How to plan a Fly-in Gorilla Habituation in Uganda
Planning a fly-in gorilla habituation in Uganda offers travelers a faster way to reach Bwindi Impenetrable National Park while enjoying more hours with the mountain gorillas. Instead of spending 9–10 hours on the road from Entebbe to Bwindi, you take a scheduled or charter flight lasting about one and a half hours. This saved travel time allows you to relax at the lodge, explore the local community, and prepare for the adventure. The highlight of this experience is the four hours you spend with a semi-habituated gorilla family in the Rushaga sector. During this time, you watch them feed, groom, play, and interact while learning from researchers who work daily to make these gorillas comfortable around humans. This safari is ideal for travelers with limited days in Uganda who still want an in-depth wildlife experience.
3-Day Fly-in Gorilla Habituation Experience Highlights
- Visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
- Spend four hours with mountain gorillas.
- Travel in comfortable 4×4 safari vehicles.
- Airport and hotel transfers included.
- Accommodation provided for all nights.
Things to Consider
- This tour can start on any day and is also open to solo travelers.
- The age limit for participation is 15 years and above.
- Accommodation is included, and extra nights in Entebbe before or after the trip can be arranged at an additional cost.
- The itinerary can also be customized to fit your travel needs.
Arrival
You will be picked up from Entebbe International Airport or your hotel before the start of the tour.
Day 1: Fly from Entebbe to Bwindi
Begin your morning with a transfer to Entebbe International Airport for a scheduled or charter flight to Kisoro Airstrip. The flight takes about one and a half hours, giving you stunning aerial views of Uganda’s hills, lakes, and farmlands. Upon landing, your driver-guide will take you on a scenic drive to your lodge near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
After checking in, enjoy lunch while taking in the forest views. In the afternoon, choose between relaxing at the lodge or joining a short community visit. This visit offers insight into local traditions, crafts, and ways of life in villages close to the park. In the evening, enjoy dinner and rest ahead of your big day.
Accommodation Options:
- Budget: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge
- Mid-range: 4 Gorillas Lodge / Gorilla Leisure Lodge
- Luxury: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge / Gorilla Heights Lodge
Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner
Day 2: Gorilla Habituation Experience
Start the day early with breakfast, then drive to the park headquarters for a detailed briefing. Rangers will explain the rules, safety guidelines, and the habituation process. Unlike normal trekking, this experience involves observing gorillas for four hours and sometimes helping researchers collect data. You will walk through thick forest trails with rangers and researchers, spotting birds, monkeys, and other forest wildlife. When you meet the gorilla family, watch as they eat, rest, groom, and play. Researchers may invite you to help identify individuals, make calls, or take notes. You will have your packed lunch in the forest before trekking back in the afternoon. At the park office, you will receive a certificate of participation. Later, return to your lodge for dinner and relaxation.
Accommodation Options:
- Budget: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge
- Mid-range: 4 Gorillas Lodge / Gorilla Leisure Lodge
- Luxury: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge / Gorilla Heights Lodge
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 3: Return to Entebbe
After breakfast, transfer to Kisoro Airstrip for your morning flight back to Entebbe. Depending on your schedule, you may take an international flight the same day or spend another night in Entebbe. This ends your fly-in gorilla habituation adventure.
Meal Plan: Breakfast
Accommodation: None (extra nights can be arranged).
Gorilla Habituation Permits and How to Obtain Them
A gorilla habituation permit which costs $1,500 is essential for this activity. It allows you to spend four hours with the gorillas instead of one. The Uganda Wildlife Authority issues these permits, and spaces are very limited. Booking in advance is important, especially during peak seasons. Iconic Africa Safaris as well secure your permit and arrange the necessary logistics to match your travel dates.
Gorilla Habituation Rules and Regulations
Follow park rules to ensure safety for both you and the gorillas. Always keep a safe distance unless instructed otherwise by rangers. Avoid flash photography and do not litter. Eating, drinking, or smoking near the gorillas is not allowed. If you are sick, you will not be allowed to participate to prevent spreading diseases to the gorillas. Always listen to your guide’s instructions during the trek.
Best Time for Fly-in Gorilla Habituation
This experience is available throughout the year. However, the dry seasons from June to September and December to February are the most popular. Trails are less slippery, making trekking easier. The wet seasons from March to May and October to November offer fewer tourists and greener scenery, although trails can be muddy. No matter the month, the gorillas remain in the park, and the experience is equally rewarding.
