4 Days Shoebill Tracking and Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda

This 4 day safari combines two of Uganda’s most iconic wildlife experiences. You will begin your adventure with an early morning Shoebill tracking excursion in Mabamba Swamp before travelling to southwestern Uganda for mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The trip offers excellent opportunities for bird lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and photographers looking to experience the Pearl of Africa in a short time.

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe International Airport and Transfer to Your Hotel

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be welcomed by your safari guide and transferred to your hotel in Entebbe. Depending on your arrival time, you may choose to relax at the hotel or take a short walk around the town and the shores of Lake Victoria.

Your guide will brief you about your safari and prepare you for the next day’s Shoebill excursion.

Overnight stay in Entebbe.

Day 2: Early Morning Shoebill Tracking at Mabamba Swamp and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Our day begins before sunrise as you head to Mabamba Swamp, one of the best places in Africa to see the elusive Shoebill Stork in its natural habitat.

You will board a traditional canoe and glide through the papyrus-lined channels in search of this prehistoric-looking bird. Early mornings offer the highest chances of spotting the Shoebill as it patiently hunts for lungfish and other aquatic prey. Mabamba is also home to hundreds of other bird species, making it an excellent destination for birdwatchers.

After your Shoebill experience, you will return to Entebbe and begin your journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. You may travel by a scheduled domestic flight from Entebbe to Kihihi or Kisoro for a shorter journey or by road for those who prefer a scenic drive through Uganda’s countryside.

Upon arrival in Bwindi, you will check into your lodge and spend the evening relaxing while preparing for gorilla trekking.

Overnight stay in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking Experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After an early breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters for a briefing by the Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. You will learn about gorilla trekking guidelines before being assigned to one of the habituated mountain gorilla families.

The trek can last anywhere from one to six hours depending on the location of the gorilla family. Walking through the dense rainforest is an adventure in itself, with opportunities to spot birds, butterflies, and other forest wildlife along the way.

Once you find the gorillas, you will spend one unforgettable hour observing their daily lives. Watching a silverback protect his family or young gorillas playing among the vegetation is an experience that few wildlife encounters can match.

After the trek, you will return to your lodge for relaxation and to celebrate one of Africa’s greatest wildlife experiences.

Overnight stay in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Day 4: Transfer Back to Entebbe and Departure

After breakfast, you will begin your journey back to Entebbe. Guests who prefer to save time may opt for a domestic flight from the nearby airstrip, while those travelling by road can enjoy Uganda’s beautiful landscapes during the drive.

Depending on your international flight schedule, your guide will transfer you to Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight.

Your 4 day Shoebill and Gorilla Trekking safari comes to an end with unforgettable memories of two of Uganda’s most remarkable wildlife experiences.