-trek briefing starts at 8:00am and runs about 30 minutes, with park rangers explaining forest rules and assigning members to their gorilla families. The trek itself runs 1 to 6 hours through thick forest and hills, with chances to spot other primates, tree species, and birds along the way.
Once you find the gorillas, you get one hour to watch, take photos, and ask questions. Highlights often include the dominant silverback, playful juveniles, and mothers feeding their young.
After the trek, return to the lodge to rest, followed by lunch and an optional Batwa cultural encounter, with traditional stories and songs. The day closes with dinner and a peaceful night’s rest.
Day 3: Depart Bwindi for Lake Bunyonyi, Traditional Canoeing Experience
After breakfast, join your driver for a 2 to 3 hour scenic drive to Lake Bunyonyi, known for being free of bilharzia and home to over 70 bird species alongside a wide range of plant life.
Enjoy lunch on arrival, followed by a canoe trip on the lake, with your guide pointing out the different islands and their history. Return to the lodge to relax and listen to birdsong as dinner is prepared, closing out the day.
Day 4: Guided Nature Walk and Departure
After breakfast, take a guided nature walk around the lake, home to over 27 islands. Bring your camera for the rolling hills, clear waters, and varied bird species along the way.
After 1 to 2 hours on the walk, return to the lodge to collect your luggage for the 5 to 6 hour drive to the airport for your flight, with a stop at the equator for photos, lunch, and a look at the equator line demonstration.
What to Bring
Pack hiking boots, a rain jacket, long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, gardening gloves, insect repellent, sunscreen, drinking water, and energy snacks for the trek. A camera and binoculars help you capture the gorillas and other wildlife along the way.
What’s Included
This tour includes transport, a professional driver-guide, accommodation, and your gorilla trekking permit. Personal expenses are not included unless agreed at booking.
