Luxury Fly-in Gorilla Safari to Bwindi
3 Days Uganda Fly-in Gorilla Safari
Safari Overview
3 Days Fly-in Gorilla Safari to Bwindi
This 3 Days Fly-in Gorilla Safari to Bwindi is ideal for travelers with limited time who wish to see the rare and endangered Mountain Gorillas and meet the indigenous Batwa tribe. The journey begins with a scenic flight over Uganda’s stunning highlands, offering breathtaking views of rolling hills and lush valleys. Upon arrival, drive through charming local villages to the edge of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where you will join a gorilla trekking adventure, observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Spend two nights in luxurious lodges, with time to explore the surrounding forest and its unique wildlife. On the final day, drive back to Kihihi airstrip for your flight to Entebbe. Uganda is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to over 1,000 species, including the rare shoebill and the striking grey crowned crane. With professional guides, custom safari vehicles, and carefully arranged itineraries, this safari combines comfort, adventure, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
What Makes This Trip Special
- Save time with short domestic flights instead of long car journeys
- Meet the rare mountain gorillas during a guided trek in Bwindi National Park
- Meet the Batwa tribe
- Stay in a cozy lodge in the forest
Itinerary In Brief
Day 1: Scheduled flight to Kihihi and road transfer to Bwindi.
Day 2: Gorilla trekking and optional afternoon activities.
Day 3: Road transfer to Kihihi and scheduled flight to Entebbe.
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Itinerary In Detail
Day 1: Arrival at Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will board your scheduled domestic flight to Kihihi Airstrip, a journey of approximately one hour depending on aircraft and routing.
At Kihihi, your Choose Uganda Safaris guide will meet you and transfer you by road to Buhoma Lodge, located within the heart of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The scenic two-hour drive winds through picturesque villages and lush mountainous terrain, offering glimpses of rural life along the way.
Buhoma Lodge is an intimate, eco-friendly retreat perfectly positioned at the forest’s edge. Its ten spacious wooden chalets each feature a private veranda with sweeping views of the forest, where the sounds of birds and monkeys greet you at dawn. The elevated central lounge, bar, and dining area, constructed using sustainable materials, provide a welcoming space to unwind, complete with a cosy fireplace for cooler evenings. The lodge’s proximity to the gorilla trekking trail allows for occasional sightings of gorillas and the resident L’Hoest’s monkeys wandering the gardens.
Time permitting, you may choose to visit the Batwa Empowerment Village, where you will meet Batwa elders and their families to learn about their forest-based lifestyle, traditional practices, and unique cultural rituals. Demonstrations may include fire-making with sticks or target practice with traditional bows and arrows.
Alternatively, you may take a guided forest walk lasting three to four hours, exploring the lush trails and observing the region’s diverse flora and fauna, including monkeys, birds, and other wildlife.
Accommodation at Buhoma Lodge is on a full board basis, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with house drinks available (excluding premium brands). All transfers and activities as described in the itinerary are included, ensuring a seamless and comfortable introduction to the wonders of Bwindi.
Day 2: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
After an early breakfast at Buhoma Lodge, you will travel to the Park Headquarters in Bwindi Forest to meet your guides for the day. Accompanied by experienced rangers and trackers, your group will begin the gorilla trek, navigating the dense rainforest along steep mountain slopes. Trekking can range from 45 minutes to eight hours at high altitudes, under the African sun, and is physically demanding—but the reward is extraordinary.
When you finally encounter the mountain gorillas, the moment is both humbling and exhilarating. Spending an hour quietly observing these gentle giants is an unforgettable encounter that is carefully managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Each gorilla family is visited by a single group of no more than eight guests per day, accompanied by a head ranger, security personnel, and trackers.
Optional porters, drawn from local communities, may assist during the trek, providing additional support while contributing directly to local livelihoods. Gorilla sightings are not guaranteed, though success rates exceed 95%, making this a rare and remarkable wildlife interaction.
Should time and energy allow, the afternoon may be spent on a guided Buhoma Community Village Walk, visiting traditional homes, local schools, and banana breweries, or meeting village elders and medicinal healers. This three-to-four-hour walk is tailored to your interests, offering a meaningful connection with the community while following scenic village trails.
Guests are advised to wear long trousers and a long-sleeved shirt over a t-shirt, with sturdy hiking boots and long socks tucked over the trousers or into gators. A day bag with waterproofs, two to three litres of water, and a packed lunch is essential. Photography is permitted, though flash is strictly prohibited.
Accommodation for the night remains at Buhoma Lodge on a full board basis, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with house drinks included (excluding premium brands). All transfers and activities described in the itinerary, including the packed lunch for the trek, are included, ensuring a seamless day immersed in the heart of Bwindi.
Day 3: Departure from Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Following breakfast at Buhoma Lodge, you will depart Bwindi Forest and transfer to Kihihi Airstrip for your scheduled flight back to Entebbe Airport for your homeward flight. The morning allows a final chance to soak in the forest’s serene atmosphere before your journey.
The Price Includes
- Overnight stays in Uganda’s finest accommodation
- Three domestic flights within Uganda
- All meals as indicated in the itinerary
- Most excursions listed in the itinerary
- All entrance fees to national parks
- All transfers throughout the tour
- One gorilla trekking permit per person
Exclusions (Not Included)
- International flights to and from Uganda
- Drinks unless specified in the itinerary
- Visa fees for Uganda
- Optional excursions not listed in the itinerary
- Travel insurance
- Tips
Important Information
Transportation During the Trip
Unlike traditional overland tours, this itinerary uses local flight to move efficiently to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Upon arrival, a lodge vehicle will be ready to escort you to your accommodation.
Trip Intensity
Uganda sits on the equator, but the high altitude keeps temperatures pleasant, typically ranging from 23°C to 28°C. The trip is designed to be accessible to travelers with a normal level of fitness. Gorilla trekking is a physically demanding experience. Treks may last anywhere from two to seven hours, depending on the location of the gorillas. If you have concerns about your fitness or stamina, we strongly recommend consulting with us prior to your trip.
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