5 Day Uganda Gorilla & Chimpanzee Safari from Kigali
5 Day Uganda Gorilla & Chimpanzee Safari from Kigali
Overview
This 5 Day Uganda Gorilla & Chimpanzee Safari from Kigali is a carefully designed primate-focused adventure that brings you face to face with Africa’s most fascinating great apes. By starting in Kigali, you benefit from a shorter and more scenic route into Uganda, allowing you to maximize your time exploring the forests rather than spending long hours in transit.
The journey takes you to two of Uganda’s most iconic destinations—Kibale Forest National Park, renowned for its exceptional chimpanzee tracking experiences and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Along the way, you’ll experience lush rainforests, crater lakes, rolling highlands and meaningful cultural encounters, making this a well-rounded and deeply rewarding wildlife safari.
Tour Plan
Kigali City Visit & Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
Your safari begins with a warm welcome from your professional driver-guide in Kigali. If time allows, you will start with a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a powerful and educational site that offers insight into Rwanda’s history and resilience.
After the visit, embark on a scenic drive toward western Uganda, crossing the Rwanda–Uganda border and continuing toward Kibale Forest National Park. The journey takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, with stops along the way for photos, refreshments, and lunch.
As you travel, the landscape gradually changes from Rwanda’s rolling hills to Uganda’s lush countryside, with tea plantations, crater lakes, and forested hills marking your approach to Kibale.
Arrive in the late afternoon, check in at your lodge, and relax in preparation for your chimpanzee tracking adventure.
Chimpanzee Tracking & Bigodi Wetland Experience
After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers before setting out for your chimpanzee tracking experience in Kibale Forest.
Chimpanzee Tracking Experience:
Kibale is home to over 1,500 chimpanzees and 12 other primate species. The trek typically takes 2 to 4 hours, depending on the location of the chimpanzee community. As you walk through the dense rainforest, you’ll hear their calls echoing through the trees before finally encountering them.
Once located, you will spend one hour observing the chimpanzees, watching them feed, groom, communicate, and swing through the canopy. Their energy and social behavior make this a lively and engaging wildlife experience.
Return to your lodge for lunch and a short rest.
Afternoon – Bigodi Wetland Walk:
Later, visit the nearby Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-run conservation project rich in biodiversity. During the guided walk, you may spot monkeys, colorful bird species, butterflies, and local flora, while also interacting with the local community and learning about traditional livelihoods.
Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and relaxation.
Scenic Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After breakfast, begin your journey south to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, one of Africa’s most biodiverse rainforests and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The drive takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, offering spectacular scenery along the way. You’ll pass crater lakes, tea plantations, rolling hills, and rural villages, with opportunities for photo stops and short breaks.
Depending on your gorilla permit allocation, you will stay in the Rushaga or Nkuringo sector—both known for excellent gorilla trekking experiences and scenic viewpoints.
Arrive in the late afternoon, check in at your lodge, and relax as you prepare for the highlight of your safari.
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Today is the highlight of your safari—gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
After an early breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing by park rangers. You will be assigned a gorilla family and grouped with a maximum of 8 visitors.
The Gorilla Trekking Experience:
The trek can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on where the gorillas are located. The terrain is mountainous and forested, but your experienced guides will ensure a steady and comfortable pace.
As you hike through the dense jungle, your guide will interpret the surroundings, pointing out plants, birds, and other wildlife.
Once the gorillas are found, you will spend one unforgettable hour in their presence, observing their behavior at close range. Watch as they feed, groom, interact, and care for their young—an experience that is both emotional and awe-inspiring.
After the trek, return to the headquarters to receive your gorilla trekking certificate, then transfer back to your lodge for lunch and relaxation.
Evening:
Enjoy your final evening in Bwindi, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of the forest.
Return to Kigali – End of Safari
After breakfast, check out of your lodge and begin your return journey to Kigali.
