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5 Day Uganda Gorillas and Game Safari from Kigali

Overview

This 5 Day Uganda Gorillas and Game Safari from Kigali is ideal for those interested in exploring the mountain gorillas of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and the remarkable wildlife of Queen Elizabeth National Park. The itinerary includes an option for one gorilla trek or a gorilla habituation experience in Bwindi. In Queen Elizabeth National Park, you’ll enjoy exciting game drives and a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, known for its high concentration of hippos and other wildlife. If you’re passionate about both wildlife and gorillas, this safari offers an unforgettable adventure.

Summary of the 5 Day Uganda Gorillas and Game Safari from Kigali

Day 01: Pickup from Kigali City/Airport and transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park for an evening game drive
Day 02: Morning game drive and afternoon boat cruise on Kazinga Channel
Day 03: Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Day 04: Gorilla trekking or gorilla habituation experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Day 05: Drive back to Rwanda via Katuna/Chanika border for your outward flight

Highlights

Experience the best of Uganda, starting and ending in Kigali, Rwanda
Visit both Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park
Activities include gorilla trekking, game drives and a boat cruise on Kazinga Channel
Travel in an open-sided 4×4 vehicle or pop-up roof 4×4 vehicle
Transfers from and to the airport (or hotel) are included
Additional accommodation can be arranged before the tour departs and on the last day at an extra cost

Things to Consider

Accommodation is included in the package
Small group safari with a maximum of 6 people per group
Flexible departure dates
Customizable tour options
Solo travelers are welcome
Age limit: 15 years and above

TRIP ITINERARY

Tour Plan

Day 1

Pick Up from Kigali Airport/Hotel and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

You will be picked from Kigali International Airport or your hotel and begin your journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park in western Uganda. Enjoy a scenic drive through Kabale’s rolling hills and the crater lakes of Bunyaruguru. Arriving at your lodge, you’ll have some time to relax before heading to Kasenyi Plains for an evening game drive. Look out for antelopes, buffaloes, elephants, and possibly lions and leopards. Return to your lodge for an overnight stay.

Meal Plan: All Meals Included
Accommodation: Buffalo Safari Lodge

Day 2

Game Drive and Boat Cruise in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Begin the day with a morning game drive in Kasenyi Plains to see any wildlife you might have missed the previous day. After lunch at the lodge, head to the jetty along Kazinga Channel for an afternoon boat cruise. The cruise provides excellent opportunities to view hippos, water birds, elephants, buffaloes, crocodiles, and other wildlife that flock to the channel.

Meals: All Meals Included
Accommodation: Buffalo Safari Lodge

Day 3

Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After breakfast, drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to nearly half of the world’s endangered mountain gorillas. This once-in-a-lifetime trek offers the chance to see these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Arrive at your lodge in time to relax and acclimatize.

Meals: All Meals Included
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge or Trekkers Tavern Lodge

Day 4

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Following breakfast and with your packed lunch, you’ll head to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking. Your guide will cover all the essential dos and don’ts. You’ll then be transferred to the starting point of your trek. Gorilla family allocation depends on your interests, fitness level, and age, so inform your guide of your preferences. Gorilla trekking can be strenuous and may last from 30 minutes to several hours. During the trek, your guide will provide information about the forest’s flora and fauna. You’ll have one hour to observe and photograph the gorillas before returning to the park headquarters for your trekking certificate and then back to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Meals: All Meals Included
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge or Trekkers Tavern Lodge

Day 5

Drive to Kigali Airport

After breakfast, drive back to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight, concluding your 5-day Uganda gorilla and game safari from Kigali.

Meal Plan: All Meals Included

INCLUDES & EXCLUDES

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

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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