3-day gorilla trekking Uganda Bwindi Impenetrable Forest fly-in safari tour

3 Day Gorilla Trekking Uganda Tour | Bwindi Fly-In Safari

Tour pricing range from $2,145 USD per person (group of 12), $2,860 USD per person (group of 6) to $3,575 USD per person (2 travelers)
To confirm booking a 40% deposit plus the trekking permit cost of $825 USD per person is required. Full pricing by group size is in the interactive table below.

About This 3-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Tour

This 3-day gorilla trekking Uganda tour is designed for travelers with limited time who want a world-class wildlife experience done properly. You fly from Entebbe to Kihihi on a scenic domestic flight, then transfer into Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for an efficient, well-managed arrival that protects your schedule without cutting corners on quality. Accommodation is at an upper-mid-range lodge selected for comfort and strong location, with a supplement available to upgrade, or to shift to a lower mid-range option.

Day 2 is the centerpiece: mountain gorilla trekking with Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers and trackers. After a detailed briefing, you trek into Bwindi’s ancient rainforest to locate a habituated gorilla family, then spend a full hour in their presence observing their behavior up close in one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in Africa. Porters are available and strongly recommended for added comfort and to support you.

On Day 3, you return by scenic flight from Kihihi to Entebbe, an ideal finish for tight timelines and onward connections. Depending on flight times, the itinerary can include meaningful add-ons: a stop at the Pangolin Rescue Center in Buhoma, an optional visit to Ride-4-A-Woman for hands-on cultural activities including weaving, basketry, and guided village experiences, and time to browse nearby arts and crafts shops. Back to the Source Tours staff is available to answer any questions throughout your journey.

Apply for your Uganda visa at: immigration.go.ug/services/tourist-visa

Pearl of Africa · Uganda

3-Days: Gorilla Trekking Journey

What Does This Journey Cost?

Select your group size below. The more you travel together, the more value every traveler gains. All pricing reflects upper mid-range estimates, per person, in USD.

Upper Mid-Range Estimates. These figures are a planning guide only. Final pricing is confirmed at booking and may vary based on travel dates, availability, and seasonal demand. Back to the Source Tours will provide a personalized quote upon inquiry.

2 PAX

$3,575

per person

4 PAX

$3,245

per person

6 PAX

$2,860

per person

8 PAX

$2,760

per person

10 PAX

$2,670

per person

12 PAX

$2,145

per person

Traveling as a pair gives you the most exclusive, personalised experience this journey has to offer.

All prices are upper mid-range estimates in USD and subject to change based on travel dates, availability, and seasonal demand. A confirmed quote will be provided upon booking inquiry.

All pricing is based on double occupancy, two travelers sharing one room whether single or twin beds. Solo travelers are warmly welcome; a single supplement applies and typically ranges from $500 to $700 depending on tour dates. Back to the Source Tours organizes groups of up to 12 travelers for maximum impact, and larger groups can also be accommodated.

Let the Journey Begin!

Day 1: Entebbe to Bwindi, Scenic Flight

Start early in Entebbe and transfer to the airport for your scenic domestic flight toward southwestern Uganda. From the air, the country opens up in layers, lake edges, patchwork farmland, rolling hills, and then the deeper green of the forest belt as you approach Kihihi Airstrip, the gateway to Bwindi.

On landing, meet your professional guide for the road transfer into Bwindi. Depending on flight timing, you may have time to add meaningful stops along the way, such as a visit to the Pangolin Rescue Center, where you learn about protection and rehabilitation efforts for pangolins, widely recognized as the most heavily trafficked wild mammals in the world.

If the schedule allows, you can also stop by Ride-4-A-Woman for optional cultural activities, including weaving, basketry and handicrafts, cooking with local ingredients, tailoring and fabric-making, cultural dance and storytelling, and guided village experiences.

Arrive at your lodge, an upper-mid-range property selected for comfort, location, and service. Settle in, enjoy dinner, and rest early, tomorrow is the reason you came.

Accommodation note: This itinerary is priced around an upper-mid-range lodge; a supplement can be applied to upgrade to a higher-end property, or to shift to a lower mid-range option.

