Explore the best of Uganda’s wildlife. You’ll embark on game drives in the wilderness, a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, and track chimps and gorillas in Uganda’s ancient forests.
- 9 days | 8 nights
- Uganda
Highlights
- Track chimpanzees in Kibale Forest and explore the Bigodi Wetlands on a guided nature walk
- Spend an hour with the mountain gorillas of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
- Meet the Batwa tribe of western Uganda and experience their traditions firsthand
- Enjoy game drives and a boat safari in Queen Elizabeht National Park
- Experience Uganda’s lush countryside on scenic road trips
Destinations
DAY 1: Arrival & Kampala/Entebbe
DAY 2: Kampala/Entebbe
DAY 3-4: Kibale Forest National Park
DAY 5-6: Queen Elizabeth National Park
DAY 7-8: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
DAY 9: Departure
Trip Itinerary
Day 1: In the Pearl of Africa
- ENTEBBE/KAMPALA
Karibu—a very warm welcome to Uganda! Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be picked up by a representative of Hornbill Treks & Safaris and transferred to your accommodations. You’ll have a safari briefing and time for questions regarding your adventure across Uganda. Enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Hotel No. 5, Lake Victoria Serena, Latitude 0
Day 2: Culture & Conservation
- ENTEBBE/KAMPALA
Spend the day exploring the Entebbe/Kampala region. In the morning, set out on a boat tour of the Mabamba Wetlands as you search for the rare Shoebill stork. Enjoy lunch in Entebbe, followed by a visit to our partner school on the outskirts of Kampala.
In the evening, relax at the hotel or take in the views on a sunset cruise of Lake Victoria.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Hotel No. 5, Lake Victoria Serena, Latitude 0
Day 3: Journey to Kibale Forest
- ENTEBBE & KIBALE FOREST NATIONAL PARK
In the morning, set out for Kibale Forest National Park via scheduled flight.
Kibale Forest is home to at least thirteen primate species, including the red colobus and L’Hoest’s monkey, earning its reputation as “the Primate Capital of the World.” If this weren’t enough, Kibale also boasts a remarkable opportunity to track habituated chimpanzees.
Arrive in afternoon for lunch and optional activities. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at your accommodations.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Ndali Lodge, Kyaninga Lodge, Primate Lodge Kibale, or Turaco Treetops
Day 4: Chimp Trekking & A Walk in the Wetlands
- KIBALE FOREST NATIONAL PARK
In the morning, set out on your chimpanzee trek in the rainforest. The trek, which may last two to four hours, offers the chance of watching chimps in their natural habitat. After the trek, return to your accommodations for lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy a nature walk through the Bigodi Wetlands. This wildlife corridor is home to over 200 species of birds–including the Blue Turaco, Kingfishers, Hornbills, and more–as well as eight species of primates.
The Bigodi Wetlands conservation project began as a local environmental effort run by the communities of Kibale. Beyond conserving the wetlands and its wildlife, the project has also supported the building of a local school, safe drinking water for locals, and local health care efforts.
INCLUDED: All meals, entrance fees and excursions, accommodations.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Ndali Lodge, Kyaninga Lodge, Primate Lodge, or Turaco Treetops
Day 5: Game Drive on the Plains
- KIBALE FOREST NATIONAL PARK & QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK
The day begins with a relaxed drive as we leave Kibale and head towards Queen Elizabeth National Park. As we journey towards the park, the incredible scenery of the “Mountains of the Moon” unfolds before us. Upon arrival at the park, settle into your accommodations before taking an evening game drive to explore.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Elephant Plains Lodge or Kyambura Gorge Lodge
Day 6: Boat Safari & Game Drive
- QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK
After a sunrise breakfast, embark on a morning game drive, followed by an early lunch at the lodge.
In the afternoon, explore the Kazinga Channel by boat for an opportunity to see the stunning variety of wildlife at the water, including hippos, elephant, and crocodiles. Birdlife in the park includes the African finfoot, Broad-billed roller, Red-chested sunbird, and Yellow-throated cuckoo, among others. Before returning to the lodge for dinner, embark on an evening game drive.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Elephant Plains Lodge or Kyambura Gorge Lodge
Day 7: Through the Rift Valley
- QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK & BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST
Embark on one last game drive through Queen Elizabeth National Park before continuing to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to the approximately half of the world’s endangered mountain gorillas. This ancient forest unfolds over the steep ridges of the Albertine Rift Valley, providing breathtaking views and extraordinary viewing opportunities.
Later, relax at the lodge or take a sunset stroll through the area.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, Bwindi Lodge, or Buhoma Lodge
Day 8: Meet the Gorillas of Bwindi
- BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST
The hike of a lifetime begins today. After breakfast we will meet the park rangers who will be our guides for the day, and then we will start the trek in search of the exquisite mountain gorillas of Uganda. Trekking can last between thirty minutes and eight hours, but once you discover the gorillas, you will be able to spend one unforgettable hour with them. Gorilla trekking begins where the gorillas were last seen the previous day.
After your trek, visit with a local women’s cooperative for an authentic experience with Uganda culture. Return to your accommodations for dinner and an overnight stay. Our exclusive Beyond the Trek session is highly recommended for a peek at the behind-the-scenes care of the mountain gorillas with a local conservationist.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, Bwindi Lodge, or Buhoma Lodge
Day 9: Departure
- BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST & ENTEBBE
Transfer to the Kihihi Airstrip for your return flight to Entebbe, arriving at Entebbe International Airport (EBB) for your outbound departure.
How It Works
1. Share Your Inspiration
We’ll listen to your aspirations and discuss the experiences that will meet your travel needs.
2. We'll Plan & Fine-Tune
We’ll put our knowledge of the region to work and create a personalized safari for you.
3. Reserve Your Safari
When you’re ready to book, we’ll handle the details of reserving everything for your trip.
