Heart of the Wild: A 6-Day Uganda Safari with Gorillas, Chimps & Wildlife

Live Your Ultimate Uganda Dream: Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari

This is the meticulously crafted Uganda safari designed to create the memories of a lifetime. Begin your adventure in Kibale Forest National Park, the primate capital of the world, for an unforgettable day of chimpanzee tracking. As you trek through the dense canopy, you may also encounter any of the 11 other primate species that call this forest home. We’ve also included a guided walk through a nearby swamp, offering more chances to see monkeys and experience the richness of Ugandan culture.

The journey continues to the legendary Queen Elizabeth National Park for a classic Big 5 wildlife safari. Spend a full day exploring its vast savannahs in search of tree-climbing lions, elephants, buffalo, and more.

The pinnacle of your adventure awaits in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where you’ll come face-to-face with the majestic mountain gorillas. This profound gorilla trekking experience is a moment that will stay with you forever.

We include hand-picked, popular accommodations for a seamless experience, though we are happy to customize your stay. Like all our tours, this unforgettable journey can start on any day and is available for just one traveler.

Tour Highlights.

ganda’s Premier 6-Day Primate & Wildlife Safari

Embark on the ultimate Ugandan adventure, a meticulously crafted 6-day journey that brings you face-to-face with Africa’s most iconic primates and wildlife. This comprehensive tour packs the best of the Pearl of Africa into one unforgettable itinerary. Trek through dense rainforests to find majestic mountain gorillas and playful chimpanzees, then explore the savanna plains in search of the legendary Big Five. From the moment you are collected, every detail is designed for an immersive and seamless wildlife experience.

Tour Highlights:

• Gorilla Trekking: Spend a magical hour with a habituated mountain gorilla family in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
• Chimpanzee Tracking: Walk through Kibale Forest, the “Primate Capital of the World,” to observe lively chimpanzee troops.
• Diverse Wildlife Viewing: Enjoy multiple game drives and a unique boat cruise in Queen Elizabeth National Park, home to tree-climbing lions, elephants, and hippos.
• Cultural Encounters: Experience a guided nature walk in the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary and optional traditional performances.
• Iconic Photo Stop: Cross and photograph the famous Uganda Equator line.

Detailed 6-Day Uganda Gorilla, Chimpanzee & Wildlife Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Cultural Welcome & Primate Encounters in Kibale
Your unforgettable 6-day safari begins as your private driver-guide meets you at your hotel in Entebbe or Kampala. We aim to depart by 8:00 AM to make the most of the day. (For guests arriving by air today, a flight landing by 1:00 PM is recommended).

The scenic drive to Kibale National Park takes approximately 5 hours on well-maintained roads, offering a captivating glimpse into rural Ugandan life as we pass through vibrant villages and lush farmlands.

Upon arrival, you’ll check in to your lodge and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, we’ll visit the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a inspiring community-run project on the edge of the forest. Here, a guided walk unveils a rich tapestry of wildlife—from the dazzling Great Blue Turaco and playful blue monkeys to mongoose and bushbucks. The experience culminates with authentic traditional cultural performances, offering a deep connection to the local community.

Accommodation: We will secure your stay at a carefully selected lodge in Kibale

Up-market: Kyaninga Lodge | Ndali Lodge | Primate Lodge Kibale

Moderate: Kibale Forest Camp | Turaco Treetops | Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse (self-contained cottages)

Low Budget: Kibale Forest Camp (tents) | Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse (shared bathroom rooms)

Included meals: Lunch, Dinner only 

Day 2: Chimpanzee Tracking & Journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Morning: The Primate Capital of the World
Your day begins with an early transfer to the Kibale National Park headquarters for a pre-trek briefing. To ensure a seamless flow for our safari, we will secure your spot on the morning chimpanzee trek (typically starting at 8:00 AM).

The trek itself is a moderate walk through stunning forest terrain, often on gentle paths. You won’t have to trek long before the forest comes alive with the sounds of the wild. Listen for the distinctive, loud pant-hooting calls that signal a nearby chimpanzee community. Under the guidance of expert rangers, you will be led to a habituated family and can observe them from as close as 6 meters for a full, unforgettable hour. Watch them feed, play, socialize, and nurture their young in a truly privileged wildlife encounter.

