Primal Connection

Primal Connection: Gorilla Trekking Safari

4 days

The "Primal Connection: Gorilla Trekking Safari" offers an immersive adventure into Uganda’s dense jungles, where you’ll experience the rare and awe-inspiring encounter with the endangered Mountain Gorillas. Starting and ending in Entebbe, the trip takes you to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where you’ll stay in top-tier safari lodges. Highlights include two unique gorilla experiences: the thrilling Gorilla Trekking, where you hike through the forest to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, and the more intimate Gorilla Habituation, allowing you to spend extended time learning about their behaviors. Along with scenic flights and cultural visits to the Batwa community, this trip provides an unforgettable blend of wildlife adventure, luxury, and cultural enrichment.

Tour Highlights

Inclusions

Arrive and unwind by the pool or explore Entebbe town, including the Wildlife Education Center.
Transfer to Bwindi on a scenic flight to Kisoro Airstrip.
Visit the Batwa community, learning about their rich cultural heritage as the “Godfathers of the forest.”
Trek through Bwindi’s dense forest with ranger guides to encounter mountain gorillas up close.
Observe the gorillas’ behavior and movements, a once-in-a-lifetime experience in their natural habitat.
Relax at the lodge, enjoying a sundowner with views of the forest, followed by a cozy evening around the campfire.
Embark on the Gorilla Habituation Experience, spending up to 4 hours immersed in their world.
Witness the daily life of the gorillas, gaining insights into their routines and social dynamics.
Reflect at the lodge, taking in the scenic forest surroundings after each day’s adventure.
Fly back to Entebbe, with options to relax by the pool or prepare for your connecting flight.

Transportation (Transfers to & fro - Airport, Lodges and safari locations )
Accommodation
Flights to and from Kisoro Airstrip.
Park and Conservation fees
Meals (Full board meals - Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner, parked lunch during the game drives)
Professional guides
Safari Activities
Drinking water
Your Professional Elevated Safari Experience Tour Director

Inclusions

Get in touch today:

+1 617 302 6961

INFO@ELEVATEDSAFARIEXPERIENCE.com

Arrival Day: Welcome to Uganda

Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at Entebbe Airport. Transfer to your hotel, where you can relax by the pool, finish the last chapter of your favorite book, or explore Entebbe town. Highlights include the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre, offering a sneak peek into the country’s rich biodiversity.

Overnight Stay: Entebbe

Day 1: Into the Heart of Bwindi

After a morning transfer to Entebbe Airport, embark on a scenic flight to Kisoro Airstrip near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The 1.5-hour flight provides stunning aerial views of Uganda's lush landscapes. Upon arrival, a guide will escort you on a two-hour drive to your luxurious lodge.

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the traditions of the Batwa community, the original forest dwellers. Learn about their vibrant culture, ancient survival skills, and spiritual connection to the forest.

Dinner & Overnight: Nkuringo Lodge or Clouds Mountain Lodge

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking – Into the Jungle

Rise early for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure: Gorilla Trekking. Accompanied by expert ranger guides and porters, ascend into the dense jungle in search of a gorilla family. The trek, which begins with a briefing at 8 AM, can take 4–7 hours depending on the gorillas’ movements.

Witness the awe-inspiring presence of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat—a truly humbling and transformative experience. Return to your lodge to unwind with a sundowner and gather around a cozy campfire to share stories under the stars.

Dinner & Overnight: Nkuringo Lodge or Clouds Mountain Lodge

Day 3: Gorilla Habituation – A Deeper Connection

Today, embark on a more intimate encounter during the Gorilla Habituation experience. Start your day alongside the gorillas as they begin their morning routines. Spend up to four hours observing their behavior, social interactions, and unique personalities.

This immersive experience offers a deeper understanding of these incredible primates and leaves you with memories that will last a lifetime. Return to your lodge to reflect on the day’s wonders with another sundowner and campfire evening.

Dinner & Overnight: Nkuringo Lodge or Clouds Mountain Lodge

Day 4: Farewell to the Wilderness

Your adventure concludes with a morning transfer to Kisoro Airstrip for your 8 AM flight back to Entebbe. Depending on your outbound flight schedule, choose to relax by the pool or explore more of Entebbe’s charm.

Optional: Extend your stay with additional activities or a visit to another iconic Ugandan destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions:

1. Is this trip suitable for children?
No, gorilla trekking and habituation require participants to be at least 15 years old as per Uganda Wildlife Authority regulations.

Preparation Questions:

2. What should I pack for this trip?
We recommend packing:

Sturdy hiking boots
Long-sleeved shirts and trousers to protect against insects
A waterproof jacket (Bwindi can be misty and rainy)
A wide-brim hat and sunscreen
Lightweight gloves for trekking
A reusable water bottle and snacks
Binoculars and a camera with a waterproof cover
Insect repellent

3. Are there any physical fitness requirements?
Yes, moderate fitness is required as trekking can take 4-7 hours through uneven and steep terrain. Preparation with regular walks or hikes before your trip is advised.

4. Are permits for gorilla trekking included?
Yes, permits for both gorilla trekking and habituation are included in the package. These permits are pre-arranged and mandatory for participation.

Travel Logistics:

5. Do I need a visa for Uganda?
Most travelers require a visa to enter Uganda. It can be obtained online through the Uganda e-Visa system or on arrival at Entebbe International Airport. Check the visa requirements for your nationality before traveling.

6. What vaccinations are required?
A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory. Other recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, and Rabies. Consult your healthcare provider for advice on malaria prevention.

7. How do I get to Entebbe?
Entebbe is accessible through its international airport, with flights from major hubs like Nairobi, Doha, Amsterdam, and Istanbul. We provide airport pick-up upon arrival.

On the Ground Questions:

8. What is the best time of year to visit?
The best time for gorilla trekking is during Uganda’s dry seasons, from December to February and June to September. These months have less rainfall, making trekking conditions more favorable.

9. How long is the flight to Kisoro Airstrip?
The scenic flight from Entebbe to Kisoro Airstrip takes approximately 1.5 hours, followed by a 2-hour transfer to your lodge.

10. How close will I get to the gorillas?
During both trekking and habituation, you’ll maintain a safe distance of 7 meters (about 23 feet) from the gorillas to protect both them and visitors.

Accommodations and Comfort:

11. What type of accommodations are provided?
You’ll stay in luxury lodges such as Nkuringo Lodge or Clouds Mountain Lodge, known for their stunning views, high-end amenities, and exceptional service.

12. Will there be Wi-Fi and electricity at the lodges?
Yes, the lodges provide Wi-Fi and electricity, though connectivity may be limited in remote areas. This is a perfect opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature.

Gorilla Experience Questions:

13. What is the difference between gorilla trekking and the habituation experience?
Gorilla trekking involves locating and spending about one hour with a gorilla family, while the habituation experience allows up to 4 hours of observing and interacting with a group that is being acclimatized to human presence.

14. How many people are in a trekking group?
Trekking groups are limited to eight participants per gorilla family to minimize human impact on the animals.

15. Are porters available during the trek?
Yes, local porters can be hired to carry your backpack and assist during challenging parts of the trek. This not only helps you but also supports the local community.