Signature Safari

5 Day Shoebill search with Gorillas and Chimpanzee safari

The Experience

This 5-day shoebill, gorilla, and chimpanzee safari is designed for travelers who want to experience Uganda’s most sought-after wildlife highlights in a short time. Starting in Entebbe, you will visit Mabamba Swamp for the rare shoebill stork before heading to Kibale National Park for chimpanzee trekking and a community-guided Bigodi Wetland walk. The trip continues south to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where you will track mountain gorillas in their natural forest habitat. Afterward, relax at Lake Bunyonyi, known for its calm waters and island views. The final day includes a drive back to Entebbe with a stop at the Equator line for photos and cultural experiences. This itinerary balances birdwatching, primate trekking, community tourism, and relaxation, making it ideal for travelers seeking a complete wildlife and cultural safari.

Duration5Days/4Nights

Price00

DestinationsUganda

Ideal ForCouples, Wildlife Fans

Overview

The Journey

Day by Day

Day01

Day 1: : Hotel Pickup, Shoebill Tour, and Transfer to Kibale National Park

Your adventure begins with a morning hotel pickup in Entebbe, followed by a shoebill stork excursion in Mabamba Swamp. This wetland is one of the best places to see the rare shoebill, and the canoe ride through papyrus channels offers close views of Uganda’s birdlife. After the shoebill experience, you will drive west toward Kibale National Park, known for its rich primate population. The road trip takes you through rural towns and tea plantations, giving you a glimpse of local life. On arrival, check into your lodge near the forest and relax as you prepare for chimpanzee trekking the next day. This day combines birdwatching with a scenic transfer, ensuring you maximize your time in Uganda’s diverse ecosystems.

AccommodationLodge in Kibale

Day02

Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking and Bigodi Wetland Walk

After breakfast, head into Kibale Forest for chimpanzee trekking. The park is home to the largest population of chimpanzees in Uganda, and the guided trek allows you to observe them in their natural habitat. Rangers will lead you through the forest, pointing out other primates such as red colobus and black-and-white colobus monkeys. Once you locate the chimpanzees, spend time watching their social behavior, feeding, and communication. In the afternoon, visit Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-run conservation area. The guided walk introduces you to bird species like the great blue turaco and local plants used for medicine. It also supports community tourism initiatives. This day balances wildlife encounters with cultural and ecological experiences, making it both educational and rewarding.

AccommodationLodge in Kibale

Day03

Day 3: Transfer to Bwindi Gorilla Park

Today you will drive south toward Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for mountain gorillas. The transfer takes you through the scenic countryside, with stops for refreshments and photography along the way. Depending on the route, you may pass through Queen Elizabeth National Park’s Ishasha sector, known for tree-climbing lions. The drive is long but rewarding, as it connects two of Uganda’s most important wildlife destinations. On arrival in Bwindi, check into your lodge near the gorilla trekking trailhead. The evening is free for relaxation, with views of the forested hills that shelter the gorillas. This day is mainly about travel, but it sets the stage for one of the most memorable wildlife experiences in Africa

AccommodationLodge in Bwindi national park

Day04

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking and Lake Bunyonyi

After an early breakfast, head to the Bwindi park headquarters for a briefing before gorilla trekking. Groups are assigned based on fitness levels, and rangers lead you into the forest to track gorilla families. The trek can take several hours depending on the gorillas’ location, but once found, you spend an hour observing them. Watching gorillas interact in their natural habitat is a rare privilege. After the trek, drive to Lake Bunyonyi, one of Africa’s deepest lakes, surrounded by terraced hills. The lake is dotted with small islands and offers opportunities for canoe rides, swimming, or simply relaxing at your lodge. This day combines the highlight of gorilla trekking with the peaceful atmosphere of Lake Bunyonyi, giving you both adventure and relaxation.

Accommodationlodge at lake Bunyonyi

Day05

Day 5: Drive Back to Entebbe via the Equator Line

On your final day, depart Lake Bunyonyi and begin the drive back to Entebbe. The route passes through Mbarara and Masaka towns, offering a chance to see Uganda’s countryside and farmlands. A highlight of the return trip is a stop at the Equator line, where you can take photos and learn about the Coriolis effect demonstrations. There are also craft shops and restaurants where you can enjoy a meal before continuing the journey. Arrive in Entebbe in the evening, marking the end of your shoebill, chimpanzee, and gorilla safari. This day provides a smooth conclusion to the tour, combining cultural stops with the convenience of returning to the city for your onward flight or hotel stay.

What's Included

Gorilla trekking permits

Golden monkey permits

Airport transfers on Day 1 and Day 5

Ground transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle

English-speaking professional driver-guide

Accommodation

Meals as specified (full board: breakfast, lunch, dinner)

Bottled drinking water in the vehicle

Lake Bunyonyi canoe ride or swimming experience

All relevant government taxes and fees

Not Included

International flights to/from Entebbe

Uganda visa (On arrival)

Travel insurance (medical and evacuation coverage mandatory)

Domestic flight

Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and lodge staff

Alcoholic and soft drinks

Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, phone calls)

Optional activities not listed in the itinerary

Any meals not explicitly stated as included

Begin Your Adventure

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