Uganda · Primate Tours

8-Day Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari with Murchison Falls

8 Days Round trip from Entebbe Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Track rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary as part of your journey to Murchison Falls
02 Cruise the Victoria Nile to the foot of Murchison Falls and hike to the gorge
03 Track chimpanzees in Kibale Forest and explore the biodiversity of Bigodi Wetland
04 Drive through the Ishasha sector in search of famous tree-climbing lions
05 Trek through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for a mountain gorilla encounter
06 Unwind with an evening boat ride on scenic Lake Bunyonyi

Embark on an exhilarating 8-day chimpanzee and gorilla safari in Uganda, beginning in Entebbe with optional activities such as visiting the Botanical Gardens and Mabamba Swamp. Explore Murchison Falls National Park on game drives and a boat ride on the Victoria Nile, then continue to Kibale for chimpanzee tracking and the rich biodiversity of Bigodi Wetland. Search for tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector before trekking to see majestic mountain gorillas in Bwindi Forest. The journey ends with a relaxing boat ride on Lake Bunyonyi before returning to Entebbe or Kampala.

Embark on an exhilarating 8-day chimpanzee and gorilla safari in Uganda, beginning in Entebbe with optional activities such as visiting the Botanical Gardens and Mabamba Swamp.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Kampala, Entebbe, Fort Portal, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kibale National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Lake Bunyonyi

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Entebbe and Optional Local Excursions

On arrival, you will be welcomed by your driver-guide and transferred to your hotel or lodge in Entebbe for dinner and an overnight stay.
If you arrive early, there are a few activities you can enjoy while in Entebbe, including a visit to the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, Mabamba Swamp to see shoebill storks, and a visit to a local mushroom grower. All of this will depend on your time of arrival.

Budget: Gorilla Guest House Entebbe

Mid-range: Boma Hotel Entebbe

Luxury: Protea Hotel Entebbe

Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 02

Journey to Murchison Falls via Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Depart Kampala early in the morning for a panoramic drive north-west through the famous Luwero Triangle.
Stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. Opened in 1998, the Rhino Fund aims to reintroduce black and white rhinos into Uganda's protected areas, while also educating local communities about endangered rhinos, poaching, and environmental conservation. The rhino trek takes 1-2 hours, and you will have an opportunity to view the rhinos at close quarters.
Have a lunch stop in Masindi and continue to the top of the falls.
Check in for dinner and an overnight stay at your accommodation.

Budget: Murchison River Lodge

Mid-range: Pakuba Safari Lodge

Luxury: Parra Safari Lodge

Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 03

Game Drive and Victoria Nile Boat Ride in Murchison Falls

Set out early in the morning on a game drive in search of giraffes, lions, hartebeests, elephants, Cape buffalo, and many other mammals. Birdlife may include the black-chested snake eagle, blue-naped mousebirds, the secretary bird, swallow-tailed bee-eaters, and the silver-headed agama.
After lunch, enjoy a boat ride on the calm Victoria Nile to the foot of the magnificent Murchison Falls, where the Nile plunges through a narrow crevice over a 40-metre drop.
Along the way, you may see Nile crocodiles, pools of hippos, waterbucks, and various bird species. Disembark from the boat and take a 45-minute hike to the gorge, where the river explodes into several cascades to form the falls.

Dinner and overnight at the accommodation.

Budget: Murchison River Lodge

Mid-range: Pakuba Safari Lodge

Luxury: Parra Safari Lodge

Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 04

Scenic Transfer to Kibale and Bigodi Community Experience

After breakfast, meet your safari driver and depart for your journey to Kibale Forest National Park.
Have a lunch stopover in Fort Portal Town and later proceed to Kibale Forest.
In the evening, go for the Bigodi Swamp primate walk or the Bigodi community walk. The Bigodi community walk leads you to the homes of local communities near the park. During this village walk, you will be escorted by a resident with ample knowledge about the culture and norms of different people and their tribes. It is a door-to-door village tour where you will visit schools and churches. This walk will expose you to village life, especially in the remote areas.
Return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Budget: Rwenzori View Guest House

Mid-range: Kibale Forest Camp or Chimpanzee Forest Lodge

Luxury: Kibale Primate Lodge

Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 05

Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale and Bigodi Wetland Walk

Start your day with a hearty breakfast to fuel up for the adventure ahead.
Meet your ranger-guide for an orientation on chimpanzee tracking procedures and safety guidelines.
Embark on a journey into the dense Kibale Forest to locate a fully habituated group of chimpanzees.
Spend 2 to 4 hours tracking chimpanzees, observing their behaviour and interactions in their natural habitat.
Benefit from insights shared by your guide about chimpanzee habits and the forest ecosystem.
Head to Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, renowned for its biodiversity, including rare shoebills and sitatungas.
Explore the wetlands, spotting primates and more than 350 bird species amid the lush vegetation.
Take a leisurely walk through the wetland, appreciating its ecological significance and diverse wildlife.

Return to your accommodation for dinner and an overnight stay.

