5 Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking & Wildlife Safari from Kigali
5 Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking & Wildlife Safari from Kigali
Overview
This 5 Day Uganda Gorilla and Wildlife Safari from Kigali is a beautifully balanced journey that combines the magic of gorilla trekking in Uganda with classic African wildlife safari experiences. Starting in Kigali, this itinerary offers a shorter and more efficient route into southwestern Uganda, giving you more time to explore and less time on the road.
You’ll track endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, then continue to Queen Elizabeth National Park for game drives and a scenic boat safari along the Kazinga Channel. From mist-covered rainforests to open savannah plains teeming with wildlife, this safari showcases the very best of Uganda’s natural beauty in just five unforgettable days.
Tour Plan
Kigali City Visit & Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Your safari begins with a warm welcome from your professional driver-guide in Kigali. Depending on your arrival time, you will start with a meaningful visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial—a powerful and educational experience that offers insight into Rwanda’s history and resilience.
After the visit, set off on a scenic drive toward southwestern Uganda. The journey takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, including border crossing at Cyanika or Katuna. Along the way, enjoy sweeping views of Rwanda’s rolling hills before entering Uganda’s Kigezi Highlands, known for their terraced landscapes and misty valleys.
Arrive in Bwindi in the afternoon or early evening, check in at your lodge, and unwind in preparation for your gorilla trekking adventure.
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 Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. You’ll be assigned a gorilla family and grouped with a maximum of 8 trekkers.
The Trekking Experience:
The trek can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas. As you hike through dense rainforest, your guides will point out unique plant species, birdlife, and signs of other forest animals.
Once the gorillas are located, you will spend one magical hour observing them at close range. Watch them feed, groom, play, and interact within their family group—an incredibly moving and intimate wildlife encounter.
After the trek, return to the headquarters to receive your gorilla trekking certificate, then transfer back to your lodge for lunch and relaxation.
Afternoon (Optional):
If you still have energy, you may enjoy a Batwa cultural experience or a guided nature walk.
Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park – Evening Game Drive
After breakfast, depart Bwindi and journey toward Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most popular wildlife destination.
The drive takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, passing through scenic countryside and local communities. You may opt to travel via the Ishasha sector, famous for its rare tree-climbing lions—a unique highlight if conditions allow.
Arrive at your lodge in the Mweya or Kasenyi area, check in, and enjoy lunch.
Evening Game Drive:
Head out for your first wildlife safari game drive, where you may encounter elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, and possibly lions or leopards as they begin their evening activity.
Morning Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Safari
Begin your day with an early morning game drive in the Kasenyi Plains, one of the best areas in the park for wildlife viewing.
Morning Game Drive:
This is prime time to spot predators such as lions and hyenas, as well as large herds of elephants, buffaloes, waterbucks, and antelopes. The golden morning light makes it ideal for photography.
Return to the lodge for breakfast or a relaxed brunch.
Afternoon Boat Safari on Kazinga Channel:
In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway connecting Lake Edward and Lake George.
This is one of the most rewarding wildlife experiences in Uganda. Expect to see large concentrations of hippos, Nile crocodiles, elephants, and buffaloes along the shores. The channel is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with species such as African fish eagles, kingfishers, and pelicans commonly spotted.
Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and relaxation.
Return to Kigali – End of Safari
After breakfast, check out and begin your return journey to Kigali.
The drive takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, offering one last opportunity to enjoy the scenic landscapes of western Uganda and Rwanda. Along the way, you may stop for photos, refreshments, or to purchase local crafts.
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
- 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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