Is 3-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Possible from a Tanzania Safari?

Planning a thrilling African adventure? Many travelers visiting East Africa for the Great Wildlife Migration in Tanzania also wonder, “Is 3-day Uganda gorilla trekking possible from a Tanzania safari?” The answer is a resounding yes! Combining two bucket-list experiences—gorilla trekking in Uganda and the Great Migration in Tanzania—is not only possible but also increasingly popular with adventure seekers who want the best of both worlds. With direct regional flights, expert planning from trusted operators like Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd, and well-thought-out logistics, this dream safari combo can easily fit into a short itinerary.

Exceptional East Africa Gorilla Safaris and Tour Packages

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Direct Flights Between Tanzania and Uganda

Flight Options from Tanzania to Uganda

Travel between Tanzania and Uganda is simpler than many travelers think. Several airlines operate daily or weekly flights between key Tanzanian cities and Entebbe International Airport—Uganda’s primary entry point for international travelers. If you’re coming from the popular safari circuits of Serengeti, Ngorongoro, or Arusha, the closest airports for connections include Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam.

Airlines such as Uganda Airlines, Precision Air, and Air Tanzania operate regular routes to Entebbe, with flight durations averaging 1.5 to 2 hours. Once you land in Entebbe, Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd handles all internal logistics, including your transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for the gorilla trekking experience.

Smooth Regional Connections

For those who are in Northern Tanzania, such as the Serengeti, flying from Kilimanjaro to Entebbe is a common and efficient route. You can also book charter flights or connect through Nairobi if needed. These options make it entirely feasible to transition from witnessing lions and wildebeest in Tanzania to meeting mountain gorillas in Uganda—all within a few days.

Day-by-Day Breakdown of a 3-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Tour

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Bwindi

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, our representative from Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd welcomes you and facilitates your domestic flight or private transfer to the Bwindi Forest region. The drive or flight takes you into the heart of southwestern Uganda, known for its mountainous scenery and dense tropical rainforest.

Once you arrive near Bwindi, you’ll check into one of our partner lodges. Depending on your arrival time, you may opt for a village walk or cultural experience in the nearby communities, getting a taste of Uganda’s rich traditions. Rest well in preparation for the highlight of your safari tomorrow.

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Experience

Early morning, after breakfast, you’ll head to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking rules and expectations. Here, groups are formed (8 people max per group) and assigned to specific gorilla families based on hiking difficulty preferences.

Then, accompanied by experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) rangers, you’ll embark on the unforgettable gorilla trek. The trek can last between 2 to 6 hours, depending on the gorilla’s location. Once you find them, you’re allowed one magical hour in their presence—watching, photographing, and simply marveling at these gentle giants.

Afterward, you return to your lodge to relax and soak in the experience. Many travelers describe this as the most emotional and awe-inspiring wildlife encounter of their lives.

Day 3: Return Flight to Tanzania or Continue Your Safari

After breakfast, you’ll transfer back to the airstrip for your return flight to Entebbe, and onward to Tanzania, either to continue your safari in the Serengeti or fly home.

This itinerary is perfect for travelers who want to make the most of their time, seamlessly combining gorilla trekking with the Great Migration or other wildlife highlights in Tanzania.

How Much is a Gorilla Trekking Permit in Uganda?

Understanding Permit Costs and Booking Tips

When planning a cross-border safari, one of the most frequently asked questions is: How much is a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda? As of 2024, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has set the price for a gorilla trekking permit at US$800 per person for foreign non-residents.

If you’re looking for a deeper, more immersive experience, the Gorilla Habituation Experience allows you to spend up to 4 hours with a gorilla family in the process of being habituated to human presence. This unique opportunity costs US$1,500 per person.

Permits are in high demand and must be booked well in advance—especially during peak seasons between June–September and December–February. Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd takes care of all the permit arrangements as part of your itinerary, ensuring peace of mind and a smooth experience. We recommend booking at least 6 months in advance, especially if you’re combining this with a Tanzania safari.

Can I Combine Gorilla Trekking in Uganda with the Great Wildlife Migration in Kenya or Tanzania?

The Ultimate East African Safari Combination

A growing number of travelers are asking, “Can I combine gorilla trekking in Uganda with the Great Wildlife Migration in Kenya or Tanzania?” The answer is a resounding yes! This combination offers a well-rounded East African experience—from the thunderous wildebeest herds of the Serengeti or Masai Mara to the serene, misty forests of Bwindi where mountain gorillas roam.

Typically, travelers start their safari in Tanzania or Kenya, witnessing the Great Migration between July and October. Afterwards, they fly to Uganda for a 3- to 4-day gorilla trekking adventure. The proximity of East African nations and availability of regional flights make this combination smooth and cost-effective.

At Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd, we specialize in creating custom itineraries that merge the best of both worlds. Whether you’re a wildlife photographer, adventure enthusiast, or bucket-list traveler, combining these two experiences gives you unmatched biodiversity and storytelling potential.

Why Choose Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd?

Trusted Experience and Seamless Safari Planning

Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd is a registered and reputable Uganda tour operator, known for offering tailor-made safaris that cater to both seasoned explorers and first-time travelers. Our expert team ensures all logistics—flights, transfers, accommodation, and permits—are handled with precision and professionalism.

We understand the complexities of cross-border travel and offer flexible solutions that fit your timeline, budget, and interests. From luxury lodges to mid-range and budget-friendly options, our curated packages offer value without compromising on experience.

Whether you’re flying in from the wildebeest-covered plains of Tanzania or the cultural hubs of Kenya, our goal is to make your gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda as seamless and unforgettable as possible.

Final Thoughts: Is 3-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Possible from a Tanzania Safari?

Efficient, Rewarding, and Absolutely Doable

To wrap it up—is 3-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking possible from a Tanzania safari? Yes, it is entirely possible, efficient, and highly rewarding. With the right planning and a trusted partner like Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd, you can witness the best of East Africa in one seamless itinerary.

Start in Tanzania, experience the dramatic scenes of the Great Migration, then fly into Uganda for an intimate encounter with the endangered mountain gorillas. With regional flight connections and expertly crafted itineraries, your dream East African safari is just a few clicks away.

For personalized quotes, flight arrangements, and gorilla permit bookings, contact Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd today and make your African adventure truly extraordinary.

Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd

Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd is a Uganda-based safaris tour operator. We operate with a high passion for taking you through the beautiful nation of Uganda – the Pearl of Africa. A destination that offers you the best jungle adventures in Africa. We will help you experience East Africa at large with insight from a local tour guide.