Budget: Rwenzori View Guest House

Mid-range: Kibale Forest Camp or Chimpanzee Forest Lodge

Luxury: Kibale Primate Lodge

Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 06

Drive to Bwindi via Ishasha's Tree-Climbing Lions

After an early breakfast, drive southwards via the Ishasha sector in search of the tree-climbing lions. This sector is famous for these remarkable lions.
After a short game drive around the area, continue to Bwindi.

Dinner and overnight at the accommodation.

Budget: Bweza Gorilla Lodge or Broadbill Forest Camp

Mid-range: Rushaga Gorilla Camp or Bakiga Lodge

Luxury: Nkuringo Bwindi Lodge

Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 07

Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi and Boat Ride on Lake Bunyonyi

Wake up early in the morning and head to the park headquarters to join other clients for a briefing about the dos and don'ts while with mountain gorillas during your tracking experience.
After the briefing, start your trek into the forest guided by ranger-guides.
During your trek, you may encounter several birds, other animals, and primates in the forest. Once you have found the gorillas, you will spend one hour with them before returning. You will be able to listen, observe, ask the guide questions, and take photos and videos.
After the transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, enjoy an evening boat ride there.

Budget: Crater Bar Lodge or Bunyonyi Overland Resort

Mid-range: Lake Bunyonyi Rock Resort Lodge

Luxury: Arcadia Cottages Lake Bunyonyi or Lake Bunyonyi Bird Nest Lodge

Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 08

Return to Entebbe or Kampala

After a relaxed cup of coffee, today you say goodbye to the rainforest.
Travel back to Entebbe or Kampala with lunch along the way.
Arrive in Entebbe in the late afternoon.

End of your chimpanzee and gorilla safari.

Where this trip takes you

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Victoria Nile boat ride, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park gorilla trek, Lake Bunyonyi boat ride

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Entebbe 8 cities · 8 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Meet and greet services
Airport transfers to and from Entebbe Airport or Kigali Airport
One gorilla habituation permit per person and one chimp habituation permit per person
Accommodation and meals on safari
Bottled water in the safari vehicle
Services of a driver-guide
Boat cruise
All park entry fees and set activities on the itinerary

What's Not Included

Visas
Personal travel insurance
Items of a personal nature
Any charter or scheduled flight
All personal expenses, such as tips and drinks

What to bring

Some energy snacks
Camera
Extra camera batteries
Sunglasses
A pair of binoculars
Walking or hiking boots
Garden gloves
Rain jacket
Long-sleeved shirts or a blouse
Some short-sleeved T-shirts that you can use after trekking and during your free time
A warm sweater to use in the evenings and mornings
A pair of shorts would also be nice during the day
A simple pair of walking boots that you can use during your free time
A pair of sleepwear is also recommended
A few pairs of underwear are good to include on your list
A pair of lightweight socks is recommended
Sunscreen is a must while you are on safari in Africa
Insect repellent is also a must when planning a trip to Africa
Flashlight for night walks at some places
Some personal prescription medicines from your doctor would be useful

