8-day Gorillas Chimpanzees And Walking Safari
About this tour
This 8-day safari through Uganda offers a blend of adventure, wildlife encounters, and cultural experiences in the country's most iconic landscapes. From chimpanzee tracking in Kibale to unforgettable gorilla trekking in Bwindi, this journey is designed to immerse you in Uganda’s rich biodiversity and vibrant scenery.
Highlights:
1. Gorilla Trekking
2. Chimpanzee tracking
3. Canoe trip in birding sanctuary
4. Game Drive
5. Boat Safari on Kazinga Channel
6. Walking Safari among Wildlife
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Entebbe International Airport, Entebbe, Uganda to Entebbe, Uganda
Upon your arrival at Entebbe International Airport, a friendly representative from Nandi Adventures will greet you and provide a seamless transfer to your accommodation. This charming boutique hotel, known for its peaceful garden setting and personalized service, offers the perfect spot to relax and recover from your travels. You can explore the beautiful grounds, swim in the pool, or enjoy a gourmet meal at a nearby restaurant, where you’ll experience Uganda’s famed hospitality. Take a gentle evening stroll in the garden or settle in for a restful night to prepare for the exciting adventures ahead.
Day 2: Entebbe, Uganda to Kibale National Park, Uganda
After a hearty breakfast, drive to Mabamba Swamp for an excursion in a canoe or small boat. You will be looking out for the main attraction the shoebill stork. The swamp is also home to a big number of bird species and some rare animals like the sitatunga antelope. After the excursion embark on a scenic drive towards the Fort Portal region, home to Uganda’s most breathtaking landscapes. As you journey, marvel at the tea plantations, rolling green hills, and traditional Ugandan villages. Keep your eyes open for glimpses of the Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the "Mountains of the Moon," towering in the distance. Upon reaching safari lodge, you’ll be welcomed by the spectacular sight of the lodge’s perch in a tropical forest. Take the afternoon to relax by the pool, with views of the surrounding. The lodge’s sophisticated wooden architecture blends harmoniously with the surrounding natural beauty.
Day 3: Kibale National Park, Uganda
Today begins with an exhilarating trek through Kibale National Park, renowned for having the highest density of primates in the world. After an early breakfast, meet your experienced guides for a briefing, then set off into the dense tropical forest in search of chimpanzees. As you navigate the forest trails, listen for the distinctive calls of these energetic primates. Watching chimpanzees leap between the trees, forage, and interact with their surroundings is an unforgettable experience. The park is also home to several other primates like red-tailed monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and grey-cheeked mangabeys. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Bigodi Wetland, a sanctuary managed by the local community near the national park. Or you can opt for a walk on the crater lakes trail.
Day 4: Kibale National Park, Uganda to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
After breakfast, begin your journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most famous wildlife destination. As you descend towards the park, notice the dramatic change in landscape from lush forest to open savanna. Arrive at your safari lodge where you’ll enjoy lunch before embarking on an exciting boat safari along the Kazinga Channel. The channel, which connects Lake Edward and Lake George, is a haven for wildlife. As you cruise along the water, you’ll spot hippos lounging, elephants bathing, and buffalo grazing along the shores. Keep your camera ready to capture images of crocodiles sunning themselves on the banks and the countless bird species that call this region home, including kingfishers, pelicans, and African fish eagles.
Day 5: Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Uganda
Start your day early with a game drive through Queen Elizabeth National Park’s diverse habitats. Explore the savanna, bushland, and crater lakes as your expert guide takes you to prime wildlife-viewing spots. Be on the lookout for elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and the elusive leopard. You may even have a chance to spot lions resting in the early morning sun. After your thrilling game drive, embark on a scenic journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to more than half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas. En route, you’ll pass through the picturesque Kigezi Highlands, known for their terraced hills and dramatic vistas. If you're lucky, you might spot tree-climbing lions lounging in the fig trees as you travel through the Ishasha Sector.
Day 6: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Uganda
Today is the highlight of your Ugandan adventure: gorilla trekking in the dense forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing by experienced rangers. You’ll be assigned to a small group and begin your trek through the misty rainforest in search of one of the habituated mountain gorilla families. The trek can be physically challenging as you traverse steep and muddy terrain, but the reward of encountering these majestic creatures is worth every step. You’ll spend an unforgettable hour observing the gorillas as they interact, feed, and play, offering a rare insight into their lives. In the afternoon, you may choose to visit the local community, where you can learn about the culture and traditions of the indigenous forest people, or simply relax at the lodge, taking in the views of the forest canopy.
Day 7: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Uganda to Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda
After breakfast, depart for Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda’s smallest savanna park but one rich in wildlife. The drive takes you through Kabale, often referred to as the "Switzerland of Africa" for its stunning hilly landscapes. Arrive at your safari lodge, a beautiful eco-lodge perched on a hill with panoramic views of the park. In the afternoon, relax at the lodge or opt for a cultural tour of the surrounding area to learn more about the local communities.
Day 8: Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda to Entebbe International Airport, Entebbe, Uganda
On your final morning, enjoy a unique walking safari in Lake Mburo National Park, guided by a ranger. This is a rare opportunity to explore the African wilderness on foot and observe zebras, impalas, and other wildlife up close. After the safari, return to the lodge for a hearty brunch before driving back to Entebbe for your departure flight.
What's included
1. Full board accommodation inclusive of all meals at lodges 2. National Parks and Concession Fees 3. One Gorilla Trekking permit per person ($800) 4. One Chimpanzee Tracking permit per person ($250) 5. Game drive 6. Private custom-built 4x4 safari vehicle 7. English-speaking driver guide 8. All airport and airstrip transfers 9. Filtered water, coffees, and teas 10. Boat safari 11. Walking Safari
1. International Flights to and from Entebbe International Airport 2. Pre- and post-tour arrangements in Entebbe/Kampala or onward 3. Visas (apply for Uganda tourist visa at: https://visas.immigration.go.ug at $50) 4. All extra meals, premium drinks, spirits, whiskies, private cellar wines, and champagne 5. Additional activities 6. Gratuities & tips and items of a personal nature. 7. Porters on gorilla and wildlife treks 8. Laundry
What to know
This tour can be customized. Please get in touch with me at [email protected]. We are also available for a video call via Zoom or WhatsApp. Please find our Booking Terms & Conditions: https://nandiadventures.com/terms-and-conditions/
Route & locations
Entebbe International Airport, Entebbe, Uganda to Entebbe, Uganda