8 Days Gorilla & Chimpanzee Trekking Safari, Uganda
Overview
This 8 day Uganda primate safari is designed for travelers who want to walk in the footsteps of great apes gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural habitats. Your journey begins with a visit to Kibale Forest, the primate capital of East Africa, where you’ll track wild chimpanzees and explore the tropical rainforest rich in wildlife and bird species. Then journey south to Queen Elizabeth National Park for a mix of savannah game viewing and a relaxing boat safari on the Kazinga Channel. The highlight awaits in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where you’ll trek deep into the misty jungle to come face to face with the endangered mountain gorillas. The safari ends with a tranquil retreat at Lake Bunyonyi before returning to Entebbe.
Highlights
- Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest Africa’s primate capital
- Bigodi wetland walk with incredible bird and monkey sightings
- Game drives and boat safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi one of the world’s most moving wildlife experiences
- Scenic relaxation at Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda’s most beautiful lake
- Cultural and community encounters throughout the journey
Included/Exclude
- Gorilla trekking permit (Uganda)
- Chimpanzee trekking permit (Kibale Forest)
- All ground transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle with fuel
- Professional English speaking driver/guide
- 7 nights’ accommodation (budget, midrange, or luxury options)
- Meals as per itinerary
- Boat cruise on Kazinga Channel
- Park entry fees and activities as indicated
- Refreshments
Tour Plan
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport where you will be welcomed by your guide and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time you may explore the botanical gardens or relax by Lake Victoria. Overnight in Entebbe.
Accommodation options:
Hotel No.5 Entebbe | 2 Friends Beach Hotel | Via Via Entebbe
After breakfast set off for Kibale Forest National Park, home to the largest population of chimpanzees in Uganda. The drive passes through tea plantations and rolling hills. Arrive in the afternoon and settle into your lodge near the forest. Overnight in Kibale.
Accommodation Options:
Kyaninga Lodge | Primate Lodge Kibale | Chimpanzee Forest Guest House
Begin the day with a briefing before entering the rainforest for chimpanzee trekking. Along the way you may also see red colobus monkeys, mangabeys, and a variety of bird species. In the afternoon take a guided walk in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community project rich in biodiversity. Overnight in Kibale.
Accommodation Options:
Kyaninga Lodge | Primate Lodge Kibale | Chimpanzee Forest Guest House
Drive south to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Enjoy a game drive en route with chances to see elephants, antelopes, and buffaloes. In the afternoon take a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel where hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife gather. Overnight in Queen Elizabeth.
Accommodation Options:
Mweya Safari Lodge | Buffalo Safari Lodge | Pumba Safari Cottages
Join researchers for a unique lion tracking experience in the Kasenyi plains. Later continue with a game drive through the park in search of leopards, elephants, and Uganda kobs. Overnight in Queen Elizabeth.
Accommodation Options:
Mweya Safari Lodge | Buffalo Safari Lodge | Pumba Safari Cottages
After breakfast enjoy a morning game drive as you leave Queen Elizabeth and continue to Bwindi. The journey takes you through the scenic Kigezi highlands with terraced hills and villages. Overnight near Bwindi.
Accommodation Options:
Gorilla Forest Lodge | Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge | Broadbill Forest Camp
This is the highlight of the safari. After a briefing by the rangers, you will trek into the dense forest in search of a gorilla family. The trek may take between two and six hours depending on their location. Once found you will spend one unforgettable hour with the gorillas. Overnight in Bwindi.
Accommodation Options:
Gorilla Forest Lodge | Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge | Broadbill Forest Camp
After breakfast begin your journey back to Entebbe. Stop at the equator for photographs and souvenirs before continuing to the airport for your international departure.
