A Week in Uganda: Gorilla Trekking, Chimpanzees & National Parks

Experience the perfect introduction to Uganda’s wildlife and culture on this private, flexible 7-day tour. Designed for travelers who want a comprehensive adventure without the fixed dates of a group tour, this itinerary covers the country’s premier primate and wildlife destinations.

Why Choose This Safari?

• Private & Flexible: Your tour, your rules. Start on any day that suits you from either Entebbe, Uganda, or Kigali, Rwanda.
• The Ultimate Primate Encounter: Combine two of the world’s best primate experiences—gorilla and chimp trekking—in one seamless trip.
• Authentic Cultural Access: We build in time for genuine interactions with Ugandan communities, going beyond the wildlife.
• Comfort in the Wild: Our accommodation partners offer a blend of comfort and location, ensuring a relaxing end to each exciting day.

Safari Experience:
This tour is packed with the most exciting African adventures. You will go gorilla tracking in the dense, misty forests of Bwindi, a profound and awe-inspiring experience. In Kibale National Park, you’ll trek through the jungle to observe chimpanzee families. Your safari continues with adventurous game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, home to elephants, buffaloes, lions, and countless other species.

Accommodation Details:
We believe where you stay is part of the adventure. Accommodation is strategically located inside national parks or on the banks of rivers for an immersive experience. Most rooms feature a private bathroom with a shower and toilet. Select lodges offer shared facilities, providing a more rustic and authentic bush feel. Amenities like swimming pools and bar areas are available at many properties, offering the perfect place to relax and reflect on your journey.

Tour Highlights.

This 7-day Uganda safari is our most popular tour, delivering the country’s top wildlife and primate experiences. Journey from the “Primate Capital” of Kibale to the vast savannah of Queen Elizabeth and finally to the misty forests of Bwindi for a bucket-list gorilla encounter.

Key Features of This Tour:

• ✅ Guaranteed Gorilla Trekking: Your permit for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is included.
• ✅ Chimpanzee Tracking: Lead-guided trek in Kibale National Park.
• ✅ Search for Tree-Climbing Lions: Exclusive game drive in the Ishasha sector.
• ✅ Diverse Wildlife Viewing: Multiple game drives and a boat safari for the Big 5 and more.
• ✅ Authentic Cultural Encounter: Guided nature walk in Bigodi Wetland.
• ✅ Maximum Flexibility: Start any day. Choose to end in Uganda or Rwanda.

Brief Day-by-Day Overview:

• Day 1: Arrival & transfer to Kibale; Bigodi Wetland Walk.
• Day 2: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest.
• Day 3: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth; Afternoon Game Drive.
• Day 4: Morning Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise.
• Day 5: Ishasha Tree-Climbing Lions & transfer to Bwindi.
• Day 6: Highlight: Mountain Gorilla Trekking.
• Day 7: Departure via Entebbe or Kigali.

Detailed Tour itinerary

Day 1: Journey to the Primate Capital – Welcome to Kibale National Park & Bigodi Wetland

Your 7-day Ugandan adventure begins! Following a pick-up from your hotel in Entebbe or Kampala, your expert driver/guide will welcome you and you’ll set off towards the lush landscapes of western Uganda.

Highlights & Activities:

• Scenic Drive: Enjoy a picturesque 5-hour journey on mostly surfaced roads, passing through some of Africa’s most fertile farmlands.
• Cultural Glimpse: Witness daily Ugandan life as you drive through local villages, with people tending to traditional crops like millet, sorghum, beans, and maize.
• Bigodi Wetland Walk: In the afternoon, embark on a guided nature walk through the renowned Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary. This community-run project is a shining example of conservation, where local initiatives protect wildlife while benefiting the community.

Destination & Journey:
We will use the charming town of Fort Portal as our gateway before continuing to your comfortable lodge, conveniently located near the entrance to Kibale National Park.

