Gorilla, Chimpanzee & Wildlife Safari in Uganda
This seven-day safari takes you through three of Uganda’s most spectacular national parks. From the chimpanzee-rich jungles of Kibale to the plains of Queen Elizabeth, and the mountain slopes of Bwindi – home to the endangered gorillas – you’ll witness a stunning range of landscapes and animals. Every day brings a new perspective of Uganda’s wild heart.
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HIGHLIGHTS
Track wild chimpanzees deep in Kibale Forest
See tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha Sector
Cruise the Kazinga Channel among hippos and elephants
Share a powerful momoent with gorillas in Bwindi
Spot turacos and monkeys in Bigodi Wetland trails
From Rainforest Canopies to Misty Highlands
This journey begins on the lush heart of western Uganda, past crater lakes and ancient cultural landmarks before entering Kibale Forest, home to lively chimpanzee families and a symphony of bird calls. You’ll wander through pathways of Bigodi’s wetland, where wildlife and community conservation thrive side by side.
The road continues south, across the golden savannah of Queen Elizabeth National Park where lions patrol the grasslands and elephants wade into the Kazinga Channe. From there, you move on into the wild beauty of the Ishasha Sector, where the rare phenomenon of tree-climbing lions rest in the branches of acacia trees.
Finally, you reach the misty hills of Bwindi. Steep forest trails lead to one of the rarest encounters in the world – face to face with a family of mountain gorillas. Every step of this adventure brings new sights, new stories, and a deeper connection to one of Africa’s most biodiverse regions.
If you are curious of safaris in other destinations we highly recommend you check out our best-seller Big Five Safari in Tanzania, or why pick one destination when you can hit two birds with one stone with our Classic Kenya and Tanzania Safari? Reach out to us to tailor a seamless, customized travel plan just for you!
| Day 1 |
KIBALE NATIONAL PARK | TURACO TREETOPSAfter meeting your guide, you’ll set off toward Fort Portal via the Mityana–Mubende route. Along the way, stop to see the ancient Nakayima tree – steeped in legend and cultural history. After lunch en route, arrive at Kibale Forest in the afternoon and check into your lodge. Depending on your arrival time, you may choose to relax or visit a nearby crater lake for a scenic walk. Overnight at Turaco Treetops or Similar. |
| Day 2 |
KIBALE FOREST | CHIMPANZEE TRACKING | TURACO TREETOPSBegin the day with breakfast before heading to the Kibale Forest – one of the best places in Africa to see chimpanzees in the wild. Listen for calls and watch the treetops as you track these intelligent, social primates. Bigodi is not only a wildlife haven – it also supports local livelihoods through sustainable ecotourism. Overnight at Turaco Treetops or Similar. |
| Day 3 |
QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK | KAZINGA CHANNEL CRUISE | MWEYA SAFARI LODGEAfter breakfast, continue to Queen Elizabeth National Park, with views of the Rwenzori Mountains along the way. As you enter the park, keep your eyes open—elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and even big cats can often be seen near the road. Overnight at Mweya Safari Lodge (Full Board) or Similar. |
| Day 4 |
QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK | GAME DRIVE | MWEYA SAFARI LODGEStart the day early with a game drive across the Kasenyi Plains. This region is rich in wildlife and offers the chance to see lions, elephants, leopards, hyenas, buffaloes, Uganda kob, and more. Birdlife is also abundant, making it a rewarding experience for photographers and nature lovers alike. You’ll return to the lodge later in the day and have the afternoon free to rest, enjoy the view, or prepare for the journey to Bwindi. Overnight at Mweya Safari Lodge (Full Board) or Similar. |
| Day 5 |
ISHANA SECTOR – BWINDI FOREST | FOUR GORILLAS LODGEAfter an early breakfast, set off toward Bwindi through the Ishasha Sector in southern Queen Elizabeth National Park. This area is known for its rare tree-climbing lions, often spotted resting in fig or acacia trees. The open savannah and scattered candelabra trees provide a striking backdrop for wildlife sightings. After passing through Ishasha, continue toward the highlands of Bwindi—where mist-shrouded hills hide one of the world’s most extraordinary primate species. Overnight at Four Gorillas Lodge or Similar. |
| Day 6 |
