Is the Gorilla trekking permit included in the price?

Yes, the safari package includes the cost of the Gorilla trekking permit and all national park entrance fees.

Is it safe to swim in Lake Bunyonyi?

Yes, Lake Bunyonyi is bilharzia-free and safe for swimming, as it contains no dangerous wildlife like hippos or crocodiles.

Last updated on: April 29, 2026

5 Days Bwindi Gorilla Trekking, Lake Bunyonyi & Lake Mburo Wildlife Safari 2026

5 Days (Budget) Bwindi Gorillas & Lake Bunyonyi Safari, go Gorilla Trek at Bwindi Forest National Park & Canoeing Lake Bunyonyi as well as wildlife safari at Lake Mburo National Park.

Trip Overview of the 5 Days (Budget) Bwindi Gorillas & Lake Bunyonyi Safari

Day 1: Transfer to Bwindi Forest National Park
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest National Park
Day 3: Boat Ride and Community Visit at lake Bunyonyi
Day 4: Transfer to Lake Mburo for Boat Cruise
Day 5: Game Drive and Departure

Detailed Itinerary of the 5 Days (Budget) Bwindi Gorillas & Lake Bunyonyi Safari

Day 1: Transfer to Bwindi Forest National Park

After your breakfast, meet the driver/guide and thereafter transfer to western Uganda via Masaka-Mbarara high way with en-route stop at the equator and en-route at Agip Motel.

Thereafter drive to the gorilla sanctuary through this beautiful mountain scenery. You will reach Bwindi in the evening where you will check in at the Engagi Lodge/Mahogany Springs Lodge/Silver Back Lodge. Meal plan: H/B

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest

5 Days (Budget) Bwindi Gorillas & Lake Bunyonyi Safari

Have breakfast and briefing by park ranger guides. Carry parked lunch, embark on a 30 minutes – 8 hours trek searching for the Mountain Gorillas in their natural vegetation habitat.

The tracking starts at the spot where the gorillas were last seen the previous day. When you meet the Gorillas, only an hour is allowed to stay in their presence taking numerous photos to keep for memories.

After your Gorilla Trekking adventure, transfer back to your lodge/ hotel for Dinner and Overnight.

However, if you still have time, proceed to visit the nearby local communities with a skilled Ranger Guide.

Engagi Lodge/Mahogany Springs Lodge/Silver Back Lodge. Meal plan: F/B.

Day 3: Boat ride and Community Visit

After breakfast and drive to Lake Bunyonyi with scenic undulating terrains with your lunch at Arcadia Cottages and then in the evening take canoeing and visiting the local communities.

Learn the culture and practices of the people, do some shopping of the eye catching arts and crafts exhibited by the locals. Relax and watch the sunset before retiring for the evening, dinner and overnight at Arcadia cottages. Meal plan: F/B.

Day 4: Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park

Have breakfast and after embark onto the safari jeep and drive to Lake Mburo National Park.

Een-route lunch at Agip Motel and then drive to the Park and then enjoy an afternoon Boat Cruise along Lake Mburo where you watch various Hippos, Crocodiles, Water birds and wildlife animals taking water along the shores.

Dinner and Overnight at Arcadia Cottages, Rwakobo Rock Lodge, Mihingo Lodge. Meal plan: F/B.

Day 5: Game drive and Departure to Kampala

Wake up early for your morning game drive which may reward you with views of animals like Hyenas, Jackals, Zebras, Buffaloes, Warthogs, Water bucks, Bush bucks, Topis etc.

After your drive, break off for lunch then proceed to Kampala or Entebbe International Airport to board your fight back home.

Safari includes

Ground transportation
Accommodation and meals as per itinerary
Lunch
Gorilla permits to be booked in advance
Allowance of a knowledgeable English speaking guide
Park entrance
Boat ride
Car entry

Excludes

Airfare to Uganda, Visas, Accommodation, cigarettes and personal expenses not listed in the programme.

How This Trip Contributes to Eco-Tourism

Choosing the 5 Days Bwindi, Lake Bunyonyi, and Lake Mburo Safari allows you to be an active participant in the preservation of Uganda’s natural heritage. Your journey supports sustainability in several key ways:

Gorilla Habitat Protection: A significant portion of your Bwindi Gorilla trekking permit fee is allocated to the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). These funds directly finance anti-poaching patrols, veterinary monitoring of gorilla families, and the long-term protection of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Community Revenue Sharing: By law, 20% of the park entry fees are shared with the local communities living adjacent to Bwindi and Lake Mburo. This helps build schools and clinics, ensuring that local residents see wildlife conservation as a benefit to their own development.
Support for Local Livelihoods: This itinerary includes stays at eco-conscious lodges and activities like canoeing at Lake Bunyonyi. By utilizing local guides and boat operators, you provide a sustainable income for families, reducing their reliance on forest resources.
Conservation of Lake Mburo’s Ecosystem: Tourism in Lake Mburo National Park provides the financial justification needed to protect the park from encroachment. Your visit helps maintain a safe haven for the park’s unique population of Impalas, Zebras, and Elands.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the Gorilla trekking permit included in the 5-day package?

Yes, the tour price typically includes the mandatory Gorilla trekking permit. Because these permits are in high demand and limited in number, we handle the booking process for you in advance.

How difficult is the Gorilla trek in Bwindi?

The trek can be moderate to challenging depending on the location of the gorilla family. It involves hiking through thick vegetation and steep terrain at high altitudes. We recommend a reasonable level of fitness and sturdy hiking boots.

What is unique about Lake Bunyonyi?

Lake Bunyonyi is known as one of the deepest and most beautiful lakes in Africa. It is bilharzia-free and safe for swimming. It is a perfect place to relax after the physical intensity of gorilla trekking.

Will I see the “Big Five” on this safari?

While this trip focuses on Primates (Gorillas) and savannah species (Zebras, Giraffes, and Leopards in Lake Mburo), it does not cover all the Big Five. However, the diversity of birds and unique mammals like the Eland and Impala makes it highly rewarding.

What type of vehicle is used for the transfer?

We use a customized 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser or Safari Van with a pop-up roof. This ensures comfort on the long drive from Kampala to Bwindi and provides excellent views for photography during game drives in Lake Mburo.

Plan Your Dream Trip!

Craft your ultimate African odyssey with the help of our local specialists. With decades of collective expertise in Uganda’s wild heart, we transform your vision of the perfect wildlife adventure into a seamless, life-changing reality. Whatever your quest, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.