Welcome from your Tugende Afric family to a short but profoundly impactful journey into the heart of the Pearl of Africa. "Tugende" means "let's go," and though our time is brief, we are here to guide you to one of the planet's most powerful wildlife encounters. This perfectly paced getaway combines the awe-inspiring adventure of gorilla trekking with meaningful cultural connection and dedicated wellness time, offering a complete and rejuvenating escape.
What to Pack: The misty mountains of Bwindi are cool and the trails can be damp. Tugende Afric recommends warm layers like sweaters and gloves, breathable long sleeves and trousers, a dependable raincoat, and sturdy, comfortable hiking boots. Come prepared for both adventure and relaxation.
After breakfast in Kampala, your Tugende Afric guide will meet you and begin the scenic journey southwest to the legendary Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As the landscape unfolds into rolling green hills, feel the anticipation build. We will take you directly to your chosen lodge in the Buhoma sector, carefully selected for its proximity to your gorilla trekking starting point. Settle in, enjoy the serene atmosphere, and rest well for the monumental day ahead.
This is the day you've traveled for. We rise at dawn. After a very early breakfast, your Tugende Afric guide ensures you arrive at the briefing point by 7:30 am. Following registration and an essential briefing from Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers, we step into the ancient forest. The trek, supported by local porters if you wish, leads to a moment of pure, humbling wonder: one precious hour in the presence of a family of mountain gorillas. This Tugende Afric-facilitated experience is a treasure you will carry forever, culminating in a certificate from this World Heritage Site. The afternoon is yours to rest and reflect on this profound encounter.
After the intensity of the trek, today offers balance and connection. After breakfast, Tugende Afric facilitates a respectful and enlightening visit to the local community. This is a chance to engage with Ugandan life, learn about local crafts, and perhaps visit the Batwa community to understand the rich cultural heritage of the forest's first people. In the afternoon, we shift focus inward. A rejuvenating wellness spa massage at the lodge, arranged by Tugende Afric, will soothe your muscles and allow you to fully absorb the peace of your surroundings.
After a final breakfast in the mountains, we begin our return journey to Kampala. Tugende Afric will ensure a comfortable drive, with a relaxing lunch stop en route. Should time allow, we can arrange a final stop at a crafts market for souvenirs. We will deliver you to Entebbe International Airport or your hotel in Kampala, filled with indelible memories and a deep sense of peace.
