7-Day Uganda Safari – Gorillas, Chimps & Queen Elizabeth Park

Embark on a 7-day adventure safari in Uganda, combining primate trekking, wildlife viewing, and breathtaking landscapes. This safari includes:

Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest National Park
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Game drives and boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Spotting unique wildlife such as Uganda Kobs, elephants, lions, and the famous tree-climbing lions in Ishasha
Comfortable or budget accommodations, depending on your preference

Detailed Itinerary

Pick up early morning from your hotel or guesthouse and drive to Kibale Forest, home to 13 species of primates. Stop en route for lunch and enjoy scenic views of rolling hills, tropical forests, and farmlands. Arrive in the afternoon and settle into Kibale Forest Camp, immersed in the sights and sounds of the tropical rainforest.

Driving time: ± 6.5 hours
Accommodation:

Budget: Kibale Forest Camp – “Lazy” camping
Comfortable: Kibale Forest Camp

Start your day at 8:00 am with chimpanzee trekking (4 hours) guided by experienced rangers. Expect to encounter up to 10 other primate species, as well as diverse birdlife and butterflies. In the afternoon, take a community-guided walk through Bigodi Swamp, home to local conservation projects and excellent bird-watching opportunities.

Accommodation: Kibale Forest Camp

Leave early for Queen Elizabeth National Park, passing through Fort Portal with scenic hills and tea plantations. Arrive at The Bush Lodge with stunning views over the Kazinga Channel. After lunch, enjoy an afternoon game drive spotting elephants, buffaloes, and Uganda Kobs.

Driving time: ± 4.5 hours
Accommodation:

Budget: The Bush Lodge – “Lazy” camping
Comfortable: The Bush Lodge

Spend the day exploring Queen Elizabeth NP. Begin with a morning game drive to spot lions, elephants, Uganda Kobs, and other wildlife. Follow this with a 2-hour boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, viewing hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife. Conclude with an evening game drive to the Uganda Kob mating grounds.

Accommodation: The Bush Lodge

Depart after breakfast and head south towards Bwindi NP, passing the Ishasha sector, famous for tree-climbing lions. Stop for sightings and lunch at Savannah Resort in Kihihi. Continue through Rukungiri, passing villages and hills, before arriving in Bwindi in the evening.

Accommodation:

Budget: Gorilla Valley Lodge or Traveler’s Rest Hotel
Luxury: Gorilla Valley Lodge or Traveler’s Rest Hotel

The highlight of the safari! Travel to the gorilla trekking starting point early morning. Receive a briefing at 7:45 am, then start trekking at 8:30 am. Spend up to 1 hour with mountain gorillas, observing their behavior and taking photographs. Return to your lodge by 7:00 pm.

Accommodation: Gorilla Valley Lodge or Traveler’s Rest Hotel

After breakfast, drive back to Kampala or Entebbe. Stop for lunch in Mbarara, and visit the Equator for photos and souvenirs. Arrive at your hotel, guesthouse, or directly at Entebbe Airport for onward travel.

Driving time: ± 9 hours