6-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Chimpanzee Safari

Overview

This 6-day journey takes you into Uganda's primal forests and savannas, from chimpanzee tracking in Kibale to gorilla encounters in Bwindi. Travel through tea-draped hills and wildlife-rich parks with an expert guide. It's a balanced mix of rainforest hikes, game drives, and cultural stops, designed for those seeking authentic primate adventures without the rush.

Safari Highlights

• Gorilla trekking amid Bwindi's misty slopes
• Chimpanzee habituation in Kibale Forest
• Kazinga Channel boat cruise spotting hippos and birds
• Sunrise game drives for lions and elephants in Queen Elizabeth
• Bigodi Wetland primate walk and community insights
• Scenic drives through Uganda's highlands and plantations

Why This Safari Works Well

It connects Uganda's top primate zones with classic big-game viewing in a compact loop. Expert guides handle permits and terrain, while eco-lodges provide comfort after long treks. Local community visits add depth, supporting conservation directly. Perfect for travelers wanting immersion over exhaustion.

Detailed 6-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Chimpanzee Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe

Land at Entebbe International Airport and meet your guide for the short transfer to your hotel. Settle in, then stroll the botanical gardens or unwind lakeside if time allows.

• Accommodation: Karibu Entebbe Hotel
• Meals: Dinner

Day 2: To Kibale Forest National Park

Drive west through rolling countryside and tea estates after breakfast. Stop for lunch in Fort Portal, then head to Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary. Spot birds and monkeys on a guided walk run by the community.

• Accommodation: Turaco Treetops Lodge
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 3: Chimpanzee Tracking and Kazinga Channel

Start early for chimpanzee tracking in Kibale—hike into the forest after briefing to watch troops calling through the canopy, alongside colobus and red-tailed monkeys. Afternoon transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park for a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, alive with hippos, crocs, and birds.

• Accommodation: Marafiki Safari Lodge
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 4: Queen Elizabeth Game Drives to Bwindi

Dawn game drive searches for lions, leopards, buffaloes, and elephants across open plains. Lunch after, then wind through Kigezi Highlands to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, UNESCO-listed gorilla haven.

• Accommodation: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 5: Gorilla Trekking Day

Briefing leads to your trek—2 to 8 hours over steep trails to a habituated family. Spend a magical hour observing them forage and rest. Return for lodge relaxation or a Batwa community visit sharing pygmy forest lore.

• Accommodation: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
• Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 6: Departure from Entebbe

Breakfast, then flight or drive back. Farewell lunch en route, with time for craft market browsing before your flight.

• Meals: Breakfast, lunch

Accommodation Style & Comfort

Mid-range eco-lodges blend into the landscape—think treehouses in Kibale, savanna views at Marafiki, and gorilla-edge rooms at Nkuringo. All offer en-suite baths, verandas, and hearty meals from local ingredients. Comfortable after active days.

Wildlife & Activities

Primates dominate: mountain gorillas, chimps, plus monkeys and birds. Savanna adds elephants, lions (tree-climbing ones), hippos. Activities include guided treks, game drives, boat safaris, and wetland walks. Guides point out subtle behaviors you might miss alone.

Travel Pace & Distances

Moderate pace with 4-6 hour drives on good roads. Total road time around 1,000 km, broken by stops. Treks vary by animal location—pack for mud and hills. Fly out on Day 6 to ease the end.

Best Time to Travel

Dry seasons (June-September, December-February) mean clearer trails and fewer leeches. Rainforest stays lush year-round, but shoulders offer fewer crowds. Check permit availability early.

What’s Included

• Full-board lodging as listed
• 4x4 Land Cruiser transport
• English-speaking driver/guide
• Airport and hotel transfers
• Game drives and park fees
• Drinking water on safari
• Gorilla trekking permits
• AMREF Flying Doctors evacuation

What’s Not Included

• Visas and international flights
• Personal expenses and tips
• Beers, sodas, wines, spirits
• Boat ride (USD 30/person)
• Maasai village visit (USD 30/person)

Practical Notes for Travelers

Pack hiking boots, rain jacket, insect repellent, binoculars, and layers—weather shifts fast. Fitness helps for treks; malaria meds advised. Follow guide rules near animals. Uganda safaris are safe with pros; get travel insurance.