Is 3-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Possible from Arusha City?

If you’re based in Arusha City or planning to travel from there, you might be wondering: Is 3-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Possible from Arusha City? The short answer is yes. Arusha is a major gateway to East Africa’s wildlife wonders, including Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania, as well as being relatively close to Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas. With careful planning, a 3-day Uganda gorilla trekking safari from Arusha is absolutely possible, allowing you to experience gorilla trekking while enjoying the natural beauty of Uganda.

In this write-up, we will guide you through the details of how to organize your 3-day Uganda gorilla trekking safari from Arusha, providing key insights on logistics, flights, permits, and costs. We will also answer common questions like, How much is a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda? and Can I combine gorilla trekking in Uganda with the Great Migration in Kenya or Tanzania?

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How to Get from Arusha to Uganda for Gorilla Trekking

Traveling from Arusha to Uganda for 3-day gorilla trekking is both convenient and relatively quick. The journey involves two main options: flying and driving. For those looking to maximize their time with the gorillas, flying is the fastest and most efficient choice.

Flights from Arusha to Uganda

The best option for getting to Uganda from Arusha is by taking a direct flight to Entebbe, Uganda’s international gateway. The flight from Arusha to Entebbe is relatively short, typically around 1 hour 30 minutes, with several airlines offering daily flights. Precision Air and Air Tanzania offer regular connections between Arusha and Entebbe. Upon arrival in Entebbe, you will need to arrange transport to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which is located in the southwestern part of Uganda.

Once in Entebbe, you can take a domestic flight to either Kihihi or Kisoro, which are closer to Bwindi, or opt for a road transfer that typically takes between 7 to 8 hours. The road transfer offers an excellent opportunity to see more of the Ugandan countryside, with lush green hills, beautiful valleys, and local villages.

Road Transfers from Arusha to Uganda

While the flight option is faster, some travelers might prefer the road transfer, especially if they want to take in more of the landscape. The drive from Arusha to Uganda takes approximately 10 to 12 hours. While this journey is longer, it’s perfect for those looking to combine their gorilla trekking with a scenic road trip through East Africa.

3-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari Itinerary

A 3-day Uganda gorilla trekking safari from Arusha is perfect for those short on time but keen on seeing the gorillas. Here is a detailed breakdown of what you can expect from such a trip:

Day 1: Travel from Arusha to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

On the first day, after breakfast, you will board your flight from Arusha to Entebbe, Uganda. Once in Entebbe, you will either take a domestic flight to Kihihi or Kisoro or begin your road transfer to Bwindi. The domestic flight is the faster option, taking just 1 hour, followed by a short drive to your lodge.

If you prefer the road transfer, the drive offers breathtaking views of Uganda’s countryside, as you pass through vibrant villages, terraced hillsides, and expansive agricultural fields. Depending on your arrival time, you might enjoy a cultural village walk to interact with local communities or relax at your lodge.

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

The second day is the highlight of your 3-day Uganda gorilla trekking safari—a once-in-a-lifetime experience! You will wake up early and head to the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) offices for a briefing before setting off into the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The briefing will cover important trekking guidelines, safety procedures, and an introduction to the gorilla families you will be tracking.

Once you embark on your trek, you will walk through dense vegetation, muddy trails, and rugged hills in search of the mountain gorillas. The trek may take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family. Once you find the gorillas, you will spend one hour observing and photographing them in their natural habitat. It’s an incredible experience to see the gorillas up close, especially the silverbacks, mothers, and juveniles interacting.

After your trek, return to your lodge for a relaxing evening, where you can reflect on the day’s adventure. You may also choose to participate in a cultural performance or enjoy a nature walk through the park.

Day 3: Departure from Bwindi to Entebbe

On the final day, you will begin your return journey to Entebbe. You can either fly back from Kihihi or Kisoro, or continue with the road transfer to Entebbe. The flight back to Entebbe takes around 1 hour, and upon arrival, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight back to Arusha or any other destination.

If you have extra time in Entebbe, you may wish to explore Lake Victoria or visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Center before catching your flight.

How Much Is a Gorilla Trekking Permit in Uganda?

One of the most frequently asked questions when planning a gorilla trekking safari is How much is a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda? As of 2024, the cost for a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is USD $800 per person. This fee includes the cost of the permit, park entry fees, the services of a trained guide, and the experience of spending one hour with the gorillas.

For those interested in a more immersive experience, Gorilla Habituation permits are available for USD $1,500 per person. This experience allows you to spend up to four hours with the gorillas, offering a deeper understanding of their behavior and social structure.

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

Another common question travelers have is whether they can combine gorilla trekking in Uganda with the Great Wildlife Migration in Kenya or Tanzania. The answer is yes, and many travelers opt for this combination for a truly comprehensive East African safari experience.

After your 3-day Uganda gorilla trekking safari, you can easily fly to Kenya or Tanzania to witness the Great Migration—the iconic movement of millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles through the Masai Mara and Serengeti. The flight between Entebbe and Nairobi takes around 1 hour 30 minutes, and Entebbe to Arusha is about 2 hours.

How to Combine Gorilla Trekking with the Great Migration

After gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, you can fly directly to Nairobi in Kenya or Arusha in Tanzania.
From Nairobi, you can visit the Masai Mara National Reserve, which is renowned for its wildebeest migration and is often considered the best place to witness the Great Migration.
Alternatively, from Arusha, you can travel to the Serengeti in Tanzania, where the migration is also a spectacular sight to behold, especially during the river crossings.

Why Choose Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd for Your 3-Day Gorilla Trekking Safari

Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd is a reputable and registered Uganda tour operator specializing in tailored safaris across East Africa. Whether you’re looking for a luxury or budget experience, we handle every detail of your 3-day Uganda gorilla trekking safari from Arusha—from flights and permits to transport and accommodation.

Our team of experienced guides will ensure that your trek is not only safe but also enjoyable. With us, you will experience the magic of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in comfort and style.

Conclusion: Is 3-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Possible from Arusha City?

In conclusion, yes, 3-day Uganda gorilla trekking is possible from Arusha City, with various flight and road transfer options that make it both convenient and efficient. The 3-day itinerary allows you to enjoy gorilla trekking while exploring the natural beauty of Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Plus, you can even combine this adventure with a Great Migration safari in Kenya or Tanzania, creating an unforgettable East African wildlife experience.

Book your 3-day Uganda gorilla trekking safari today with Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd, and embark on a journey you’ll never forget!

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.