Flying to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Flying to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the quickest way to get this remarkable gorilla destination for a gorilla trekking safari holiday in Uganda. If you have limited time yet you need to take part in the thrilling gorilla trekking experience, flying to Bwindi is the best option.
Flying to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park has become an increasingly popular choice for visitors aiming at minimizing the logistical challenges of reaching the remote region where Bwindi is found. The journey by road can take about nine hours from Kampala or Entebbe, depending on the starting point and road conditions. Compared to driving, domestic flights significantly reduce travel time, making Bwindi more accessible for travelers on tight schedules and who prefer convenience.
Flights to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park are operated by several domestic carriers including AeroLink, specializing in small aircraft suitable for landing at the small airstrips near the forest. These flights directly connect Entebbe International Airport and Kajjansi Airstrip to the Airstrips in Bwindi namely Kihihi and Kisoro Airstrips. Depending on the gorilla trekking section you have chosen – Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga or Nkuringo – one of the airstrips will provide the most practical entry point.
Often the flight experience to Bwindi is described as efficient and scenic, offering aerial views of Uganda’s rolling hills and the dramatic topography surrounding Bwindi. Upon landing, a short road transfer arranged by your tour operator or lodges will complete the journey to the forest.
Flying to Bwindi is undoubtedly the optimal solution for visitors seeking a hassle-free and time-efficient way to reach Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Scheduled Flights to Bwindi
Currently, Aerolink Uganda operates 2 scheduled flights to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park starting from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield in Kampala. Flights to Bwindi from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi to Kihihi Airstrip offers easy access to Buhoma Sector of Bwindi in the North.
From Kihihi, it is a drive of about 1 and half hours. Alternatively you can fly from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi to Kisoro Airstrip and drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Kisoro Airstrip offers easy access to Nkuringo and Rushaga gorilla trekking sectors in the Southern side of the park. These sectors are situated close to Kisoro.
Flight Schedules – Flights to Bwindi depart Entebbe Airport or Kajjansi at 07:30 am and lad at 9.45 am. Note: one flight departs Entebbe at 7:30 am and lands at 9:45 am.
Flights from Masai Mara National Reserve to Bwindi Forest
Aerolink has introduced flights from Masai Mara National Reserve to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Therefore you can easily combine gorilla trekking in Bwindi with wildebeest migration in Masai Mara and Serengeti National Park.
Airstrips Serving Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is served by two airstrips that is Kihihi Airstrip or Kisoro Airstrip. Both are strategically located to serve different sectors of the forest, and are operated under the Civil Aviation Authority of Uganda and are equipped to handle the small aircraft commonly used for domestic flights.
- Kihihi Airstrip: The primary gateway for visitors to Buhoma and Ruhija Sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Kihihi Airstrip is located approximately 62 kilometers from Buhoma, offering the most direct access to accommodations and trekking starting points in the forest.
The drive from Kihihi to Buhoma takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on road conditions.
- Kisoro Airstrip: This airstrip is suited for accessing the Rushaga and Nkuringo Sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. It is situated close to Kisoro, about 35 kilometers from Rushaga Sector and takes approximately 1.5 hours of drive.
Domestic Airlines offering flights to Bwindi
Flights to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park are operated by several airlines, providing reliable and efficient services to Kihihi and Kisoro Airstrips. These include Aerolink and Bar Aviation.
Costs of Flights to Bwindi
Cost for flights to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park varies depending on several factors such as flight operator, season and how far in advance you book your flight. Generally flying is more expensive than traveling by road, offering significant time savings and added convenience, particular for visitors who prioritize efficiency.
A one way flight from Entebbe International Airport to Kihihi or Kisoro Airstrip typically costs between $250 and $350 per person. Round trip flight cost between $450 to $600. Charter flights, which can accommodate personalized schedules and routes, are more expensive ranging from $ 1,500 to $3,000, depending on the aircraft size and distance covered.
Seasonal Variations
Based on the time of the year, flight costs may fluctuate. During the peak gorilla trekking seasons, typically from June to September and December to February, ticket prices are higher due to increased demand.
Booking well in advance is recommended to secure availability and avoid last-minutes price surges.