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5 Day Gorilla and Chimpanzee Fly-In Safari

Overview

This 5 day Gorilla and Chimpanzee fly-in safari takes you on an unforgettable journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Kibale Forest National Park. This adventure offers a unique opportunity to witness Uganda’s major primates, the Mountain Gorillas and Chimpanzees, in their natural habitats.

Safari Summary

Day 1: Transfer to Entebbe Airport for your domestic flight to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Day 2: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Day 3: Domestic flight to Kasese and transfer to Kibale Forest National Park for an overnight stay.
Day 4: Chimpanzee trekking and a community walk.
Day 5: Drive back to Kasese for your domestic flight to Entebbe, concluding the safari.

TRIP ITINERARY

Tour Plan

Day 1

Domestic Flight to Kihihi or Kisoro

Your adventure begins with a pickup from your hotel and a transfer to Entebbe Airport for your flight to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Depending on your destination, you will land at either Kihihi Airstrip (serving the northern and eastern parts of Bwindi) or Kisoro Airstrip (serving the southern part of Bwindi). Upon arrival, our guide will transfer you by road to your lodge. You have the option to fly in the morning or afternoon. Morning flights depart Entebbe at 7:45 am, while afternoon flights depart at 3:30 pm. For southern Bwindi, there is only one morning flight at 7:45 am due to strong winds in the region. The flight duration is typically between one to one and a half hours.

Accommodation: Mahogany Springs or Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
Meals: All meals included

Day 2

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After an early breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters for registration at 7:45 am, where you’ll join other trekkers for a briefing on the dos and don’ts of gorilla trekking. Accompanied by experienced guides, you'll trek through dense undergrowth and thick creepers in search of the Mountain Gorillas. The trek can last from half an hour to most of the day, depending on the location of the gorillas. Being in the presence of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is an extraordinary and humbling experience.

Accommodation: Mahogany Springs, Nkuringo Gorilla Camp, or Rushaga Gorilla Camp
Meals: All meals included

Day 3

Domestic Flight to Kasese and Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park

After breakfast, you'll drive back to Kisoro or Kihihi for your flight to Kasese Airstrip. Upon landing, you will be met by your driver-guide who will transfer you to Kibale Forest National Park, where you'll spend the night.

Accommodation: Buffalo Safari Lodge or Katara Lodge
Meals: All meals included

Day 4

Chimpanzee Trekking and Community Walk

Following breakfast, you'll proceed to Kibale National Park Headquarters for a briefing on chimpanzee trekking. You'll be divided into small groups of six, each led by an experienced guide who will take you deep into the forest to locate one of the chimpanzee families. Chimpanzees live in communities ranging from 50 to 250 individuals, often splitting into smaller groups during the day to reduce food competition and reuniting in the evening to build nests. Once you locate the chimpanzees, you’ll spend an hour observing them before returning to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, you'll visit Bigodi Village for a wetland walk, where you'll discover the rich biodiversity of Kibale, known for its 15 recorded primate species and numerous bird species.

Accommodation: Turaco Treetops Lodge or Papaya Lake Lodge
Meals: All meals included

Day 5

Return to Kasese for Flight Back to Entebbe

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Mweya or Kasese Airstrip for your flight back to Entebbe, marking the end of your 5-day Gorilla and Chimpanzee fly-in safari.

INCLUDES & EXCLUDES

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

TOUR MAP

GENERAL FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the safari package include?

Our safari packages are designed to cover the key services needed for a comfortable and hassle-free trip. Depending on the itinerary, this may include accommodation, transportation, park entrance fees, professional guide services, meals and scheduled activities. A detailed list of inclusions will always be provided before you confirm your booking.

How do I book a safari with Trek Africa Gorillas?

Booking your safari is simple. Contact us with your preferred travel dates, number of travelers and the safari package you are interested in. Once availability is confirmed, we will send you a quotation and payment details. Your booking is secured once the required deposit has been received.

Can I customize my safari itinerary?

Yes. Every traveler has different interests, budgets and travel styles. Whether you would like to upgrade your accommodation, spend additional nights in a destination or add activities such as chimpanzee tracking, cultural visits or wildlife safaris, we can tailor the itinerary to suit your needs.

Are gorilla trekking permits included in the safari price?

Most of our gorilla trekking safaris include the cost of the gorilla permit. The permit is one of the most important parts of your trip and will be clearly listed in your quotation. If a permit is not included, we will explain this before you make your booking.

How far in advance should I book gorilla trekking permits?

We recommend booking gorilla permits at least 3 to 6 months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the peak seasons from June to September or December to February. Permits are limited and can sell out quickly, particularly in popular trekking sectors.

What is the best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking is available throughout the year in Uganda. Many travelers prefer the dry seasons from June to September and December to February because the trails are generally easier to navigate. However, the rainy seasons can also be rewarding, with fewer visitors and lush green scenery in the forest.

How difficult is gorilla trekking?

The difficulty of gorilla trekking varies depending on the location of the gorilla family being visited. Some treks may take less than an hour while others can last several hours through steep and forested terrain. A moderate level of fitness is recommended, but people of different ages and fitness levels successfully complete gorilla treks every day.

What should I pack for gorilla trekking?

For gorilla trekking, we recommend bringing sturdy hiking boots, long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, a lightweight rain jacket, gardening gloves, insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, drinking water and a camera. Comfortable outdoor clothing is highly recommended as conditions in the forest can change quickly.

Do I need a visa to visit Uganda?

Most international travelers require a visa to enter Uganda. Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality, and our team will be happy to provide guidance on the application process and entry requirements before your trip.

What type of accommodation can I expect during my safari?

We offer carefully selected budget, mid-range and luxury accommodation options across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania. Our lodges and camps are chosen for their comfort, quality service, excellent locations and easy access to major safari attractions.

Are airport transfers included in the safari package?

Airport transfers are included in many of our safari packages. If they are not included, we can arrange private transfers for you. We will clearly explain all transportation arrangements before your arrival.

Is travel insurance required for a safari?

While travel insurance is not always mandatory, it is strongly recommended for all travelers. Comprehensive coverage can help protect you against unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, travel delays and lost luggage.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellation terms vary depending on the safari package, accommodation providers and permits involved. If you need to cancel your trip, please contact us as soon as possible and we will explain the options available based on our booking terms and conditions.

Can children join a safari in Uganda?

Many of our wildlife safaris are suitable for families traveling with children. However, some activities have age restrictions. For example, participants must be at least 15 years old to take part in gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda.

Can solo travelers book a safari?

Yes. We welcome solo travelers and can arrange both private and group safari experiences. Whether you are planning a gorilla trekking tour, wildlife safari or multi-country adventure, we can create an itinerary that matches your travel preferences.

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