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Uganda · Primate Tours
The journey
Experience a 5-day safari through Uganda's most rewarding wildlife and primate destinations, including Kibale National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Track chimpanzees in Kibale's forest, enjoy a boat cruise on the famous Kazinga Channel, and look out for wildlife on game drives through Queen Elizabeth and the Ishasha Sector. The journey culminates with an unforgettable gorilla experience in Bwindi, with a cultural stop at Igongo Cultural Centre and the Equator on your return to Entebbe.
You'll spend up to 4 hours with the gorillas, perhaps one of the most exciting wildlife experiences on earth.
From the itinerary
At a glance
Day by day
You'll leave Kampala after breakfast for a fascinating drive through papyrus swamps and the thick jungle of the Nile Delta to Kibale National Park, just under the Ruwenzori Mountains. In the afternoon, you'll enjoy a guided walk in the crater lakes area of the park for an outstanding cultural visit. Meals and your overnight stay will be at Kibale Forest Camp. Meal plan: Lunch and dinner.
In the morning, you will have breakfast and transfer to Kibale headquarters for a briefing before setting off on a forest walk in search of chimpanzees. The guided walk will provide information not only on chimpanzees and other primates, but also on small organisms, making the experience especially interesting. The walk may also reward you with sightings of other primates such as grey-cheeked mangabeys, colobus monkeys, and red-tailed monkeys.
After chimp trekking, you'll drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, ready for an evening two-hour boat cruise along the famous Kazinga Channel. This is a worthwhile opportunity to see hippos, buffalo, kobs, elephants, warthogs, and more. The trip also enables visitors to see spectacular birds. Your dinner and overnight stay will be at Kazinga Wilderness Camp. Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
You'll begin your day with a cup of coffee before heading out for an early morning game drive along Kasenyi and Queens Mile. This drive gives visitors the chance to encounter elephants, buffalo, water bucks, warthogs, lions, Uganda kobs, lakes, and a variety of birds.
Thereafter, you'll drive through the Ishasha Sector, passing through the unique western Rift Valley escarpment. If time allows, you'll enjoy a mini game drive in the Ishasha Sector in search of tree-climbing lions before proceeding to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Your dinner and overnight stay will be at Buhoma Community Rest Camp. Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
You'll begin the day with breakfast, ready for trekking, which starts at 8:00 am with a briefing from the UWA staff. Be sure to carry a rain jacket, drinking water, snacks, jungle boots, and other essentials. The researchers and guides will lead you into the jungle to see the shy primates in the group you have been booked for. Do not forget to take your lunch boxes and all the necessary gear to track the rare mountain gorilla.
You'll spend up to 4 hours with the gorillas, perhaps one of the most exciting wildlife experiences on earth. The habituation experience will take half or a full day, depending on when you find them, but it is well worth the effort. Your dinner and overnight stay will be at Buhoma Community Rest Camp. Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
You'll return to Kampala and then Entebbe, with lunch en route and a stop at Igongo Cultural Centre to explore the lifestyle of the Ankole and Bahima. Thereafter, you'll proceed to the Equator in Uganda before your evening departure home. Meal plan: Breakfast and lunch. End of services.
Where this trip takes you
Kibale National Park crater lakes, Kazinga Channel boat cruise, Ishasha Sector tree-climbing lions, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park gorilla forest
The route
The fine print
Essential Packing List for Your Safari
Clothing
Neutral-Colored Attire: Opt for khaki, beige, or olive tones to blend with the environment and avoid attracting insects.
Long-Sleeved Shirts & Trousers: Protects against sunburn and insect bites.
Lightweight Rain Jacket or Poncho: Essential for sudden showers, especially in Kibale's rainforest.
Fleece or Warm Layer: Mornings and evenings can be chilly, particularly during game drives.
Sturdy Hiking Boots: Necessary for chimpanzee trekking and forest walks.
Comfortable Sandals or Trainers: Ideal for relaxing at the lodge.
Wide-Brimmed Hat & Sunglasses: Offers protection from the sun during daytime activities.
Swimwear: Some lodges may have pools or natural swimming spots.
Gear & Accessories
Daypack: A small backpack for daily excursions.
Binoculars: Enhances wildlife and bird-watching experiences.
Camera with Extra Batteries & Memory Cards: Capture the diverse wildlife and landscapes.