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

After an early breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for your briefing with Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. You’ll be assigned a habituated gorilla family, and your ranger team will outline trekking etiquette and what to expect. Porters are available and highly recommended, they support local livelihoods and make the trek significantly more comfortable.

Then you enter Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, one of Africa’s most biodiverse rainforests. The trek duration varies based on the gorillas’ movement, but the outcome is extraordinary: a full hour in the presence of a mountain gorilla family, observing them at close range as they feed, rest, interact, and care for young. It’s a rare wildlife experience that feels both powerful and deeply personal.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Tucked away in the misty highlands of southwestern Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is more than just a destination, it’s a profound experience. Perched on the edge of the Great Rift Valley, Bwindi is a [...]

Return to the lodge to refresh and enjoy a relaxed afternoon. If you still have energy and timing allows, you can browse nearby arts and crafts shops for locally made pieces with real stories behind them, or schedule a short community visit. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Day 3: Fly Back to Entebbe, Smooth Finish for Tight Schedules

After breakfast, transfer back to Kihihi Airstrip for your return scenic flight to Entebbe. This routing is ideal for travelers with limited time because it compresses long-distance driving into a fast, comfortable connection, and often positions you well for onward travel later the same day, depending on the flight schedule.

Arrive in Entebbe and continue with your international departure or onward plans. If you have extra hours before your flight, we can recommend light add-ons such as a relaxed lakeside meal or a short local stop that fits neatly into your timing.

Back to the Source Tours staff is readily available to answer any questions.

Checkout these 5 blog post on activities you can partake in while in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest:

Pangolin Rescue Centre Buhoma Uganda: Protecting the World’s Most Trafficked Animal

Inside the Pangolin Rescue Centre in Buhoma Uganda: how the world's most trafficked mammal is being protected near Bwindi. [...]

Ride-4-A-Woman Bwindi Uganda: Women’s Community Initiative Near Gorilla Forest

Ride-4-A-Woman near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: how this Uganda nonprofit empowers women through weaving and cultural tourism. [...]

Batwa Village Tour Bwindi Uganda: A Cultural Experience Rooted in History and Resilience

The Batwa Empowerment Village Tour near Bwindi: meet Uganda's indigenous forest people and support community conservation. [...]

Hiking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: On-Foot Trails Beyond Gorilla Trekking

Guided hiking trails, forest walks, and nature experiences inside Bwindi Impenetrable National Park beyond the gorilla trek. [...]

Conservation Through Public Health: Protecting Gorillas in Uganda

How public health programs protect mountain gorillas in Uganda: the conservation link between community health and wildlife. [...]

More info about this tour

Included:

Included in this 3-day gorilla trekking Uganda tour:

Accommodation as per the Itinerary
- 1 night at mid-range lodge in Entebbe (Day 1)
- 2 nights at an upper mid-range lodge in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Day 2)
All meals as per the Itinerary
Uganda Wildlife Authority gorilla trekking permit($825.00 USD per person) included in tour price. Settled at the time of your 40% booking deposit. Back to the Source Tours
manages the full permit process.
- Minimum trekking age permitted to go gorilla trekking is 15 years of age
Return domestic flights: Entebbe to Kihihi Airstrip and return
Professional Uganda Wildlife Authority certified driver-guide throughout
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park entry fees
All meet and greet services
All arrival and departure transfers to the airport
24-hour ground support from Back to the Source Tours team
Reusable stainless steel water bottle (Back to the Source Tours sustainability commitment)

Not Included:

International flights
Visa fees: Any visa requirements for entry into Uganda
Travel insurance: Not included but highly recommended
Personal expenses: Costs for souvenirs, snacks, and drinks outside of provided meals
Optional activities not mentioned in the “Included Section”
Tips and gratuities: For guides and lodge staff
Medical expenses: Any incurred medical costs

Choosing Your Accommodation:

We offer a range of accommodation options to suit your preferences and budget. Our safari packages always includes a comfortable and well-equipped upper mid-range camps that provide a truely great African safari experience. Some of these partners offer free massages, fullboard with an all-inclusive selection of soft drinks, beers and wines.

