Gorilla trekking can be physically and emotionally intense, and many people like to have a slower day afterwards rather than going straight to the airport. This itinerary adds that day at Lake Bunyonyi, a short drive from Bwindi.
Bunyonyi sits among steep terraced hills in south-western Uganda, with more than twenty small islands scattered across it. It is widely regarded as free of bilharzia and crocodiles, and many visitors swim here. The afternoon is open: take a dugout canoe or boat out among the islands, or simply sit on the lodge terrace.
The structure is simple - a travel day, a trekking day, a lake day and the journey home. It suits couples, photographers drawn to the lake's scenery and anyone who wants a gorilla trip with a gentler finish.
Journey at-a-glance:Customize This Journey. Request More Information »
BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST
Gorilla trek in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (permit included)
A slower final stretch on Lake Bunyonyi
Optional canoe trips among the lake's islands
Terraced hills and lake views
Drive south-west from Entebbe to the Bwindi area, arriving with time to rest before the early start.
Start with a briefing at the park office, where rangers assign you to a gorilla family. Trackers head out first to locate the group; you follow with your ranger guide. Depending on where the gorillas have moved, the walk can be short or take several hours over steep, muddy slopes. Once you find them, you have one hour with the family.
A short, scenic drive to Lake Bunyonyi. The afternoon is free for an optional canoe or boat trip among the islands, or simply resting at the lakeside lodge.
A relaxed morning by the lake, then the drive back to Entebbe.
Planning tip: see our guide on Gorilla Trekking in Uganda: How It Works and How to Prepare.
Accommodation: Three nights at mid-range lodges near Bwindi and on Lake Bunyonyi, upgradeable to luxury.
Vehicle: 4x4 safari vehicle
Gorilla trekking runs all year. The drier months, roughly June to August and December to February, make trails less slippery and are the most popular, so permits sell out earlier. The wetter months still see treks every day.
Full Bwindi Impenetrable Forest destination guide »
Many visitors do - the lake is widely regarded as free of bilharzia and crocodiles. As anywhere, ask locally about the safest spots and swim within your ability.
It gives you an afternoon, an evening and a slow morning by the water. We can add an extra night if you would like more downtime.
Send us your travel dates and group size and we'll confirm availability and pricing.
