3-Day Uganda Tours & Gorilla Trekking Tours 2026 /2027

Planning a 3-day tour in Uganda can be tricky—not because there are few options, but because there are so many highlights. If gorilla trekking is your priority, the choice is simple. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks are the most accessible and budget-friendly places in Africa to see wild mountain gorillas. Both parks are perfect for a 3-day Uganda safari and promise an unforgettable adventure. Uganda has much more to offer beyond gorillas. You can trek chimpanzees in Kibale Forest, go on a Big Five safari in Murchison Falls National Park, or enjoy a mix of wildlife, waterfalls, and culture. Here, you can explore the pros and cons of each option to help design your ultimate 3-day Uganda tour.

Elephants in Murchsion Falls National Park

Is 3 days enough time to see gorillas in Uganda?

Yes, three days is enough to see gorillas in Uganda. It is the minimum time needed if you travel by road from Kampala or Entebbe. The drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park takes at least ten hours, so you must stay near the park before or after the trek.

A 3-day road safari is possible but can feel rushed because of the long driving time. If you want a more relaxed trip, you can fly to the parks. This saves time but costs more. You can also add extra days and include nearby parks such as Queen Elizabeth or Kibale. Many Uganda gorilla safaris also start from Kigali, Rwanda.

From Kigali, the drive to Bwindi or Mgahinga is shorter, usually three to six hours. Another advantage is cost. Gorilla trekking permits in Uganda cost US$800, while permits in Rwanda cost US$1,500.

Where should I go on a 3-day Uganda Tour?

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is the most popular choice for a 3-day Uganda safari. It is not the only option.

If you want to see the Big Five, choose Murchison Falls National Park. This trip often includes a stop at Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch to track white rhinos. Murchison Falls is famous for its boat cruise on the Nile. You can see hippos, crocodiles, and many birds. Game drives cross open savannah. Elephants, buffalo, and giraffes are common. Lions are often seen. Leopards are possible but not guaranteed.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is another option. It has elephants, buffalo, lions, and hippos. It is also home to tree-climbing lions in Ishasha. However, it works best when combined with Bwindi on a longer safari. Kibale Forest National Park is ideal for chimpanzee trekking. It is a good choice if gorilla permits are too expensive. The park also has crater lakes, monkeys, and rich birdlife.

For adventure lovers, head east to Jinja. White-water rafting on the Nile is the main highlight. You can also visit Sipi Falls on Mount Elgon. The scenery is beautiful and peaceful. Uganda offers something for every traveler. Gorillas, chimps, savannah wildlife, or adventure. A 3-day safari can be truly unforgettable.

What Kind of Accommodations Can I Expect?

Uganda offers many accommodation options for every budget and travel style. For travelers who want to save money, camping is the cheapest choice.

Well-organized campsites are available in and around most national parks and major attractions. For more comfort, there are many mid-range lodges and tented camps. These offer friendly service, comfortable rooms, and a true safari feel at reasonable prices.

At the high end, Uganda has some of the best luxury lodges in East Africa. They combine excellent service with beautiful locations and elegant bush-style design.

Many luxury lodges offer wide views, eco-friendly buildings, and personal details that make each stay special. No matter where you stay, most safari lodges in Uganda operate on a full-board basis, so meals are included. Whether you sleep in a tent, a lodge, or a luxury camp, you can expect comfort, good food, and warm Ugandan hospitality throughout your trip.

What is the best time of the year for a safari in Uganda?

The best time for a safari in Uganda is during the two dry seasons.

These run from June to August and from December to February. During these months, the weather is mostly sunny and travel is easier. Animals also gather near water, which makes wildlife viewing better.

September and October are also good months to visit. They sit just outside the main dry seasons and still offer pleasant conditions. The long rainy season lasts from March to May.

April is usually the wettest month. Heavy rain can make roads and forest trails muddy, especially for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking. Some activities may be delayed by storms. Rain is less of a problem in savannah parks like Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth. Wildlife viewing there is possible throughout the year.

Uganda is a year-round safari destination. However, the dry months offer the most comfortable and rewarding experience, especially if you plan to track gorillas or chimpanzees.

How much will a 3-day Uganda safari tour cost?

The cost of a 3-day Uganda safari varies a lot. Prices usually range from about US$650 to more than US$2,500 per person. This normally includes park fees, activities, accommodation, meals, transport, and guide services. The final price depends on your travel style and chosen activities.

Gorilla trekking is the biggest cost factor. A single gorilla permit costs US$800 per person. Because of this, the cheapest 3-day gorilla safari usually costs between US$1,450 and US$1,800 per person.

Other 3-day safaris are much more affordable. Budget trips to parks like Murchison Falls often cost between US$600 and US$900 per person. Accommodation choice also affects the price.

Budget camps cost less, while luxury lodges cost more. Flying instead of driving can also increase the total cost. In short, Uganda offers 3-day safaris for every budget. You can choose anything from a simple wildlife trip to an exclusive gorilla trekking experience.