Know before you go

What is the latest date we can book so that we are assured of getting a permit to see the gorillas and chimpanzees?
The trekking permits, especially gorilla permits, in Uganda are in very high demand, and only a limited number is available. This makes it difficult to state a specific deadline. Since it is not possible to tell accurately whether permits available now will still be available in the coming days, weeks, or months, clients are usually encouraged to make a down payment whenever possible. This helps the company secure permits and accommodation right away.
How long are the walks for the gorillas?
The walk for gorillas may take between 2 and 6 hours before the actual encounter, depending largely on the movement of the gorillas. The chance of encounter is 99%. Usually, the trackers go ahead and locate the gorillas, then direct the ranger-guide to lead the trek to the location. Once with the gorillas, you will be allowed one hour of unforgettable encounters.
Can you tell me something about tipping?
How much to tip, for example the driver-guide, ranger, hotel staff, and others, is always difficult to say for sure, as it depends largely on the level of gratitude you feel and, of course, your budget. Nonetheless, it could be USD 10, 15, 20, and so on per day, or combined for the driver-guide and given at the end as you say goodbye.
We are vegetarians. Can that be accommodated?
The answer is always yes. Uganda, being an agricultural economy, offers multiple food options while on your trip. Almost everyone can find something suitable. Whether it is a gluten-free diet, vegetarian, or halal, there will always be an option to cater to one's preference. If you are not on any dietary restriction, you are even luckier.
Could you also let me know if ATM cash machines are available outside Entebbe?
Yes, ATM cash machines are available outside Entebbe. It is possible to withdraw money from an ATM at the airport or in major towns along your safari route. If you plan to use an ATM or credit card, it is advisable to notify your bank that you will be using your credit card or debit card for cash withdrawals from an ATM in Uganda. If you wish to have some local currency, the assigned tour driver-guide can always lead you to a nearby forex point.
What are our options for transportation?
Road transfer is commonly used because it is quite affordable. For those interested, air transfer is possible to selected destinations such as Murchison, Bwindi, Kidepo, Kasese, Jinja, and Tororo, if seats are still available and you are comfortable with the cost.
How many people are on the trip at one time, and what sort of vehicle are we in?
We offer private tailored safaris. That means you will be assigned a driver-guide and safari vehicle, and no other clients will join you. We provide either a safari van or a safari Land Cruiser. Either vehicle is comfortable enough.
Can you also collect us from the airport?
Yes. You can be sure of meeting our driver-guide or representative patiently waiting for you in the arrivals section of the airport. This is what we do regularly, so there is no need to worry.
Do I need a visa to enter Uganda?
Please check to see if you belong to visa-exempt nationalities, meaning nationals of countries that do not pay for Uganda visas.
Is it better to apply for a tourist visa before we come or get it at the airport?
Getting the visa before arrival is better and recommended. Your details will be verified, and you will receive an email confirmation within 24 hours. The East Africa visa is ideal when visiting Rwanda or Kenya as well. If you are only visiting Uganda, apply for the Uganda Tourist visa, which costs USD 50 and is also payable online.
I understand that gorilla trekking offers different routes. How physically strenuous are these?
Gorilla trekking has different routes because the gorilla families are in their natural habitat and are not found in the same locations every day. You can expect an average trekking time of 2 to 3 hours before reaching the gorilla group. Still, there are cases where a trekking group walks only 1 hour before reaching the gorilla family, while others take 6 hours. An average physically fit person can manage any route and trek length with ease. Additionally, local trekking support staff are available and may help carry bags and provide support while ascending and descending.
Can you clarify the type of accommodation?
All our esteemed clients' accommodation is always planned and reserved in en suite cottages, rooms, or safari tents.
What kind of clothing do you recommend?
Keep it simple, plain, and practical for your comfort while on safari. If you are hiking or doing gorilla or chimp tracking, pack strong trekking shoes or jungle boots for hiking. Long-sleeved shirts offer proper protection from thorns and insects, and long stockings are useful if wearing shorts. Comfortable jeans, pants, or trousers are also recommended. Other useful items include a hat or cap, khaki clothing for its colour and comfort, comfortable shorts, dresses and blouses for women, and a rain jacket.
Can we be picked up from our hotel in Kampala or Entebbe besides the airport?
The answer is yes. If you are already staying in the country before the safari start date, all we need is the address of your hotel, and the assigned driver-guide will pick you up right from your hotel to start the trip. Otherwise, we will be happy to pick you up from the airport.
Could you book us a hotel for an extra night on arrival to get over our jet lag?
The answer is always a big yes, and we are always delighted to offer our esteemed clients such accommodation at no cost, excluding meals.
I want to get a SIM card for my phone. Which company do you use?
There are quite a number of telecommunication companies in Uganda. However, the most commonly used are MTN and Airtel Uganda. You can acquire a SIM card from either.
Is Uganda a safe country for tourists?
Contrary to what many think, Uganda is one of the safest tourist destinations on the continent. A traveller once said, "In Uganda, we never once had the feeling of being ripped off," while sharing her experience of travelling in Uganda.
Are drones allowed to take pictures while in the park?
Drones are only allowed when one is on a filming or commercial photography trip, which must be arranged and paid for, and the park authority must be alerted in advance. Anyone found using a drone without proper authorisation will be penalised.
Does changing a tracking sector affect the probability of seeing the gorillas?
The probability of encountering gorillas remains 99% in all four sectors of Bwindi and the nearby Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. There is no need to worry.
Is it possible to have a copy of the gorilla permit, which is the most expensive thing on our trip?
If you want to have the permit, the assigned driver-guide can hand it over to you. Otherwise, he will keep it and hand it over at the point of tracking.
Do we go alone to the gorillas or in a group?
You will be in a group of at least eight people.
Do you offer the Flying Doctors service?
Unfortunately, we do not offer the Flying Doctors service. However, we have medical insurance covering our clients while on safari. Our driver-guide can rush clients to a nearby medical facility in a health emergency. For a critical emergency, we can seek support from the Uganda Wildlife Authority for an airlift, if required, or any other means they can offer.
What is the best time to travel to Uganda?
December to February and June to September are considered the best times to visit Uganda, but some intermittent rain is possible due to unpredictable seasonal changes. Uganda can still be visited in the "low season" months, and the encounters and experiences remain outstanding. The "low season" months also have fewer travellers, meaning the parks are not crowded.
Can this trip work for a solo traveller? I am a bit concerned about safety, as I am alone.
The answer is yes. As far as safety is concerned, there is no need to worry at all. We always assign our esteemed clients professional and dedicated driver-guides who endeavour to make their stay memorable. We have hosted many solo travellers before, and none have reported bad experiences. One traveller shared: "I planned this trip as a single woman travelling for six days alone. I didn't know what to expect. I was met with warmth and true hospitality." We also keep in contact to ensure that all is going well.
Do you know by now which gorilla family we shall visit?
Unfortunately, we do not know that in advance. The gorilla family for you to trek is never specified to us beforehand. You get to know during the briefing.
Do the cars get close to the animals? Can you see them well enough?
Yes, it is possible to get close and see animals well enough. However, it is important to note that off-track game viewing is not allowed, and failure to adhere to this attracts a penalty.