Choosing the Best Transport Option for Your Uganda Gorilla Safari

When planning a gorilla safari in Uganda, selecting the right transport method is crucial for a smooth and comfortable journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. You can travel by road or air, each offering distinct advantages based on budget, time, and personal preferences.

Traveling by Road

For an adventurous journey, a 4×4 wheel-drive vehicle is highly recommended. The roads leading to Bwindi and Mgahinga are bumpy, dusty, and winding, as they traverse the highlands of the Kigezi sub-region. A sturdy vehicle ensures a more comfortable ride through these rugged terrains.

Having a professional and experienced driver-guide is an added advantage, as they are familiar with the routes, road conditions, and the best stops along the way. Experienced safari companies like Kenlink Tours carefully select driver-guides who meet high standards of professionalism and expertise, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip.

The road journey typically takes 8 to 9 hours from Kampala or Entebbe to the gorilla parks, with scenic landscapes along the way.

Traveling by Air

For a quicker and more convenient option, domestic flights are available from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip to Kihihi or Kisoro Airstrip. From the airstrip, a transfer vehicle is required to reach your lodge, taking approximately 2 hours.

During peak tourism seasons, domestic flight seats sell out quickly, so securing tickets in advance is essential. Booking a flight helps you avoid the long road journey, reducing travel fatigue.

For a more exclusive gorilla safari experience, private charter flights can be arranged from Entebbe or Kajjansi. This offers flexibility and privacy but requires advance booking to complete necessary clearances. Transfer vehicles are also needed upon arrival.

Making the Right Choice

• By road: Ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic landscapes and adventure but requires endurance for a long journey.

• By air: Best for those seeking speed and comfort, though it comes at a higher cost.

Regardless of your choice, early bookings for flights, vehicles, and lodges are essential to ensure a seamless gorilla safari experience in Uganda.

Best Time for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

The optimal time to visit Uganda for gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons, from July to October and December to February. These months offer the best trekking conditions, with drier trails and clear visibility, making the experience more enjoyable.

For an unforgettable safari, combine gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park with other wildlife experiences across East Africa. Witness the Great Wildebeest Migration in Kenya’s Maasai Mara or Tanzania’s Serengeti, creating a diverse and action-packed adventure.

Alternatively, pair your gorilla trek with an exhilarating wildlife safari in Uganda’s top national parks:
✅ Murchison Falls National Park – See the mighty Nile River plunge through a narrow gorge, with abundant elephants, lions, and giraffes.
✅ Queen Elizabeth National Park – Experience tree-climbing lions in Ishasha and boat safaris along the Kazinga Channel.
✅ Kidepo Valley National Park – A hidden gem offering rugged landscapes and diverse wildlife, including cheetahs and ostriches.

For a seamless and unforgettable experience, contact our expert safari and gorilla trekking specialists to plan a tailor-made adventure that suits your travel goals. Book your dream safari today!