Uganda · Safari

5-Day Uganda Safari with Gorilla Trekking and Kazinga Channel Cruise

5 Days Round trip from Buhoma Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Track endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest alongside expert guides
02 Explore the Batwa community on an optional cultural walk and engage with their traditional lifestyle
03 Search for rare tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park
04 Set out on a sunrise game drive across the Kasenyi plains for classic savannah wildlife viewing
05 Cruise privately along the Kazinga Channel to spot hippos, crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes, and rich birdlife

Embark on a 5-day Uganda safari that combines primate encounters and classic savannah adventures. Journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience, where you will track and spend time with endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Continue to Queen Elizabeth National Park for game drives in search of lions, elephants, and other iconic wildlife, including the rare tree-climbing lions of Ishasha. A private boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel completes the experience with sightings of hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes, elephants, and abundant birdlife.

Journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience, where you will track and spend time with endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 5 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Entebbe, Kasese, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park

Languages English, French, German

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Arrive at Entebbe International Airport and meet your safari representative.
Transfer by domestic flight or scheduled route to Kihihi Airstrip.
Meet your safari guide upon arrival and proceed to your booked lodge.
Check in and enjoy a freshly prepared lunch.
In the evening, take an optional guided community walk to experience Batwa culture, or relax at the lodge with views of the forest.

Day 02

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi National Park

Wake up early and enjoy breakfast on the terrace while listening to forest bird calls.
Transfer to the Bwindi National Park headquarters for a detailed gorilla trekking briefing.
Begin the trek through dense forest, guided by experienced trackers.
Spend up to one hour with a habituated gorilla family in their natural habitat.
Return to the park headquarters for a debriefing and receive a trekking certificate.
Head back to the lodge to relax and enjoy a complimentary massage.

Day 03

Scenic Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park via Ishasha

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and begin your scenic drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Pass through the Ishasha Sector, known for its tree-climbing lions.
Stop for a savannah-style picnic lunch near the Ishasha River while observing pods of hippos.
Continue with a 2-hour drive to your lodge near the Mweya or northern sector.
Arrive in time for dinner and your overnight stay.

Day 04

Sunrise Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Safari

Begin the day with coffee and leave for a sunrise game drive through the northern Kasenyi Plains.
Look out for lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, hyenas, antelopes, and numerous bird species.
Return to the lodge for a full breakfast and relax by the pool.
Have an early lunch and transfer to the Mweya Peninsula for a private boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel.
Enjoy sightings of hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes, elephants, and hundreds of bird species.
Return to the lodge for sunset drinks by the campfire, followed by a private bush dinner under the stars.

Day 05

Return Flight to Entebbe

Enjoy breakfast on the lodge terrace with views of the savannah and the Rwenzori foothills.
Transfer to Kasese Airfield for your domestic flight to Kajjansi near Entebbe.
Upon arrival, check in to a day room at a selected Entebbe guesthouse.
Relax and freshen up before your international flight home.

Where this trip takes you

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Ishasha Sector, Kazinga Channel

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Buhoma 4 cities · 5 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Gorilla permits (one per person, non-resident)
Chimp permits (one per person, non-resident)
All accommodation (unless listed as an upgrade)
All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
All activities (unless labeled as optional)
Park fees (for non-residents)
Drinking water (on all days)
A professional driver/guide
Round-trip airport transfer
All taxes/VAT

What's Not Included

Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Government-imposed increases in taxes and/or park fees
Tips (tipping guideline: US$10.00 pp per day)
International flights (from/to home)

What to bring

Pack lightweight, breathable long-sleeved shirts and trousers to protect from sun and insect bites.
Choose neutral-colored attire such as khaki, olive, or brown to blend with the environment.
Bring warm layers like a fleece or sweater for chilly mornings and evenings in high-altitude areas like Bwindi.
Carry a waterproof rain jacket or poncho for unexpected rainforest showers.
Wear comfortable waterproof hiking boots for trekking and rough terrain.
Use gaiters or long socks to shield against mud, insects, and thorny vegetation.
Bring a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for sun protection during outdoor activities.
Include swimwear for relaxation at Lake Bunyonyi or at lodge pools.
Carry a daypack for essentials like water, snacks, a camera, and personal items during treks.
Use binoculars for enhanced wildlife viewing and birdwatching.
Bring a camera with extra batteries and memory cards to capture memorable experiences.
Pack a headlamp or flashlight for use in dimly lit areas and nighttime activities.
Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
Apply insect repellent with DEET or picaridin to protect against mosquitoes.
Pack a basic first aid kit with essentials and any prescribed medication.
Bring your passport and visa with sufficient validity for your stay.
Carry a yellow fever vaccination certificate, as it is required for entry into Uganda.
Have your travel insurance documents covering medical and trip-related issues.
Secure your gorilla trekking permit in advance, as it is mandatory for participation.

Know before you go

Secure your gorilla trekking permit well in advance.
Ensure permits are non-transferable and required for all participants aged 15 and above.
Prepare for treks that can vary from 2 to 6 hours through dense forest and steep terrain.
Maintain a moderate to good level of physical fitness.
Wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip.
Bring waterproof clothing and a rain jacket.
Pack long-sleeved shirts and trousers in neutral colors.
Carry gloves for handling vegetation.
Apply insect repellent and sunscreen.
Use a walking stick or trekking pole for balance and support.
Maintain a distance of at least 7 meters from the gorillas.
Avoid direct eye contact and sudden movements.
Follow the guidance of your ranger at all times.
Hire a local porter to support the community and ease your trek.
Tip guides and porters as a gesture of appreciation, though it is not mandatory.
Visit Ishasha for sightings of lions that climb and rest in fig and acacia trees.
Travel during the dry seasons from June to September or December to February for optimal sightings.
Look for tree-climbing lions during the hottest parts of the day.
Join guided game drives with experienced trackers.
Exercise patience, as sightings may take time and require keen observation.
Enjoy a two-hour boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel to see hippos, crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes, and birdlife.
Choose from Uganda Wildlife Authority and Mweya Safari Lodge cruises priced between $28 and $50.
Opt for community-run cruises at Katunguru Bridge for a more intimate and budget-friendly experience.
Wear neutral-colored, long-sleeved clothing for protection against sun and insects.
Bring binoculars, a camera with extra batteries, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a water bottle.
Choose afternoon cruises for better chances of wildlife viewing near the water's edge.
Travel in the dry seasons from June to September or December to February for the best trekking and wildlife viewing conditions.
Visit during the wet seasons from March to May or October to November for lush scenery and fewer tourists, though trails may be challenging.
Pack light but include essentials like a hat, sunglasses, and a flashlight.
Carry sufficient cash in small denominations for tips and local purchases, as ATMs are limited in remote areas.
Stay hydrated and bring any required personal medications.
Respect local customs and wildlife, and always follow your guide's instructions.
Embark on a safari that offers unforgettable encounters with gorillas, tree-climbing lions, and diverse wildlife across Uganda's rich landscapes.