4 days Gorilla and Chimpanzee Tracking Expedition in Bwindi Impenetrable and Kibale Forest National Park in Uganda’s most prominent National Parks for trekking Primates
Day 1: Arrival, Orientation, and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Your Ugandan adventure begins as you arrive at the airport in Kampala, where our friendly staff will welcome you and guide you to your designated vehicle. After settling in, you will receive an orientation session from experienced guides, providing you with important information about the upcoming days. Then, embark on an incredible journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Although the drive from Kampala to Bwindi covers a distance of approximately 490 kilometres, it is a scenic one. You will witness the beauty of Uganda’s countryside, passing through charming villages and stunning landscapes.
To break up the long journey, there will be planned stopovers along the way, including a visit to the equator. Here you can straddle the line that divides the Earth into the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, capture memorable photos, and learn about the geographical significance of this landmark. Enjoy a satisfying lunch in Mbarara, a bustling town known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious local cuisine.
At the end of the day, arrive in Bwindi and settle into a comfortable and welcoming Broadbill Forest Camp lodge. Enjoy a delicious dinner at the lodge’s restaurant, then retire to your room for a restful night’s sleep, preparing for the thrilling gorilla trekking experience that awaits you the next day.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking and Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
Wake up to a beautiful morning at the lodge and start your day with a delicious breakfast, followed by a comprehensive briefing session with experienced guides. They will provide important guidelines and safety precautions to ensure a memorable and responsible gorilla trekking experience. Equipped with trekking gear, set off on an exciting adventure through lush forests, guided by experienced trackers who will lead you to the habituated gorilla families.
Once you encounter the gentle giants, you will have a precious hour to observe and appreciate their behaviour in their natural habitat. Witness their playful interactions, see the impressive silverbacks in their full glory, and marvel at the close bond within the gorilla family. After the exhilarating gorilla encounter, return to the lodge to freshen up and prepare for the next leg of your journey. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic drive to Lake Bunyonyi, a place of serene beauty nestled in the green hills of southwestern Uganda.
Upon arrival at the Bunyonyi Overland Resort, settle into your room and take some time to relax and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Enjoy a delightful dinner at the lodge’s restaurant, then retire to your cosy room for a restful night’s sleep, surrounded by the natural beauty that Lake Bunyonyi has to offer. A decent view of Bunyonyi.
Day 3: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park and Bigodi Swamp Walk
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the lodge, followed by a briefing session to learn about the day’s activities and the upcoming adventure in Kibale Forest National Park. You will embark on a delightful boat ride that takes you on a tour of the islands scattered across Lake Bunyonyi, where you can marvel at the scenic beauty and learn about the cultural significance of these islands.
After the boat ride, continue your journey to Kibale Forest National Park, known as the “Primate Capital of the World.” Enjoy the picturesque landscapes along the way, including the breathtaking Mountains of the Moon, as you make your way to the charming town of Fort Portal. In Kibale National Park, visit the Bogodi Swamp, an eco-tourism site renowned for its uncommon plants and bird species.
Bigodi Swamp is an ecotourism base located near Kibale National Park in Uganda that is famous for its birding and primate habitat. It is considered one of the prime birding destinations in Uganda, with over 200 bird species to observe. The area is also home to various primates, mammals, insects, and frogs. The wetland is a community-run project that provides a model for community-based natural resource management and generates benefits for local communities, making it a rewarding addition to any Kibale National Park safari itinerary.
At the end of an eventful day, retire to the comfort of Isunga Lodge in Kibale National Park. Indulge in a delectable dinner at the lodge’s restaurant, then retire to your cosy room for a restful night’s sleep, preparing for the adventures of the next day.
Day 4: Chimpanzee Tracking Kibale Forest National Park
Fuel up for the day with a hearty breakfast at the lodge, followed by a briefing session to learn about the thrilling activity ahead, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest National Park. Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, traverse the dense forests in search of our closest primate relatives. The chimpanzee trekking experience offers an opportunity to observe these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat, witnessing their playful antics and witnessing their complex social structures. After an eventful morning, return to the lodge for a well-deserved lunch.