Step Into the Wild Soul of Uganda
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes and rare wildlife of Uganda, famously known as “The Pearl of Africa.” From mist-covered rainforests to open savannahs teeming with life, this journey offers some of the most unforgettable nature experiences on the continent. Whether you’re trekking through dense jungle or cruising through hippo-filled waters, Uganda’s natural wonders will leave a lasting impression.
Trip Highlights
Encounter mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Forest—home to nearly half of the world’s remaining population and the only place where gorillas and chimpanzees coexist. Trek through thick jungle for the once-in-a-lifetime experience of locking eyes with a silverback. Then explore Queen Elizabeth National Park, a stunning mix of savannah, crater lakes, and tropical forest. Spot elephants, hippos, and tree-climbing lions in one of the most biodiverse game parks in the world.
After an early breakfast, you’ll head to Entebbe International Airport for a flight to Bwindi Impenetrable National Forest. This flight across central Uganda offers a view of the beautiful mountains, hills, cultivated terraces, tropical rainforest, bamboo forests, and the majestic chain of the Virunga Volcanoes.
The thrill of observing the endangered mountain gorillas is an awesome, exciting experience to be remembered. The trekking can be anywhere from a 30-minute hike to a 6-hour hike, depending on the location of the gorillas. There are 3 groups of 8 trekkers per day in each group. The hike can be easy or rigorous. Getting up close to the amazing endangered animals is an unforgettable experience, not to be missed!
Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most popular national parks, known for its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. Located in western Uganda, it spans the districts of Kasese, Kamwenge, Rubirizi, and Rukungiri. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions (notably the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha), hippos, and over 600 bird species. Featuring picturesque crater lakes, savannah plains, and lush wetlands, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers exceptional opportunities for game drives, boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel, and chimpanzee trekking in the Kyambura Gorge.
Known for its dense canopy and atmospheric mist, Kalinzu offers a truly immersive trekking experience. Accompanied by expert guides, you’ll venture deep into this underground forest in search of wild chimpanzees. With a bit of luck and patience, you may witness these intelligent primates in their natural habitat—swinging through the treetops, grooming each other, or calling out across the canopy. Along the way, keep an eye out for other forest residents, including black-and-white colobus monkeys, baboons, and an array of colorful birdlife.
Details
Duration: 5days
Countries: Uganda
Experiences: Wildlife safari, Gorilla Trek, Chimp Trek
Ages: All ages
Itinerary
Day 1: Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Forest
After an early breakfast, depart Mbarara and begin your scenic journey to Nkuringo, nestled at the edge of Bwindi Impenetrable National Forest. The approximately 6-hour drive winds through lush hillsides, rural villages, and dramatic highland landscapes, offering a glimpse into daily Ugandan life and the country’s stunning natural beauty. Upon arrival, check in at the Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge, a charming eco-lodge perched on a ridge with panoramic views of the forest canopy and Virunga Volcanoes in the distance.
Settle in, relax, and soak in the serene surroundings as you prepare for your unforgettable gorilla trekking experience.
Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner included.
Day2: Gorilla trek
After breakfast, at around 7:45 am, with packed lunch and drinking water, drive to the National Park Headquarters for a briefing before heading out to find the gorillas. The area offers a dramatic, thick steeply forested landscape. The thrill of spending time observing these endangered giants is an awesome, exciting experience to be remembered. The tracking can take place at Nkuringo or at Rushaga (1 hr drive from Nkuringo), depending on gorilla permits.
Upon returning, relax at the lodge or drive up to the “Top of the World” the name given to the football field, high up in Nkuringo which offers amazing views over the peaks and forests around Nkuringo.
Accommodation: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day3: Queen Elizabeth National Park
After an early morning breakfast, drive or fly to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Queen Elizabeth. This is Uganda’s second-largest park and is located at the base of the majestic Rwenzori Mountain range, adjacent to Lake Edward and Lake George. You may see Uganda
kob, gazelle, waterbuck and warthog, hippo and elephant, and leopard. Enjoy an afternoon boat trip on the Kazinga Channel where you’ll see some of the park’s 95 species of mammals, reptiles, and birds coming to drink on its banks.
Accommodation: Kasenyi Safari Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day4: Chimp trekking and Game Drive
Leave the lodge for the morning for chimpanzee trekking in Kalinzu Game Reserve. This is an underground forest. Look out for various primates, especially the chimpanzees. You may also see black and white Colobus monkeys. In the afternoon, relax at the lodge or do an afternoon game drive through the Kasenyi sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Accommodation: Kasenyi Safari Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 5: Flight to Entebbe & Journey Home
Soak in your last aerial views of Uganda’s patchwork hills, winding rivers, and vibrant green landscapes. Upon arrival in Entebbe, you’ll have time to relax or explore a bit depending on your flight schedule before heading to the international airport for your journey home.
Take with you unforgettable memories of rich cultural connections, breathtaking wildlife encounters, and the warmth of Uganda—truly the Pearl of Africa.
Please remember that this is a guide only and we typically customize each safari trip.
Please contact us if you have any questions!
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Gorilla permit
Chimp permit
Accommodation
Meals as indicated
Ground transportation by 4×4 Land cruiser
Local Flight from Kasese to Entebbe (see cost options)
English speaking Driver/Guide
Game drives
Drinking water in vehicle
River safari cruise
Park Entrance fees, taxes
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED
International airfare
Travel Insurance
Optional activities not listed above
Drinks and tips
Visa
Note: Baggage – there is a maximum allowance of 15kg per person, excess baggage is subject to space availability and it is USD3 per each extra kg
