Ultimate Primate Encounter: A Twice-Trekking Luxury Gorilla Safari
Only in Uganda -a 4-Day Luxury Twice Gorilla Trekking Safari in Two Parks
Experience Bwindi Forest and Mgahinga Park on an Exclusive 4-Day Journey from Kigali: Venture beyond the ordinary and into the heart of Africa for the ultimate primate encounter. Our exclusive 4-Day Luxury Twice Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda allows you to see mountain gorillas not just once, but twice, in two profoundly different environments. This safari represents the pinnacle of wildlife travel—an extraordinary adventure unique to Uganda, offering an experience unmatched elsewhere. It is designed for those who seek an intimate and comprehensive connection with these magnificent creatures.
Your extraordinary journey begins in the ancient, mist-shrouded rainforest of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site characterized by deep valleys and a tangled jungle canopy. Just days later, you will find yourself on the iconic volcanic slopes of Mgahinga Gorilla Park, sharing the dramatic landscape with Rwanda’s Virunga Volcanoes. This unique dual-trekking adventure offers a rare perspective on the gorillas’ world, allowing you to observe the distinct behaviors and social structures of two different gorilla families in their respective natural habitats.
Designed for the discerning traveler, your safari conveniently starts in Kigali, Rwanda, eliminating the long drive from Entebbe and maximizing your time in the wilderness. You will stay at Uganda’s most exclusive and celebrated lodges, including Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge and Mount Gahinga Lodge. This unparalleled journey is a privilege in itself and offers a value that no other destination can match. More than just a trip, it is the most diverse and intimate gorilla experience on the planet. Discover the soul of Uganda through the eyes of its magnificent, gentle giants.
Highlights of your 4-Day Luxury Twice Gorilla Trekking Safari in two Parks
- Twice Gorilla Trekking: Trek Gorillas in two different parks in Uganda with distinctly different Habitats.
- Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: Afro-montane Forest made up of hills and valleys.
- Mgahinga Gorilla Park: Trekking conditions are like in Rwanda and DR Congo. Tracking takes place on the sides of the Virunga Volcanoes.
- Optional Gorilla Habituation Experience: Sprend four hours with a gorilla family and there are a maximum of four participants. Permits are limited in number to four a day.
- Optional Golden Monkey Trekking: This depends on whether your flight out in Kigali is during the evening hours.
- Exclusive Luxury Lodges: the exclusive Mount Gahinga Lodge in Mgahinga Gorilla Park and the exclusive Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge.
Flexible Safari Options: to Fit Your Budget:This safari can be customized to fit your style and budget. For a balance of comfort and value, choose our twice-trekking safari, featuring upscale lodges such as the Four Gorillas Lodge in Rushaga and the stunning Chameleon Hill Lodge, overlooking Lake Mutanda.
For the more adventurous traveler, we offer a moderately priced 4-day itinerary with comfortable, well-located lodges. You’ll still enjoy a private guide and vehicle, ensuring an unforgettable and affordable
4-Day Luxury Twice Gorilla Trekking Safari in 2 Parks
Your Arrival Day in Africa for your Gorilla Safari
Your incredible gorilla trekking adventure begins the moment you land. We offer two convenient arrival options to ensure your journey starts smoothly and comfortably.
Option 1: Arrive in Kigali, Rwanda
Welcome to Africa! For this specific safari, we highly recommend flying into Kigali International Airport (KGL) in Rwanda. Many international flights, particularly from Europe and the Middle East, arrive in the evening, making this the most time-efficient starting point. Kigali’s close proximity to the parks means you are just a scenic 4-hour drive from the gorilla heartland, avoiding the much longer 10-hour journey from Entebbe.
Upon your arrival, a Kabiza Wilderness Safaris representative will be there to greet you, assist with your luggage, and provide a seamless private transfer to your pre-booked luxury hotel, such as the Kigali Marriott or Serena Hotel. This allows you to relax, acclimatize, and enjoy a peaceful night’s rest before your Ugandan adventure begins the next morning.
Option 2: Arrive in Entebbe, Uganda
Alternatively, you can fly directly into Entebbe International Airport (EBB), Uganda’s primary international hub. This is an excellent choice if you are connecting from a safari in another part of Uganda (such as Murchison Falls or Kidepo Valley) or if your flight routes make it more convenient.
Upon your arrival, your driver-guide will welcome you and escort you to a lovely hotel in Entebbe for the night. The following morning, you will take a breathtaking 70-minute scenic flight with AeroLink from Entebbe to the Kisoro Airstrip. This flight soars over the stunning landscapes of southwestern Uganda, offering a spectacular introduction to the region. It is a fantastic and increasingly popular option that maximizes your time on the ground in gorilla country.
