Uganda · Primate Tours

8-Day Uganda Safari with Gorilla Trekking and Lake Bunyonyi Retreat

8 Days Round trip from Uganda Moderate pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Track wild chimpanzees in Kibale National Park, home to one of Africa's largest primate populations
02 Explore Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, known for its rich birdlife and unique swamp ecosystem
03 Experience thrilling game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, spotting lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and more
04 Cruise along the Kazinga Channel on a boat safari with close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, and aquatic birds
05 Visit the Ishasha sector, famed for rare tree-climbing lions lounging in fig trees
06 Trek through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat
07 Engage in optional cultural encounters with the indigenous Batwa community or enjoy guided nature walks

Embark on an 8-day safari through Uganda's most iconic national parks and landscapes. Track wild chimpanzees in Kibale National Park, enjoy thrilling game drives and a boat safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park, come face-to-face with endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and unwind at scenic Lake Bunyonyi. This journey combines primate encounters, classic wildlife viewing, and a peaceful lakeside retreat across some of Uganda's most remarkable natural settings.

Track wild chimpanzees in Kibale National Park, enjoy thrilling game drives and a boat safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park, come face-to-face with endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and unwind at scenic Lake Bunyonyi.

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 No

Cities Kampala, Entebbe, Mbarara, Fort Portal, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kibale National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Bunyonyi

Languages English, French, German

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Transfer to Kibale National Park

Begin with hotel pick-up by the company driver after breakfast.
Receive a short briefing about the safari program.
Drive westwards via Mubende to Fort Portal, one of Uganda's cleanest towns.
Stop for lunch in Fort Portal.
Continue the journey to Kibale National Park.
Arrive in the late afternoon and check in to the lodge.
Relax after the journey.

Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the lodge.

Day 02

Chimpanzee Trekking and Bigodi Wetland Visit

Have an early morning breakfast at the lodge.
Transfer to the park headquarters for a pre-trek briefing.
Begin chimpanzee trekking in the company of a knowledgeable ranger guide.
Encounter other primates such as monkeys and baboons during the trek.
Spend one hour observing the chimpanzees once located.
Return to the headquarters for a certificate of participation.
Head back to the lodge for lunch and rest.
In the afternoon, visit Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 03

Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Enjoy breakfast in the morning and check out of the lodge.
Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Arrive in time for lunch at the lodge.
Embark on an afternoon game drive within the park.
Look out for elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, waterbucks, warthogs, antelopes, and various bird species.
Return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 04

Game Drive and Boat Safari in Queen Elizabeth

Have breakfast at the lodge.
Proceed for a morning game drive in the Kasenyi plains.
Observe animals such as lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, and antelopes.
Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation.
Join an afternoon boat safari on the Kazinga Channel at 2:00 PM.
Spot hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and abundant birdlife along the shores.
Return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 05

Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Begin the day with breakfast at the lodge.
Check out and drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park via the Ishasha sector.
Look for the famous tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha area.
Exit Queen Elizabeth National Park and drive to Mbarara town for lunch.
Continue to Bwindi, arriving in the afternoon.
Check in at the lodge and relax.

Have dinner and an overnight stay at the lodge.

Day 06

Gorilla Trekking and Optional Community Visit

Have an early morning breakfast at the lodge.
Transfer to the park headquarters for a pre-trek briefing.
Join other trekkers and be assigned a gorilla family group.
Begin gorilla trekking with a professional ranger guide.
Spend one hour with the gorillas once located.
Return to the headquarters for a certificate of participation.
Head back to the lodge for lunch and relaxation.
Optional afternoon activity: visit the Batwa community or go for a guided nature walk.

Have dinner and an overnight stay at the lodge.

