On May 18, 2025, Uganda Airlines marked a major milestone with the launch of its direct flight to Europe — a nonstop service connecting Entebbe International Airport (EBB) and London Gatwick (LGW). This direct flight from London to Uganda, operated four times a week, is a game changer for safari travel. It offers faster access to Uganda’s gorilla trekking safaris, national parks, wildlife, and warm hospitality for travelers from the UK and beyond.
For those planning a safari or dreaming of gorilla trekking in Uganda’s misty forests, this direct link significantly reduces travel time and complexity — making Uganda more reachable than ever before.
A Direct Link from London to Uganda’s Wild Heart
The new service is scheduled for Sundays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, with same-day return options. Flights are operated on Uganda Airlines’ state-of-the-art Airbus A330-800neo aircraft — a modern wide-body jet known for its long-range comfort and fuel efficiency. In fact, Uganda Airlines is the first carrier to fly this aircraft model into Gatwick.
The journey from London to Entebbe now takes around 9–10 hours — a notable improvement compared to previous travel routes, which often involved two or more connections and upwards of 14 to 20 hours in transit. With this flight, British and European visitors can land in Uganda by morning and be in the savannah or rainforest by sunset.
Why This Flight Matters
Uganda’s Ministry of Transport called the route “a bridge for business, investment, and people-to-people connections.” For tourism, the benefits are clear: fewer layovers, smoother travel planning, and more time spent enjoying Uganda’s landscapes, wildlife, and culture.
In 2024 alone, Uganda welcomed over 1.37 million international visitors and earned more than $1.2 billion in tourism revenue. The UK remains one of the country’s most important source markets. This new flight is expected to boost those numbers while also strengthening Uganda’s conservation efforts and supporting community tourism. Park entrance fees help fund ranger programs and anti-poaching units, while locally owned lodges and tour operations — like ours at Nandi Adventures — directly benefit rural communities.
As Uganda’s standing grows on the international travel scene, it’s no surprise that it was named “Most Desirable Country” in the 2024 Wanderlust Travel Awards.
Safari Experiences Made More Accessible
Whether you’re drawn to the forests of Bwindi or the plains of Murchison Falls, the new route helps you get there faster — and with fewer obstacles. Uganda is a country that rewards curiosity, and we at Nandi Adventures are excited to help travelers discover it with deeper meaning.
Here are just a few unforgettable experiences made more accessible thanks to the new direct flight:
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
Step into the thick rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to meet one of the world’s most endangered primates — the mountain gorilla. Led by expert trackers, you’ll hike through the forest and spend an awe-inspiring hour observing a habituated gorilla family in their natural environment.
Birding in Uganda’s Wetlands and Forests
With over 1,000 species of birds, Uganda is a true birder’s paradise. Our birding safaris explore hotspots like Mabamba Swamp and Kibale Forest, where you might spot the elusive shoebill stork, African grey hornbill, or colorful Rwenzori turacos.
Mountain Hiking Adventures
For hikers, Uganda offers challenging and scenic routes across several mountain ranges. Trek up Mount Elgon’s volcanic slopes or traverse the snow-capped peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains — often called the “Mountains of the Moon.”
Big Five Safaris
Classic safari lovers can enjoy game drives in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks, where lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos roam alongside hippos, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species. These parks also offer rich cultural experiences and breathtaking landscapes.
Comfort and Connectivity
This new connection isn’t just about shorter flights — it’s about better travel overall. Uganda Airlines’ A330-800neo brings enhanced inflight comfort and reliability to long-haul travelers, making the journey part of the experience. The timing of the flights is also ideal, with convenient connections to Uganda’s safari gateways and regional destinations across East and Central Africa.
Travel That Supports Conservation
Every safari booked with Nandi Adventures contributes to the preservation of Uganda’s natural heritage. We work closely with communities, conservation initiatives, and local guides to ensure that tourism benefits both wildlife and people. The new direct flight allows more travelers to support this sustainable model — and to enjoy a richer, more responsible travel experience.
Ready to Travel?
We’re excited by the possibilities this new route brings. If you’re based in the UK or Europe, your next safari is now just one direct flight away. At Nandi Adventures, we offer tailor-made safaris for travelers who want to connect deeply with nature, culture, and conservation.
Whether you’re interested in a luxury fly-in gorilla trek, a slow-paced birding escape, or an off-the-beaten-path road trip, we’ll help you craft a journey that reflects your interests and values.
The wild is calling — and now it’s closer than ever. Start planning your Uganda safari with us today.
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