3 Days Gorilla Trekking Safari from Europe – Complete 2026 Travel Guide

For European travelers seeking an extraordinary wildlife adventure within a short holiday window, a 3 days gorilla trekking safari from Europe is one of the most rewarding experiences in Africa. In just three days on the ground, you can stand face-to-face with endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat—an encounter that many describe as life-changing.

With convenient flight connections from major European cities and efficient safari logistics in Uganda and Rwanda, organizing Gorilla trekking from Europe has never been easier in 2026. At Monumental Expeditions and Safaris, we specialize in short, well-planned gorilla safari packages tailored to travelers from the UK, Germany, France, Netherlands, Italy, Spain, and across Europe.

This complete guide covers flights, permits, costs, itineraries, packing lists, and insider tips to help you plan your unforgettable Gorilla trekking Africa experience.

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Where to Go for a 3 Days Gorilla Trekking Safari

Mountain gorillas live in only three countries worldwide, but most European travelers choose Uganda or Rwanda due to stability, accessibility, and well-developed tourism infrastructure.

In Uganda, gorilla trekking takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Bwindi is the most popular destination and hosts nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.

In Rwanda, trekking occurs in Volcanoes National Park, located about 2.5 hours by road from Kigali.

Both destinations offer exceptional trekking experiences. Your choice will depend on budget, travel time, and personal preference.

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Uganda vs Rwanda for a Short Gorilla Safari

If you are planning a 3 days gorilla trekking safari, travel efficiency is key.

Rwanda is ideal for shorter trips because Volcanoes National Park is close to Kigali International Airport. You can land in the morning and reach your lodge the same day.

Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is farther from Entebbe International Airport, requiring either a domestic flight or a 7–8 hour scenic drive. However, Uganda offers more affordable permits and excellent value for money.

Gorilla permit costs in 2026:

Uganda – approximately USD 800 per person
Rwanda – USD 1,500 per person

Both destinations provide the same magical one-hour gorilla encounter.

Explore our Uganda and Rwanda safari comparisons at Monumental Expeditions and safaris to decide which option best fits your travel style.

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Flights from Europe to East Africa

Traveling for Gorilla trekking from Europe is convenient thanks to strong airline connections.

Major departure cities include:

London
Paris
Amsterdam
Brussels
Frankfurt
Madrid
Rome
Zurich

Popular airlines flying to East Africa include:

KLM via Amsterdam
Brussels Airlines via Brussels
Turkish Airlines via Istanbul
Qatar Airways via Doha
Emirates via Dubai

Flight times range between 8 and 14 hours depending on your departure city and layover.

Travelers to Uganda arrive at Entebbe International Airport, while Rwanda travelers arrive at Kigali International Airport.

Monumental Expeditions and Safaris arranges airport pickups and seamless transfers to your safari lodge.

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Detailed 3 Days Gorilla Trekking Safari Itinerary

A well-organized 3 days gorilla trekking safari maximizes your limited time while ensuring comfort and unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer

Arrive at Kigali or Entebbe Airport. Meet your professional guide from Monumental Expeditions and Safaris and transfer to your lodge near Volcanoes National Park or Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Enjoy dinner and briefing about the next day’s trek.

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Experience

After early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for registration and ranger briefing. Groups are assigned to a habituated gorilla family.

The trek can take 1 to 6 hours depending on gorilla location. Once located, you spend one magical hour observing the gorillas in their natural habitat. Watching a silverback protect his family and juveniles play is an unforgettable moment.

Return to the lodge for relaxation and overnight stay.

Day 3: Departure

After breakfast, transfer back to the airport for your return flight to Europe.

Optional add-ons include golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park or a Kigali city tour.

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What to Expect During Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking involves hiking through dense forest, guided by trained rangers. Terrain may be steep, muddy, and uneven, but porters are available to assist.

Once you find the gorillas, you maintain a 7-meter distance and spend one hour observing them. Flash photography is prohibited.

Moderate fitness is recommended for this Uganda gorilla safari or Rwanda gorilla safari experience.

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Best Time for Gorilla Trekking from Europe

Gorilla trekking is available year-round. However, the dry seasons offer easier hiking conditions:

June to September
December to February

European travelers often plan trips during summer holidays or Christmas breaks.

Rainy seasons (March–May and October–November) offer fewer crowds and lush scenery.

Booking early for Gorilla safari packages 2026 ensures permit availability during peak travel months.

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Visa and Entry Requirements for European Travelers

Most European passport holders can obtain visas on arrival in Rwanda. Uganda offers an online e-visa system.

Passport validity must extend at least six months beyond your travel date.

Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry into Uganda and Rwanda.

Monumental Expeditions and Safaris provides up-to-date visa and health guidance.

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Accommodation Options

Accommodation options range from luxury eco-lodges to comfortable mid-range lodges and budget guesthouses.

Luxury lodges feature volcano views, fireplaces, and premium services. Mid-range lodges offer excellent comfort and value.

We customize accommodation based on your budget and preferences.

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Packing List for a 3 Days Gorilla Trekking Safari

Essential items include:

Waterproof hiking boots
Long trousers and long-sleeved shirts
Rain jacket
Gardening gloves
Insect repellent
Camera with extra batteries
Reusable water bottle

For a detailed checklist, visit our Gorilla Trekking Packing Checklist 2026 guide.

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Why Choose Monumental Expeditions and Safaris?

Monumental Expeditions and Safaris specializes in organizing seamless Gorilla trekking from Europe.

We provide:

Gorilla permit booking
Personalized itinerary planning
Professional English-speaking guides
Comfortable 4×4 safari vehicles
Airport transfers
24/7 travel support

Our expertise ensures a smooth and unforgettable gorilla trekking experience.

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Cost of a 3 Days Gorilla Trekking Safari

Cost ranges (excluding international flights):

Uganda 3-day safari: USD 1,800 – 3,500
Rwanda 3-day safari: USD 2,800 – 5,000

Final cost depends on accommodation level, season, and group size.

We provide transparent pricing and customized quotations tailored to European travelers.

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Book Your 3 Days Gorilla Trekking Safari from Europe Today

A 3 days gorilla trekking safari from Europe is short in duration but immense in impact. Standing before mountain gorillas in the wild is a rare privilege that few experiences can match.

Whether you choose Uganda’s lush Bwindi forest or Rwanda’s dramatic volcano slopes, your journey will be unforgettable.

Permits for 2026 are limited and often sell out months in advance, especially during summer holidays.

Visit Monumental Expeditions and safaris today to explore our gorilla safari packages or contact Monumental Expeditions and Safaris to begin planning your ultimate African primate adventure.

Your journey from Europe to the heart of Africa begins now