Fly from Entebbe to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Fly from Entebbe to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park for Gorilla Trekking

If you’re planning a gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park but want to avoid the long 8–9 hour drive from Entebbe, booking a flying safari is a convenient and efficient option. Flying to Bwindi not only saves you time but also allows you to get closer to the park, where you can begin your thrilling gorilla trek right away.

Flight Options to Bwindi for Gorilla Trekking

There are multiple ways to fly to Bwindi for your gorilla trek. One option is to fly to Kisoro Airstrip, which provides easy access to the Rushaga or Nkuringo regions of Bwindi. The Rushaga sector, located in the southern part of the park, is home to 8 habituated gorilla families—more than any other sector in Bwindi. These families, including Rwigi, Muchunguzi, Busingye, Bweza, Nshongi, Mishaya and Kahungye, are popular trekking destinations and are accessible via Kisoro. For travelers coming from Kigali, it’s a quick 4–5 hour drive to Rushaga.

Rushaga also offers a unique opportunity to experience Gorilla Habituation, allowing trekkers to spend additional time with the gorillas. A gorilla permit is required for trekking in Rushaga, with prices set at USD 800 for foreign non-residents, USD 700 for foreign residents and 300,000 Ugandan shillings for East African citizens. This permit grants you one hour with the gorillas.

Alternatively, you can fly to Kihihi Airstrip to access the northern side of Bwindi, which includes the Buhoma and Ruhija sectors. Buhoma is the most popular sector, home to the oldest gorilla family, Mubare, along with three other families: Habinyanja, Rushegura and Katwe.

Essential Tips for Flying from Entebbe to Bwindi

1. Booking Your Gorilla Permit in Advance
   To ensure a spot on your desired trekking date, securing your gorilla permit in advance is essential. You can block your permit by paying 100%, 70% or 30% of the total cost. The permit costs USD 700 for foreign non-residents, USD 600 for foreign residents and 250,000 Ugandan shillings for East African citizens. We recommend booking your permit at least 3–4 months in advance, as permits can sell out during peak seasons. Contact us to assist you in the booking process.
2. Booking Accommodation in Bwindi
   Whether you’re seeking luxury or budget-friendly options, it’s crucial to book your accommodation in advance. Luxury lodges such as Four Gorilla Lodge, Rushaga Gorilla Safari Lodge and Gorilla Valley Lodge offer excellent comfort and amenities. For a more budget-friendly experience, consider options like Nshongi Camp, Rushaga Gorilla Haven Lodge and Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge. If you’re staying in the Nkuringo region, there are also great budget lodges to choose from.
3. Comfortable Travel from Kisoro or Kihihi Airstrip
   After landing at Kisoro or Kihihi Airstrip, you’ll need to drive to your lodge. We recommend traveling in a comfortable 4×4 Land Cruiser for the best experience. From Kisoro, the drive to your lodge in Rushaga takes approximately 2 hours, while from Kihihi, it’s a scenic 1-hour drive.
4. Booking Your Flight Ticket
   To fly to Bwindi, you can book a flight with AeroLink, which operates both scheduled and charter flights to Kisoro Airstrip. Although there are no direct flights to Rushaga, you’ll be dropped off at Kisoro Airstrip, where our professional guide will pick you up and transfer you to your lodge. The drive from Kisoro to your lodge takes about one hour.

What to Wear for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Proper attire is key for a successful and comfortable gorilla trek. Here’s a recommended list of what to wear and bring for your trek:

• Long-sleeve sweater (for cold mornings)
• Two pairs of long trousers (protects against brush and insects)
• Waterproof hiking boots (the terrain can be muddy)
• Hat and sunglasses (optional, depending on weather)
• Camera and long-lasting batteries (don’t forget to turn off the flash)
• Binoculars (for birdwatching and spotting wildlife)
• Gardening gloves (useful for holding onto branches)
• Raincoat (the forest is unpredictable and rain is common)
• Mosquito repellent (to protect against insect bites)
• Sunscreen (for sun protection, especially during the dry season)
• Neutral-colored clothing (avoid bright colors, as they can disturb the gorillas)

Why Choose Trek Africa Gorillas for Your Gorilla Trekking Safari?

Trek Africa Gorillas is a trusted expert in organizing memorable gorilla trekking safaris to Uganda and Rwanda. We are highly rated on Trip Advisor and our safari packages combine adventure, wildlife and eco-friendly practices. We offer a range of safaris that preserve biodiversity and support local communities, including chimpanzee trekking, Big 5 safaris, game viewing, mountain hiking, boat excursions and cultural encounters.

Whether you’re looking for a luxury experience or a budget-friendly safari, we’ve got you covered. Get in touch with us today to plan your unforgettable gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Let us help you create the best African safari experience possible.