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4 Days Double Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

A 4-day double gorilla trekking safari in Uganda offers the rare chance to meet two different gorilla families deep within the misty forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. It’s an unforgettable adventure designed for travelers who wish to experience more than one gorilla encounter—each trek offering a completely unique and emotional connection with these gentle giants. From scenic drives through the highlands to quiet forest lodges surrounded by birdsong, this journey immerses you in the very heart of Africa’s wild beauty.

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe or Kampala – Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Your adventure begins with a warm welcome from your safari guide upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport or from your hotel in Kampala. After a short briefing, you’ll embark on a scenic drive southwest towards Bwindi Impenetrable National Park—home to more than half of the world’s mountain gorillas.

The journey takes you through Uganda’s beautiful countryside, past tea plantations, local villages, and the rolling hills of Kigezi. En route, you’ll stop at the Equator for photos and enjoy lunch in Mbarara before continuing to Bwindi. Arrive in the late afternoon and settle into your lodge nestled within the forest. The evening is for relaxation as you prepare for your first gorilla encounter.

Accommodation Options:
Luxury: Four Gorillas Lodge / Gorilla Leisure Lodge
Mid-range: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge / Rushaga Gorilla Camp
Budget: Buhoma Community Rest Camp / Broadbill Forest Camp

Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: First Gorilla Trekking Experience in Bwindi Forest

After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing from Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) rangers. You’ll be assigned a gorilla family to track and set off through dense vegetation with your guides leading the way. Trekking can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours depending on the gorillas’ movements, but the reward is beyond words.

When you finally find the family, you’ll spend a magical hour observing their behavior—watching mothers nurture their young, juveniles play, and the mighty silverback keeping watch. The forest atmosphere, filled with mist and echoing calls of tropical birds, makes this one of Africa’s most humbling wildlife experiences.

After the trek, return to your lodge for a hot lunch and rest. In the evening, you may choose to visit a local Batwa community to learn about their traditional forest life and music.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Second Gorilla Trek – Another Remarkable Encounter

Your second trek allows you to experience a completely different gorilla group and new terrain within the park. Each family has its own dynamics—some playful and curious, others calm and composed. This second encounter gives you a deeper appreciation for gorilla behavior, hierarchy, and forest ecology. It’s also a chance to capture more photos and spend another hour in their presence—something only a few travelers in the world experience twice in one trip.

After your trek, return to the lodge and relax, reflecting on the profound beauty of these encounters. Enjoy your final night in the forest with a warm dinner and stories by the fire.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Return to Entebbe or Kigali – End of Safari

After breakfast, bid farewell to Bwindi’s misty slopes and begin your journey back. You can either return to Entebbe/Kampala (about 8–9 hours’ drive) or cross the border to Kigali, Rwanda (about 4–5 hours) for your departure flight. Along the way, enjoy scenic landscapes and perhaps a final stop at local craft markets for souvenirs.

Your guide will ensure you arrive safely at your destination, marking the end of an unforgettable 4-day double gorilla trekking safari in Uganda—a once-in-a-lifetime experience that brings you face to face with the spirit of Africa.

Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch

Safari Inclusions

Gorilla trekking permits for two days (UWA)
Ground transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle with English-speaking guide
Accommodation and meals as per itinerary
Bottled drinking water during the safari
Park entry fees and ranger guidance

Safari Exclusions

International flights
Travel insurance
Personal expenses (laundry, tips, drinks)
Optional activities (Batwa visit, souvenirs)

Best Time for Double Gorilla Trekking

The best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda is during the dry seasons (June to September and December to February) when trails are less muddy and visibility is clear. However, Bwindi’s lush rainforest can be visited year-round, with each season offering its own charm—the wet months bring lush greenery and fewer tourists.

Gorilla Safaris & Tours

Author Gorilla Safaris & Tours

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