Home 5 Days of Gorilla Trekking and Shoebill Watching in Uganda

Set off on a once-in-a-lifetime journey in Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa.” This 5-day safari combines two of the country’s most unforgettable wildlife experiences. Start with a shoebill excursion in Mabamba Swamp, where you’ll search for the rare and iconic shoebill stork along with other fascinating bird species. Then, venture into the lush Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for a thrilling gorilla trekking adventure, encountering the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. With stunning landscapes, unique wildlife, and expertly planned experiences, this safari promises memories you will treasure forever.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Entebbe, Uganda

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our tour representative, who will assist with your transfer to your hotel . Take time to relax, recover from your journey, and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Accommodation: Bomma Hotel Entebbe town

Meals: Dinner

Day 2 : Mabamba Swamp Birding Excursion

After breakfast in the morning, your guide will pick you up  from the hotel and head to the landing site whare you will board a boat to Mabamba Swamp, a famous wetland along Lake Victoria. Here, you will meet a local guide and set out on a traditional paddle canoe to explore the marshes.

The swamp is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to over 260 species. Highlights include the rare Shoebill Stork, often seen in pairs, as well as globally threatened species like the Pallid Harrier, White-winged Warbler, Papyrus Gonolek, and Blue Swallow.

After the canoe excursion, you will return from Mabamba Swamp and head to your hotel for lunch. If you would like to try something different, you can stop at a local restaurant for a traditional Ugandan meal. Later, relax and unwind at the hotel.

Accommodation: Bomma Hotel Entebbe town

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 3: Scenic Journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After an early breakfast, you will begin your 8–9 hour journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home of the endangered mountain gorillas. The drive takes you through Uganda’s beautiful countryside, with rolling hills, tea plantations, and bustling villages along the way. You may stop for lunch en route and enjoy some breathtaking scenery before continuing your journey.

On arrival at Bwindi, you will check in at your lodge, where you can relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of the forest as you prepare for the thrilling gorilla trekking experience tomorrow.

Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge – standard room

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 4: Mountain Gorilla Trekking Experience

Start your day with breakfast before heading to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park headquarters. There, you will attend a briefing by park rangers covering the rules and guidelines for gorilla trekking.

You will be assigned to a trekking group and paired with a guide who will lead you through the dense forest in search of a gorilla family. The trek can take several hours depending on the location of the gorillas, but the reward is unforgettable—spending one magical hour observing these gentle giants in their natural environment.

After the trek, return to the park headquarters to receive your gorilla trekking certificate. Spend the afternoon relaxing at your lodge, taking time to reflect on this extraordinary wildlife encounter.

Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge – standard room

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Day 5: Departure

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the lodge before beginning your journey back to Kampala and onward to Entebbe International Airport for your late evening flight. Expect to arrive between 4:00–5:00 PM (Ugandan time), giving you plenty of time to check in for your departure. This marks the end of your unforgettable Ugandan adventure, filled with lasting memories of wildlife, nature, and warm hospitality.