Aerolink Uganda is the country’s leading domestic airline and the main way to reach Uganda’s national parks by air in 2027. For gorilla trekkers and wildlife safari visitors, Aerolink connects Entebbe to the airstrips closest to Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, and other parks. This guide covers all Aerolink routes relevant to gorilla trekking visitors, current prices, and how to book.
Aerolink Uganda Overview
Aerolink Uganda has operated since 2012 and has built a reputation as a reliable, professional domestic carrier. They fly small turboprop aircraft — typically 12-seat Cessna Caravans — on scheduled routes between Entebbe and Uganda’s remote airstrips. Their focus is on the safari market, linking international arrivals at Entebbe with national parks that would otherwise require half a day or more of road travel. In 2027 they remain the dominant scheduled domestic airline for tourism travel in Uganda.
Routes Relevant to Gorilla Trekking
Entebbe to Kihihi
Kihihi airstrip serves Bwindi’s northern sectors — Buhoma and Ruhija. This is the primary domestic route for gorilla trekkers. Flight time is approximately 75 minutes. Fares in 2027 run from around $200 to $350 one way. The route does not operate daily; confirm the current schedule when booking. Aerolink sometimes operates this route on shared days with Kisoro flights.
Entebbe to Kisoro
Kisoro airstrip serves the southern sectors of Bwindi — Nkuringo and Rushaga — as well as Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. It is also close to the border with Rwanda for travelers combining Uganda and Rwanda gorilla trips. Fares are similar to the Kihihi route. Flight time from Entebbe is 60 to 75 minutes. Kisoro offers additional access to Lake Mutanda and the Virunga volcanoes visible on clear days from the airstrip.
Other Aerolink Routes
Beyond Bwindi, Aerolink also serves Kasese (for Queen Elizabeth National Park), Pakuba and Bugungu (for Murchison Falls), and Kidepo (for Kidepo Valley National Park in the north). These routes are useful for visitors combining multiple parks on a single Uganda itinerary without spending days in vehicles between each one.
Pricing in 2027
Aerolink fares are dynamic and change with demand and fuel costs. As a general guide for 2027:
- Entebbe to Kihihi: $200 to $350 one way
- Entebbe to Kisoro: $200 to $330 one way
- Entebbe to Kasese (Queen Elizabeth): $180 to $300 one way
- Entebbe to Pakuba (Murchison Falls): $200 to $320 one way
- Entebbe to Kidepo: $280 to $450 one way
Prices are higher during peak season (June through September and December through January). Book at least six to eight weeks in advance for best availability during peak periods.
Luggage Policy
Aerolink enforces a strict luggage allowance on all flights. In 2027 the limit is typically 15kg per passenger including carry-on, with soft-sided bags only. Hard suitcases are not permitted on small aircraft. If you are arriving in Uganda with a large suitcase, store it at your Entebbe hotel while traveling to the parks and retrieve it before your international departure. Most hotels near Entebbe offer this service at low or no cost.
How to Book Aerolink Flights
You can book Aerolink flights directly through their website or by contacting their reservations office in Kampala. Most travelers book through their safari operator, who handles all transport logistics as part of the overall package. Booking through an operator is simpler and ensures coordination with lodge transfers and trekking schedules. If you book independently, confirm that your lodge or safari operator knows your flight details so they can arrange the vehicle transfer from the airstrip.
Checking In and Departing From Entebbe
Aerolink flights depart from the general aviation terminal at Entebbe, which is separate from the main international terminal. Check-in opens approximately 45 minutes before departure. The process is simple — identify yourself, weigh your bag, and board. Security procedures are minimal compared to international travel. Your driver will drop you at the domestic terminal rather than the main terminal, so confirm this with them in advance to avoid confusion on departure morning.
Aerolink Uganda makes the country’s most remote gorilla habitat accessible without sacrificing a full day to road travel. In 2027 it remains the smart choice for travelers who value their time and want to arrive at Bwindi energized rather than exhausted from a long drive.
