5 Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Wildlife Safari
5 Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Wildlife Safari
Overview
This 5 Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Wildlife Safari offers a perfectly balanced journey through two of Uganda’s most iconic destinations—Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park. Combining the unforgettable experience of gorilla trekking with classic savannah wildlife viewing, this itinerary delivers an enriching and well-rounded African safari in just under a week.
From tracking endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi’s dense rainforest to enjoying game drives and a scenic boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, this safari showcases Uganda’s incredible biodiversity. Expect encounters with elephants, lions, buffaloes, hippos and a wide variety of birdlife, all while traveling through some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes.
Starting and ending in Kampala or Entebbe, this all-inclusive wildlife safari includes professional guiding, accommodation, meals, park entry fees and a gorilla permit—making it ideal for travelers seeking a seamless and memorable safari experience in Uganda.
Tour Plan
Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Your safari begins with a morning pick-up from your hotel in Kampala or Entebbe, or directly from Entebbe International Airport. After a short briefing, you will set off on a scenic drive to southwestern Uganda, heading toward Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
The journey, approximately 8 to 9 hours, takes you through a variety of landscapes—from bustling towns to peaceful countryside dotted with banana plantations and tea estates. A stop at the Equator in Kayabwe offers a great opportunity for photos and a short break. Lunch is typically arranged en route in Mbarara.
As you approach the Kigezi Highlands, the scenery becomes more dramatic, with terraced hills, winding roads, and mist-covered valleys providing a stunning introduction to the region. You will arrive at your lodge in the late afternoon or early evening, where you can relax, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the next day’s gorilla trekking experience.
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Today is the highlight of your safari—gorilla trekking in Bwindi’s ancient rainforest.
After an early breakfast, you will transfer to the park headquarters for a detailed briefing by rangers from the Uganda Wildlife Authority. You will then be assigned to a small group and a specific gorilla family to track.
The trek into the forest can take between 2 to 6 hours depending on the movement of the gorillas. Guided by experienced trackers, you will navigate dense vegetation and uneven terrain while learning about the ecosystem along the way.
Once the gorillas are located, you will spend one unforgettable hour observing them in their natural habitat. Watching them feed, groom, and interact offers a rare and deeply moving wildlife encounter.
After the trek, return to your lodge to relax and reflect on the experience. You will also receive a gorilla trekking certificate as a memorable keepsake.
Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park & Evening Game Drive
After breakfast, you will depart Bwindi and begin your journey north to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most popular savannah park.
The drive, approximately 4 to 5 hours, takes you through scenic countryside and local communities, offering glimpses of daily life in rural Uganda. Upon arrival, you will check in at your lodge and enjoy a short rest.
In the late afternoon, head out for an evening game drive. This is a great opportunity to spot wildlife such as elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and possibly lions as they become more active in the cooler hours of the day.
Morning Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
Begin your day with an early morning game drive in the Kasenyi Plains, one of the best wildlife viewing areas in Queen Elizabeth National Park. This region is known for its high concentration of animals, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, and warthogs. It is also one of the best places in Uganda to search for the Big 4 animals.
After returning to the lodge for lunch and relaxation, you will head out for a boat cruise along the famous Kazinga Channel. This natural waterway connects Lake Edward and Lake George and is home to one of the highest concentrations of hippos in Africa.
During the cruise, you will have excellent opportunities to see hippos, crocodiles, elephants along the shoreline, and a wide variety of bird species including African fish eagles, pelicans, and kingfishers.
Optional Activity & Return to Kampala or Entebbe
After breakfast, you can choose between a final morning game drive or a cultural visit to the Katwe Salt Lakes. The Katwe visit offers a fascinating insight into traditional salt mining methods that have been practiced by local communities for generations.
Following your chosen activity, you will begin your return journey to Kampala or Entebbe. The drive takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, with a lunch stop and short breaks along the way.
You will arrive in the evening and be dropped off at your hotel or Entebbe International Airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your Uganda gorilla trekking and wildlife safari.
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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