The Story of Bigodi:
The Bigodi Wetland is a testament to community spirit. Faced with monkeys raiding their crops, the local community ingeniously turned a challenge into an opportunity. They designated this area as a sanctuary, providing a safe haven for primates. Your visit directly supports this initiative, as the entrance fees contribute to local livelihoods and conservation efforts. Keep your eyes peeled for a diversity of wildlife, including the spectacular Great Blue Turaco, blue monkeys, baboons, and perhaps even a bushbuck or mongoose.

Choice Accommodation options in Kibale National Park

Upper Luxury: Kyaninga Lodge | Crater Safari Lodge  | Ndali Lodge

Luxury: Kyaninga Lodge | Crater Safari Lodge  | Ndali Lodge

Moderate: Isunga Lodge | Kibale Forest Camp | Chimp Forest Lodge

Low Budget: Tents at Kibale Forest Camp | Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse

Meals today: Breakfast, Lunch, and dinner only.

Driving time: ±5 hours.

Day 2: Kibale National Park – Chimpanzee Tracking

Activity Summary: Today is dedicated to one of Africa’s premier primate experiences: tracking wild chimpanzees in the dense rainforest of Kibale National Park.

Detailed Schedule:

• 08:00: Arrive at the Kibale National Park visitor center for a mandatory pre-trek briefing conducted by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). You will learn about:
  • Chimpanzee biology and social structures.
  • Rules of conduct during the encounter (including the 8-meter minimum distance).
  • The importance of conservation in the park.
• 08:30 (approx.): Begin the guided trek into Kibale Forest. The duration of the search varies (typically 1-2 hours) as you follow the guides who expertly track the chimps by sound and sight. The forest is also home to other wildlife, including several monkey species, pottos, and occasionally forest elephants and buffalo, making the trek itself a rewarding wildlife walk.
• The Encounter: Upon locating a chimp community, you will be allotted exactly one hour to observe them. Your UWA guide will point out interesting behaviors and provide context about their ecology. Photography is permitted, but without flash.
• Return: After the hour, you will trek back to the starting point.

Important Note: A limited number of Chimpanzee Habituation Experience (CHE) permits are available each day for an additional $50 per person. This is a full-day (8 AM – 3 PM) program that offers a more immersive, research-oriented experience with a chimp group that is not yet fully habituated.

Choice Accommodation options in Kibale National Park

Upper Luxury: Kyaninga Lodge | Crater Safari Lodge  | Ndali Lodge

Luxury: Kyaninga Lodge | Crater Safari Lodge  | Ndali Lodge

Moderate: Isunga Lodge | Kibale Forest Camp | Chimp Forest Lodge

Low Budget: Tents at Kibale Forest Camp | Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse

Meals included today: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Driving time: ±30 minutes.

Day 3: Scenic Transfers & The Wild Plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park

Morning: Savor breakfast before a scenic drive through the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Fort Portal. This journey is a highlight in itself, taking you past a stunning chain of crater lakes nestled in rolling hills and vast, emerald-green tea plantations that carpet the slopes. This picturesque route offers a perfect glimpse into the region’s rich volcanic history and agricultural heritage.

Afternoon: We then journey south to the world-renowned Queen Elizabeth National Park. The transition in landscape from lush highlands to open savanna signals the start of your classic African wildlife adventure. As we enter the park, we’ll embark on our first thrilling game drive.

Evening Game Drive: Traverse the diverse ecosystems of the park’s northern sector. The vast Kasenyi Plains, often dubbed “Lion Country,” offer one of your best chances to spot prides on the hunt. Meanwhile, the Mweya Peninsula provides a concentration of wildlife attracted to the water. Keep your eyes peeled for massive herds of Uganda kob (the park’s signature antelope), stately elephants, formidable Cape buffalo, and the elusive giant forest hog. With leopard and hyena also patrolling these lands, every moment is filled with anticipation.

