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5 Day Gorilla and Wildlife Safari

Overview

Embark on an exhilarating 5 Day Gorilla and Wildlife Safari into Uganda’s wilderness with our Gorillas and Wildlife Safari. This expedition blends thrilling game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park with awe-inspiring mountain gorilla tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Starting in Entebbe, you’ll experience Uganda’s vibrant culture and natural beauty before exploring Queen Elizabeth National Park, home to diverse wildlife including elephants, antelopes and tree-climbing lions. A highlight is the Kazinga Channel cruise, offering close-up views of over 700 bird species and the world’s highest concentration of hippos. The adventure culminates in Bwindi, where you’ll trek with experienced guides to encounter endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, an unforgettable experience.

Highlights

Immerse yourself in the rich culture and natural wonders of Uganda.
Explore Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Engage in thrilling activities such as gorilla tracking and chimpanzee tracking.
Travel in comfort and style with open-sided 4×4 vehicles and pop-up roof vehicles.
Enjoy the convenience of airport transfers and inclusive accommodation.
Customize your tour to suit your preferences and interests.
Join a small group safari, limited to a maximum of six people.
Solo travelers are welcome to join this adventure.
Suitable for adventurers aged 15 years and above.

Things To Note

Accommodation is included, ensuring a comfortable stay throughout your journey.
Join a small group of like-minded adventurers, with a maximum of six people per group.
Flexible departure dates allow you to embark on this adventure at your convenience.
Tailor your tour to your preferences, with customizable options available.
Solo travelers are welcome to join our small group safaris, offering the opportunity to meet new friends and share unforgettable experiences.
This adventure is suitable for adventurers aged 15 years and above, ensuring an inclusive and immersive experience for all.

TRIP ITINERARY

Tour Plan

Arrival

Arrival at Entebbe International Airport

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel for the night. The next morning, after breakfast, you will set off for Lake Mburo National Park, driving through the charming small towns of Uganda. Along the way, you’ll stop at the Equator crossing in Kayabwe for photographs and some informative talks and experiments. Upon arrival at the park, you will enjoy an en route game drive as you proceed to your lodge for check-in and lunch. In the afternoon, embark on a boat ride on the lake to search for hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of water birds.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Lake Mburo Safari Lodge or Rwakobo Rock
Drive Time: 5-6 hours

Day 1

Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After breakfast, embark on an en route game drive through Lake Mburo National Park. Continue your journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in southwestern Uganda. The drive offers stunning scenic views of Uganda’s green rolling hills, dotted with banana and tea plantations. Enjoy lunch en route and arrive at Bwindi in the evening, ready for the next day’s adventure.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge or Trekkers Tavern Lodge
Drive Time: 6-7 hours

Day 2

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Start your day with an early breakfast and pack a lunch. By 7:45 am, report to the Park Headquarters for registration and join other trackers for a briefing on the dos and don’ts of gorilla tracking. Your guides will lead you through dense forest creepers and undergrowth in search of the gorillas. This trek can last from half an hour to most of the day, depending on the movement of the gorillas. The forest is steep and densely forested, but the trails used by animals make it accessible for tourists. Encountering these majestic and endangered creatures in their natural habitat is an extraordinary experience.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge or Trekkers Tavern Lodge

Day 3

Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

This morning, depart for Queen Elizabeth National Park, enjoying the beautiful scenery along the way. You will arrive at your lodge in time for lunch. In the afternoon, embark on a game drive in the Kasenyi plains, where you will have the chance to see savannah wildlife, including herds of buffaloes, antelopes, elephants, and possibly wild cats such as lions and leopards.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Elephant Hab Lodge or Pumba Safari Lodge
Drive Time: 4-5 hours

Day 4

Morning Game Drive and Afternoon Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel

Begin your day with a return trip to the Kasenyi plains for a morning game drive. This gives you another chance to spot wildlife you may have missed the previous day. After the game drive, head back to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, make your way to the jetty along the Kazinga Channel for a scenic boat cruise. This boat ride offers excellent opportunities to view a variety of animals, including hippos, elephants, buffaloes, crocodiles, and numerous water birds that frequent the channel to drink.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Elephant Hab Lodge or Pumba Safari Lodge

Day 5

Departure

This morning, after breakfast, you will be transferred to Kampala or Entebbe International Airport for your onward flight. This marks the end of your 8-day Gorilla Tracking Tour

Meal Plan: Breakfast

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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