Entebbe Airport & Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Entebbe International Airport is the main international gateway into Uganda and the primary starting point for travelers heading to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking. Understanding how these two locations connect is essential for planning a smooth and well-timed gorilla safari in Uganda. 
Entebbe International Airport: Uganda’s Main Entry Point
Entebbe International Airport is located on the shores of Lake Victoria, about 40 kilometers from Kampala. It handles all international arrivals into Uganda and serves as the hub for both domestic flights and long-distance road safaris.
The airport is well organized, with visa-on-arrival services, currency exchange, and easy transfers to hotels in Entebbe or Kampala. Most gorilla safaris begin here, either on the same day of arrival or after an overnight stay.
Where Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Is Located
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park lies in southwestern Uganda, near the borders with Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park is famous for hosting more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas and is divided into several trekking sectors, including Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo.
Because of its remote and mountainous location, travel planning between Entebbe and Bwindi is a key part of any gorilla trekking itinerary.
Traveling from Entebbe to Bwindi by Road
Road travel from Entebbe to Bwindi takes approximately 8 to 10 hours, depending on traffic, road conditions, and the trekking sector. The journey passes through central and southwestern Uganda, offering scenic views of rolling hills, farmlands, and local towns.
Most travelers break the journey with an overnight stop, often near Lake Mburo National Park or in Kabale. Road travel suits visitors who want to experience Uganda’s landscapes and culture along the way.
Flying from Entebbe to Bwindi
For travelers short on time, domestic flights offer the fastest connection. Daily scheduled flights operate from Entebbe International Airport to Kihihi and Kisoro airstrips, which serve Bwindi’s different sectors.
Flights take about 1 to 1.5 hours, followed by a short road transfer to the lodge or park headquarters. Flying significantly reduces travel fatigue and is popular with luxury travelers and those on tight schedules.
Which Option Is Best: Road or Flight?
Both options work well, depending on travel style. Road transfers are more economical and immersive, while flights save time and offer comfort. Many itineraries combine both, flying into Bwindi and driving back to Entebbe or onward to other parks.
The choice often depends on budget, time available, and the specific trekking sector booked.
Best Way to Plan Gorilla Trekking from Entebbe
Most gorilla trekking itineraries from Entebbe follow this pattern: arrival at Entebbe, transfer to Bwindi by road or air, gorilla trekking on the scheduled permit date, then return to Entebbe or continue to other destinations such as Queen Elizabeth National Park or Lake Bunyonyi.
Because gorilla permits are date-specific, travel timing must be carefully aligned to avoid delays or missed treks.
Why This Route Is So Popular
The Entebbe–Bwindi route remains the most common gorilla trekking route in Uganda because it offers reliable logistics, flexible transport options, and access to the country’s most important gorilla habitat. It also allows easy combination with other Ugandan wildlife destinations.
Plan Your Safari
Connecting Entebbe International Airport with Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the foundation of a successful Uganda gorilla safari. Whether you choose to drive through Uganda’s scenic countryside or fly directly to the forest edge, proper planning ensures that your journey to meet mountain gorillas is smooth, efficient, and unforgettable.