Overnight options:

Upper Luxury: Kyambura Gorge Lodge | Kasenyi Safari Camp

Luxury:  Mweya Safari Lodge | Katara Safari Lodge

Mid-range: Buffalo Safari Lodge |  Bush Lodge

Budget price: Tents at  Bush Lodge or Simba Safari Camp | Pumba Cottages

Meals included today: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Day 4: Predators, Prey & A Premier Boat Safari – The Best of Queen Elizabeth NP

Today offers two quintessential African safari experiences: an exhilarating morning game drive in predator-rich territory, followed by a world-renowned boat cruise that brings you intimately close to water-loving wildlife.

Morning: Dawn Game Drive on the Kasenyi Plains
Before the sun climbs high, we embark on an early morning game drive, targeting the prime time for predator activity. The Kasenyi Plains are a dynamic ecosystem where the circle of life unfolds daily. Vast herds of Uganda kob and other antelope attract a healthy population of predators. Your guide will expertly track through the area, offering you the best chance to witness lions, leopards, and hyenas—perhaps even resting after a successful hunt or strategizing their next one. This is a raw and authentic look into the heart of the African wilderness.

• Departure: ~6:30 AM from your lodge to maximize wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Key Sightings: Lions, leopards, hyenas, elephants, massive herds of Cape buffalo, and thousands of Uganda kob.

Afternoon: The Legendary Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
In the afternoon, we switch perspectives for a leisurely yet unforgettable boat trip along the Kazinga Channel. This 40km natural channel connecting Lake George to Lake Edward is a magnet for wildlife. Glide along the water and get ready for an unparalleled photo opportunity as hundreds of hippos wallow and grunt just meters away, buffaloes soak in the shallows, and Nile crocodiles bask on the banks. The cruise is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with abundant species like the striking pink-backed pelican, vibrant malachite kingfishers, and the majestic saddle-billed stork.

Wildlife & Scenery:

• Up-Close Encounters: Large pods of hippos, Nile crocodiles, elephants, and buffaloes on the shores.
• Birding Bonanza: A high concentration of waterbirds and raptors.
• Stunning Landscape: Enjoy panoramic views of the park against the backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains.

Upper Luxury: Kyambura Gorge Lodge | Kasenyi Safari Camp

Luxury:  Mweya Safari Lodge | Katara Safari Lodge

Mid-range: Buffalo Safari Lodge | Bush Lodge

Budget price: Tents at Bush Lodge or Simba Safari Camp | Pumba Cottages

Meals included today: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Day 5: In Search of Tree-Climbing Lions & Journey to the Gorillas

Bid farewell to the savannah as we journey towards the mist-covered mountains. Today is a day of transition, combining a final, unique wildlife encounter with the scenic drive to the home of the mountain gorillas.

Morning: The Legendary Tree-Climbing Lions of Ishasha
Our day begins with a special game drive through the renowned Ishasha Sector in the southern part of Queen Elizabeth National Park. This remote and expansive wilderness is famous for its unique population of tree-climbing lions, often seen resting on the sturdy branches of fig trees. Beyond this rare spectacle, the sector boasts large herds of elephants, Cape buffalo, and various antelope, offering a final, memorable game viewing experience in the park.

• Note: This visit is subject to seasonal road conditions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Afternoon: Scenic Journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
After our wildlife search, we begin the scenic drive south to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The journey (approximately 5 hours) winds through the stunning highlands of southwest Uganda, offering breathtaking views of rolling hills and terraced farmland.

We will stop for lunch at a curated restaurant along the route (or enjoy a packed lunch), ensuring a comfortable break before the final leg of the trip.

Evening: Arrival at the Gorilla Trekking Gateway
Upon arrival in Bwindi, you will check into your lodge nestled on the edge of the ancient rainforest. The rest of the afternoon is yours to relax and absorb the serene atmosphere. Use this time to prepare your gear, as tomorrow brings the pinnacle of your adventure: your encounter with the majestic mountain gorillas.

