11 Days Uganda Gorilla and Primates Safari
This 11 Days Uganda Gorilla and Primates Safari takes you to Kibale National Park, Kyambura Gorge, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Activities include chimp trekking, gorilla tracking, nature hikes, Kazinga Channel boat excursions, and golden monkey trekking. Along the trip, you’ll discover Bigodi Wetland, see local villages, and enjoy Uganda’s stunning surroundings.
Trek through deep woods, follow chimps as they swing through the trees, and see mountain gorillas in their natural environment. Along the route, interact with local residents, visit conservation initiatives, and enjoy Uganda’s magnificent scenery. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or an explorer seeking a meaningful experience, this trip delivers an unparalleled peek into the lives of Uganda’s most interesting primates.
Highlights for 11 Days Uganda Gorilla and Primates Safari
Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe
Day 2: Transfer to Kibale National Park
Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking and Bigodi Swamp Walk
Day 4: Guided Forest Walk and Cultural Tour
Day 5: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Day 6: Morning Game Drive and Afternoon Boat Cruise
Day 7: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kalinzu Forest
Day 8: Transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Day 9: Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga
Day 10: Golden Monkey Trekking
Day 11: Transfer Back to Kampala
Detailed Itinerary for 11 Days Uganda Gorilla and Primates Safari
Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe
Your gorilla and chimpanzee trip begins when you arrive at Entebbe International Airport. A warm greeting from our English guide, followed by a transport to your lodgings. Take time to unwind and prepare for the adventure ahead. Uganda’s scenery and animals promise a wonderful experience, and the journey truly begins tomorrow.
Day 2: Transfer to Kibale National Park
Rise early for a 5-6-hour road trip to Kibale National Park, Africa’s largest population of primates. Along the route, see the Rwenzori Sculpture Foundation, which celebrates Uganda’s creative legacy. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and enjoy magnificent views of the Rwenzori Mountains. The evening provides an opportunity to unwind before tomorrow’s chimpanzee excursion.
Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking and Bigodi Swamp Walk
Your 11 days Uganda gorilla and primates’ safari continues with an early morning hike into Kibale Forest, well regarded as the world’s primate capital. Kibale forest resonates with chimpanzee shouts as you track them through the deep undergrowth. Observing them interact in their natural environment is an incredible experience. In the afternoon, visit Bigodi Wetland, a sanctuary for birds and unique primates.
Day 4: Guided Forest Walk and Cultural Tour
Enjoy the morning on a guided nature walk in Kibale Forest, where you could see red colobus monkeys, olive baboons, and bush babies. Later, visit a local conservation initiative to understand how locals help safeguard Uganda’s wildlife. The day concludes with a tranquil supper at your lodge, reflecting on the remarkable interactions thus far.
Day 5: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After a delightful breakfast meal at your lodge, pack your bags and head to Queen Elizabeth National Park, which is just about a 4-5-hour drive from Kibale National Park. Upon your arrival in the park, enjoy a game drive in Ishasha with a chance to see the famous tree-climbing lions if you get lucky. Dinner will be served at your lodge.
Day 6: Morning Game Drive and Afternoon Boat Cruise
Start the day with an early morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, when the wildlife is most active. Drive to Kasenyi Plains, a great place to see lions, elephants, buffaloes, and Uganda kobs. With any luck, you could spot a leopard softly exploring the jungle. Rangers offer insights on animal behavior, making the experience both instructive and exciting. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat tour along the Kazinga Channel, a wildlife hotspot where hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species flourish. Watch elephants gather at the water’s side as buffaloes cool off nearby. The sunset transforms the canal into a stunning golden display, a serene and unforgettable way to conclude the day.
Day 7: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kalinzu Forest
You will have breakfast very early in the morning before heading to the park’s briefing point. After your briefing, you will head into Kalinzu forest in search of a habituated chimpanzee family. Trekking can take between 2-5 hours depending on their location. You will be given an hour to spend with the chimpanzees and monitor their behavior. Ensure to carry your lunch packs from your lodge before heading out in the morning.
Retire back to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 8: Transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Your 11 days Uganda gorilla and primates safari takes you to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, located at the base of the Virunga Volcanoes. In the afternoon, visit the Batwa village to hear about their rich traditions and strong connection to the forest. Their stories provide insights into a way of life that has endured for ages.
Day 9: Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga
Today is the highlight of your 11 days Uganda gorilla and primates safari, with gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The hike through the deep jungle leads to a mountain gorilla family, where you will spend an hour watching them interact. Seeing them up close is a humbling experience, making every inch of the journey worthwhile.
Day 10: Golden Monkey Trekking
Set off on a golden monkey walk across the Virunga Mountains, tracking these lively primates. Their bright fur and lively motions make them entertaining to watch. In the afternoon, you can opt for returning to the Batwa Trail Experience and learn more about the Batwa people and their cultural heritage and lifestyle.
Day 11: Transfer Back to Kampala
Finish your 11 days Uganda gorilla and primates’ safari with a lovely drive back to Kampala, pausing at the Uganda Equator for one more photo opportunity. As you ponder on the wonderful animal encounters and cultural experiences, Uganda’s beauty and variety leave a lasting memory that you will hold onto for life.