Kibale is a biodiversity hotspot, so keep your eyes peeled for other residents like black-and-white colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys. Keen birdwatchers can spot species like the great blue turaco and the black bee-eater. It’s even possible to encounter forest elephants on the trail.

Afternoon: Scenic Transfer to a Wildlife Haven
After your trek, you will return to the lodge for lunch. If time permits, we will take a scenic drive through the beautiful crater lakes region of Fort Portal, offering spectacular photo opportunities with the backdrop of the legendary Rwenzori Mountains—the “Mountains of the Moon.”

We then embark on a 2-hour drive south to the world-renowned Queen Elizabeth National Park. As we enter the park, you’ll understand why it’s a flagship destination. The landscape is a breathtaking tapestry of sprawling savanna, dense forests, and sparkling lakes, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the Rwenzori foothills.

This diverse ecosystem supports an incredible density of wildlife. On our initial game drive en route to your lodge, be on the lookout for herds of Uganda kob, elephants, Cape buffalo, and, with luck, the famous tree-climbing lions.

Evening: Settle into Your Safari Haven
The day concludes as we check into your pre-booked accommodation within or near the park. Relax, enjoy a delicious dinner, and listen to the sounds of the African night, reflecting on a day filled with primate wonders and the anticipation of more wildlife adventures to come.

Accommodation (with all meals)

Up-market/Luxury: Elephant Plains Lodge | Katara Lodge

Mid-range or moderate facility: | Bush Lodge (rooms) | Enganzi Lodge

Budget price: Bush Lodge (tents)

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

Day 3: Ultimate Queen Elizabeth NP – Game Drives & Kazinga Channel Cruise

Embrace the early morning as we venture into the legendary Kasenyi Plains for an unforgettable game drive. This is the prime time to witness the park come alive. We’ll track prides of lions on the hunt, guided by the vast populations of Uganda Kob, and seek out majestic elephants and solitary Cape buffaloes against the stunning backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is a biodiversity hotspot, boasting an incredible 95 mammal species—the highest of any park in Uganda. This abundance stems from its remarkable mosaic of habitats, where sprawling savannah grasslands, dense forest, and acacia woodlands converge with extensive lakes and swamps.

After returning for lunch and a brief respite, we embark on a completely different wildlife experience: the famous 2-hour boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel. This journey offers an unparalleled, up-close view of animals congregating at the water’s edge.

• Marvel at hundreds of hippos jostling for space in the shallow waters.
• Watch in awe as large herds of elephants and buffalo arrive to drink and bathe.
• Keep an eye out for stealthy Nile crocodiles sunning themselves and monitor lizards scuttling along the banks.

The channel is also a paradise for birdwatchers, bustling with vibrant species like the Pink-backed Pelican, the brilliantly colored Malachite Kingfisher, and the stately Saddle-billed Stork.

As the day ends, we return to our lodge, allowing you to relive the day’s incredible sightings and enjoy a delicious dinner.

Accommodation: Overnight at your lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park (Full Board – all meals included).

Up-market/Luxury: Elephant Plains Lodge | Katara Lodge

Mid-range or moderate facility: | Bush Lodge (rooms) | Enganzi Lodge

Budget price: Bush Lodge (tents)

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

Day 4: Journey to the Misty Mountains of Bwindi

Today, we journey deeper into Uganda’s wilderness, traveling south to the legendary Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the revered sanctuary of the endangered mountain gorilla.

Morning: Scenic Drive & The Search for Tree-Climbing Lions
Our drive from Queen Elizabeth National Park to Bwindi is an adventure in itself, winding through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in East Africa. Your guide will ensure plenty of photo stops to capture the stunning vistas.

• Optional Ishasha Game Drive: If our route permits, we will include a special game drive in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. This area is famous for its unique population of tree-climbing lions, often seen lounging in the sprawling fig trees. We’ll also keep our eyes peeled for other big game like elephants and buffalo in this remarkable region.

