Into The Mist – 3 Days Gorilla Habituation Safari

Day 1: The Journey to the Jungle Begins

Your adventure begins early as our driver-guide picks you up from Kampala or Entebbe. We’ll journey southwest through Uganda’s ever-changing landscapes, weaving past traditional homesteads, lush plantations, and verdant hills. A scenic stop at the Equator monument offers a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to stretch before continuing through the cattle corridor of Mbarara, where you’ll enjoy a local lunch.

As you approach the towering hills of Rushaga, the terrain becomes more dramatic—rolling green cliffs and misty valleys signal your arrival in gorilla country. Upon reaching your lodge, you’ll settle into a peaceful evening, surrounded by the sounds of the forest and anticipation for the next day’s encounter.

Day 2: The Gorilla Habituation Experience

Rise before dawn and fuel up with a hearty breakfast before heading to the park headquarters for a pre-trek briefing. Here, you'll meet the rangers and researchers who will accompany you into the jungle. The trek begins in the cool morning mist, winding through thick undergrowth, tangled vines, and ancient trees that whisper stories from centuries past.

Once you locate the gorilla family, the true magic begins. For up to four breathtaking hours, you'll witness these magnificent creatures in their natural rhythms—feeding, grooming, communicating, even watching you with equal curiosity. This is not a show. This is life, unfolding raw and real in front of your eyes.

After returning from the forest, you’ll unwind at your lodge, your heart still echoing with the drumbeats of the jungle. As the sun sets behind the hills, share stories around a campfire or simply let the silence of the wilderness settle into your soul.

Day 3: Homeward Bound with Memories for a Lifetime

After breakfast, bid farewell to the forest and begin your return journey to Kampala or Entebbe. The drive is a time for reflection, taking in the sweeping vistas of Uganda’s countryside one last time. A cultural stop in the Buganda or Ankole region offers one more taste of Uganda’s heritage before concluding your journey in the late evening.

This may be the end of your safari—but the spirit of the forest, and the gaze of a mountain gorilla, will stay with you forever.

Accommodation Options

At Upcountry Safaris Uganda, we believe that where you stay is part of the adventure. We handpick rustic, community-friendly lodges nestled in the wild:

• Budget: Nshongi Gorilla Camp – Forest cabins run by locals, with eco-friendly values and authentic village hospitality.

• Mid-range: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge – Intimate lodge with mountain views and private balconies for post-trek relaxation.

• Rustic Upcountry Choice: Rushaga Gorilla Haven Lodge – Our top recommendation for a true upcountry experience: welcoming hosts, breathtaking hilltop views, and a deep connection to the land and people.