Uganda · Primate Tours

5-Day Uganda Primate Trekking Safari with Gorilla Trekking and Bunyonyi

5 Days Round trip from Uganda Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park's Kasenyi Plains
  • 02 Boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel between Lakes George and Edward
  • 03 Search for tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector
  • 04 Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
  • 05 Relax by Lake Bunyonyi, surrounded by terraced hills and 29 islands

Begin your 5-day Uganda safari from Entebbe with a journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park for game drives across the Kasenyi Plains and a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel. Continue through the Ishasha sector, known for its tree-climbing lions, before heading to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience. The tour ends with time at the beautiful Lake Bunyonyi, surrounded by terraced hills and dotted with 29 islands, before returning to Entebbe.

Once you find a gorilla family, you will be allowed to spend one hour with them.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 5 Days
Tour type Shared
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Entebbe, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Bunyonyi
Languages English, French, German

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Your pick-up can be arranged from either your hotel or the airport upon arrival. An English-speaking tour driver will meet you and begin the journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda's most popular tourist destinations. The park is home to a wide variety of habitats that support an impressive range of wildlife, including ten species of primates such as chimpanzees, more than 600 bird species, and large mammals like elephants and lions.

You will stop for lunch along the way before continuing into the beautiful Queen Elizabeth National Park. Arrival is expected in the late afternoon or evening, after which you will head to your accommodation to rest and relax. If time allows, you may also enjoy a late afternoon to evening game drive.

2
Day 02

Morning Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

Wake up early and enjoy breakfast before setting out on a morning game drive in the Kasenyi Plains. Look out for Cape buffaloes, herds of elephants, and lions. Leopards can be more difficult to spot, but it is always worth keeping an eye out for them.

After the drive, return to your lodge to relax and have a meal. Following lunch, you will take a two-hour boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake George and Lake Edward. During the cruise, you may see large hippos, elephants, crocodiles, and many different bird species along the water's edge.

After the boat ride, you can either return to the lodge to rest or head out for another game drive until around 6:30 or 7:00 pm.

3
Day 03

Ishasha Game Drive and Transfer to Bwindi

Wake up early and head out for one final game drive in the Kasenyi Plains. Keep an eye out for Cape buffaloes, groups of elephants, lions, leopards, and other wildlife, although leopards can be difficult to see. After the drive, return to the lodge and check out.

You will then continue to the Ishasha sector in search of the famous tree-climbing lions. There is about a 70% chance of seeing them, although they can sometimes be hard to find, especially when they are hunting in the tall grass. If you do spot them, it is a beautiful and unforgettable sight.

After Ishasha, continue to your accommodation near Bwindi National Park in the Ruhija sector, arriving at around 6:00 pm.

If you prefer, you may choose chimp tracking in Kyambura instead of the sunrise game drive. Please note that permission for chimp tracking must be secured before the actual date.

Place to stay: Broadbill Forest Camp (economical option) | Food included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner | Travel time: 6 hours.

4
Day 04

Gorilla Trekking and Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi

After breakfast, head to the rangers' station for a briefing on the dos and don'ts of gorilla trekking from a ranger guide. You will then enter Bwindi Forest for this exciting experience. Trekking time and terrain vary depending on the movement of these large primates.

Once you find a gorilla family, you will be allowed to spend one hour with them. Watching these peaceful and rare giants is a memorable and exciting experience.

After the trek, return to your accommodation, check out, and continue to Lake Bunyonyi. The lake is surrounded by lush, terraced hills rising between 2,200 and 2,478 metres. Its real beauty lies in its 29 islands, each with its own shape and character, scattered across the water. Simply taking in the view of these islands can fill you with wonder and awe, and you could easily spend a whole day admiring them.

5
Day 05

Return Drive to Entebbe

Enjoy a peaceful breakfast while taking in the beautiful little islands of Lake Bunyonyi right in front of you. Afterwards, begin your journey back to Entebbe.

You will arrive in the late afternoon or evening, in time for your departure. Along the way, you will stop for lunch at the Equator and have the chance to take some memorable photos.

Kasenyi Plains, Kazinga Channel, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Lake Bunyonyi

Where this trip takes you

Kasenyi Plains, Kazinga Channel, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Lake Bunyonyi

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Uganda 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 labelled as optional)
  • Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
  • All activities (unless labelled as optional)
  • Park fees (for non-residents)
  • 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
  • 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

Essential Travel Documents & Health Items

  • Passport & visa: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. Obtain a Ugandan visa if required.

