8 Days Gorilla, Chimpanzee & Big Game Safari in Uganda, Queen

The 8-Day Classic Safari is an extraordinary primate and wildlife adventure across Uganda’s most remarkable destinations. This journey takes you to Mabamba Swamp in search of the elusive shoebill stork, the misty jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for unforgettable gorilla trekking, and Kibale Forest National Park, famously known as the primate capital of the world, for chimpanzee tracking.

Along the way, you will explore the vast savannah plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s second-largest national park, where wildlife thrives across endless landscapes. A scenic boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel brings you close to hippos, elephants, buffaloes, crocodiles, and a rich variety of birdlife.

The safari continues south toward Bwindi through the Ishasha sector, renowned for its rare tree-climbing lions. After the thrilling gorilla encounter, the adventure slows down with a relaxing visit to the beautiful highland lake of Bunyonyi before continuing to Lake Mburo National Park, a park known for its zebras, giraffes, and diverse bird species.

Your journey concludes at Mabamba Swamp on the shores of Lake Victoria, where you search for the prehistoric-looking shoebill stork - often described as the “living dinosaur” of Africa’s wetlands.

This safari offers a perfect combination of primate encounters, wildlife viewing, scenic landscapes, and cultural experiences, creating a truly unforgettable African adventure.

Detailed Itinerary

Upon arrival at the airport or pick-up from your hotel, your guide will welcome you and begin the journey to Kibale National Park, the famous primate capital of the world. The drive takes you through the lively suburbs of Kampala before transitioning into the scenic countryside filled with lush greenery, tea plantations, and stunning views of the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains.

You will stop along the way for lunch and photography before arriving at your lodge in the evening.

Overnight: Turaco Treetops Lodge (Luxury / Mid-range)

After an early breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters for a briefing before starting your chimpanzee trekking adventure. Guided by experienced rangers, you will venture into the rainforest where the echoes of chimpanzee calls guide you through the forest. Once located, you will spend one magical hour observing and photographing these fascinating primates.

After the trek, you will drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, passing scenic crater lakes and enjoying spectacular views of the Rwenzori Mountains.

Overnight: Twin Lakes Lodge (Mid-range) / Buffalo Safari Lodge (Luxury)

An early morning game drive offers the best chance to spot predators such as lions and leopards. The park is also home to elephants, Uganda kobs, buffaloes, and many other wildlife species.

In the afternoon, you will enjoy a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, famous for having one of Africa’s highest concentrations of hippos. You may also see elephants drinking along the shores, Nile crocodiles, buffaloes, and numerous bird species including the iconic African fish eagle.

Overnight: Twin Lakes Lodge / Buffalo Safari Lodge

Today you travel south through the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, well known for its unique tree-climbing lions often seen resting in fig trees.

Continue to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.

Overnight: Chameleon Hill Lodge / Mutanda Lake Resort / Ride 4 a Woman Lodge

Today is the highlight of your safari — gorilla trekking in the dense forests of Bwindi. Guided by expert trackers, you will hike through the rainforest in search of a habituated gorilla family. Once found, you will spend one unforgettable hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

After the trek, you will transfer to Lake Bunyonyi for relaxation. Optional activities include a boat ride exploring the lake’s 29 islands and visiting the Batwa cultural community.

Overnight: Bunyonyi Eco Resort / Birdnest Resort

After a relaxed breakfast, you will drive through the beautiful Kigezi Highlands toward Lake Mburo National Park. Upon arrival, enjoy an evening game drive where you may see zebras, giraffes, impalas, elands, and buffaloes.

Overnight: Rwakobo Rock Lodge / Mihingo Lodge

A guided nature walk with a ranger allows you to explore the park on foot and observe wildlife up close. After the walk, you will travel back toward Entebbe and continue to Mabamba Swamp for the final highlight of the safari.

Overnight: Nkima Lodge / Via Via Guesthouse / Lake Victoria Hotel

Your final adventure takes place at Mabamba Swamp on Lake Victoria. A local motorized canoe will take you through papyrus channels in search of the legendary shoebill stork. This unique birdwatching experience lasts approximately 2–4 hours.

After the activity, you will be transferred to Entebbe Airport or your hotel depending on your flight schedule.

End of Safari

What's Included

Gorilla trekking permit – $700 per person
Chimpanzee trekking permit and park entrances – $230
Accommodation and meals as indicated in the itinerary
Private 4×4 safari vehicle with full-time English-speaking driver-guide
All park entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary
Airport transfers
Bottled drinking water in the safari vehicle

Not Included

International flights and visas
Boat cruise at Lake Bunyonyi – $50
Batwa cultural visit – $70
Alcoholic and soft drinks outside the safari vehicle
Tips and gratuities
Personal souvenirs
Personal trekking gear such as hiking boots, rain jackets, gloves, and insect repellents