Overview
This 8-day wildlife and primate safari in Uganda offers an incredible blend of thrilling wildlife encounters and primate tracking across the country’s diverse landscapes. Starting in the savannas of Queen Elizabeth National Park and journeying to the dense rainforests of Kibale and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, you’ll experience Uganda’s most renowned national parks. Highlights include chimpanzee tracking in Kibale, a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, game drives to spot big cats and elephants, and an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi. This safari offers an exceptional opportunity to explore Uganda’s rich biodiversity and stunning natural beauty.
Highlights
- Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe
- Day 2: Transfer to Kibale National Park
- Day 3: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale
- Day 4: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Day 5: Game Drive and Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel
- Day 6: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Day 7: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
- Day 8: Return to Entebbe and Departure
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel. You can relax and prepare for your adventure while enjoying views of Lake Victoria. Depending on your arrival time, you may opt for a city tour or visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Center.
After breakfast, depart for Kibale National Park, home to over 1,500 chimpanzees and 13 other primate species. The scenic drive takes you through lush landscapes, tea plantations, and traditional Ugandan villages. Arrive at your lodge in the afternoon, where you can relax or take a nature walk around the area.
Start the day early with a briefing on chimpanzee tracking. Accompanied by an expert guide, you'll venture into the forest to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat. Watch the chimps swing from trees, play, and communicate with each other. After the trek, visit the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for a birding walk and a chance to spot other primates like red colobus monkeys.
After breakfast, drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its diverse wildlife and scenic beauty. On arrival, embark on an afternoon game drive through the Kasenyi plains, where you’ll spot elephants, buffaloes, lions, antelopes, and more. Settle into your lodge in the evening for a relaxing dinner overlooking the park.
Begin the day with an early morning game drive to spot the park's predators like lions and leopards. The Kasenyi area is known for its abundant wildlife, including elephants and Uganda kobs. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, where you’ll see hippos, crocodiles, and a wide variety of bird species up close.
After breakfast, depart for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas. En route, take a scenic drive through the Ishasha sector, where you may spot tree-climbing lions. Arrive at your lodge in Bwindi in the late afternoon, where you can relax in preparation for the next day’s gorilla trek.
Gorilla trekking is the highlight of any Ugandan safari. After an early briefing, head into the dense forest with a ranger guide in search of one of Bwindi's habituated gorilla families. The trek can take a few hours, but the experience of standing face-to-face with a giant silverback or watching the playful juveniles is awe-inspiring and unforgettable. Afterward, return to the lodge for relaxation or opt for a cultural visit to the Batwa pygmy community.
After breakfast, begin your journey back to Entebbe. The drive takes you through Uganda’s beautiful countryside, with chances to stop for photo opportunities or souvenir shopping. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some time for a final tour of Entebbe before heading to the airport for your departure flight.
Cost
The Cost Includes
- Transportation: All ground transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle.
- Accommodation: Full-board accommodation during the safari (lodges/hotels).
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner as per itinerary.
- Gorilla and Chimpanzee Permits: Entry fees for gorilla and chimpanzee tracking.
- Park Entrance Fees: Access to all national parks visited during the safari.
- Activities: All activities mentioned in the itinerary, including game drives, boat cruises, and guided walks.
- Professional Guides: Services of an experienced English-speaking driver/guide.
- Bottled Water: Provided throughout the safari.
The Cost Excludes
- International Flights: Travel to and from Uganda.
- Visas: Uganda entry visa fees.
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical, trip cancellation, and evacuation.
- Personal Expenses: Items such as tips, laundry, drinks, and souvenirs.
- Optional Activities: Any additional activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
FAQs
Yes, most travelers will need a visa to enter Uganda. You can apply for an e-visa online before your trip or obtain one upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport.
The best time to visit Uganda for wildlife and primate safaris is during the dry seasons: June to September and December to February. During these months, the roads and trails are easier to navigate, and animals gather around water sources, making wildlife viewing more predictable.
Pack light, breathable clothing, hiking boots, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, and a camera. For trekking, long-sleeved shirts, pants, and gardening gloves are useful for protection against insects and thorny plants.
Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry into Uganda. It’s also recommended to get vaccinations for hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus, and take malaria prophylaxis.
During wildlife drives, you’ll remain in the safety of your vehicle but get close enough for amazing photos. During primate trekking, you may get as close as 7 meters (23 feet) to gorillas and chimpanzees.
Yes, most lodges and safari vehicles have charging points. It’s advisable to bring an adapter for Ugandan power outlets. We also have charging point in the car, so you have access o charging points at any time of the safari.
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. You can tip your driver/guide, lodge staff, and porters based on the quality of service. As a guideline, $10 to $20 per day for your guide is customary.
