Gorilla habituation is different from gorilla trekking. While the normal gorilla trekking in Uganda allows only one hour with the gorillas, habituation gives you up to four hours. You need to be physically fit to take part, and you must follow the rules and guidelines before heading out.
This activity takes place in the Rushaga sector in the south of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Only two gorilla families are currently being habituated: Bikyingi and Bushaho. A maximum of four visitors are allowed per gorilla family each day.
Your safari will be based in Bwindi. On the way, you will stop at the equator in Kayabwe for photos and later in Mbarara town for a lunch buffet before continuing to your lodge.
3-Day Gorilla Habituation Tour Highlights
- Day 1: Arrival & Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Day 2: Gorilla Habituation Experience
- Day 3: Return to Kampala
Detailed 3-Day Gorilla Habituation Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Meet your driver guide at the airport or hotel for a short briefing before starting the journey. The drive takes about 8–9 hours, covering 540 kilometers. Stop at the equator in Mpigi for photos and scenery views.
Along the way, you may see zebras, impalas, and other animals near Lake Mburo National Park. Continue to Mbarara town for lunch, then proceed to Bwindi’s southern sector. On arrival, check in at your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 2: Gorilla Habituation Experience
After breakfast, drive to the park offices for a briefing before the activity begins. You will then enter the forest to search for the gorillas. The walk may take 3–8 hours, sometimes longer, depending on where the gorillas are found.
Gorillas share about 96% of human DNA. During habituation you may observe them feeding, grooming, patrolling, or communicating. Once you find your allocated group, you will spend up to four hours with them.
After the experience, return on foot to the park offices, meet your driver guide, and transfer back to the lodge for a late lunch and relaxation.
Day 3: Return to Kampala
After breakfast and coffee at the lodge, check out and begin the drive back to Kampala. On arrival, stop for lunch, and if time allows, you may visit a craft shop for souvenirs. The driver guide will then drop you at the airport for your flight.
End of Gorilla Habituation Safari in Bwindi.
