Itinerary

1. Day 1- Arrival and Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

   Morning:

   • Arrive in Kigali, Rwanda (or Entebbe, Uganda, if flying into Uganda) and begin your journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The drive takes around 4-5 hours from Kigali or 7-8 hours from Entebbe, depending on your arrival point.
   • Along the way, enjoy the scenic views of rolling hills, villages, and the beautiful countryside.

   Afternoon:

   • Arrive in Bwindi and check into your lodge or camp, situated near the park entrance.
   • After lunch, attend a briefing session about gorilla trekking and the park’s rules for tracking and interacting with the gorillas.
   • Depending on your arrival time, you may have an opportunity to visit the local community near Bwindi to learn about the region’s culture and traditions.

   Evening:

   • Prepare for your gorilla trekking adventure the following day with an early dinner and rest.
   • Enjoy the serene atmosphere of the rainforest and the surrounding hills as you relax and reflect on the excitement ahead.

   Highlights:

   • Scenic drive through the Ugandan countryside or Rwanda’s rolling hills to Bwindi.
   • Introduction to gorilla trekking with an educational briefing.
   • Optional cultural experiences in a local Bwindi community.

2. Day 2- Gorilla Trekking and Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi

   Early Morning:

   • Enjoy an early breakfast at your lodge, as you'll need to arrive at the park headquarters by 7:00 AM for your gorilla trekking briefing.
   • After the briefing, you'll be assigned to a group based on the family of gorillas you're trekking to visit. A park ranger guide will lead the trek.
   • Begin your gorilla trek through Bwindi’s dense, mist-covered rainforest. The trek may take anywhere from 1 to 6 hours depending on the location of the gorillas that day.

   Midday:

   • Once you find the gorillas, you’ll have an hour to observe and interact with them. Watch in awe as these majestic creatures feed, play, and move through their natural habitat.
   • Take time to snap photos and enjoy the connection with these endangered animals.
   • After your gorilla encounter, begin your descent back to the park entrance.

   Afternoon:

   • After your trek, enjoy a packed lunch or return to your lodge for a relaxing meal.
   • Rest and unwind after the physically demanding morning.

   Late Afternoon:

   • Begin your journey to Lake Bunyonyi, a scenic drive of approximately 2-3 hours from Bwindi.
   • Check into your lakeside accommodation, with views of the beautiful lake surrounded by rolling hills.

   Evening:

   • Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on Lake Bunyonyi to unwind and take in the serene beauty of the lake, with its 29 islands and lush surroundings.
   • Have a peaceful dinner by the lake, and rest for the night.

   Highlights:

   • Gorilla trekking in Bwindi, an unforgettable wildlife experience.
   • Time spent observing and connecting with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
   • Scenic drive to Lake Bunyonyi, known for its tranquility and beauty.
   • Optional boat ride on the lake to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

3. Day 3- Exploring Lake Bunyonyi and Departure

   Morning: 

   • Start your day with a delicious breakfast while enjoying the beautiful views of Lake Bunyonyi and its surrounding hills. 
   • After breakfast, you can choose from several relaxing activities around the lake.
   • Take a boat ride to visit some of the islands, such as Akampene Island (also known as “Punishment Island”) or Bushara Island, where you can explore and learn about the local history and culture. If you're feeling adventurous, enjoy kayaking or swimming in the lake’s clean and safe waters. 
   • Take a nature walk around the lake or visit a nearby local village to experience the rural lifestyle and culture of the Batwa and Bakiga people. 

   Late Morning:  

   • After your morning activities, enjoy a leisurely lunch at the lodge, taking in the stunning lake views. 
   • If time permits, you can also visit nearby Bunyonyi Overland Resort or Cultural Centre to shop for souvenirs or learn more about the region’s history. 

   Afternoon:  

   • Begin your drive back to Kigali (Rwanda) or Entebbe (Uganda), depending on your departure arrangements. 
   • The drive from Lake Bunyonyi to Kigali takes approximately 3-4 hours, and to Entebbe, it can take around 7-8 hours. 
   • On the way, enjoy the scenic countryside, with plenty of opportunities for last-minute photos or stops along the way. 

   Evening:  

   • Arrive in Kigali or Entebbe, depending on your travel plans, and either catch your onward flight or check into your hotel.
   • Reflect on your unforgettable experiences of gorilla trekking and the peaceful beauty of Lake Bunyonyi. 

   Highlights: 

   • Morning exploration of Lake Bunyonyi, including boat rides and cultural visits. 
   • Chance to swim, kayak, or hike in the serene environment of the lake. 
   • Scenic drive back to Kigali or Entebbe, ending your journey with unforgettable memories.