How to Get to Bwindi National Park by Driving or Fly-In Safari

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to endangered mountain gorillas, is one of Uganda’s top safari destinations. Visitors can reach Bwindi via driving safaris or fly-in safaris, depending on time, budget, and travel preferences.

Both options offer unique experiences, from scenic road trips through Uganda’s countryside to quick access for gorilla trekking adventures.

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1. Driving Safari from Kampala to Bwindi

The road journey from Kampala to Bwindi is roughly 530 km, taking 8–10 hours depending on your destination within the park.

Popular Routes

1. Kampala → Ntungamo → Rukungiri → Kihihi → Buhoma

   • Approx. 390 km on tarmac, then 82 km on murram roads

   • Total drive: ~8 hours

2. Kampala → Kabale → Ruhija → Buhoma

   • 105 km from Kampala to Kabale, then 95 km to Ruhija on murram roads

   • 4×4 vehicles recommended during rainy season

3. Kampala → Kabale → Kisoro → Nkuringo/Rushaga

   • 105 km to Kabale, then 80 km to Kisoro; overnight in Kisoro recommended

   • Final 35 km to Nkuringo: ~1.5 hours

4. Via Queen Elizabeth National Park

   • From Queen Elizabeth NP’s Ishasha sector, it’s 64 km to Bwindi

   • Offers opportunities to spot tree-climbing lions

Scenic Stops Along the Way

• Equator at Kayabwe: Stand in both hemispheres and take memorable photos

• Mpambire Royal Drum Villages: Witness traditional drum making

• Lake Mburo National Park: Optional game drive and wildlife viewing

• Kasese and Kigezi Hills: Rolling hills and scenic landscapes along the route

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2. Fly-In Safari to Bwindi

For visitors with limited time, a fly-in safari is the fastest way to reach Bwindi. Daily domestic flights operate from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip to:

• Kihihi Airstrip: Closest to Nkuringo and Rushaga sectors

• Kayonza Airstrip: Near Buhoma sector

• Kisoro Airstrip: Southern Bwindi access

Flight Details

• Operators: Aerolink Uganda, Fly Uganda

• Duration: ~1 hour from Entebbe to Kihihi or Kisoro

• Schedule: Morning and afternoon flights; charter options available for private trips

Transfers from Airstrip to Lodges

• Kihihi → Buhoma: ~2 hours

• Kisoro → Nkuringo: ~1–1.5 hours

• Kayonza → Buhoma: ~45 minutes

Requirements for Fly-In Safari

• Valid passport

• Full name must match your booking

• Provide origin, age, and contact details

• Maximum 10 kg hand baggage

• Advance booking recommended, especially during peak seasons (June–September, December–January)

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3. Combining Safari Stops on the Way to Bwindi

For both driving and fly-in safaris, you can enrich your journey with these stops:

Cultural & Historical

• Mpambire Royal Drum Village: Learn traditional drum making

• Lake Katwe Salt Mines: Experience ancient salt harvesting methods

Wildlife & Nature

• Lake Mburo National Park: See elands, impalas, kobs, giraffes, and more

• Queen Elizabeth National Park: Game drives, crater lakes, and Kazinga Channel boat cruises

• Rwenzori Mountains: Snow-capped peaks visible from clear days

Chimpanzee Trekking Option

• Kibale National Park: 6-hour drive from Fort Portal to Buhoma

• Chimpanzee trekking permits: ~$300 per person

• Allows one hour of observation per chimpanzee community

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4. Choosing Between Driving or Fly-In Safari

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5. Planning Your Gorilla Trek in Bwindi

Once at Bwindi:

• Buhoma: Western sector, accessible from Kayonza or Kihihi

• Ruhija: Eastern sector, ideal for longer treks

• Nkuringo & Rushaga: Southern sectors, near Kisoro

• Trekking permits must be booked in advance

• Follow Uganda Wildlife Authority rules for gorilla encounters

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Conclusion

Getting to Bwindi National Park is an adventure in itself. Whether you choose a scenic driving safari through Uganda’s rolling hills and cultural stops or a fly-in safari for a fast and comfortable journey, careful planning ensures a smooth and memorable gorilla trekking experience.

Advance bookings for permits, flights, and transfers are essential, particularly during peak seasons. The journey, combined with Uganda’s incredible wildlife and landscapes, makes reaching Bwindi as exciting as the trek itself.