Day 07

Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi and Canoe Experience

Enjoy breakfast in the morning and check out of the lodge.
Drive to Lake Bunyonyi, one of Uganda's deepest and cleanest lakes.
Arrive in time for lunch and check in to the lodge.
Relax before embarking on a canoe boat tour of the lake.
Explore surrounding islands, each with cultural and historical significance.
Return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 08

Return to Kampala and Departure

Have a relaxed breakfast in the morning and check out of the lodge.
Begin the journey back to Kampala with an en route lunch stop.
Stop at the equator monument for a photo opportunity.
Continue to Entebbe, arriving in the afternoon.
Be dropped off at Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight.

Where this trip takes you

Kibale National Park rainforest trails, Kazinga Channel boat safari, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park gorilla habitat, Lake Bunyonyi islands

The route

Where you'll travel

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

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Gorilla permits (one per person, non-resident)
Chimp permits (one per person, non-resident)
All accommodations (unless listed as an upgrade)
All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
Drinks (as specified in the day-by-day section)
All activities (unless labeled as optional)
Park fees (for non-residents)
A professional driver/guide
Roundtrip airport transfer
All taxes/VAT

What's Not Included

Additional accommodation before and after the tour
Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Government-imposed increases in taxes and/or park fees
Some meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
Tips (tipping guideline: US$10.00 per person per day)
International flights (from/to home)

What to bring

Neutral-colored attire such as khaki, beige, or olive to blend with the environment and avoid attracting insects.
Long-sleeved shirts and trousers to protect against sunburn and insect bites.
Lightweight layers with moisture-wicking fabrics for daytime, plus a fleece or jacket for cooler evenings.
A waterproof jacket or poncho, especially useful during the rainy seasons of March to May and October to November.
Swimwear for lodges that offer swimming facilities.
Modest clothing to respect local customs and avoid revealing outfits in public areas.
Sturdy hiking boots for nature walks and uneven terrain.
Comfortable walking shoes suitable for game drives and casual strolls.
Sandals or flip-flops for relaxing at lodges.
Insect repellent with DEET for protection against mosquitoes and insects.
High SPF sunscreen and lip balm to guard against the equatorial sun.
Sufficient personal medications and prescription drugs.
A basic first aid kit with plasters, antiseptic, and common remedies.
Hand sanitizer and wet wipes for maintaining hygiene during excursions.
A daypack for carrying daily essentials on treks and drives.
Binoculars for enhancing wildlife and birdwatching experiences.
A camera with extra batteries or a power bank to capture memorable moments.
A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during outdoor activities.
A flashlight or headlamp, useful in areas with limited lighting.
A travel adapter with the UK-style Type G plug used in Uganda.
A valid passport and visa complying with Uganda's entry requirements.
A yellow fever vaccination certificate, required for entry.
Copies of travel insurance details, including the policy number.
Your safari itinerary and booking confirmations in both digital and print formats.
Avoid camouflage clothing, as it is illegal in some countries and may cause issues.
Pack light and use available laundry services at lodges.
Maintain a respectful distance from wildlife and follow your guide's instructions.

Know before you go

Wear lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and trousers in neutral colors to protect against insects and sun exposure.
Avoid bright colors and camouflage patterns, as they may disturb wildlife or cause misunderstandings.
Pack sturdy, waterproof hiking boots suitable for forest treks and uneven terrain.
Bring a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection, gloves for trekking, and a rain jacket for unexpected showers.
Carry a high-quality camera, binoculars for wildlife viewing, and a flashlight or headlamp for use at lodges with limited lighting.
Include insect repellent with DEET, high SPF sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit for health and safety.
Ensure you have the necessary vaccinations, including yellow fever, as required for entry into Uganda.
Consult your healthcare provider about anti-malarial medication before travel.
Help protect mountain gorillas and chimpanzees by maintaining a safe distance, wearing masks if requested, and following all guidelines from your guide.
Budget approximately $3,400 to $3,800 per person for an 8-day mid-range private safari, which typically includes permits, accommodation, meals, and transport.
Visit during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February for the best trekking and wildlife viewing conditions.
Book in advance during peak months to secure permits and preferred accommodations.
Prepare thoroughly to enjoy a safe, immersive, and unforgettable safari experience in Uganda's diverse ecosystems.