Flyingtoto Entebbe is perfect for a fly-in Safari to Mgahinga Gorilla Park.
Day 1 – Drive or Fly to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – Rushaga Region:
Your first full day in Africa is a spectacular immersion into the stunning landscapes that lead to the home of the mountain gorillas. Whether you choose the scenic drive or the swift flight, your destination is the same: a world-class luxury lodge on the edge of one of the world’s most ancient forests.
Option 1: The Scenic Drive from Kigali
Your adventure begins at dawn. After an early breakfast, your driver-guide will meet you at your hotel in Kigali at 6:30 a.m. for your journey north. You will leave the city behind and embark on one of East Africa’s most breathtaking drives, winding through the immaculate, terraced hillsides of Rwanda. The border crossing into Uganda is a smooth and straightforward process for tourists, typically taking under an hour to complete. Once across the border, the landscape transforms into the dramatic, mist-covered highlands that cradle Bwindi. This stunning four-hour journey is a destination in its own right.
You will arrive in the afternoon and settle into your sanctuary: the Exclusive Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge. Perched high on a ridge, it offers breathtaking, panoramic views over the ancient forest and the distant Virunga Volcanoes. The lodge is one of Africa’s most acclaimed destinations, and your private stone cottage, complete with a roaring fireplace and the dedicated service of a personal butler, awaits you. Spend the rest of the day relaxing on your veranda, soaking in the profound tranquility of the forest, and building anticipation for the incredible gorilla encounter that awaits you the next day.
Option 2: The Scenic Flight from Entebbe
Experience an unforgettable flight with a breathtaking bird’s-eye view. Your day begins with a 6:15 a.m. pickup from your hotel in Entebbe, followed by a transfer to the airport for your 7:00 a.m. AeroLink flight. This is not just a transfer; it’s a spectacular 70-minute scenic flight that will take you over the heart of Uganda. As you soar above, enjoy stunning views of shimmering lakes, rolling green hills, and ancient volcanic peaks, all en route to Kisoro Airstrip. This is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Bwindi, allowing you to maximize your time in this incredible environment.
Upon landing, your private Kabiza driver-guide will be waiting to greet you for a short and picturesque 45-minute drive to your lodge. You will arrive at the exclusive Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, perched high on a ridge with breathtaking panoramic views of the primeval forest and the distant Virunga Volcanoes. This lodge serves as the perfect base for your adventure. Spend the afternoon acclimatizing to the crisp mountain air in the comfort of your private stone cottage, which features a cozy fireplace and butler service. Take a moment to appreciate the majesty of your surroundings as you prepare for the extraordinary experience that lies ahead.
Arrival at Clouds: Your Sanctuary Above the Forest
Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge is recognized as one of Africa’s premier intimate lodges, situated at an impressive altitude of over 2,000 meters on a forested ridge. This location provides stunning views over the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and the iconic peaks of the Virunga Volcanoes.
Guests are accommodated in private cottages constructed from local volcanic stone, which are both spacious and elegantly designed. Each cottage features a cozy fireplace, creating a warm atmosphere for unwinding after a day of travel. The lodge showcases authentic Ugandan art, adding to its cultural appeal.
A personal butler is available around the clock to attend to the guests’ needs, including providing locally sourced Arabica coffee on the private verandas and preparing trekking equipment for excursions. Visitors can take advantage of the serene environment, often experiencing mist that envelops the lush greenery below, accompanied by the sounds of the forest.
The lodge also offers exquisite multi-course meals designed to enhance the overall experience and provide nourishment for guests’ adventures. Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge serves as a tranquil and exclusive sanctuary, ideally suited for those preparing for remarkable gorilla encounters.Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
Optional Afternoon Experiences
Buniga Forest Walk with Batwa Elders: This moving experience allows you to see the ancient forest through the eyes of its original people. Batwa elders guide you on a gentle walk, sharing their incredible knowledge of the forest’s secrets, from medicinal plants to traditional hunting techniques.
- Batwa Village Visit: After the forest walk, you are warmly welcomed into the Batwa community’s village. Here you can experience their culture firsthand through vibrant songs, traditional dances, and compelling stories that bring their rich history to life.
- Guided Village & Coffee Walk: Take a fascinating stroll through the local community to experience the rhythms of daily Ugandan life. This walk often includes a visit to the small coffee farms (shambas) on the hillsides, where you can learn about the bean-to-cup journey of the local Arabica coffee.
