5 Days Uganda Gorillas and Chimpanzee Wildlife Safari

5 Days Uganda Gorillas and Chimpanzee Wildlife Safari

The 5 days Uganda gorillas and chimpanzee wildlife safari, is a comprehensive tour blends adventurous gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park and a wildlife safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park. From Entebbe, witness the rich biodiversity and explore the natural wonders of Uganda, culminating in an unforgettable experience that combines close encounters with primates and other wildlife.

Trip Summary and Highlights

The safari starts with a drive from Kampala to Kibale, where you begin your adventure with a swamp walk, followed by a day dedicated to chimpanzee tracking. You’ll then proceed to Queen Elizabeth National Park for an exclusive boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel and a morning game drive. The journey concludes with a transfer to Bwindi for the ultimate gorilla trekking experience. This tour offers a unique opportunity to see some of Africa’s most endangered species up close and personal while exploring Uganda’s scenic vistas and diverse ecosystems.

Highlights:

• Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park.
• Boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
• Game drives with opportunities to see the Big Five.
• Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
• Cultural experiences and community visits.

Detailed Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Transfer from Kampala to Kibale and Swamp Walks

Morning – Departure from Kampala

Our safari kicks off with an early morning departure from Kampala, heading towards Kibale National Park. The drive takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, covering some of Uganda’s most picturesque landscapes. Along the way, we’ll stop for lunch in Fort Portal, a town nestled in the shadow of the Rwenzori Mountains.

Afternoon – Bigodi Swamp Walk

Upon arrival at Kibale, we’ll settle into our lodge before embarking on a guided swamp walk in the nearby Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary. This area is known for its rich biodiversity, including several primate species and a variety of birds. The walk is a great introduction to the ecological diversity you’ll experience over the next few days.

Day 2: Chimpanzee Tracking and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Morning – Chimpanzee Tracking

After breakfast, we head to the park headquarters for a briefing on chimpanzee tracking etiquette. Kibale Forest is home to one of the highest densities of primates in Africa, including the chimpanzee. Tracking these primates is an exhilarating experience, as you’ll get to observe them up close in their natural habitat.

Afternoon – Transfer and Boat Cruise

Post-lunch, we’ll drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, approximately 2-3 hours away. Upon arrival, we’ll embark on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural channel between Lake Edward and Lake George. This cruise offers excellent opportunities for photographing the animals that come to the water’s edge, including elephants, hippos, and numerous bird species.

Day 3: Morning Game Drive and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Morning – Game Drive

We begin the day with an early morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park. This park is known for its diverse ecosystems, from savannah to forested areas, and is home to lions, leopards, Ugandan kobs, and elephants.

Afternoon – Journey to Bwindi

After the game drive, we’ll enjoy lunch and then set off for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The drive is scenic and traverses the southern sector of Queen Elizabeth, known as Ishasha, famous for its tree-climbing lions. The journey to Bwindi takes about 4-5 hours.

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

All Day – Gorilla Trekking

The highlight of the tour, gorilla trekking, starts early with a briefing at the park headquarters. Trekking can last from a few hours to the whole day, depending on where the gorillas are in the forest. Once you find them, you’ll have one hour to observe these gentle giants, an experience that is often described as life-changing.

Evening – Community Interaction

Return to the lodge for some rest, followed by an optional visit to a local community to learn about their culture and traditions. This interaction offers insight into the benefits of ecotourism to these communities.

Day 5: Return to Entebbe

Morning – Departure

We depart Bwindi after breakfast for the long drive back to Entebbe, filled with memories of the wildlife and landscapes of Uganda.

Evening – Arrival in Entebbe

Expect to arrive back in Entebbe by early evening. We provide a transfer to your hotel or to the airport, depending on your onward travel plans.

This 5 Days Gorilla Trek, Chimp, and Wildlife Safari encapsulates the best of Uganda’s natural beauty and wildlife. Each day is packed with adventure and new sights, making it a perfect safari for those looking to explore the richness of Africa’s ecosystems and encounter some of the most iconic species on the planet.