3-Day Bwindi Gorilla Trek (Rushaga)
Tour Overview
Our shortest gorilla safari: a scenic drive to Bwindi's southern Rushaga sector, a full day to trek with a habituated gorilla family, and the road home. Ideal if you are short on time. This 3-day private safari visits Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Highlights: Photo stop on the Equator.
Best time to go: Year-round. Jun-Sep and Dec-Feb are drier; Apr/May/Nov are wetter (UWA had a $600 low-season permit in 2026; 2027 low-season rate to confirm).
Accommodation Options (Budget, Midrange, Luxury):
Choose the comfort level that suits you; the vehicle, guide and activities stay the same. Price per person (2 people sharing, 2027): Budget $1,531 · Midrange $1,864 · Luxury $2,564.
- Bwindi – Rushaga (2 nights): Budget – Nshongi Camp; Midrange – Rushaga Gorilla Lodge; Luxury – Gorilla Safari Lodge
Lodges shown are examples, or similar, subject to availability. Gorilla and chimp permits are included at cost.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Entebbe to Rushaga
Long scenic drive south-west (about 9-10 hrs) with an Equator stop. Overnight near Bwindi's southern sector. Overnight: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge (midrange) or similar.
Day 2: Gorilla trekking
Briefing at Rushaga, then trek with UWA rangers and trackers. Treks take 2-6+ hrs; you get one hour with a habituated family. Minimum age 15. Overnight: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge (midrange) or similar.
Day 3: Rushaga to Entebbe
Drive back to Entebbe/Kampala, arriving in the evening.
Inclusions:
- Private 4x4 safari Land Cruiser with pop-up roof, English-speaking driver-guide and fuel
- Airport or hotel pick-up and drop-off in Entebbe or Kampala
- Accommodation as listed, sharing a double or twin room; full board on safari
- Gorilla trekking permit and a guided trek with UWA rangers
- Bottled drinking water in the vehicle
- All government taxes
Exclusions:
- International flights and Uganda visa (single-entry e-visa about $50, or the East Africa Tourist Visa at $100)
- Travel and medical insurance; a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry
- Tips for guides, porters and lodge staff
- Drinks unless the lodge includes them, laundry and personal items
- Optional activities and anything not listed
- Single room supplement (on request)
How to Get There:
Book an international flight to Entebbe International Airport (EBB), about 45 minutes from Kampala. Your Mwema Safaris driver-guide meets you at arrivals or at your hotel. About 8 to 10 hours by road from Entebbe or Kampala, usually broken with a night at Lake Mburo or Lake Bunyonyi. Scheduled domestic flights to Kihihi (for Buhoma) or Kisoro (for Rushaga/Nkuringo) cut that to about an hour and a half.