- Forest Edge Nature Walk: Discover the rich biodiversity on a guided walk along the boundary of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. It’s a fantastic opportunity to spot colobus monkeys, colorful butterflies, and a variety of exotic birds with an expert nature guide.
- Relax at the Lodge: Choose to simply unwind in the luxurious comfort of the lodge. Enjoy a drink by your fireplace, read a book on your private veranda, and soak in the breathtaking, panoramic views of the forest and the distant volcanoes.
Meal Plan: Luch and Dinner
Day 2- Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Today is the day you will meet the majestic mountain gorillas of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. It is an experience that will stay with you for a lifetime, and every moment, from the crisp morning air to the final, awe-inspiring encounter, is part of the adventure.
The Morning of the Trek
Your day begins with an early, energizing breakfast at the lodge. The air is filled with anticipation as you prepare for the journey ahead. Your guide will ensure you have everything you need, including a packed lunch and plenty of water from the lodge, before you make the short drive to the park headquarters for your pre-trek briefing.
Dressing for the Impenetrable Forest
Dressing correctly is key to your comfort and enjoyment. Think of your clothing as your personal armor against the wild elements of the rainforest. The essentials are:
- Sturdy Hiking Boots: Good ankle support and grip are non-negotiable for the uneven, often muddy terrain.
- Long Trousers & Sleeves: Wear neutral-colored clothing that protects your skin from stinging nettles and sharp branches.
- Rain Jacket: Bwindi is a rainforest, and a downpour can happen at any time. A lightweight waterproof jacket is a must.
- Gardening Gloves: Tough gloves are excellent for gripping branches and vines for stability.
- Daypack: A small, waterproof backpack to carry your water, lunch, camera, and rain jacket.
Your Briefing at the Trailhead
At the park headquarters, you will meet the expert Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) rangers who will lead your trek. During the briefing, they will explain the vital rules of gorilla trekking—designed to protect both you and the gorillas. You will then be assigned to a small group (maximum of eight people) and a specific gorilla family. This assignment is thoughtfully done, taking your fitness level into consideration.
This is also where you will be introduced to the local porters. We highly recommend hiring a porter. They do more than just carry your daypack; they are a source of local employment, provide a steadying hand on challenging sections of the trail, and free you up to fully immerse yourself in the experience.
Into the Ancient Forest
With your guide, rangers, and porter, you will enter the mystical, misty world of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The trek can be challenging, but it is a profoundly rewarding experience. Your guides will expertly navigate the dense vegetation, sharing their knowledge of the forest’s unique flora and fauna. The air is alive with the sounds of exotic birds and the rustle of unseen creatures. As you get closer, the trackers communicate in hushed tones, and the anticipation becomes electric.
The Magical Hour: Face to Face with Gentle Giants
The moment you first see the gorillas is simply breathtaking. All the effort of the trek melts away as you spend one quiet, magical hour observing the family in their natural habitat. You will witness the quiet authority of the massive silverback, watch playful youngsters tumble through the foliage, and observe the tender, complex social interactions that make these creatures so fascinating. It is a profoundly moving and spiritual experience—an intimate connection with one of the planet’s most magnificent animals.
Afternoon Journey to the Volcanoes
After your trek, you will return to the trailhead, filled with a sense of wonder and accomplishment. You’ll enjoy your packed lunch before bidding farewell to Bwindi. The adventure continues as you embark on a stunningly scenic drive south towards your next destination. The journey takes you down from the highlands, through the bustling town of Kisoro, and toward the dramatic, conical peaks of the Virunga Volcanoes. You will arrive at the beautiful Mount Gahinga Lodge, your base for tomorrow’s exploration, in the late afternoon.
Welcome to Mount Gahinga Lodge
Nestled at the foot of the majestic Virunga Volcanoes, Mount Gahinga Lodge offers a captivating blend of rustic elegance and serene luxury. Upon your arrival, you are greeted by a stunning panorama of three volcanic peaks—Muhabura, Gahinga, and Sabyinyo—standing as dramatic sentinels over the landscape. This exclusive lodge serves as the premier gateway to Mgahinga Gorilla Park, located just moments from the park headquarters.
Your accommodation consists of private, circular cottages, or bandas, inspired by traditional local design. Inside, you will discover a spacious bedroom, a modern ensuite bathroom, and a cozy living area centered around a crackling fireplace—a welcome comfort during cool mountain nights. The lodge’s warm hospitality is evident in every detail, from the attentive, personal service to the delicious, farm-to-table meals that highlight local flavors.
