Is 3-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Possible from the United Kingdom?

Are you wondering, Is 3-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Possible from the United Kingdom? The answer is absolutely yes! Despite being located in the heart of Europe, the United Kingdom is well-connected to Uganda, and with a bit of planning, you can embark on an unforgettable 3-day Uganda gorilla trekking safari. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a group, this itinerary offers you the chance to experience gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the endangered mountain gorillas.

As a reputable and registered Uganda tour operator, Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd will guide you through all the necessary arrangements—from flights and accommodation to the actual trekking experience itself. This detailed guide will explore everything you need to know about organizing a 3-day Uganda gorilla trekking safari from the United Kingdom, including how to get there, what to expect during your trek, and important logistical considerations. Additionally, we’ll address frequently asked questions like How much is a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda? and Can I combine gorilla trekking in Uganda with the Great Wildlife Migration in Kenya or Tanzania?

Exceptional East Africa Gorilla Safaris and Tour Packages

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

How to Get from the United Kingdom to Uganda for Gorilla Trekking

Getting from the United Kingdom to Uganda for a 3-day gorilla trekking safari is straightforward. The most efficient option is to fly into Entebbe International Airport in Uganda, which serves as the gateway for most international travelers. Flights from London (Heathrow or Gatwick) to Entebbe are available with multiple airlines, including British Airways, KLM, and Qatar Airways.

Flights from the United Kingdom to Entebbe

The flight time from the United Kingdom to Uganda is approximately 8 to 9 hours for a direct flight. However, most international flights from the UK to Entebbe have a layover, which typically adds an extra 2 to 5 hours to the total travel time. Once you land in Entebbe, you can proceed with your domestic flight to Kihihi or Kisoro, the nearest airports to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, or opt for a road transfer to the park.

Travel Time and Transfers

If you choose to take a domestic flight to either Kihihi or Kisoro, the journey is relatively quick, lasting approximately 1 hour. From these small airstrips, a short drive of 30 to 60 minutes will take you to your lodge or accommodation in Bwindi.

Alternatively, a road transfer from Entebbe to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park will take 7 to 8 hours, offering a scenic drive through Uganda’s lush countryside. The journey will take you through rolling hills, rural villages, and tea plantations, making for a rich cultural and visual experience.

3-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Now that you know how to get to Uganda, let’s dive into what your 3-day Uganda gorilla trekking safari will entail.

Day 1: Arrival in Uganda and Travel to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

On the first day of your safari, you will arrive at Entebbe International Airport, where you will be welcomed by a member of the Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd team. From there, you will either board your domestic flight to Kihihi or Kisoro, or opt for the road transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Depending on your flight arrival time and preferred mode of transport, you will either have time to relax at your lodge or head straight to your accommodation in Bwindi.

If you arrive early enough, you might be able to take part in a community walk, visit a local village, or enjoy the views of the park. Bwindi is home to several gorilla families, and your lodge will be situated near the park entrance for easy access to the trekking trailheads.

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

The second day is the highlight of your 3-day Uganda gorilla trekking safari—your gorilla trekking adventure. The day will begin early, as you head to the park headquarters for a briefing on safety, trekking guidelines, and the etiquette around interacting with the gorillas. After the briefing, you will be assigned to a specific gorilla family and meet your park ranger who will guide you through the trek.

The trek to find the mountain gorillas can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the family you are tracking. The dense vegetation and hilly terrain can make the trek physically demanding, but the reward of seeing the gorillas up close is well worth it. Once you find the gorillas, you’ll have one hour to observe them in their natural habitat, taking in their interactions, behavior, and incredible beauty.

After the trek, you will return to your lodge for a well-deserved rest. You may also want to participate in a cultural activity like visiting the local Batwa pygmy community or enjoying a nature walk through the park.

Day 3: Departure from Bwindi and Return to Entebbe

On the final day of your safari, you will leave Bwindi and travel back to Entebbe, either by domestic flight or road transfer. If you take the road option, you will be able to enjoy more of Uganda’s picturesque landscape. Depending on your flight time, you may have the opportunity to explore Entebbe further, perhaps visiting Lake Victoria or the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre.

How Much Is a Gorilla Trekking Permit in Uganda?

A critical question when planning a 3-day Uganda gorilla trekking safari is: How much is a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda? As of 2024, the price of a gorilla trekking permit in Uganda is USD $800 per person. This fee covers all the necessary park fees, the services of a trained guide, and the privilege of spending one hour with a mountain gorilla family.

For those who wish to have a more immersive experience, the Gorilla Habituation Experience is available for USD $1,500 per person. This unique experience allows trekkers to spend four hours with a gorilla family, offering more time to observe and understand the gorillas’ behavior and social structure.

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

Another common query is whether it’s possible to combine gorilla trekking in Uganda with a Great Wildlife Migration safari in Kenya or Tanzania. The answer is yes! In fact, many travelers opt for this combination to experience the best of East Africa’s wildlife. After your 3-day Uganda gorilla trekking safari, you can easily catch a flight to Nairobi in Kenya or Arusha in Tanzania to witness the Great Migration in the Masai Mara or Serengeti.

Nairobi is about 1 hour 30 minutes by flight from Entebbe and is the perfect starting point for a Masai Mara adventure.
Arusha is just 2 hours away by flight and serves as the gateway to the Serengeti and other parks in Tanzania.

The Great Migration is one of the most spectacular wildlife events in the world, and combining it with gorilla trekking in Uganda gives you a complete East African wildlife experience.

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

At Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd, we are a reputable and registered Uganda tour operator committed to delivering exceptional safari experiences. Whether you’re looking for luxury, mid-range, or budget options, we handle everything from flight bookings and gorilla permits to accommodation and transport. Our experienced guides will ensure that your 3-day Uganda gorilla trekking safari is memorable, safe, and enjoyable.

Conclusion: Is 3-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking Possible from the United Kingdom?

To conclude, yes, 3-day Uganda gorilla trekking is not only possible from the United Kingdom, but it’s also an incredible and manageable adventure. With direct flights to Entebbe and excellent transport options to Bwindi, you can experience one of the world’s most unique wildlife encounters in just a few days. Combine this with an easy connection to Kenya or Tanzania for the Great Migration, and you have the ultimate African safari experience.

Book your 3-day Uganda gorilla trekking safari with Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd today and let us help you create an unforgettable journey!

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.