Introduction to Uganda’s Primate & Wildlife Paradise
Uganda, often called the Pearl of Africa, offers one of the most diverse ecosystems on the continent. From the alpine forests of Bwindi to the sweeping savannahs of Murchison Falls, this 14-day journey is more than just a vacation — it’s an immersion into the soul of Africa. The Uganda gorilla trekking safari is tailored for explorers eager to connect with endangered mountain gorillas, track wild chimpanzees, observe golden monkeys, and witness Africa’s iconic big game in natural habitats.
This thoughtfully curated itinerary combines thrilling adventure, cultural depth, and spectacular scenery for a truly unforgettable experience.
Safari Highlights
- Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
- Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest National Park
- Golden Monkey Encounters in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
- Big Game Drives in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth & Lake Mburo
- Nile River & Kazinga Channel Cruises
- Batwa Cultural Experience in Mgahinga
- Leisure Retreat at Lake Bunyonyi
- Walking Safari & Crater Lake Views
Whether you’re a first-time traveler or seasoned wildlife enthusiast, this Uganda gorilla trekking safari blends raw nature with polished service.
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Gateway to Adventure
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport, where your personal guide welcomes you to Uganda. Transfer to your lakeside lodge for a relaxing evening. The calm shores of Lake Victoria offer the perfect place to unwind after your journey.
Suggested Accommodation: 2 Friends Hotel / Cassia Lodge
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Rhino Encounter & Murchison Falls Exploration
After breakfast, drive north to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to spot white rhinos on foot with trained rangers — an exciting conservation success story. Continue to Murchison Falls National Park, where you’ll witness the explosive force of the Nile River plunging through a narrow gorge.
Activities: Rhino tracking, waterfall viewing
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge / Murchison River Lodge
Day 3: Game Drive & Nile River Safari
Begin the day with a game drive in Murchison’s savannah, home to giraffes, lions, elephants, and hartebeests. In the afternoon, cruise the Nile to the base of the falls, passing hippos, crocodiles and riverine birds. These classic safari activities set the tone for your immersive Uganda gorilla trekking safari.
Day 4: Scenic Transfer to Kibale Forest
Drive southwest through rural towns, tea plantations, and crater lakes en route to the lush Kibale Forest. This region is known as the primate capital of East Africa and adds new biodiversity to your trekking experience.
Accommodation: Turaco Treetops / Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Chimpanzee Tracking & Bigodi Wetland Walk
Track wild chimpanzees in Kibale Forest alongside expert guides, then take a nature walk through Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a haven for birds, monkeys, and medicinal plants. This day adds ecological depth to your Uganda gorilla trekking safari itinerary.
Day 6: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Travel south through the crater lakes region and arrive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, renowned for its diversity. Enjoy an evening game drive among elephants, buffalo, and the elusive leopard.
Accommodation: Irungu Forest Lodge / Elephant Hab Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Safari & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
Start your day with a sunrise safari, then board a boat on the Kazinga Channel — a hotspot for aquatic wildlife. You’ll glide past massive herds of hippos, Nile crocodiles, and colorful kingfishers.
Day 8: Ishasha Sector Game Drive & Bwindi Transfer
Take a game drive through Ishasha, searching for tree-climbing lions, a rare behavior seen only here. By evening, arrive at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to nearly half the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.
Accommodation: Gorilla Mist Camp / Rushaga Gorilla Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9: Gorilla Trekking – The Heart of the Safari
Today marks the pinnacle of your Uganda gorilla trekking safari. Begin with a briefing from Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers, then hike into Bwindi’s misty forest to track a gorilla family. The experience is both intimate and humbling as you spend up to an hour observing these gentle giants.
Day 10: Mgahinga & Batwa Cultural Trail
Transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where volcanic peaks tower above the forest. Participate in the Batwa Trail, guided by the Indigenous Batwa community who share ancestral knowledge of forest survival and rituals.
Accommodation: Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge / Mount Gahinga Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11: Golden Monkey Tracking & Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
Track lively golden monkeys, known for their expressive faces and social behavior. Later, drive to Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda’s deepest and most scenic lake dotted with 29 islands.
Accommodation: Arcadia Cottages / Bunyonyi Rock Resort
Day 12: Lake Bunyonyi Leisure Day
This rest day offers canoe rides, island tours, birdwatching, and relaxation. After the intensity of gorilla trekking, Lake Bunyonyi is a peaceful reward in your Uganda gorilla trekking safari.
Day 13: Lake Mburo National Park – Sunset Safari
Continue to Lake Mburo, known for zebras, impalas, and acacia woodland. Enjoy an evening game drive as the sun sets over rolling hills.
Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock / Mihingo Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 14: Guided Safari Walk & Departure
End your journey with a walking safari, accompanied by a park ranger, then drive back to Kampala or Entebbe for your flight home. Your Uganda gorilla trekking safari ends with lasting memories and thousands of photos.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
What’s Included
- Gorilla, chimpanzee & golden monkey tracking permits
- Rhino experience at Ziwa Sanctuary
- All park entrance fees & guided activities
- Private 4×4 safari vehicle with English-speaking guide
- Full board accommodation (13 nights)
- Bottled water during transfers
- Cultural tours & nature walks
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
Price Per Person
From USD $6,550 (Midrange lodges, based on two people sharing. All-inclusive)
Why Book This Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari?
This itinerary is built around Uganda’s most iconic wildlife experiences, prioritizing meaningful encounters over rushed visits. It blends natural beauty with cultural depth, covers diverse ecosystems, and is suitable for couples, groups, or solo adventurers looking to immerse themselves in East Africa’s wilderness.
With limited gorilla permits and popular lodges filling up months in advance, it’s essential to book early to secure your preferred dates. Don’t miss your chance to be part of a once-in-a-lifetime Uganda gorilla trekking safari.