Uganda · Primate Tours

5-Day Gorilla and Chimp Safari in Uganda with Kazinga Cruise

5 Days Round trip from Uganda Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Track chimpanzees in Kibale National Park, home to a remarkable variety of primates
  • 02 Cruise along the Kazinga Channel to spot hippos, buffalo, elephants, kobs, and spectacular birds
  • 03 Search for tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park
  • 04 Enjoy a gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
  • 05 Visit Igongo Cultural Centre and stop at the Equator on the return to Entebbe

Experience a 5-day safari through Uganda's most celebrated wildlife destinations, combining chimp trekking in Kibale National Park, a boat cruise and game viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and a memorable gorilla experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Along the way, travel through beautiful landscapes beneath the Ruwenzori Mountains, explore the crater lakes area, and look out for abundant wild game, birdlife, and a remarkable variety of primates. The journey ends with cultural stops at Igongo Cultural Centre and the Equator on your return to Entebbe.

You'll meet the gorillas for up to 4 hours, perhaps one of the most exciting wildlife experiences on earth.

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 Kampala, Entebbe, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kibale National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Rwenzori Mountains National Park
Languages English, French, German

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Transfer to Kibale National Park and Crater Lakes Walk

You'll leave Kampala after breakfast for the 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 have a guided walk in the crater lakes area of the park for an outstanding cultural visit. Meals and overnight stay will be at Ndali Lodge. Meal plan: Lunch and dinner.

2
Day 02

Chimp Trekking and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

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 forest walk will provide information not only on chimpanzees and primates, but also on small organisms, making it especially interesting. The walk may also reward you with sightings of other primates like Grey-cheeked mangabeys, Colobus monkeys, and red-tailed monkeys.

After chimp trekking, you'll drive to Queen Elizabeth, 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 Mweya Safari Lodge. Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.

3
Day 03

Morning Game Drive and Journey to Bwindi

You'll begin your day with a cup of coffee. An early morning game drive along Kasenyi and Queens Mile 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, taking you 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 Mahogany Springs Safari Lodges. Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.

4
Day 04

Gorilla Experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

You'll begin the day with breakfast, ready for trekking, which begins at 8:00 am with a briefing from the UWA staff. Ensure you carry a rain jacket, drinking water, snacks, jungle boots, and other essentials. The researchers and guides will lead you inside the jungle to see the shy primates for 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 meet the gorillas for up to 4 hours, perhaps one of the most exciting wildlife experiences on earth. The habituation experience will take half or a full day, depending on the time you find them, but it's well worth the effort. Your dinner and overnight stay will be at Mahogany Springs Safari Lodge. Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

5
Day 05

Return to Entebbe via Cultural Stops

You'll return to Kampala, then Entebbe, with lunch en route and a stopover 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.

Kibale National Park crater lakes, Kazinga Channel boat cruise, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park gorilla forest, Ruwenzori Mountains backdrop

Where this trip takes you

Kibale National Park crater lakes, Kazinga Channel boat cruise, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park gorilla forest, Ruwenzori Mountains backdrop

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Uganda 6 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)
  • A professional driver/guide
  • Roundtrip 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.

  • COVID-19 Documentation: Carry proof of vaccination or recent negative test results, as per current regulations.

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

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

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

  • Personal First Aid Kit: Include essentials like band-aids, antiseptic, pain relievers, and any personal medical necessities.

Clothing & Footwear General Safari Wear

  • Lightweight, Neutral-Colored 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; waterproof gear is essential.

  • Wide-Brimmed Hat & Sunglasses: Protect against sun exposure during game drives and walks.

  • Comfortable Walking Shoes: Closed-toe shoes 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 hands.

  • Moisture-Wicking Base Layers: Help manage sweat during strenuous hikes.

Gear & Accessories

  • Daypack: To carry water, snacks, 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 Sanitizer & 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

Tips:

  • Permits: Chimpanzee trekking requires a permit; it's advisable to book in advance.

  • Health Precautions: To protect primates from human diseases, visitors may be required to wear masks and maintain a safe distance.

General Safari Tips

  • Health: Consult your doctor about vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis before traveling.

  • Packing Essentials: Include insect repellent, sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, binoculars, and a good camera.

  • Local Currency: Carry some Ugandan Shillings for tips and purchases, as card facilities may be limited in remote areas.

  • Respect Wildlife: Always follow your guide's instructions and maintain a respectful distance from animals.

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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