Afternoon: Immersion in Bwindi’s Community & Nature
Upon arriving in Bwindi, you will feel the anticipation build. The air is cooler, and the mist-clad, dense forest creates a truly magical atmosphere.

If we arrive with time to spare, you have the option to deepen your experience:

• Guided Community Walk: Connect with the local culture on a visit to a neighboring village. This authentic encounter offers insight into the traditions and daily lives of the communities living in harmony with the forest.
• Forest-Fringe Birding: Bwindi is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Even a short, guided walk along the forest edge can yield spectacular sightings, with up to 50 species possible in just an hour.

Evening: Prepare for Your Gorilla Encounter
We’ll check into your pre-arranged lodge, where you can relax and enjoy the serene environment. Use this evening to prepare your gear for tomorrow’s monumental trek and enjoy a delicious dinner, resting up for the life-changing experience that awaits.

Up-market: Buhoma Lodge | Mahogany Lodge | Chameleon Hill Lodge| Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge

Moderate: Engagi Lodge | Gorilla Mist Camp | Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

Low Budget: Gorilla Conservation Camp | Rushaga Gorilla Havens | Ruhija Gorilla Friends Camp 

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

Day 5: The Ultimate Encounter – Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Today is the pinnacle of your Ugandan adventure: your encounter with the majestic mountain gorillas. After an early breakfast, we journey to the park headquarters for an 8:00 AM briefing. This session is essential, providing fascinating insights into gorilla conservation, behavior, and the etiquette for a safe and respectful trek. It is also when you are assigned to your specific gorilla family; our guide will ensure you are placed with a group that offers a rewarding experience.

The trek itself is a true expedition into the ancient, mist-shrouded “Impenetrable Forest.” Led by experienced trackers, you’ll navigate lush trails and dense undergrowth. The difficulty varies, but frequent stops allow you to catch your breath and learn about the forest’s unique ecosystem.

The duration can range from 2 to 4 hours each way. The forest itself will signal your approach—you may spot fresh nests, dung, and hear the powerful sounds of branches snapping and deep hoots.

Then, the moment arrives.

You will come face-to-face with a gorilla family in their natural habitat. From a safe distance of at least 6 meters, you will have a full, uninterrupted hour to observe them. Watch in awe as they interact, feed, and play, completely habituated to our quiet presence. This is a profoundly moving and life-changing experience.

After your hour, you will begin the trek back. We will find a serene spot in the jungle for you to enjoy a well-earned packed lunch and reflect on this incredible encounter. Your driver will be waiting to transfer you back to your lodge, where you can relax and treasure a lifetime of memories.

Accommodation: Overnight at your lodge in Bwindi (Full Board).

Up-market: Buhoma Lodge | Mahogany Lodge | Chameleon Hill Lodge| Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge

Moderate: Engagi Lodge | Gorilla Mist Camp | Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

Low Budget: Gorilla Conservation Camp | Rushaga Gorilla Havens | Ruhija Gorilla Friends Camp 

Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

Day 6: Scenic Farewell & Departure

Your unforgettable Ugandan adventure concludes with a journey back to civilization, filled with one last look at the country’s stunning landscapes.

Flexible Departure Options:
For your convenience, we offer two departure points:

• Entebbe/Kampala: A scenic ±7-hour drive.
• Kigali, Rwanda: A shorter ±4-hour drive (please arrange this preference in advance).

Morning: Journey Through “The Little Switzerland of Africa”
After a final breakfast at the lodge, we will depart Bwindi around 8:00 AM to ensure a relaxed pace. The drive is a visual feast, taking you through the breathtaking, terraced hills of southwestern Uganda—a region often called ‘the Little Switzerland of Africa.’ You’ll witness a beautifully manicured landscape where steep, grassy hills are sculpted with neat cultivation rows.

Midday: A Final Highlight – The Equator Crossing
A memorable stop awaits you at the Equator line. Here, you can stand with one foot in each hemisphere, capture the perfect photo, and browse for last-minute souvenirs at the vibrant craft stalls.

Evening: Departure
We will arrive in Entebbe by late afternoon/early evening, in good time for your international departure flight. Alternatively, you will be dropped at your chosen hotel in Kampala or at the Kigali airport, marking the end of your incredible 6-day journey.