Gorilla trekking combined with the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha. Gorilla trekking combined with the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha offers one of Uganda’s most rewarding wildlife experiences. Travelers begin by tracking mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, then continue to the Ishasha region of Queen Elizabeth National Park to see its famous tree-climbing lions. Because the Ishasha Sector is situated between Queen Elizabeth and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, it provides a convenient route for visitors traveling between the two parks. Tourists trekking in Buhoma or Rushaga often pass through Ishasha on their way to or from Queen Elizabeth National Park, making it an ideal addition to a multi-park adventure.
Gorilla trekking combined with the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha
Trekking Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
Gorilla trekking is the leading activity in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park; it is the leading gorilla destination in Africa, home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Located in southwestern Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is home to over 21 habituated gorilla families across four sectors, namely Nkuringo, Rushaga, Ruhija, and Buhoma.
Gorilla trekking is a group activity, so it’s essential to plan. This includes booking your gorilla permits, which are limited and tend to sell out quickly, as well as securing accommodation that is often in high demand during peak season. However, by booking with Vibrant Holiday Safaris, you won’t have to worry about the details. We take care of all the necessary arrangements, inform you about availability, and once confirmed, we can start planning your safari package.
On the day of gorilla trekking, you will begin with a briefing at the headquarters designated on your permit. During this briefing, you will learn about the rules of gorilla trekking and be assigned a gorilla family to track, along with a ranger guide. The search for these gentle giants can last anywhere from 1 to 6 hours, and once you find them, you will spend one hour observing and enjoying their daily activities.
The cost of the gorilla permit is as follows
$800 for foreign non-residents, $700 for foreign residents, and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens. Permits must be purchased in advance from Uganda Wildlife Authority or through a licensed tour operator like Vibrant Holiday Safaris.
Where to stay during gorilla trekking
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park offers a variety of accommodation ranging from budget, midrange, to luxury. Some accommodations to use include Burunga Gorilla Lodge, Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Lodge, Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, Gorilla Leisure Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Gorilla Forest Camp, and Four Gorillas Lodge, among others. However, it is advisable to book the lodge in the sector where you are going to trek after booking the permit.
Tree-Climbing Lions of Ishasha
In the southern reaches of Queen Elizabeth National Park lies the Ishasha Sector, renowned for its unusual population of lions that prefer resting high in fig and acacia trees. These big cats are often spotted draped over branches, surveying the plains below for potential prey. Game drives here are conducted under strict safety protocols, professional guides lead the excursions, and visitors are expected to observe park rules to ensure a secure and enjoyable experience.
Why Ishasha Lions Climb the Trees
Researchers have proposed several explanations for this rare behavior. The elevated branches provide relief from biting insects like tsetse flies, offer a cooler vantage point during the hotter months. Giving the lions an excellent lookout for prey roaming across the savannah.
Accommodation Options around Ishasha
Travellers visiting Ishasha have a wide range of lodging choices, from affordable camps to exclusive luxury retreats. Popular properties in the area include Topi Lodge, Enjojo Lodge, Ishasha Pride Lodge, Ntungwe River Camp. Bull Bush River Camp, Ishasha Wilderness Camp, At The River Ishasha Lodge, Simba Safari Lodge, Mweya Safari Lodge, Kikorongo Safari Lodge, Kasenyi Safari Camp, and Savannah Resort Hotel, among others. Each offers its own blend of comfort and proximity to the wildlife-rich plains.
Reaching the Ishasha Sector
Getting to Ishasha is possible by both road and air. Domestic flights are usually arranged through reputable tour companies and operate from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip to airstrips such as Kihihi, Mweya, or Kasese. From any of these airstrips, the final leg to Ishasha is done by road transfer.
Those opting to travel overland can drive from Kampala or Entebbe to Queen Elizabeth National Park in roughly 6–7 hours. Then continue to Ishasha. Connections from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park typically take 3–4 hours. While the journey from Kibale Forest National Park usually lasts about 5–6 hours.
Why Pair Gorilla Trekking with an Ishasha Lion Safari?
Close Distance between the Parks
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, particularly the Buhoma and Rushaga regions, is only a short drive from the Ishasha Sector. This convenient proximity usually a 3–4-hour transfer makes it practical to combine gorilla trekking with a wildlife safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
A Diverse Safari Experience
Merging the two destinations gives travellers a more complete picture of Uganda’s biodiversity. Bwindi’s dense rainforest hosts mountain gorillas and a rich assortment of forest mammals and primates. While Ishasha offers classic savannah scenery and the chance to find the remarkable tree-climbing lions.
Exceptional Wildlife Variety
A combined itinerary exposes visitors to an impressive array of species. Bwindi’s gorillas, colobus monkeys, L’Hoest monkeys, forest elephants, butterflies, and numerous endemic plants. As well as Queen Elizabeth’s lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, crocodiles, antelopes, chimpanzees, and more than 600 bird species.
How to Prepare for a Combined Safari
Build a Thoughtful Itinerary
Work closely with a trusted tour operator to design a schedule that incorporates gorilla trekking in Bwindi and a game drive in Ishasha. A tailor-made itinerary ensures that transfers and activities flow smoothly.
Factor in Travel Time
Since the two parks are relatively near each other, travel between them is straightforward. Even so, it’s important to account for road conditions and departure times. To ensure timely arrival for activities like gorilla trekking.
Secure Your Lodging Early
Both Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park offer accommodations across all budget levels. However, reservations should be made well ahead of time—especially in peak season. For gorilla trekking, ensure your lodge is located in the sector where your permit is issued.
Add Extra Activities
Enhance your itinerary with optional experiences such as guided walks, bird-watching excursions, cultural encounters, primate tracking, boat cruises, or additional game drives. Each activity carries its own fee, so plan according to your budget and interests.
Choose the Right Travel Season
While visits are possible year-round, most travellers prefer the drier months. Which offer better wildlife visibility and more accessible trekking trails.
Best Time for Gorilla Trekking and Seeing Ishasha’s Tree-Climbing Lions
Although both activities can be enjoyed throughout the year, the ideal periods are June–September and December–February. During these months, vegetation is less dense. Making it easier to spot wildlife, and the trekking paths and connecting roads are generally more manageable.