The drive takes approximately 4 to 6 hours, passing through the scenic highlands of southwestern Uganda and northern Rwanda. You will cross the border and continue through Rwanda’s beautiful countryside.
Along the way, you may stop for lunch, photos, or to visit local craft markets.
Arrive in Kigali in the afternoon or early evening, where your guide will drop you off at your hotel or Kigali International Airport for your onward flight.
Includes
- Airport transfers on the first and last day
- Gorilla Permits
- Chimpanzee Permits
- Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Services of an English-speaking driver/guide
- Fuel for the entire trip
- Accommodation and meal plan as per the itinerary
- All Park entrance fees
- Drinking water while in the vehicle
Excludes
- Pre and post tour accommodation in Entebbe or Kampala
- International airfares
- Uganda Visa (USD50.00 which can be paid on arrival at the Airport
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the safari price?
Our safari prices typically include accommodation, transportation, park entrance fees, guide services, meals as specified in the itinerary and activities listed in the program. Please refer to the itinerary for the exact inclusions.
What is excluded from the safari price?
International flights, visas, travel insurance, tips, personal expenses, laundry services, alcoholic beverages and optional activities are generally not included unless stated otherwise.
How do I book this safari?
Booking is simple. Contact us with your preferred travel dates and number of travelers. Once availability is confirmed, a deposit is required to secure your reservation. The remaining balance is payable before the safari begins.
Can this itinerary be customized?
Yes. All our safaris can be tailored to suit your travel preferences, budget, accommodation standards and available travel dates. Additional destinations and activities can also be added upon request.
What type of accommodation is provided?
Accommodation varies depending on the safari package selected. We offer budget, mid-range and luxury options, all carefully chosen for comfort, service quality and convenient access to safari attractions.
What is the best time to take this safari?
Most of our safaris can be enjoyed throughout the year. Wildlife viewing, trekking conditions and weather patterns may vary depending on the season and destination. We can advise on the best travel period for your interests.
How physically demanding is this safari?
The level of physical activity depends on the itinerary. Wildlife safaris generally require minimal physical effort while activities such as gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking and hiking may require a moderate level of fitness.
Do I need a visa for this safari?
Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality and the countries included in your itinerary. Our team will provide guidance on entry requirements and visa application procedures before your trip.
Is travel insurance required?
We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, trip interruptions, baggage loss and other unforeseen circumstances.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking several months in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Certain accommodations, permits and safari activities may have limited availability.
Are airport transfers included?
Airport transfers are included where specified in the itinerary. If transfers are not included, we can arrange them for an additional cost.
What safari vehicle will be used?
Depending on the destination, transportation is provided in comfortable and well-maintained 4×4 safari vehicles designed for wildlife viewing and photography.
Can children join this safari?
Many of our safaris are suitable for families with children. However, some activities have minimum age requirements. Please contact us for family-friendly safari recommendations.
Are meals included during the safari?
Meals are included according to the itinerary. Dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and other special meal requests can usually be accommodated with advance notice.
What should I pack for the safari?
We recommend packing comfortable clothing, sturdy walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a camera, binoculars and any personal medications you may require.
Will I have a professional guide?
Yes. All our safaris are led by experienced professional guides with extensive knowledge of wildlife, local culture and the destinations visited during your journey.
What happens if I need to cancel my booking?
Cancellation policies vary depending on the safari and services booked. Please review our booking terms and conditions or contact us for detailed cancellation information.
Is Wi-Fi available during the safari?
Many lodges and camps offer Wi-Fi access. However, internet connectivity may be limited or unavailable in some remote safari locations.
Can solo travelers book this safari?
Yes. Solo travelers are welcome on our safaris. Single room supplements may apply depending on the accommodation selected.
Is this safari suitable for first-time visitors to Africa?
Absolutely. Our safaris are designed for both first-time visitors and experienced travelers. Our team will assist you with all travel arrangements to ensure a smooth and memorable safari experience.
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