If you’re seeking a more luxurious experience, we offer upgraded options for the same itinerary at a slightly higher cost. These luxurious camps/resorts/lodges provide additional amenities, such as private plunge pools, more spacious accommodation and usually your own dedicated concierge rep.

All our hotel partners are excellent and operate a very sustainble business and we love that. You will love them too. Their are also some good mid-range options that can reduce the cost.

We can organize this very itinerary with utter luxury options all within the same distance to the gorilla trekking headquarters.

Optional Activities:

In Entebbe and nearby cities:

Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary:
- $110+ per person half day visit
A list of Entebbe-based activities
A nearby Kampala-based city tour
A list of nearby Jinja-based activities

In Bwindi Impenetrable Forest:

Shoebill Mabamba Swamp Trekking in Enebbe
Pangolin Rescue Center visit in Bwindi
Batwa Community Tour in Bwindi
Ride-4-A-Woman activities
Discover Bwindi jems on-foot
Visit Conservation Gorilla Initiatives

Tour Pricing by Group Size

Group travel offers exceptional value, and with Back to the Source Tours, the savings can be significant. This 3-day gorilla trekking Uganda tour is priced per person based on group size. All prices are upper mid-range estimates in USD

Group of 2 travelers: USD 3,575 per person

Group of 4 travelers: USD 3,245 per person (save 9%)

Group of 6 travelers: USD 2,860 per person (save 20%)

Group of 8 travelers: USD 2,760 per person (save 23%)

Group of 10 travelers: USD 2,670 per person (save 25%)

Group of 12 travelers: USD 2,145 per person (save 40%)

Final pricing is confirmed at booking and may vary with travel dates, seasonal demand, and accommodation availability. Contact us for a personalized quote.

Payment Options:

To secure your booking, a 40% deposit is required, including $825 USD for the purchase of each gorilla permit.

We also offer flexible payment options based on how far in advance your travel dates are scheduled. Your initial payment allows Back to the Source Tours to confirm key services and submit the required deposits to our itinerary partners in order to securely hold your accommodations and tour arrangements.

Our preferred payment method is bank wire transfers.

We also accept credit card payments through Pesapal, though applicable processing fees will apply. You may make a card payment here: Pesapal Payment Link. If you have any questions regarding payment timelines, methods, or booking requirements, our team is available to assist you. Check out our Booking Policy for more details.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is available year-round. Uganda has two dry seasons and two wet seasons, and both offer rewarding gorilla trekking experiences for different reasons.

Best seasons for gorilla trekking:

June to September (long dry season): The most popular time to trek. Trails are drier and firmer, making the physical hike more manageable. Clear skies make for better photography. This is peak season and permits book up several months in advance.

December to February (short dry season): Excellent trekking conditions with dry trails and generally clear weather. A good alternative to the June to September peak with slightly less competition for permits.

March to May (long rainy season): Trails are muddier and the hike more challenging, but Bwindi is extraordinarily lush and green. Fewer visitors mean a more private experience. Gorilla sightings are not affected by rain as the gorillas are present year-round.

October to November (short rainy season): Similar to the long rainy season. Some travelers prefer this period specifically for the solitude and the vibrant green forest.

For this 3-day fly-in itinerary, the June to September dry season is the most comfortable overall experience. However, our team books permits year-round and will advise you on availability and conditions for your specific travel dates. Contact us to check permit availability for your preferred time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does this 3-day gorilla trekking tour cost?

This 3-day gorilla trekking Uganda tour starts from $2,145 USD per person (group of 12) to $3,575 USD per person (2 travelers). The Uganda Wildlife Authority gorilla trekking permit ($825 USD) is included in the tour price. A 40% deposit is required at booking. As permits must be purchased in advance, the permit cost is paid at the time of your deposit. Back to the Source Tours secures your permit on your behalf.

Is 3 days enough for gorilla trekking in Uganda?

