Where Do You Fly Into for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda?

Your Gateway to an Unforgettable Gorilla Trekking Experience in Uganda by Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd.

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is an adventure like no other, offering the rare opportunity to see the critically endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. As you plan for this life-changing experience, one of the most common questions that arises is: Where do you fly into for gorilla trekking in Uganda?

At Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd., we understand how important it is for travelers to have seamless logistics for their gorilla trekking journey. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the primary airports that serve as your gateways to Uganda’s renowned gorilla trekking destinations. Whether you’re flying from abroad or planning a regional connection, knowing the best routes and how to access Uganda’s gorilla trekking sites will ensure that your trip is smooth and well-coordinated.

International Airports in Uganda

Entebbe International Airport (EBB)

The most common international entry point for travelers heading to Uganda for gorilla trekking is Entebbe International Airport (EBB), which is the country’s primary international gateway. Located around 37 kilometers (23 miles) from Kampala, Uganda’s capital, Entebbe is well-connected to major international airports across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.

If you’re flying in from outside of East Africa, Entebbe International is the most practical option. Upon arrival at Entebbe, you’ll have access to various domestic flight options or road transfer services to reach Uganda’s key gorilla trekking areas.

• Flight Connections: Entebbe is serviced by several international airlines, including KLM, Qatar Airways, Emirates, and Turkish Airlines, offering flights from major hubs like London, Dubai, Doha, and Amsterdam.
• Transfer to Trekking Locations: From Entebbe, you can take a domestic flight or enjoy a scenic road transfer to either Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The road journey typically takes 8 to 10 hours for Bwindi, while a flight is available to reach these parks faster.

Kampala City: Proximity to Entebbe

While not a major airport, Kampala (the capital) is located just a short distance from Entebbe. Many travelers opt for a night’s stay in Kampala before continuing their journey to the trekking sites. This is also the place where many local tour companies, including Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd., coordinate pickup services to the trekking regions.

Domestic Flight Connections for Gorilla Trekking

Scheduled Flights to Kihihi and Kisoro Airports

While the majority of travelers access the gorilla trekking destinations by road, Uganda offers domestic flights for those seeking convenience and time savings. Scheduled flights are available from Entebbe International Airport to Kihihi and Kisoro airports, both of which are located near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park respectively.

• Kihihi Airport: Located about 40 minutes’ drive from the Buhoma sector of Bwindi, Kihihi Airport is a small regional airport that offers regular flights from Entebbe. Flying into Kihihi is particularly convenient for those visiting Bwindi’s Buhoma region, which is known for its iconic gorilla trekking trails.
• Kisoro Airport: This small airport is located about 30 minutes’ drive from the Ntebeko trailhead of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Kisoro is closer to the park and is a great option for trekkers focused on exploring Mgahinga and the Virunga Volcanoes.

These domestic flights are offered by local airlines, such as AeroLink Uganda and Eagle Air, and typically last about 1 hour. Flying into either of these airports significantly reduces travel time compared to the long road journey.

Benefits of Domestic Flights

• Time Efficiency: Domestic flights save hours of road travel, allowing you to make the most of your trekking time in the parks. This is ideal for those with limited time for their trip.
• Scenic Views: Flying into Uganda’s rural regions offers passengers a breathtaking view of the landscape, from verdant forests to rolling hills and mountains.
• Comfort and Convenience: Avoid the fatigue of long-distance road travel by opting for a more relaxing, quick flight to your trekking destination.

Road Transfers to Gorilla Trekking Locations

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Main Destination)

The most popular destination for gorilla trekking in Uganda is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in the southwestern region of the country. After flying into Entebbe, many travelers choose to continue by road transfer to reach the park.

• Travel Time: Road transfers to Bwindi take between 8 to 10 hours, depending on which sector of the park you are visiting. The journey passes through picturesque landscapes, including lush tea plantations and rural villages.
• Options for Road Transfer: There are various transfer options, including private vehicles, tour operator shuttles, and group transfer services. The road journey is scenic, but it’s important to note that some of the roads leading to the park are narrow and winding.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

While not as large as Bwindi, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is another excellent destination for gorilla trekking, especially if you’re interested in trekking along the Virunga Volcanoes.

• Travel Time: The park is approximately 4-5 hours by road from Entebbe, making it slightly more accessible for those with time constraints.
• Road Transfer Options: Like Bwindi, road transfers are available from Entebbe or Kampala. The scenic drive passes through Kabale, a picturesque town near the Ugandan-Rwandan border, before reaching Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Alternative Airports in Neighboring Countries

Rwanda’s Kigali International Airport (KGL)

Some travelers prefer to fly into neighboring Rwanda for easier access to Uganda’s gorilla trekking sites. Kigali International Airport (KGL) is located just 3-4 hours by road from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, making it a viable option for international flights.

• Why Kigali? Kigali’s international airport is well-connected, with direct flights from major international cities. It’s also closer to the gorilla trekking areas in Uganda, reducing the time spent on long-distance travel.
• Border Crossing: If you fly into Kigali, you’ll need to cross the Uganda-Rwanda border at Katuna or Cyanika. This border crossing is straightforward and can be completed in a few hours. It is important to have your travel documents in order and be prepared for possible visa requirements.

Flying into Rwanda for a Ugandan Trek

Some travelers opt to fly into Rwanda, then cross the border and enter Uganda for a combined safari experience. At Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd., we offer flexible itineraries that include border crossings and customized road transfers to your preferred gorilla trekking destination in Uganda.

Conclusion: Choosing the Best Airport for Gorilla Trekking

When planning your gorilla trekking adventure, Entebbe International Airport (EBB) is the most common entry point for international travelers. It serves as the gateway to Uganda’s spectacular gorilla trekking destinations, including Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. For those seeking convenience, domestic flights to Kihihi or Kisoro airports offer a quicker route to the parks. Alternatively, some travelers choose to fly into Kigali, Rwanda, and drive to Uganda’s trekking regions, offering additional flexibility.

At Deks Safaris & Tours Ltd., we are here to help you navigate the logistics of your journey, ensuring you choose the most suitable travel options and enjoy a seamless and unforgettable gorilla trekking experience. From airport transfers to trekking permits, we handle the details so you can focus on the adventure that awaits you in the heart of Uganda’s wilderness