In addition to being the perfect base for gorilla and golden monkey trekking, the lodge fosters a deep connection to the region’s culture through its partnership with the local Batwa community. It provides a unique opportunity to experience this remarkable corner of Uganda in comfort and style, making it a destination in its own right. Read more about Mount Gahinga Lodge.
Meal Plan: Breakfast -Lunch – Dinner
Day 3: Trekking on the Volcanoes’ Slopes
Your Unique Gorilla Encounter at Mgahinga Gorilla Park
Today, you will embark on a completely different kind of gorilla trek. After exploring the dense, ancient rainforest of Bwindi, you will ascend the slopes of the magnificent Virunga Volcanoes. This is a rare opportunity to see mountain gorillas in a dramatically different habitat, providing a truly comprehensive primate experience that is only possible in Uganda.
A Morning at the Foot of the Volcanoes
You will wake up to the stunning sight of the volcanic peaks dominating the skyline outside your window at Mount Gahinga Lodge. After enjoying a hearty breakfast, you will prepare your gear with the practiced ease of a seasoned trekker. Today’s atmosphere feels different—not only is there anticipation, but also the excitement of knowing how truly special the upcoming encounter will be. A short drive will take you to the park headquarters, where you will meet your new team of UWA rangers for today’s adventure.
Ascending into the Bamboo Forest
The trek through Mgahinga Gorilla Park offers an exhilarating ascent into a landscape filled with lush bamboo forests and more open terrain. As you climb, the air becomes cooler and the views more expansive. This unique environment provides a different trekking experience compared to the valleys and ridges of Bwindi. The gorillas in this area often forage in the clearings, creating fantastic photographic opportunities and allowing for clearer visibility of their interactions as a family. The climb is invigorating and manageable for anyone with a moderate level of fitness, and each step heightens the excitement for what lies ahead.
An Encounter with the Remarkable Nyakagezi Family
Your goal is to locate the renowned Nyakagezi gorilla family, which is notable for having multiple silverback males living together peacefully. Observing these magnificent and influential leaders within one family is an extraordinary and rare experience. The unique dynamics of this group offer an interesting contrast to your time spent in Bwindi. For one magical hour, you will have the opportunity to enter their world and observe their behavior in a new environment. Read about Nyakagezi Gorilla Family.
An Afternoon of Reflection and Relaxation
The trek usually ends by early afternoon, allowing you to return to the warmth and comfort of Mount Gahinga Lodge. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy and reflect on your two incredible gorilla encounters. You can unwind in the lodge’s beautiful gardens, share stories and photos with fellow travelers by the central fireplace, or retreat to the cozy sanctuary of your private banda. As the cool evening sets in (be sure to have a sweater on hand), the crackling fire in your room creates the perfect ambiance to relax and appreciate the profound privilege of the past two days.
Meal Plan: Breakfast -Lunch – Dinner
Day 4: A Golden Farewell & Your Journey Home
On your final day, you have the option to either embark on one last primate adventure to see the vibrant golden monkeys or enjoy a relaxed morning at the lodge before your journey home. Your choice will depend on your flight schedule, as detailed below.
Option A: The Golden Monkey Trek
If your schedule allows, your day will begin after breakfast with an exciting final adventure: trekking to see the endangered and beautiful golden monkeys. These lively primates are found only in the Virunga Massif, and witnessing them is truly remarkable.
During your trek, you’ll venture back into the picturesque bamboo forests on the volcanic slopes, offering a different environment from the gorilla encounter you experienced earlier.
In contrast to the calm and serene gorilla experience, the golden monkey trek is energetic and lively. You will be surrounded by a troop of 20 to 60 monkeys as they playfully leap between bamboo branches, chase one another, and forage on the forest floor. Their striking golden-orange fur contrasts beautifully with the lush green of the forest, creating a spectacular and photogenic experience. The trek typically lasts three to four hours, after which you will return to the lodge for lunch.
Important Note on Activity Timing
Please note that the Golden Monkey Trek can only be done if you have a flight departing from Kigali in the late afternoon or evening. Due to the trek’s duration and the time it takes to return to the airport, it cannot be combined with a morning or early afternoon flight.
Similarly, the flight from Kisoro back to Entebbe leaves in the morning, which doesn’t allow enough time for the trek on the same day. If you are enthusiastic about seeing the golden monkeys, we highly recommend adding an extra night to your safari. Please let us know, and we will be happy to arrange it for you.