Yes. This itinerary is designed specifically for travelers with limited time. Day 1 is your fly-in to Bwindi. Day 2 is the gorilla trek. Day 3 is your return flight to Entebbe. It is the most efficient way to complete a gorilla trek in Uganda without sacrificing quality.

Where do we fly from and to?

You fly from Entebbe International Airport to Kihihi Airstrip, the closest airstrip to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The domestic flight takes approximately one hour and is included in the tour price. The return flight is also included on Day 3.

Is the gorilla permit included in the tour price?

Yes. The gorilla trekking permit ($825.00 USD per person) is built into your total tour price. Because permits must be secured well in advance, this cost is settled when you pay your 40% booking deposit. Back to the Source Tours arranges everything on your behalf. Book early as permits are limited.

How physically demanding is gorilla trekking in Bwindi?

The trek ranges from moderate to strenuous depending on where the habituated gorilla family has moved that day. Hikes can last from 1 to 6 hours through dense rainforest terrain. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended. Porters are available and strongly recommended. They assist with carrying gear, provide support on steep terrain, and directly support local livelihoods.

How many people can trek gorillas at one time?

The Uganda Wildlife Authority limits each gorilla trekking group to a maximum of 8 visitors per habituated gorilla family per day. This ensures the gorillas are not overwhelmed and that each group has a focused, intimate experience.

Do I need a Uganda visa?

Yes. Most nationalities require a Uganda tourist visa. Apply online before travel at immigration.go.ug. Back to the Source Tours can advise you on the visa process for your specific nationality.

Can I upgrade the accommodation on this tour?

Yes. The tour is priced based on an upper mid-range lodge. A supplement can be applied to upgrade to a luxury property in Bwindi, or to reduce to a lower mid-range option. Contact us to discuss current availability.

What should I pack for gorilla trekking?

Long-sleeved shirt and long trousers in dark or neutral colors, sturdy waterproof hiking boots, gardening or lightweight gloves to protect hands when pushing through vegetation, a rain jacket, insect repellent, sunscreen, a small daypack, and your camera with spare batteries. We recommend visiting our gorilla trekking packing list guide for a full checklist.

Gorilla Trekking Packing List Uganda: What to Wear and Bring to Bwindi

What to pack for gorilla trekking in Uganda: clothing, boots, camera gear, and everything needed for a trek in Bwindi Forest. [...]

Pair This Tour with More of East Africa

A 3-day gorilla trek is a complete experience on its own. But Bwindi is just one layer of what East Africa offers, and Back to the Source Tours makes it easy to connect this tour with other destinations before or after your trek, whether you have an extra day or an extra week.

Back to the Source Tours handles every detail of these combinations: domestic and international flights, cross-border logistics, accommodation, permits, and ground transport. Tell us how much time you have and which destinations interest you, and we will build the right itinerary around your goals.

Add 1 to 2 days in Entebbe: Uganda’s lakeside gateway city has more to offer than most travelers expect. The Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, the Mabamba Swamp Shoebill Stork tour, the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, and a sunset cruise on Lake Victoria all make meaningful additions to any Uganda itinerary. We can arrange these before your Bwindi flight or after your return.

Add Queen Elizabeth National Park (2 to 3 days): One of Uganda’s most spectacular wildlife destinations, Queen Elizabeth National Park sits within driving distance of Bwindi and can be added seamlessly to either end of this tour. Famous for its tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector, the Kazinga Channel boat safari, chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge, and enormous herds of hippos and elephants.

Combine with a Kenya safari (5 to 7 days): Gorilla trekking in Uganda paired with the Maasai Mara or Tsavo is one of the most complete African wildlife experiences available anywhere. Our team coordinates all flights, transfers, and logistics between Uganda and Kenya so the combined trip feels seamless.

Add a beach extension in Zanzibar or Diani Beach (3 to 5 days): After the intensity of gorilla trekking and forest hiking, nothing resets the body like the Indian Ocean coast. We can add a Zanzibar spice and beach extension or a Kenya south coast stay at Diani Beach to create a bush-and-beach combination that travelers describe as the perfect East Africa trip.

Book this Tour with us:

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