Uganda Gorilla Trek Independent Short Break

Ki kati! Welcome to Uganda. Your adventure begins straight away at 9 am this morning at your joining point hotel. You’ll be picked up to make your way to Lake Mburo National Park. The flora of this park is acacia woodland, different to most other parks in East Africa, which means its fauna is also different. It's the best place in the country to see the gigantic eland antelope and has about 68 different species of mammals including zebras, impalas, buffalo, leopards, hyenas and jackals. There are five lakes within the park, home to hippos, crocodiles and a variety of waterbirds, while the papyrus swamps provide cover for the sitatunga antelope and red, black and yellow papyrus gonalek. This small park is less well-known among tourists so it's much quieter than some of the more famous East African parks. When you arrive, head out on a game drive through the park before settling into your accommodation in Mbarara.

This morning, rise early and make your way towards the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Famous for its remarkable biodiversity, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to many endangered species, including roughly half of the world's remaining mountain gorillas. The afternoon is free to check out some of the local sights. The optional village visit takes you to Mikozi Village, where you can become acquainted with the Ugandan countryside, visit the local markets, speak with a traditional Ugandan healer and enjoy a drink or two at the local bar before returning to your lodge in Rushaga.

Travel into the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to see the mountain gorillas this morning. Tracking gorillas in the dense forest can sometimes be wet, muddy and uncomfortable and may reach altitudes of almost 2000 m above sea level. The terrain is by no means easy, so it can be strenuous and often humid, but the sheer thrill of coming across a habituated group of gorillas, dominated by a great male silverback, more than outweighs any difficulty. We can usually get very close to the mountain gorillas, who are placid and gentle. Once a trekking group encounters one of the gorilla families, your visit with the gorillas will last one hour. After, retire to your lodge and soak up the incredible views.

Today is a long travel day as you make tracks back to Kampala, stopping along the way to take photos at the equator and enjoy a picnic lunch. Your trip will come to an end with you reach your hotel at approximately 5 pm. If you’d like to organise extra accommodation, just reach out to your booking agent ahead of time.