Introduction
Embark on a phenomenal 7-day journey exploring Uganda’s premier tourist destinations. This safari takes you from the primate capital of the world in Kibale Forest to the biodiverse savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park, concluding with a life-changing encounter with mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Safari Highlights
- Chimpanzee Tracking: Encounter mankind’s closest relatives in the lush Kibale Forest.
- Gorilla Trekking: A rare opportunity to track endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi.
- Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise: View hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife from the water.
- Game Viewing: Search for lions, leopards, elephants, and buffaloes in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
- Cultural Immersions: Experience local life through community visits and traditional stories.
- Scenic Landscapes: Enjoy the rolling tea plantations of Toro and the mist-covered Kigezi highlands.
Brief Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrival and Airport pick-up; transfer to Kampala.
- Day 2: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park via Fort Portal.
- Day 3: Chimpanzee tracking and transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
- Day 4: Morning game drive and afternoon Kazinga Channel boat cruise.
- Day 5: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
- Day 6: Gorilla trekking in the ancient rainforest.
- Day 7: Return journey to Kampala/Entebbe.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Welcome to the Pearl of Africa
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be met by our driver/guide for a briefing before transferring to Uganda’s capital city, Kampala.
- Journey Time: 45 – 60 minutes.
- Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Sheraton or Serena Hotel.
- Midrange: Cassia Lodge or Fairway Hotel and Spa.
- Budget: Yellow Haven Lodge.
- Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner (depending on arrival time).
Day 2: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
After breakfast, begin the 5–6 hour journey to the “Primate Capital of the World.” The route offers jaw-dropping views of tea plantations and the mysterious Nakayima tree, with a lunch stop in Fort Portal Town.
- Luxury: Primate Lodge or Kyaninga Lodge.
- Midrange: Kibale Forest Camp, Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse, or Chimps Nest.
- Budget: Rwenzori View Guesthouse or Nyinabulitwa Country Resort.
Day 3: Chimpanzee Tracking & Queen Elizabeth NP
Enter the forest to track chimpanzees. The walk typically lasts 1 to 3 hours. After an hour with these fascinating primates, return for lunch before transferring to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
- Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge or Katara Lodge.
- Midrange: Irungu Forest Safari Lodge or Parkview Safari Lodge.
- Budget: Bush Lodge or Pumba Safari Cottages.
Day 4: Savannah Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Cruise
A morning game drive introduces you to lions, leopards, buffaloes, elephants, and warthogs. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel to see hippos, Nile crocodiles, and aquatic birds like fish eagles and pelicans.
- Meal Plan: Full Board.
- Accommodation: Same as Day 3.
Day 5: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Depart for Bwindi, enjoying the awe-inspiring views of the Kigezi highlands. We stop for lunch at Savannah Resort in Kihihi before arriving at the edge of the gorilla sanctuary in the evening.
- Luxury: Buhoma Lodge or Mahogany Springs.
- Midrange: Silverback Lodge, Bakiga Lodge, or Agandi Uganda Lodge.
- Budget: Buhoma Community Rest Camp or Bwindi View Bandas.
Day 6: The Gorilla Trekking Experience
After a morning briefing, enter the trailhead in groups of eight. Trekking takes 1 to 4 hours. Spend one hour with the gorillas observing their daily routines. If time permits, enjoy an optional evening community walk.
- Meal Plan: Full Board.
- Accommodation: Same as Day 5.
Day 7: Return Transfer to Kampala
Following breakfast, begin the final leg of your journey as you are transferred back to Kampala or Entebbe for your outbound flight.
- Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch.
Inclusions & Exclusions
| Price Includes |
Price Excludes |
| Gorilla Permit & Chimpanzee Permits |
Personal drinks (Alcoholic & Non-alcoholic) |
| All Park Entrance & Ranger Fees |
Tips and Gratuities |
| Professional English-Speaking Guide |
Souvenirs & Personal Items |
| 6 Nights Accommodation |
Laundry fees & Telephone bills |
| Full Board Meals |
Travel Insurance |
| 4WD Customized Safari Vehicle |
International Air tickets |
| Bottled Water & Boat Cruise |
Visa Fees |
Primate Trekking Guidelines
- Health: Do not track if you have a cold, flu, or cough.
- Age Limit: Minimum trekking age for gorillas and chimpanzees is 15 years.
- Safety: Maintain a distance of 7 meters from the primates.
- Time: Strictly one hour is allowed with the primates once located.
- Environment: Avoid making noise and do not litter the park.
- Photography: Flash photography is strictly prohibited.
Essential Packing List
- Clothing: 3-4 Long-sleeved shirts, safari pants, and a rain jacket.
- Footwear: Strong waterproof hiking boots and cotton socks.
- Protection: Gardening gloves (for trekking), insect repellent, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Personal: Toiletries, first aid kit, pajamas, and a swimsuit for lodge pools.
- Gear: A warm sweater for cool highland evenings.
Book your Ugandan adventure. Contact Ranger Lead Travel Africa today to secure your permits and begin your journey.
