4-day Gorillas and Lake Bunyonyi

Tour Overview:

Embark on an unforgettable 4-day Gorillas and Lake Bunyonyi Safari in Uganda. This captivating tour combines the awe-inspiring experience of gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with the tranquil beauty of Lake Bunyonyi. Witness the incredible mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, engage in a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking adventure, and then unwind amidst the serene landscapes of Lake Bunyonyi. This tour offers a perfect blend of wildlife encounters and leisure, making it an ideal choice for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape in the heart of Africa.

Tour Highlights:

– Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

– Encounter with the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

– Guided nature walks in the lush forest of Bwindi.

– Boat cruise on Lake Bunyonyi, exploring its 29 picturesque islands.

– Relaxation and leisure time at Lake Bunyonyi, the “Place of Little Birds.”

– Opportunity to immerse in the rich culture of local communities.

– Expert guides and trackers providing valuable insights during the tour.

 

Detailed Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe, Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Upon your arrival at Entebbe International Airport, Uganda, you will be warmly greeted by your tour representative. From the airport, embark on a scenic drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in southwestern Uganda. The journey offers picturesque views of rolling hills, terraced farmlands, and traditional African villages. The drive will take several hours, giving you ample time to appreciate the country’s natural beauty and cultural diversity.

After a memorable journey, you’ll arrive at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and check-in to your chosen accommodation. Depending on your preferences and budget, you can opt for luxury lodges like Mahogany Springs Lodge, midrange camps like Gorilla Valley Lodge, or budget-friendly options like Buhoma Community Rest Camp. Each choice provides a unique experience while ensuring comfort and relaxation during your stay.

Once settled in, take some time to relax and prepare for the thrilling Gorilla trekking experience scheduled for the next day. Enjoy the tranquil ambiance of the forest surroundings and get a good night’s rest.

 

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Today is the most anticipated day of your safari – the Gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi! Rise early in the morning to have a hearty breakfast before meeting with your experienced guides and trackers. They will brief you on the trekking process, and safety measures. Also, they will provide valuable insights into the gorilla family you’ll be observing.

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking adventure through the dense forest of Bwindi. The trek can vary in duration, depending on the location of the gorilla family on that day. As you trek, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural surroundings, encountering various plant and animal species along the way.

Once you locate the gorilla family, spend an awe-inspiring hour observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Witness their playful interactions, nurturing behaviors, and gentle demeanor, leaving you with cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Your presence during the trek contributes to gorilla conservation efforts and supports the protection of these endangered species.

After the trek, return to your accommodation and take time to relax and reflect on the incredible experience you’ve just had. Enjoy a well-deserved rest and relish in the beauty of Bwindi’s tranquil ambiance.

 

Day 3: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, Boat Cruise and Leisure Time

Bid farewell to Bwindi and head to the next breathtaking destination – Lake Bunyonyi. Known as the “Place of Little Birds,” Lake Bunyonyi is a picturesque freshwater lake surrounded by terraced hills and lush gardens. The journey to the lake is another opportunity to enjoy Uganda’s scenic beauty and the vibrant life of the local communities.

Upon arrival at Lake Bunyonyi, check-in to your preferred lodging, offering stunning views of the lake and its numerous islands. Whether you choose a luxury resort like Birdnest @ Lake Bunyonyi Resort, a midrange retreat like Arcadia Cottages, or a budget-friendly option like Byoona Amagara Island Retreat, your stay will be characterized by tranquility and natural beauty.

In the afternoon, embark on a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Bunyonyi, exploring its 29 enchanting islands. Your experienced guide will share stories about the history and cultural significance of the islands. As you cruise along the calm waters, enjoy the serenity of the lake, surrounded by greenery and the songs of numerous bird species.

After the boat cruise, you can opt for birdwatching around the lake, given its abundant birdlife. Alternatively, you may choose to visit the local villages and engage with the warm-hearted Bakiga people, experiencing their culture and traditions.

 

Day 4: Return to Entebbe and Departure

On the final day of your Gorillas and Lake Bunyonyi Safari, bid farewell to the peaceful ambiance of Lake Bunyonyi and begin your journey back to Entebbe. The drive back will offer more picturesque views and the chance to observe local village life as you pass through the scenic countryside.

Upon reaching Entebbe, your captivating Gorillas and Lake Bunyonyi Safari comes to an end. If you have an evening flight or plan to stay in Entebbe for another night, you may have time to explore the city or relax by Lake Victoria before your departure.

Inclusions:

– Gorilla trekking permits.

– Accommodation as per selected category (luxury, midrange, or budget).

– Meals as specified in the itinerary.

– Boat cruise on Lake Bunyonyi.

– Ground transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle.

– Services of an experienced English-speaking driver/guide.

– Bottled water during the safari.

– All park entry fees and activities.

 

Exclusions:

– International airfares.

– Visa fees and travel insurance.

– Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary.

– Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, tips, laundry, etc.).

 

How to Get There:

To embark on your Gorillas and Lake Bunyonyi Safari, book a flight to Entebbe International Airport (EBB) in Uganda. Entebbe is well-connected with major international airports worldwide. Upon arrival at Entebbe, your tour representative will meet you at the airport and guide you through the entire safari itinerary. The road journey from Entebbe to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park will take approximately 8-9 hours, while the drive from Bwindi to Lake Bunyonyi will take around 3-4 hours. After the safari, you can return to Entebbe to catch your international flight or stay for an additional night before departing.