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Combining Tree Climbing Lions with Gorilla Trekking. Uganda offers one of the most diverse and rewarding safari experiences on the continent. While many countries boast either the Big Five or mountain gorillas, Uganda brings both together in one unforgettable journey. Imagine watching majestic lions lounging in the branches of ancient fig trees and then, days later, standing a few meters from a silverback gorilla deep in the misty rainforest. This combination — the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha and gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest — creates one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife adventures.
The Rare Tree-Climbing Lions of Ishasha
Deep in the southern sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park lies Ishasha, a serene and remote savannah dotted with fig and acacia trees. What makes Ishasha special is its extraordinary population of tree-climbing lions — a rare behavior seen in only a few places in Africa.
While most lions are known to roam the plains, these unique cats have adapted to climb trees, often resting on the sturdy branches to escape insects, enjoy the cool breeze, or get a better view of potential prey such as kob and buffalo. Watching a pride of lions lazily draped across the limbs of a fig tree is an image that stays with you forever — a surreal blend of power and grace.
Visitors can explore Ishasha on guided game drives, where experienced rangers track the prides based on recent sightings. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times to find them basking in the golden sunlight, their tails lazily swishing as they watch the plains below.
Unlike busier parks in East Africa, Ishasha remains relatively untouched and peaceful. You might spend hours on a game drive without seeing another vehicle, giving you an authentic and intimate safari experience. The landscape itself — open grasslands framed by the Rwenzori Mountains and the meandering Ishasha River — is breathtakingly beautiful.
The Journey from Ishasha to Bwindi
After a night or two in Ishasha, the adventure continues toward Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The drive from Ishasha to Bwindi is an experience in itself — a scenic transition from golden savannah to lush, emerald-green rainforest. Along the way, you’ll pass through traditional villages, banana plantations, and terraced hillsides where locals wave warmly at passing safari vehicles.
Depending on which sector of Bwindi you’re visiting — Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, or Nkuringo — the journey may take between 2 to 5 hours. Many travelers find the contrast between the dry plains of Ishasha and the dense, misty jungles of Bwindi to be one of the highlights of the trip.
It’s a journey that truly captures Uganda’s incredible diversity — in just one day, you can go from tracking lions under open skies to preparing for a hike through one of the oldest rainforests on Earth.
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Few experiences in the world compare to gorilla trekking in Bwindi. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bwindi is home to over 450 mountain gorillas and is one of the most biologically diverse forests in Africa.
The trek begins early in the morning after a briefing at the park headquarters. Groups of a maximum of eight trekkers, accompanied by expert guides and rangers, set off into the jungle to find one of the habituated gorilla families. The trek can last anywhere from one to several hours, depending on the gorillas’ movements, but every step is worth it once you come face-to-face with these gentle giants.
The moment you lock eyes with a silverback — a massive, powerful yet calm presence — is nothing short of spiritual. Watching them interact, feed, groom each other, and care for their young offers a window into our own evolutionary past. It’s humbling, emotional, and profoundly moving.
Gorilla trekking not only provides a life-changing experience for travelers but also supports conservation and local communities. A portion of every permit fee goes toward protecting the gorillas and helping the people who live around the park. This means that your visit directly contributes to preserving these incredible creatures for generations to come.
Best Time to Combine Both Experiences
Uganda is a year-round destination, but the best time for combining Ishasha’s lions and Bwindi’s gorillas is during the dry seasons — from June to September and December to February. During these months, the roads are more accessible, the trails are less muddy, and wildlife viewing is at its best.
However, the lush green scenery of the rainy seasons (March–May and October–November) offers a different charm — fewer crowds, vibrant landscapes, and discounted lodge rates. For photographers, this is a particularly magical time to visit.
Where to Stay
In Ishasha, visitors can choose from intimate safari lodges that blend luxury with wilderness. Options like Ishasha Wilderness Camp and Enjojo Lodge offer comfort, great food, and the thrill of sleeping close to the wild.
In Bwindi, a wide range of accommodations is available — from upscale lodges such as Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp and Mahogany Springs Lodge to charming mid-range options like Gorilla Mist Camp and Buhoma Community Rest Camp. Many lodges support local communities, giving you a chance to make a positive impact while enjoying authentic Ugandan hospitality.
Why Combine the Two?
Combining tree-climbing lions with gorilla trekking creates a perfectly balanced itinerary — one that captures both the excitement of classic African safaris and the deep, emotional connection of primate encounters. It’s also logistically convenient since Ishasha lies on the direct route between Queen Elizabeth National Park and Bwindi, minimizing travel time and maximizing your adventure.
In just a few days, you can witness the rare behavior of lions resting in trees, enjoy scenic drives through rolling landscapes, and end your journey in the dense forests where gorillas roam freely. Few countries can offer such diversity in such a compact area.
Booking Gorilla Safari with Oche Wild Escape
Booking your Gorilla Safari with Oche Wild Escape promises an unforgettable adventure in Uganda’s lush rainforests. Experience the thrill of trekking through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga National Park to encounter majestic mountain gorillas up close. Oche Wild Escape ensures a seamless journey — from securing your trekking permits to arranging comfortable lodges and expert guides. Every detail is handled with care, giving you a stress-free and deeply rewarding wildlife experience. Choose Oche Wild Escape for a safari that blends adventure, conservation, and authentic Ugandan hospitality.