  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate: Mandatory for entry into Uganda.

  • Travel insurance: Include coverage for medical emergencies and trip cancellations.

  • Prescription medications: Bring sufficient supplies, along with copies of your prescriptions.

  • Malaria prophylaxis: Consult your doctor about suitable anti-malarial medication.

  • Personal first aid kit: Include essentials such as band-aids, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any personal medical necessities.

Clothing & Footwear General Safari Wear

  • Lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing: Long-sleeved shirts and trousers in khaki, beige, or olive help with sun protection and blend into the environment.

  • Warm layers: Early mornings and evenings can be chilly, especially in Bwindi. Pack a fleece or lightweight jacket.

  • Rain jacket or poncho: Sudden showers are common, so waterproof gear is essential.

  • Wide-brimmed hat & sunglasses: Protect against sun exposure during game drives and walks.

  • Comfortable walking shoes: Closed-toe shoes are recommended for general activities.

Gorilla Trekking Specific

  • Sturdy hiking boots: Waterproof and broken-in boots are crucial for navigating Bwindi's rugged terrain.

  • Gaiters or long socks: Protect against mud, insects, and scratches.

  • Gardening gloves: Useful for gripping vegetation and protecting your hands.

  • Moisture-wicking base layers: Help manage sweat during strenuous hikes.

Gear & Accessories

  • Daypack: To carry water, snacks, your camera, and personal items during excursions.

  • Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated throughout your activities.

  • Binoculars: Enhance wildlife viewing during game drives and boat cruises.

  • Camera with extra batteries/memory cards: Capture memories of the diverse landscapes and wildlife.

  • Flashlight or headlamp: Useful in lodges with limited lighting.

  • Dry bags or ziplock bags: Protect electronics and documents from moisture.

Toiletries & Personal Care

  • Biodegradable toiletries: Environmentally friendly options for shampoo, soap, and toothpaste.

  • Insect repellent: High DEET content is recommended to ward off mosquitoes.

  • Sunscreen: SPF 30 or higher to protect against sunburn.

  • Hand sanitiser & wet wipes: Maintain hygiene during travel.

Optional Comfort Items

  • Travel pillow & eye mask: Enhance comfort during long drives or flights.

  • Earplugs: Useful for light sleepers in lodges with natural nighttime sounds.

  • Travel journal: Document your experiences and sightings.

Know before you go

Queen Elizabeth National Park: Wildlife Encounters

Highlights:

  • Game drives: Explore the Kasenyi Plains, renowned for sightings of lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and Uganda kobs.

  • Kazinga Channel boat cruise: Witness large concentrations of hippos, Nile crocodiles, and diverse bird species along this 40 km channel connecting Lake George and Lake Edward.

  • Ishasha Sector: Famous for its unique tree-climbing lions, often seen lounging in fig trees.

Tips:

  • Opt for early morning or late afternoon game drives when wildlife is most active.

  • Bring binoculars and a good camera for optimal viewing and photography.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Gorilla Trekking

Highlights:

  • Mountain gorilla trekking: Home to nearly half of the world's mountain gorilla population, Bwindi offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

  • Biodiversity: Beyond gorillas, the park boasts over 120 mammal species and 350 bird species, including chimpanzees and various monkey species.

Preparation:

  • Permits: Secure gorilla trekking permits well in advance, as they are limited and in high demand.

  • Physical readiness: Treks can range from 30 minutes to several hours, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended.

  • Gear: Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, sturdy hiking boots, and bring rain gear. Hiring a local porter is advisable for assistance and to support the community.

Lake Bunyonyi: Relaxation and Cultural Exploration

Highlights:

  • Scenic beauty: Known as one of Uganda's most beautiful lakes, Lake Bunyonyi is dotted with 29 islands and surrounded by terraced hills.

  • Activities: Enjoy canoeing, boat rides, bird watching, and visits to local communities such as the Batwa and Bakiga.

Tips:

  • The lake is bilharzia-free and safe for swimming.

  • Engage in cultural tours to gain insights into local traditions and lifestyles.

Essential Travel Tips

  • Health precautions: Consult your doctor about vaccinations, such as yellow fever, and malaria prophylaxis.

  • Packing list: Include insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, a reusable water bottle, and a flashlight.

  • Currency: Carry Ugandan Shillings for local transactions, as credit card facilities may be limited in remote areas.

  • Connectivity: Internet access may be limited, so inform family and friends accordingly.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Entebbe, Uganda
Tour start
Uganda
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 5 days finish where they began, in Uganda.

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