Overview
Embark on a captivating 5-day Uganda Gorilla Habituation Safari, offering an intimate encounter with one of the world’s most magnificent creatures. This adventure takes you to the heart of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you will spend an unforgettable four hours with a gorilla family, learning about their behavior, habits, and also conservation efforts. The journey also includes scenic drives through Uganda’s lush landscapes, a community walk, and opportunities to explore the rich biodiversity of the park.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our safari guide and transferred to your hotel. Entebbe, nestled on the shores of Lake Victoria, is a charming city with a relaxed atmosphere. Spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps exploring the botanical gardens or visiting the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner and a briefing about the exciting adventure ahead.
Accommodation: Boma Hotel Entebbe
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 2: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After an early breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This journey, although long, is filled with picturesque views of Uganda’s rolling hills, terraced farms, and rural villages. Along the way, we will stop for lunch in Mbarara town, known for its rich agricultural produce. Continuing the drive, you will arrive at the park in the late afternoon, where you will check into your lodge and relax amidst the tranquil forest surroundings.
Driving Plan: Approximately 9-10 hours
Accommodation: Mahogany Springs Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Gorilla Habituation Experience
Today is the highlight of your safari. After an early breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla habituation. Accompanied by researchers and experienced guides, you will venture into the dense forest to find the gorilla family you will spend the next four hours with. This unique experience allows you to observe and participate in the daily activities of the gorillas, including feeding, nesting, and social interactions. It is an extraordinary opportunity to understand these majestic creatures and the efforts to protect them.
Activity Duration: 6-8 hours, including hiking and the habituation experience
Accommodation: Mahogany Springs Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Community Walk and Nature Exploration
After a leisurely breakfast, set out on a community walk to visit the Batwa pygmies. This indigenous group, originally forest dwellers, will share their traditional way of life, cultural practices, and ancient knowledge of the forest. Following the community visit, return to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, explore the park further with a guided nature walk, which also offers a chance to spot various bird species, butterflies, and other wildlife. The serene environment and rich biodiversity make this a rewarding experience.
Accommodation: Mahogany Springs Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Return to Entebbe and Departure
After breakfast, bid farewell to Bwindi and embark on the return journey to Entebbe. Enjoy a relaxed drive back, stopping for lunch en route. Upon arrival in Entebbe, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your incredible Uganda Gorilla Habituation Safari.
Driving Plan: Approximately 9-10 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Inclusions
- Airport transfers
- Ground transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Accommodation as listed in the itinerary
- Meals as specified
- Bottled water in the safari vehicle
- Services of an experienced English-speaking guide
- Gorilla habituation permit
- Community walk and nature walk fees
- Park entrance fees
Exclusions
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses (e.g., laundry, souvenirs)
- Tips and gratuities
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary