Arrive Entebbe
You’ll be met on arrival at Entebbe and then transferred to your hotel.
Trekking through the dense, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to encounter wild mountain gorillas is simply one of the most amazing wildlife experiences that you can have on the planet. This itinerary includes two days of gorilla trekking to give you the very best opportunity for a close encounter with a family of these magnificent creatures.
Consider this extension to a safari in Tanzania or Kenya.
An upgrade to Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge puts you in a remote corner of Bwindi with some of the best views out into the volcanoes region of Rwanda. It’s even possible to trek across Bwindi to get there! Inquire for details.
You’ll be met on arrival at Entebbe and then transferred to your hotel.
The Bwindi Impenetrable Forest protected area is home to some of the few remaining mountain gorillas, some of whom have been habituated to human visitors. The forests and hills around Bwindi are also home to a multitude of other primate and bird species as well. There is time this afternoon for you to meet the Batwa pygmies who have inhabited this forest for generations and who were displaced with the creation of the gorilla reserve.
Your next two days are focused on heading deep in the forest to meet wild silverback gorilla families. Your day begins with a morning briefing at the National Park headquarters to learn how to respectfully and safely observe the gorillas. Touching the animals is strictly forbidden to protect the animals from diseases. Guests may be required to wear masks or other protective equipment. Once your trackers have located the gorilla family for your group, you’ll begin your trek. Be prepared for up to 6 hours of uphill hiking, often off the trail and up to near 7,400 feet in elevation. The terrain can be muddy, slippery and steep so be prepared (it can also rain at any time)! Although this is a tough hike, the forest is home to plenty of birds and primates to keep you distracted and the views out over the countryside are magnificent.
Spending time with the gorillas is one of the most profound wildlife encounters that you can have and most guests come away changed by the experience. Be sure to have your camera at the ready to shoot video and stills in low light conditions as its often dimly lit in the forest.
Fly to Entebbe in time for your international departure flight.
Gorilla permits are an additional $800 per person per day of trekking