Safari Overview
This 5-day primate safari offers an unforgettable adventure into Uganda’s tropical rainforests, home to some of the world’s most fascinating primates. Encounter our closest relatives, the chimpanzees, in the verdant Kibale Forest and track the awe-inspiring mountain gorillas in the misty jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Along the way, enjoy scenic drives, rich cultural interactions, and breathtaking landscapes across western Uganda. This journey is perfect for wildlife lovers, photographers, and anyone eager to witness the unmatched beauty and biodiversity of Uganda’s forests.
Duration: 5 Days, 4 Nights
Start/End Point: Entebbe or Kampala
Vehicle Type: 4WD Safari Van or Land Cruiser with Pop-Up Roof
Driver/Guide: Professional English-speaking Safari Guide
Trip summary
Day One: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
Day Two: Chimpanzee Tracking & Bigodi Swamp Walk
Day Three: Travel to Bwindi via Ishasha or Kabale
Day Four: Gorilla Tracking Experience in Bwindi
Day Five: Return to Kampala or Entebbe
Day One: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
Your safari begins with an early morning departure from Kampala or Entebbe. The journey to Kibale Forest National Park takes approximately 5–6 hours, winding through lush tea plantations, scenic countryside, and vibrant roadside markets. Arrive in Fort Portal—nestled at the foot of the Rwenzori Mountains—for lunch and later continue to your lodge near the forest.
Spend the afternoon relaxing at the lodge or visit a nearby crater lake for a short nature walk and scenic photography. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in the heart of primate territory.
Day Two: Chimpanzee Tracking & Bigodi Swamp Walk
After an early breakfast, head to Kibale Forest Headquarters for a briefing before your chimpanzee tracking experience. Accompanied by a professional ranger guide, venture into the dense tropical forest in search of habituated chimpanzee troops. Along the way, you may spot other primates like red colobus, black-and-white colobus, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and grey-cheeked mangabeys, as well as a variety of forest birds.
After lunch, proceed to Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for a community-guided nature walk. This protected swamp is a haven for birdlife, including the great blue turaco, and is rich in medicinal plants and cultural heritage. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.
Day Three: Travel to Bwindi via Ishasha or Kabale
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and depart for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the renowned home of Uganda’s endangered mountain gorillas. The drive is long (7–8 hours) but incredibly scenic, passing tea estates, terraced hills, and rural homesteads. Depending on the gorilla tracking sector, you may travel via the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions.
Arrive at your lodge in the Bwindi forest area in the evening. Check in, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the unforgettable experience ahead.
Day Four: Gorilla Tracking Experience in Bwindi
Rise early for breakfast and head to the park headquarters for a detailed briefing on gorilla tracking etiquette. With your group and ranger guide, begin the trek into the ancient rainforest in search of one of the habituated mountain gorilla families. The trek can take between 2 to 6 hours, depending on the movement of the gorillas and your location.
Upon finding the gorillas, you will spend a magical hour observing them as they interact, feed, and care for their young—a truly life-changing experience. After the trek, return to the lodge for a well-deserved rest, and spend the evening enjoying the serene forest environment.
Day Five: Return to Kampala or Entebbe
After a hearty breakfast, begin your return journey to Kampala or Entebbe. You’ll pass through the picturesque Kigezi highlands—often referred to as the “Switzerland of Africa”—with lunch en route and opportunities for souvenir shopping at local craft centres. The journey takes about 8–9 hours. Drop off at your preferred location in the evening, marking the end of your primate adventure.
End of Tour
Important Notes
- Gorilla and chimpanzee permits are subject to availability and should be booked in advance.
- A reasonable level of fitness is required for tracking activities.
- Packing essentials include sturdy walking shoes, long trousers, insect repellent, and a rain jacket.
- The itinerary can be adjusted to begin from Kigali, Rwanda, upon request.
- Private or group options available.
Safari Includes
- 4WD Safari vehicle and fuel
- Professional English-speaking driver/guide
- Accommodation for 4 nights with all meals
- Chimpanzee tracking permit (Kibale)
- Gorilla tracking permit (Bwindi)
- Park entrance fees and guided activities
- Bottled drinking water during transfers
- All government taxes and levies
Safari Excludes
- International airfares and Uganda visa
- Travel insurance
- Tips and gratuities for guides, rangers, and hotel staff
- Optional activities not included in the itinerary
- Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages
- Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, etc.
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