Your Journey Home
Departure via Kigali, Rwanda: After your morning activity or a leisurely breakfast, you will embark on a scenic 4-hour drive back to Kigali. This journey offers one last opportunity to take in the stunning landscapes of the “Land of a Thousand Hills.” Depending on your flight time, you might have the chance for a brief tour of Kigali’s highlights or a stop at a craft market for last-minute souvenirs before your driver-guide takes you to Kigali International Airport (KGL) for your departure.
Departure via Entebbe, Uganda: If you are flying back to Entebbe, you will enjoy a relaxed breakfast at the lodge. Afterward, your driver-guide will transfer you to the Kisoro Airstrip to catch your morning flight. This scenic flight provides a spectacular aerial view of Uganda’s highlands before landing at Entebbe International Airport (EBB) to connect with your outbound international flight.
The Perfect Safari Finale: Add a Day of Paradise at Lake Mutanda
After the incredible, heart-pounding excitement of trekking for gorillas, don’t just rush home. Give yourself the ultimate gift: a day to relax, recharge, and let the magic of your adventure sink in. The perfect place to do this is on the shores of Lake Mutanda, a place so stunning it was recently named one of the “Top Three Must-Photograph Locations in the World.”
Imagine waking up to the sight of a pristine, sapphire lake dotted with emerald-green islands, all framed by the dramatic, mist-shrouded peaks of the Virunga Volcanoes. It’s a view that, as one of our clients exclaimed, is “the most beautiful I have ever seen.”
Your home here is the one-and-only Chameleon Hill Lodge. Perched on a ridge with the best seats in the house, this upmarket lodge is a vibrant, whimsical masterpiece. With its bright colors, mosaic details, and fairytale-like turrets, it’s the funkiest, most joyful place to unwind.
Your day is a blank canvas. Feeling adventurous? Try your hand at paddling a traditional dugout canoe across the placid waters or take a boat trip to explore the mysterious islands. Prefer to simply chill out? There is no better way to end the day than with a sundowner cruise, sipping on a classic Ugandan G&T as the sun dips behind the volcanoes, painting the sky in fiery colors.
This extra day isn’t just an add-on; it’s the perfect, blissful conclusion that transforms a great safari into an unforgettable one.
Is this4-Day Luxury Twice Gorilla Trekking Safari in Two Parks right for me?
- Trekking in two Distinctly different Habitats: You cannot do that in any other Mountain Gorilla Country.
- Save Money: This luxury safari can cost you half the price it would in Rwanda. Exclusive lodges such as Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge and Mount Gahinga Lodge are nearly half the price than they are in Rwanda. Affordability is what has made Uganda the premier Gorilla trekking destination.
- Safety – Security: Uganda is the only country where there have been no Guerrilla activities in or around its Gorilla Parks.
- More Gorillas: Nearly half of the remaining endangered Mountain Gorillas are in Uganda. More habituated families are open for visitation, and more Gorilla Permits are available in Uganda.
- More Gorilla Trekking Choices: In addition to Gorilla trekking, Uganda offers the Gorilla Habituation Experience, where you are for four hours with a gorilla family, and there are only four participants.
The above Safari includes all activities listed; it is a full-board safari with your driver-guide. It does not have visas, tips, or alcoholic drinks included at your Lodge, nor does it include gratuities or laundry.
Be aware of our Flexible Booking Policy and our Price Guarantee.
Why choose this 4-Day Luxury Twice Gorilla Trekking Safari?
Experience the ultimate primate adventure with a unique safari in Uganda, where breathtaking encounters with mountain gorillas await. This exclusive journey takes you through two extraordinary habitats: first, the enchanting, densely forested valleys of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, followed by the majestic bamboo-cloaked slopes of the Virunga Volcanoes in Mgahinga Gorilla Park. This remarkable dual trekking experience, paired with luxurious accommodations, is unmatched anywhere else— not even in Rwanda or DR Congo.
Since 2008, Kabiza Wilderness Safaris has perfected the “Hakuna Matata” (No-Worries) journey, ensuring every intricate detail is taken care of—from acquiring your gorilla permits to reserving the finest lodges. All you need to do is relax, soak in the beauty around you, and enjoy the magic of your safari.
Are you ready to seize this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity? Begin planning your unforgettable adventure today by filling out the contact form below, and we will be in touch with you shortly. Your extraordinary journey awaits!
If you are interested in this 4-Day Luxury Twice Gorilla Trekking Safari in 2 Parks – please use the contact form below.
