4 Days /
3 Nights
4-Day Gorillas, Golden Monkeys and Bunyonyi
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Lake Bunyonyi
Overview
This condensed yet comprehensive 4-day adventure packs Uganda's premier primate experiences and stunning scenery into an efficient itinerary. Track the endangered Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi, then encounter the playful Golden Monkeys in the shadow of the Virunga volcanoes at Mgahinga. The journey concludes with serene relaxation at the beautiful Lake Bunyonyi before your return. Perfect for travelers with limited time who seek an unforgettable wildlife encounter.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Our driver-guide will pick you up early from your hotel in Entebbe/Kampala. Embark on a full-day scenic drive (approx. 8-9 hours) southwest towards Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Enjoy views of the countryside, tea plantations, and the rolling hills of the Kigezi region, with a lunch stop en route in Mbarara. Arrive at your lodge near the park headquarters in the late afternoon. After check-in, attend a pre-trekking briefing, enjoy dinner, and rest in anticipation of tomorrow's big adventure.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking and Transfer to Mgahinga
The day begins early with breakfast. Report to the park headquarters for registration and a crucial briefing by the Uganda Wildlife Authority guides. Embark on your gorilla trekking experience—a journey through dense forest that can last from 1 to 8 hours. Upon finding a gorilla family, you are granted a privileged hour to observe them. Return to the lodge for a late lunch. Afterward, check out and take a picturesque 2-3 hour drive to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Check into your new lodge, enjoy dinner, and overnight with the volcanoes looming in the distance.
Day 3: Golden Monkey Tracking and Serenity at Lake Bunyonyi
After breakfast, head to Mgahinga's park headquarters for your Golden Monkey tracking briefing. Trek into the bamboo forest to find troops of these energetic, orange-gold primates. The experience is generally shorter and offers fantastic photography opportunities with volcanic backdrops. Return to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, depart for the stunning Lake Bunyonyi (approx. 2-hour drive). Upon arrival, check into your lakeside lodge. Spend the late afternoon relaxing, taking a canoe ride (optional, at extra cost), or simply soaking in the breathtaking views of Africa's second-deepest lake before dinner and overnight.
Day 4: Scenic Return and Departure
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast overlooking the tranquil lake. Begin the return journey to Entebbe/Kampala. The drive (approx. 7-8 hours) includes a lunch stop and a photo opportunity at the Uganda Equator line. You will be dropped off at Entebbe International Airport for your evening departure flight or at your hotel in Kampala.
What's Included
- All ground transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof.
- Services of a professional English-speaking driver/guide.
- 3 Nights of accommodation as per the itinerary.
- All meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) from Day 1 lunch to Day 4 lunch.
- 1 Gorilla Trekking Permit per person (USD 800 value).
- 1 Golden Monkey Tracking Permit per person.
- Park entrance fees for Bwindi and Mgahinga.
- All mentioned activities (Gorilla trek, Monkey trek).
- Bottled drinking water in the vehicle.
- Government taxes and VAT.
What's Not Included
- Airport transfers (Can be arranged at extra cost; specify if needed).
- International airfare and visas.
- Tips for guides, drivers, and lodge staff.
- Personal travel insurance (mandatory).
- Alcoholic beverages, sodas, and other personal drinks.
- Items of a personal nature (laundry, souvenirs, phone calls).
- Optional activities (e.g., canoe ride at Bunyonyi, community visits).
- Any accommodation before Day 1 or after Day 4.
Helpful Tips
- This is a fast-paced itinerary with significant driving; be prepared for early starts and full days.
- Pack strategically for two different lodges in two nights; use a daypack for trekking essentials.
- For evening flights out of EBB (after 7 PM), this schedule is ideal. For earlier flights, discuss a possible Day 3 overnight near the airport.
- The order of primate tracking is fixed due to permit availability and location logistics.
- Lake Bunyonyi is at high altitude; evenings can be chilly—pack a light sweater.
Book This Trip
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