4 Days Bwindi and Kabale (Lake Bunyonyi) Safari

Day 1: Transfer from Kampala to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

• Morning:
  • Early morning departure from Kampala or Entebbe (8-9 hours drive to Bwindi).
  • You’ll pass through the equator for a photo stop and short break.
  • Continue driving through scenic landscapes, rolling hills, and traditional homesteads.
• Afternoon:
  • Arrive in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park by late afternoon.
  • Settle into your lodge and relax after the journey, or take an optional nature walk to explore the surrounding forest.
• Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge, Mahogany Springs, or Bwindi Lodge.
• Meals: Lunch and Dinner.

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

• Morning:
  • Early breakfast, followed by a gorilla trekking briefing by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers.
  • Set out for your gorilla trek through the dense Bwindi forest in search of a gorilla family.
    • The trek can last between 2-6 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas.
    • Once found, you’ll spend 1 hour observing and photographing these majestic creatures.
• Afternoon:
  • After trekking, return to your lodge for lunch and relaxation.
  • Optional: Visit a local Batwa Pygmy community to learn about their culture and way of life.
• Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge, Mahogany Springs, or Bwindi Lodge.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

Day 3: Transfer to Kabale (Lake Bunyonyi)

• Morning:
  • After breakfast, transfer to Kabale (2-3 hours), a picturesque town known for its cool climate and scenic views.
  • Continue to Lake Bunyonyi, one of Uganda’s most beautiful lakes, often called the “Switzerland of Africa” due to its hilly surroundings and clear waters.
• Afternoon:
  • Relax at the lake or take a boat ride to explore some of Lake Bunyonyi’s 29 islands, such as Punishment Island and Bwama Island.
  • Optional: Go swimming or canoeing (Lake Bunyonyi is bilharzia-free and safe for swimming).
• Accommodation: Birdnest Resort, Bunyonyi Overland Resort, or Arcadia Cottages.
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

Day 4: Explore Lake Bunyonyi & Return to Kampala

• Morning:
  • After breakfast, enjoy a peaceful nature walk around Lake Bunyonyi to appreciate the breathtaking scenery and birdwatching (the lake is home to over 200 bird species).
  • Optional: Visit a local community project or craft market to support local artisans.
• Afternoon:
  • Early lunch at the lodge, followed by a transfer back to Kampala or Entebbe (7-8 hours drive).
  • Alternatively, opt for a domestic flight from Kihihi airstrip near Bwindi to Entebbe (optional).
• Meals: Breakfast and Lunch.

Inclusions:

• Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle.
• Gorilla trekking permit.
• Park entry fees.
• Accommodation (full-board basis).
• Boat ride on Lake Bunyonyi.
• Bottled water in the vehicle.
• Professional English-speaking guide.

Exclusions:

• Domestic flights (optional).
• Travel insurance, visas, and flights.
• Tips and alcoholic beverages.
• Optional activities like Batwa cultural visit.