BWINDI FOREST | FOUR GORILLAS LODGEAfter an early breakfast, you’ll set off on a guided hike through the forest, with steep trails, thick vegetation, and fresh signs of the gorillas leading the way. When you find them, you’ll spend an hour quietly observing the family—watching their behavior, their interactions, and the gentle power of the silverback. It’s a humbling and unforgettable moment that connects you to one of the world’s most endangered species in a way few experiences can match. After the trek, enjoy your packed lunch in the forest. If time allows, you can explore the surrounding community or take a nature walk around the lodge. Overnight at Four Gorillas Lodge or Similar. |
| Day 7 |
ENTEBBE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT | DEPARTAfter an early breakfast, begin the scenic drive back to Entebbe Airport for your departure. Depending on your flight time, lunch or additional stops can be arranged along the way. |
A Meaningful Way to Explore Uganda
- Three top national parks in one seamless trip
- Mix of primates, boat safaris, and game drives
- Supports local communities and conservation directly
This adventure is carefully crafted around respect for the land, the wildlife, and the people who call these regions home. By going on this adventure, you’re choosing more than smooth logistics and trusted guides. You’re choosing a partner that prioritizes purpose.
We work with local lodges and community-based initiatives like Bigodi Wetland, where tourism helps protect habitats and supports local livelihoods. Every gorilla and chimpanzee permit contributes directly to long-term conservation.
From start to finish, this journey is designed to leave a positive mark – on you, and on the places you visit. It’s responsible, real, and rooted in care for Uganda’s future.
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What is gorilla trekking?
Gorilla trekking is a once-in-a-lifetime activity that involves hiking through the forest to observe and interact with wild mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Where can I go gorilla trekking in Uganda?
Gorilla trekking is conducted in two national parks in Uganda – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. This travel plan takes you to Mgahinga National Park.
How many gorilla families can I visit in Uganda?
There are currently 18 gorilla families available for trekking in Uganda.
How difficult is gorilla trekking in Uganda?
Gorilla trekking in Uganda can be physically demanding, as it involves hiking through dense forests and steep terrain. The difficulty level of the trek can vary depending on the specific gorilla family visited, as some require longer hikes than others.
Can I get close to Gorillas?
You are required to keep a 7-meter distance from the gorillas.
How many hours can we spend with the Gorillas?
Visitors are required to spend a maximum of 1 hour in the presence of mountain gorillas while viewing to minimize disease transmission.
Is the mountain Gorillas dangerous?
Habituated Mountain Gorillas are not dangerous or prone to be angered by tourists if not disturbed because they have been trained to be in the presence of humans completely, but they’re a couple of rules that should be followed. One should not get between a mother and a baby or tease animals, use a flash, make distracting noises, or move quickly.
Is there any age limit to Gorilla trekking in Uganda?
The minimum age limit for gorilla trekking in Uganda is 15 years. Any person of this age and above can apply for a gorilla permit to visit Mountain Gorillas. The Mountain Gorillas in the wild reside only in the Bwindi forest and the volcanic mountain ranges along the borders of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Congo.
Am I guaranteed to see the gorillas?
There is a 99% chance of seeing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat in Uganda and Rwanda. Part of the gorilla permit fees is used to hire gorilla trackers who go into the forest to keep monitoring the movements of the mountain gorillas. These trackers keep track of where the gorillas laid their nests the day before and follow them the next day from there. The trackers provide information to the park guides about the location of the gorillas. Therefore, the visitors are guaranteed that they will see gorillas.
What are golden monkeys?
Golden monkeys are a species of Old World monkeys found in the Virunga Mountains of Central Africa. They are known for their distinctive bright orange fur.
Where can I go golden monkey trekking in Uganda?
Golden monkey trekking is conducted in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, which is located in southwestern Uganda.
How long does a golden monkey trek last?