Suggested Bwindi Accommodation options available (all on a full board basis)

Upper Luxury: Gorilla Forest Camp | Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge | Bwindi Lodge

Luxury: Four Gorillas Lodge | Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge| Buhoma Lodge | Mahogany Lodge .

Moderate: Lake Mulehe Lodge | Engagi Lodge | Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

Low Budget: Gorilla Conservation Camp | Rushaga Gorilla Haven Lodge | Ruhija Gorilla Friends Camp

Meals included today: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Driving time: ±5 hours.

Day 6: A Life-Changing Encounter: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Today is the pinnacle of your Ugandan adventure—a face-to-face meeting with the majestic mountain gorillas. With just over 1,000 of these gentle giants left on Earth, and more than half residing in Bwindi, this is a rare and profound privilege.

Morning: After an early breakfast, your guide will take you to the park headquarters for a 7:00 am briefing. Here, the Uganda Wildlife Authority will prepare you for this unforgettable experience, sharing essential guidelines for respectful interaction with the gorillas.

The Trek: Led by expert trackers, you will venture into the awe-inspiring, ancient rainforest. The trek itself is a rewarding journey through a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rich with the sounds of the forest. You may encounter other primates like colobus and L’Hoest’s monkeys, and the air is filled with the calls of rare Albertine Rift birds. The duration varies, but the moment of discovery is worth every step.

The Encounter: The wait builds to an unforgettable climax. You will be granted one precious hour in the presence of a habituated gorilla family. Watch in awe as they feed, play, and interact, mere meters away. Your ranger will ensure a safe and clear view for photography and quiet observation. This intimate glimpse into their world is a humbling and exhilarating experience that will stay with you forever.

Suggested Accommodation: (All on a full-board basis).

Upper Luxury: Gorilla Forest Camp | Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge | Bwindi Lodge

Luxury: Four Gorillas Lodge | Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge| Buhoma Lodge | Mahogany Lodge |

Moderate: Lake Mulehe Lodge | Engagi Lodge | Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

Low Budget: Gorilla Conservation Camp | Rushaga Gorilla Haven Lodge | Ruhija Gorilla Friends Camp

Meals included today: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Driving time: ±30 minutes.

Day 7: Scenic Journey & Farewell – Return to Entebbe or Depart via Kigali

Your unforgettable Ugandan adventure culminates in a journey through some of the country’s most stunning landscapes. After an early breakfast, we begin our return drive, offering one last glimpse of the beauty that defines the “Pearl of Africa.”

A Journey Through the “Little Switzerland of Africa”
The drive from the gorilla highlands is an experience in itself. We’ll traverse the breathtaking, terraced hillsides of southwestern Uganda, a region often called the ‘Little Switzerland of Africa’ for its lush, rolling beauty. Witness the incredible agricultural tapestry where steep slopes are meticulously cultivated.

Cultural & Geographic Highlights En Route:

• Ankole Cattle: Keep your camera ready as we pass through Mbarara, the heartland of the iconic Ankole cattle, famous for their spectacular long, curved horns.
• Equator Crossing: We’ll make a memorable stop at the Equator line. Here, you can stand with one foot in each hemisphere and capture the perfect photo to commemorate your journey.

Final Destination & Flexible Departures
We will arrive in Entebbe by the late afternoon, in good time for your evening international flight home.

• For a Shorter Drive: We offer the option to end your safari in Kigali, Rwanda. This scenic drive takes approximately 4 hours and can be more convenient for certain international flight routes.
• For Maximum Convenience: Optional daily flights from Kisoro or Kihihi to Entebbe are available (at an additional cost) to minimize travel time.

As we transfer you to the airport, we hope you carry with you a lifetime of memories—from the profound gaze of a mountain gorilla to the thunderous power of Murchison Falls.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Driving Distance: Approximately 8 hours to Entebbe / 4 hours to Kigali.