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5 Day Gorilla Habituation and Chimp Trekking Safari

Overview

This 5 day Gorilla Habituation and Chimp Trekking Safari is ideal for those who want to spend extended time with some of the world’s great primates—mountain gorillas and chimpanzees. The journey begins in the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, specifically in the Rushaga region, for a gorilla habituation experience. Bwindi is the only place in the world where you can participate in this unique activity, allowing you to spend four hours with mountain gorillas, compared to the typical one-hour gorilla trekking. Following your time in Bwindi, you will travel to Kibale National Park for chimpanzee trekking. This safari offers a unique opportunity to compare these two incredible primate experiences in Uganda.

Summary of the 5 Day Gorilla Habituation and Chimp Trekking Safari

Day 01: Start from Entebbe to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Day 02: Spend 4 hours with gorillas during the gorilla habituation experience
Day 03: Travel to Kibale National Park for overnight stay
Day 04: Chimp trekking in Kibale National Park
Day 05: Return to Entebbe International Airport, concluding the safari

Highlights

Destination: Uganda
Tour Start/End: Entebbe (Uganda)
Visit: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kibale Forest National Park
Activities: Gorilla habituation experience, chimpanzee trekking
Transportation: Open-sided 4×4 vehicle & pop-up roof 4×4 vehicle
Airport Transfers: Included (to and from the airport or hotel)
Additional Accommodation: Available before the tour departs and on the last day at an extra cost

Things To Consider

Accommodation: Included
Group Size: Small group safari, max 6 people per group
Flexibility: Tour can depart any day and be customized
Solo Travelers: Welcome to join
Age Limit: 15 years and above

TRIP ITINERARY

Tour Plan

Arrival

Arrival and Transfer to Entebbe

Upon your arrival, our guide will meet you and transfer you to your guest house or hotel for an overnight stay. Depending on your arrival time, you may opt for an additional activity such as a boat excursion to Ngamba Island, a visit to the Entebbe Botanic Gardens, or a tour of the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre. These activities are optional and not included in the main itinerary.

Accommodation: Lake Victoria Hotel
Meals: All meals Included

Day 1

Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Begin your safari with an early morning pick-up by our driver-guide. The journey includes stops at the Equator crossing for photos and a lunch break in Mbarara town. Continue to the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where the gorilla habituation experience occurs. The scenic drive offers views of the Kigezi rolling hills and valleys. Arrive in the late afternoon for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation: Nkuringo Gorilla Camp
Meals: All meals included
Drinks: Drinking water

Day 2

Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Wake up early and head to the park headquarters for a briefing on the dos and don'ts during the gorilla habituation experience. You will then trek into the forest with researchers and guides. Along the way, you may encounter various birds, animals, and other primates. Spend four hours observing the gorillas and, if possible, participate in research activities such as sample collection and naming group members. Return to the lodge for an overnight stay.

Accommodation: Nkuringo Gorilla Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3

Transfer to Kibale National Park

After breakfast, depart Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and drive to Kibale National Park. Enjoy a scenic journey and arrive in the late afternoon for dinner and an overnight stay, with lunch served en route.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Ndali Lodge

Day 4

Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest National Park

After an early breakfast, head to Kibale National Park for a briefing on interacting with chimpanzees. Then, begin your trek into the forest, with the chance to see up to 11 other primate species. Spend time observing and photographing the chimpanzees before returning to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Ndali Lodge

Day 5

Departure

Following breakfast, drive back to Kampala or Entebbe, depending on your departure flight details. This marks the end of your 5-day safari in Uganda.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

INCLUDES & EXCLUDES

Includes

Airport transfers on the first and last day
Gorilla Habituation Permit
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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