Golden monkey treks in Uganda typically last between 2-4 hours, depending on the monkeys’ location and the trek’s pace.
What is Queen Elizabeth National Park?
Queen Elizabeth National Park is a national park located in southwestern Uganda. It is known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, hippos, and various bird species.
What are the highlights of a visit to Queen Elizabeth National Park?
The highlights of a Queen Elizabeth National Park visit include game drives to see elephants, lions, and other wildlife, boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel to see hippos and crocodiles, and birdwatching opportunities.
How long should I plan to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park?
The recommended duration of a visit to Queen Elizabeth National Park is 2-3 days, depending on the specific activities planned. This travel plan gives you 2 days in this amazing park.
What is the best time to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park?
The best time to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park is during the dry season from June to September and from December to January, when wildlife is more concentrated around water sources, and the weather is generally dry and sunny.
What is the tipping etiquette for safari guides and mountain crews on trips like this?
Tipping is highly appreciated at the end of safari/mountain climb. The size of tips will vary depending on the length and complexity of the trip, the number of staff on the trip and the number of clients on the trip. Generally, groups like to meet together before the end of the trek to discuss how much they would like to tip each staff member based on their individual trek experience. You should prepare an envelope after your trek for your tip money at the Hotel. You can use US dollars, Euros, TZ Shillings or a combination of these. Please ask the Safari/Climbing coordinator at the Hotel for advice.
RECOMMENDED TIP:
Mountain Climbs: $25-50 USD per Day per Climber to be shared between guides, chefs and porters.
Safaris: Driver/Guide: $35-50 USD per Day per Car. If it is a camping safari there will be a tip for the cook $10 USD per Day.
THESE ARE JUST GUIDELINES AND TIPS CAN BE GIVEN TO SAFARI STAFF/MOUNTAIN CREW ACCORDING TO SERVICES PROVIDED.
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Accommodation
Turaco Treetops
Next to Kibale National Park – this lodge is perfect for chimpanzee tracking and offers comfort with eco-conscious values, including solar power, forest restoration, and plastic-free operations.
Enjoy forest-view cottages, a pool set in lush gardens, and inviting common areas with panoramic views of the Rwenzori Mountains. It’s family-friendly with a kids’ playground, indoor playroom, and shallow pool area. A portion of every stay supports a local conservation foundation protecting nearby wildlife habitats.
Mweya Safari Lodge
One of the best locations in Queen Elizabeth National Park, with sweeping views of the Kazinga Channel and backed by the Rwenzori Mountains.
Rooms, tents, and cottages all offer beautiful views, with options ranging from fan-cooled to fully air-conditioned. The lodge also serves a mix of continental, Indian, and international cuisine. Mweya combines scenic beauty, comfort, and adventure in one of Uganda’s most iconic settings.
Four Gorillas Lodge
A stylish forest-edge with unbeatable location, just 10 minutes from the Bwindi gorilla tracking center in the Rushaga sector. Surrounded by dense jungle and mountain views, this peaceful hideaway blends comfort with raw nature.
Private cottages feature design, cozy interiors, and forest views. Enjoy fresh, chef-prepared meals and optional outdoor dining, along with friendly service, fast Wi-Fi and private bathrooms.
Included in the Price:
- Gorilla Permits
- Chimpanzee permit
- Bigodi nature walks
- Park entrance fees
- Accommodation & meals
- Full-time English-speaking guide
- Ground Transport
- Travel Guarantee with the Swedish Kammarkollegiet »
Price Does Not Cover:
- International Airfares to and from Uganda
- Entry visas
- International Travel Insurance
- All personal expenditures such as tips, telephone calls
- Any additional/extra tours or park fees
- Soft & alcoholic Drinks
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Extras at hotels (telephone calls, room service, porterage, laundry, alcoholic drinks, etc.)
- Personal and/or medical expenses
- Gratuities to your guide, hotel staff, and driver – Find guidelines in the Help Center
Rest assured, we’re here to assist with anything not covered in the price.
Your convenience is our priority.
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