Flights from Entebbe to Bwindi: A Convenient Way to Access Gorilla Trekking
Flights from Entebbe to Bwindi — Planning a trip to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience? Instead of enduring the long 8-9 hour drive from Entebbe, why not opt for a flight to Bwindi? Flying is the quickest and most convenient way to reach this renowned park, where you can enjoy the incredible experience of tracking mountain gorillas.
There are multiple flight options to get you to Bwindi, with two main routes available:
- Fly to Kisoro: This route will bring you closer to the Rushaga and Nkuringo regions of the park. These areas are home to some of the easiest-to-spot gorilla families, thanks to the terrain, and Rushaga boasts a total of 8 gorilla families, more than any other region of Bwindi. Additionally, Rushaga is the only region offering the Gorilla Habituation Experience.From Kigali, it’s just a 4-5 hour drive to Rushaga, while Kisoro is easily accessible by plane.
- Fly to Kihihi: For those trekking in the northern parts of Bwindi, including the Buhoma and Ruhija sectors, the Kihihi Airstrip is the closest option. Buhoma is the most popular sector and home to famous gorilla families like Mubare, Habinyanja, and Rushegura.
Flight Schedule from Entebbe to Bwindi
Flights to Bwindi typically fly to the southern and northern regions of the park. Here’s a typical schedule:
Flights to Kisoro (Southern Bwindi):
- Entebbe to Kisoro: 07:00 AM – 08:10 AM
- Kisoro to Entebbe: 08:25 AM – 11:25 AM
Flights to Kihihi (Northern Bwindi):
- Entebbe to Kihihi: 07:00 AM – 08:45 AM
- Kihihi to Entebbe: 09:45 AM – 11:25 AM
- Entebbe to Kihihi: 10:15 AM – 11:25 AM
- Kihihi to Entebbe: 11:40 AM – 01:30 PM
- Entebbe to Kihihi: 12:00 PM – 02:40 PM
- Kihihi to Entebbe: 02:45 PM – 04:15 PM
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi: Costs and Permits
To trek the gorillas in either the Rushaga or Nkuringo regions of Bwindi, you will need a gorilla permit. The prices are as follows:
- USD 800 for Foreign Non-Residents
- USD 700 for Foreign Residents
- UGX 300,000 for East African Citizens
The permit allows you to spend one hour with the gorillas. Be sure to book your gorilla permit in advance as spots are limited, especially during peak seasons. You can secure your permit with a 30%, 70%, or 100% deposit, and we recommend booking at least 3-4 months ahead of your trek.
Accommodation in Bwindi: Where to Stay
For a comfortable stay during your gorilla trekking adventure, it’s crucial to book your accommodation in advance. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose from:
- Luxury Lodges: Four Gorilla Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Safari Lodge, Gorilla Valley Lodge.
- Budget Lodges: Nshongi Camp, Rushaga Gorilla Haven Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Camp, Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge.
- There are also budget options in Nkuringo if you’re trekking in that sector.
Comfortable Travel to Bwindi
For a smooth and comfortable journey to Bwindi, consider traveling in a 4×4 Land Cruiser. If you’re flying to Kisoro Airstrip, the drive from there to your lodge in Rushaga takes approximately 1 hour, saving you a long overland journey.
What to Wear During Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
Packing the right gear is essential for a successful gorilla trekking adventure. Here’s a quick guide on what to wear and bring:
- Long-sleeved sweater: The park can get chilly.
- 2 pairs of long trousers: To protect against undergrowth.
- Waterproof hiking boots: The trails can be muddy, so sturdy boots are a must.
- Hats and sunglasses (optional): Depending on the weather.
- Cameras and extra batteries: Photography is a big part of the experience.
- Binoculars: For birdwatching and viewing other wildlife.
- Gardening gloves: Useful for holding onto branches.
- Raincoat: The rainforest weather can change quickly.
- Mosquito repellent: Protection from insects.
- Sunscreen: For the occasional sunny spells.
- Neutral-colored clothing: Avoid bright colors, which can scare the gorillas, and black/blue clothing to deter Tsetse flies.
Why Book Your Flights to Bwindi with Trek Africa Expeditions?
At Trek Africa Expeditions, we pride ourselves in providing seamless gorilla trekking safaris with flights from Entebbe to Bwindi. We offer personalized services, and our team is highly rated on TripAdvisor for providing memorable and eco-friendly safari experiences. Whether you’re interested in chimpanzee trekking, a Big 5 safari, or a cultural encounter, we ensure your trip supports biodiversity conservation and local communities.
Contact us today to plan your Bwindi adventure and book your flights with ease!