Flashlight or Headlamp: Useful for navigating campsites or lodges at night.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated during treks and drives.
Insect Repellent: Preferably DEET-based to ward off mosquitoes.
High-SPF Sunscreen & Lip Balm: Protects against the equatorial sun.
Travel Adapter: Uganda uses UK-style square-pin plugs (240V AC, 50Hz).
Waterproof Dry Bags: Safeguard electronics and important documents from moisture.
Health & Personal Items
Personal First Aid Kit: Include essentials like antiseptics, band-aids, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
Malaria Prophylaxis: Consult your doctor for appropriate medication.
Hand Sanitizer & Wet Wipes: Maintain hygiene during your travels.
Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate: Required for entry into Uganda.
Travel Insurance Documents: Ensure coverage for medical emergencies and trip cancellations.
Documents & Money
Passport & Visa: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.
Copies of Important Documents: Keep digital and physical copies separate from originals.
Local Currency (Ugandan Shillings): Useful for small purchases and tips.
Credit/Debit Cards: Inform your bank of international travel to avoid transaction issues.
Safari Highlights Overview
Queen Elizabeth National Park: Renowned for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and over 600 bird species. Activities include game drives and boat cruises on the Kazinga Channel.
Kibale National Park: Home to 13 primate species, notably chimpanzees. Offers guided forest walks and visits to the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a haven for bird enthusiasts.
Weather Considerations
Uganda's climate is generally tropical, with temperatures ranging between 20°C to 30°C. The wet seasons typically occur from March to May and October to November. Even during dry seasons, unexpected showers can happen, especially in forested areas like Kibale. Packing layers and waterproof gear is advisable.
Final Tips
Luggage: Use soft-sided bags for easier transport and storage during the safari.
Laundry: Some lodges offer laundry services; packing light is feasible.
Cultural Sensitivity: Dress modestly when interacting with local communities.
Stay Informed: Keep abreast of local guidelines and park regulations to ensure a respectful and safe experience.
Queen Elizabeth National Park: Wildlife & Scenic Beauty - What to Expect
Diverse Wildlife: Home to over 95 mammal species, including elephants, buffaloes, leopards, hippos, and the renowned tree-climbing lions of the Ishasha sector.
Birdwatcher's Paradise: With over 600 bird species, it's a haven for bird enthusiasts.
Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise: Offers close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, and a plethora of bird species along the water's edge.
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit: June to August and December to February are ideal, coinciding with the dry seasons for optimal wildlife viewing.
Getting There: Accessible by road from Kampala or via domestic flights to nearby airstrips.
Park Entry Points: Main entrances include Katunguru Gate (Mweya & Kasenyi Plains), Kichwamba Gate (Kyambura Gorge), and Ishasha Gate (tree-climbing lion area).
Kibale National Park: Primate Capital of East Africa - Highlights
Chimpanzee Trekking: Home to over 1,500 chimpanzees, Kibale offers one of the best opportunities to observe these primates in their natural habitat.
Primate Diversity: Hosts 13 primate species, including red colobus, L'Hoest's monkeys, and grey-cheeked mangabeys.
Preparation Tips
Permits: Chimpanzee trekking permits are required; it's advisable to book in advance due to limited availability.
Packing Essentials: Include sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, insect repellent, and long-sleeved clothing for forest treks.
Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary: Birding & Cultural Experience - What to Expect
Guided Nature Walks: A 4.5 km trail through papyrus swamps and forested areas, offering sightings of over 200 bird species, including the Great Blue Turaco.
Primate Encounters: Common sightings include red-tailed monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and vervet monkeys.
Community Engagement: The sanctuary is managed by the local community, providing opportunities to learn about their conservation efforts and cultural practices.
Tips for Visitors
Best Times for Walks: Early morning (7:30-9 a.m.) or late afternoon (around 3 p.m.) are ideal for wildlife activity and comfortable temperatures.
Footwear: Wear waterproof boots, especially during the rainy seasons (March-May and September-November), when trails can be muddy.
General Safari Tips
Health Precautions: Consult your doctor about vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis before traveling.
Local Currency: Carry Ugandan Shillings (UGX) for park fees, tips, and local purchases, as ATMs may be scarce in remote areas.
Responsible Tourism: Follow park guidelines, maintain a safe distance from wildlife, and support local communities through ethical tourism practices.
Logistics
Your 5 days finish where they began, in Uganda.
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