Getting to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is located in southwestern Uganda, nestled among the districts of Kabale, Kisoro, and Kanungu. While it may feel remote, reaching this incredible rainforest is straightforward whether you travel by road or air.
By Road:
From Uganda’s capital, Kampala, reaching Bwindi National Park by road takes approximately 7 to 9 hours depending on the sector you plan to visit. The journey typically follows the route via Masaka, Mbarara, and Kabale before reaching Kisoro or Kanungu. Roads are mostly tarmacked, but the final sections to the park often include dirt or murram roads that wind through the rolling hills of the Kigezi highlands. Travelers from Queen Elizabeth National Park can also drive through the Ishasha sector, taking 3–4 hours to reach Bwindi.
Daily buses and taxis operate from Kampala to Kabale, Kisoro, and Rukungiri via Kihihi. From these towns, travelers can connect to the park with local guides or shuttle services arranged by tour operators.
By Air:
For a quicker and more comfortable journey, domestic flights are available from Entebbe International Airport to Kihihi and Kisoro airstrips. Flights take approximately 1 hour, significantly reducing travel time and offering breathtaking aerial views of the lush highlands. AeroLink and other domestic operators offer daily flights to Kisoro (morning only) and Kihihi.
Sample Flight Schedule (Entebbe ↔ Bwindi):
| From | To | Departure | Arrival |
| Entebbe | Kisoro | 07:45 AM | 08:55 AM |
| Kisoro | Entebbe | 09:10 AM | 11:25 AM |
| Entebbe | Kihihi | 07:00 AM | 08:45 AM |
| Kihihi | Entebbe | 09:45 AM | 11:25 AM |
| Entebbe | Kihihi | 12:45 PM | 01:55 PM |
| Kihihi | Entebbe | 12:45 PM | 03:55 PM |
Travelers planning to visit Buhoma may also take chartered flights to Kayonza Airstrip, located conveniently near the northern sector of the park. Flying not only saves time but also ensures you are well-rested and ready for the physically engaging activities like gorilla trekking and hiking.
Whether you choose the scenic road trip through Uganda’s highlands or a short flight over lush forests, reaching Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the first step toward an unforgettable wildlife adventure.
