Overview
This 4 Days Gorilla Trekking & White Water Rafting in Uganda combines the thrill of gorilla trekking in Bwindi National Park with the excitement of white water rafting on the Nile River in Jinja. You’ll start by traveling to the lush forests of Bwindi, where you’ll spend a day tracking mountain gorillas. Then, you’ll return to Kampala, with a stop at the equator, before heading to Jinja for an exhilarating white water rafting experience on the Nile. This itinerary offers a mix of wildlife encounters and adrenaline-pumping activities, making it a memorable adventure.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1
Drive to Bwindi National Park
Your journey begins with a pickup from your hotel in Kampala or Entebbe. From there, you will drive to Bwindi National Park in southwestern Uganda, known for its mountain gorillas. This drive takes around 8 to 9 hours and includes traveling through the scenic, hilly Kigezi region. The landscape is beautiful, with rolling hills and lush greenery. Arriving in the evening, you will check into your accommodation, which could be Gorilla Forest Camp, Silver Back Lodge, Engage Lodge, or Bwindi View Banda. These lodges offer comfort and a great start to your gorilla trekking adventure.
Day 2
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest National Park
Start your day early with breakfast, then prepare for gorilla trekking. Pack a lunch, poncho, garden gloves, and suitable clothing for the trek. Head to the ranger station for a briefing, where you’ll learn about the trek ahead. After the briefing, a ranger guide will lead you into the dense forest of Bwindi in search of the mountain gorillas. The trek can be challenging, as you will walk through thick vegetation and navigate around large tree trunks. The gorillas are often busy foraging for food and fruits, so spotting them requires patience. Along the way, your guide will share interesting details about the forest and its inhabitants. You might hear monkeys calling from the treetops. When you finally encounter the gorillas, you’ll spend up to one hour observing them. Watch as the young gorillas play, and see the mothers caring for their babies. It’s important to stay calm and avoid disturbing the gorillas. After your hour with these magnificent creatures, return to your lodge to relax and reflect on the experience.
Day 3
Drive to Kampala
After breakfast, you’ll drive back to Kampala. Along the way, stop at the equator to experience the unique water experiment and take memorable photos standing on both sides of the Earth simultaneously. This short break is a fun and educational addition to your trip. Arrive in Kampala in the evening and check into your hotel or lodge. Options include Sheraton Hotel, Hotel Africana, Hotel Triangle, or Namirembe Guest House. Enjoy a restful night before your next adventure.
Day 4
White Water Rafting
Start the day with a boat cruise on Lake Bunyonyi, the second deepest lake in Africa. Explore its various islands, including Punishment Island. After lunch, begin your drive back to Kigali, crossing via the Katuna Border. If you have a night flight, this schedule will ensure you have enough time to catch your flight.