Signature Safari

5 Days Trek Gorillas and Chimps in Uganda

The Experience

This 5 day Uganda safari combines gorilla trekking in Bwindi and chimpanzee tracking in Kibale with cultural and scenic highlights. On arrival, you transfer to Bwindi, where the next day is dedicated to gorilla trekking followed by either a Batwa cultural visit or relaxation at Lake Bunyonyi. The third day takes you north to Kibale National Park with an afternoon walk in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, known for monkeys and birds. Day four focuses on chimpanzee trekking in Kibale’s rainforest and a guided tour of crater lakes. The final day is the return drive to Kampala with a stop at the Equator line for photos and souvenirs. This itinerary balances wildlife, culture, and landscapes, offering a rewarding safari experience in Uganda.

Duration5Days/4Nights

Price00

DestinationsUganda

Ideal ForCouples, Wildlife Fans

Overview

The Journey

Day by Day

Day01

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Bwindi National Park

On arrival in Uganda, you will be welcomed by your safari guide and start the drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The road trip takes you through rolling hills, tea plantations, and small towns, giving you a first impression of Uganda’s countryside. Depending on your arrival time, you may stop for lunch along the way before continuing to Bwindi. In the evening, check into your lodge located near the park headquarters. Here you will have dinner and rest in preparation for the gorilla trekking adventure the following day. Overnight stay in Bwindi ensures you are close to the starting point for the trek, making it convenient for an early morning briefing and start.

AccommodationLodge Near Bwindi

Day02

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking Experience with Batwa or Lake Bunyonyi

After an early breakfast, report to Bwindi park headquarters for a briefing before heading into the forest with guides to track mountain gorillas. The trek can take several hours depending on the gorillas’ location, but once found, you spend one hour observing their behavior. Watching them feed, play, and care for their young is a rare wildlife experience. After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, you may choose between a Batwa cultural visit, where you learn about the traditions of the forest’s indigenous people, or a relaxing trip to Lake Bunyonyi. At the lake, you can enjoy canoe rides and peaceful views of terraced hills and islands. Dinner and overnight stay at your lodge.

AccommodationLodge at Lake Bunyonyi

Day03

Day 3: Transfer to Kibale National Park and Bigodi Walk

Leave Bwindi after breakfast and drive north towards Kibale National Park. The route passes through Queen Elizabeth National Park, offering chances to spot wildlife along the way. Arrive in Kibale by afternoon and check into your lodge. Later, head out for the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary walk, a community-managed project rich in biodiversity. The walk introduces you to monkeys such as the red-tailed and black-and-white colobus, as well as colorful birds and butterflies. Guides also share insights into local plants and conservation efforts. This activity combines wildlife viewing with cultural interaction, making it a rewarding experience. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay near Kibale, ready for chimpanzee trekking the next morning.

AccommodationLodge Near Kibale National park

Day04

Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking and Crater Lakes

Start the day with breakfast before heading to Kibale National Park headquarters for a briefing. Guided by rangers, you trek into the rainforest to track chimpanzees. Once located, you spend an hour observing them as they feed, groom, and move through the forest. The trek also offers chances to see other primates such as red colobus and L’Hoest’s monkeys. After lunch, take a guided tour of the nearby crater lakes. These volcanic lakes are surrounded by rolling hills and provide excellent photography opportunities. The cool climate and peaceful environment make this a relaxing activity after the chimpanzee trek. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay in Kibale.

AccommodationLodge near Kibale

Day05

Day 5: Return to Kampala via the Equator Line

After breakfast, begin the drive back to Kampala. The route takes you through rural villages and farmlands, offering a glimpse of daily Ugandan life. A highlight of the return trip is a stop at the Equator line, where you can take photos, buy souvenirs, and learn about the geographical significance of this landmark. Lunch is enjoyed en route before continuing to Kampala or Entebbe, arriving in time for your evening flight or onward travel. This marks the end of your five-day safari combining gorilla trekking in Bwindi, chimpanzee trekking in Kibale, cultural experiences, and scenic landscapes.

What's Included

Gorilla permit ($800 per person)

Chimpanzee trekking permits

Airport transfers on Day 1 and Day 5

Ground transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle

English-speaking professional driver-guide

Meals

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

Visa charges Uganda

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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