Susie and Mark – Gorilla Conservation Tour

Hello Susie and Mark,

It’s such a pleasure to be working with you on this incredible journey. And that through Stop Poaching Now! I am able to show you some of my amazing world here in the Pearl of Africa. I’m truly looking forward to finally connecting in a country I love deeply, and I’m thrilled you’ll soon experience its magic, wildlife, and warmhearted people firsthand. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

  • Susie & Mark’s 6-Day Gorilla Conservation Adventure
  • Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
  • Dates: June 28 to July 3
  • Hosted by Back to the Source Tours

The direct website to applying for your Uganda visa: immigration.go.ug/services/tourist-visa

DAY 1: June 28, 2025

Welcome to Uganda!
Fanny Martinez will personally greet you, at Entebbe International Airport. From there, you will be taken directly to Grik Hotel, where your check-in will already be completed for a smooth and quick transition to your room. Grik Hotel’s restaurant is ready to serve you should you feel hungry.

Take this time to rest or settle in with a refreshing drink at the hotel bar. If you’re up for a stroll or light exploration, Entebbe offers lakeside views and relaxed vibes. Just let us know and we can assist in organizing this for you.

DAY 3: June 30, 2025

Flight to Bwindi + Check-in at Buhoma Lodge
After breakfast, we will transfer you to the airport for your flight to Kihihi Airstrip.

  • Depart: 10:30 AM from Entebbe

  • Arrive: 12:20 PM in Kihihi (15kg luggage limit)

A quick note as you prepare: for your domestic flight to Bwindi, please remember the luggage limit is 15 kg per person, including hand luggage. Not to worry—we’ve arranged for you to leave any additional bags securely at Grik Hotel in Entebbe during your Bwindi excursion.

Upon arrival at Kihihi Airstrip, you’ll be warmly welcomed by Dennis, your dedicated Back to the Source Tours guide and expert in all things Bwindi. From the moment you meet, you’ll feel in capable, thoughtful hands as he escorts you through the scenic 90-minute drive to Buhoma. Nestled at the edge of the forest, your lodge offers a peaceful sanctuary for the next three nights—complete with cozy comforts, locally inspired cuisine, house wines, and craft beers. Don’t forget to schedule your complimentary massage at the reception—it’s a perfect way to unwind after travel or trekking.

If the afternoon permits, Dennis will accompany you to the inspiring Ride-4-a-Woman initiative, a community-led space where the strength and creativity of local women shine. Here, you’ll be invited to connect in an authentic, meaningful way!

Choose from a variety of optional community-led experiences like:

  • Basket weaving workshops ($25 x person)
  • Tailoring and sewing demonstrations ($25 x person)
  • Firewood cooking classes ($25 x person)
  • Mountain biking through the village ($25 x person)
  • Traditional dance and storytelling performances ($25 x person)
  • Visiting a woman’s home ($40 x person)

Your visit supports real livelihoods and keeps alive cultural traditions passed down through generations, offering you not just an activity—but a lasting memory of shared humanity in one of the world’s most beautiful places.

DAY 4: July 1, 2025

Batwa Community Tour: Step into the Story of the Forest’s First People

Begin the day at your own pace—this morning’s activities start at your leisure, anytime after breakfast. When you’re ready, your guide Dennis will take you on a profound journey into the heritage of the Batwa people, the forest’s original inhabitants. With Batwa guides leading the way, you’ll walk the very trails their ancestors once followed, gaining insight into their traditional lifestyle: how they hunted with handmade bows, gathered forest medicine, started fires without matches, and honored the forest through song and ritual. It’s more than a tour—it’s an invitation into the living memory of a community that has faced displacement with courage and grace.

Expect more than just a tour—it’s a living story told through music, dance, and hands-on demonstrations. You may try your hand at traditional fire-making, observe how bamboo is used for daily living, and join in a rhythmic performance of storytelling through drumming and song. It’s a humbling reminder of the wisdom held by Indigenous knowledge and a heartfelt exchange that many travelers describe as one of the most memorable moments of their journey.

Afternoon at leisure. Enjoy another activity at Ride-4-A-Woman or simply soak in the lodge’s serene forest views.

DAY 5: July 2, 2025

The Gorilla Trekking Experience
Wake up early for your once-in-a-lifetime gorilla encounter! After breakfast, you’ll head to the Uganda Wildlife Authority headquarters just a few minutes away. The experience begins with:

  • A cultural dance and welcome performance by a local women’s group

  • Orientation and family selection. You can pick a longer or shorter trek based on where gorilla families were last seen. Of course, nature is unpredictable.

  • Assignment of a UWA ranger and porters (already included). Ask your ranger and any questions you may have.

Dennis will handle all logistics so you can enjoy a coffee or tea and soak in the anticipation. The trek can take 2–6 hours, depending on gorilla movement, but once found, you’ll spend a full hour with these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Return to Buhoma Lodge for relaxation and your scheduled massage.

DAY 6: July 3, 2025

Return to Entebbe & Departure
Depart Buhoma Lodge early for the 1.5-hour drive to Kihihi Airstrip. Flight details:

  • Depart: 8:35 AM from Kihihi Airstrip. Be ready to leave the hotel by 6:15 am

  • Arrive: 11:25 AM in Entebbe International Airport

If your international flight is later in the evening, we recommend relaxing at Grik Hotel with a Day Room or visiting nearby Entebbe attractions like restaurants and lounges.

Your luggage held at Grik Hotel during your Bwindi leg will be returned to you, whether you return to the hotel or need it delivered as is to the airport. Your Entebbe guide will assist with all your luggage and airport transfers until departure.

24/7 customer service

Staying connected with the Back to the Source Tours team will be smooth and effortless throughout your journey. We primarily use WhatsApp for quick and reliable communication on the ground—it’s the easiest way to stay in touch whether you’re in Entebbe, Bwindi, or anywhere in between. Fanny will personally provide you with the direct contact details for your expert guide Dennis and other key team members. You’ll also receive timely updates, suggestions, and support every step of the way. Have a question? Need a recommendation? Whether it’s your guide, Fanny, or the friendly hotel staff, feel free to ask—our team is here to make every moment seamless and enjoyable.

INCLUDED:

  • 3-night stay all-inclusive at Buhoma Lodge in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, North
  • 2-night stay, breakfast and dinner at Grik Hotel in Entebbe
  • All ground transportation
  • 2 round-trip air ticket from Entebbe International Airport to Kihihi Airstrip
  • 2 gorilla trekking permits and 2 porters
  • The Batwa Community Tour
  • Our trusted Back to the Source Tours guide/drivers
  • 2 eco-friendly refillable water bottles. We discourage the purchase of single-use plastic bottles

NOT INCLUDED:

  • International flights
  • Visas
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses: costs for souvenirs, snacks, and drinks outside of provided meals
  • Optional activities as listed
  • Tips and gratuities: For guides and lodge staff,
  • Medical expenses: Any incurred medical costs