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5 Day Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari

Overview

Embark on a 5 day Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari, exploring the majestic Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and the rich biodiversity of Kibale National Park. This unique opportunity allows you to track the endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi, home to half of the world’s remaining population and experience the thrill of chimpanzee trekking or habituation in Kibale, known as the premier destination for viewing wild chimpanzees. This all-inclusive tour starts and ends in Entebbe or Kampala, featuring round-trip airport transfers.

Highlights

Destination: Uganda
Starting and Ending Point: Entebbe (Uganda)
Visiting Locations: Lake Bunyonyi, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Kibale Forest National Park
Activities: Gorilla tracking, Chimpanzee tracking
Transportation: Open-sided 4×4 vehicle and pop-up roof 4×4 vehicle
Transfers: Included from and back to the airport (or hotel)
Additional Accommodation: Can be arranged before the tour departs and on the last day at extra cost

Things to Note

Inclusive Accommodation: Lodging during the safari is included.
Guided by Post-Lockdown SOPs: Safari follows new normal safety protocols.
Small Group Safari: Maximum of 6 people per group to ensure a personalized experience.
Flexible Departures: The tour can start any day.
Customizable Tour: Itineraries can be tailored to fit your preferences.
Solo Traveler Friendly: Individual travelers are welcome to join.
Age Limit: Participants must be 15 years and above.

TRIP ITINERARY

Tour Plan

Arrival

Arrival and Transfer to Entebbe

Upon your arrival, our Trek Africa Expeditions 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.

Meal Plan: Bed and breakfast
Accommodation: Secrets Guest House

Day 1

Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

After breakfast, embark on a drive to Lake Bunyonyi, located on the eastern side of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Your guide will make a stop at the Equator crossing in Kayabwe for photography, a brief talk, and some experiments. Continue to Mbarara town for lunch. The drive will then take you through beautiful banana plantations, farms, and the stunning Hills of Kigezi. Arrive in the evening and check in at Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge or Trekkers Tervan Lodge in Western Uganda.

Main Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge or Trekkers Tervan Lodge
Meals: Lunch and Dinner (Breakfast not included)

Day 2

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Start your day with an early morning breakfast, then head to Ruhija Park Headquarters for a briefing. Join others for an orientation session before venturing into the forest for your gorilla trek. The trek duration can vary from 30 minutes to 7 hours, depending on the location of the mountain gorilla family that day. Once you locate the gorillas, you will spend one hour observing their behavior and taking photographs. Afterwards, return to the Park Headquarters to receive a certificate confirming your participation in the gorilla trek in Uganda.

Main Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge or Trekkers Tervan Lodge
Meals: All meals included

Day 3

Transfer to Kibale National Park

After breakfast, drive to Kibale National Park for an overnight stay at Chimpanzee Forest Guest House. The journey will take you through Queen Elizabeth National Park, offering opportunities to spot some wild game as you drive through.

Main Destination: Kibale National Park
Accommodation: Chimpanzee Forest Guest House
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included

Day 4

Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale and Bigodi Wetland Walk

After breakfast, you will drive to Kibale National Park Headquarters for a briefing on the dos and don'ts of chimpanzee trekking. You will be divided into small groups of six people, each led by a guide, to track a chimpanzee family. Chimpanzees live in communities of 50-250 individuals but typically split into smaller parties during the day to reduce competition for food, regrouping in the evening to build nests. Once you find the chimpanzees, you will spend one hour observing them before returning to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, head out for a wetland walk in the nearby Bigodi Village. Kibale National Park is renowned for its 15 recorded primate species and numerous bird species.

Main Destination: Kibale Forest National Park
Accommodation: Chimpanzee Forest Guest House or Isunga Lodge
Meals: All meals included

Day 5

Return to Kampala/Entebbe or Airport

After breakfast, you will drive to Kampala or Entebbe for your post-tour accommodation (not included) or continue to Entebbe International Airport for your international departure flight.

Main Destination: Entebbe
Meals: Breakfast and lunch included

INCLUDES & EXCLUDES

Includes

Airport transfers on the first and last day
Gorilla Permits
Kibale Chimpanzee 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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