7-Day Ultimate Uganda Gorilla & Chimpanzee Safari

7 Days 6 Nights

Ever wondered what it feels like to step into the misty forests of Uganda and come within a few meters of a wild mountain gorilla or watch chimpanzees move effortlessly through the treetops? This 7-day adventure takes you deep into Uganda’s remarkable primate habitats, where every forest trail holds the possibility of an unforgettable encounter. From the lively calls of chimpanzees in Kibale to the quiet, powerful presence of mountain gorillas in Bwindi, the journey offers two extraordinary experiences in one adventure. Along the way, travel through Uganda’s scenic countryside, encounter its rich biodiversity, and discover the untamed beauty that lies beyond the ordinary safari. It is a journey designed for those who want to experience Uganda not just by seeing it, but by walking through its forests and connecting with its wild heart.

Beyond the trekking experiences, this safari allows you to appreciate Uganda’s incredible scenery as you travel through rolling hills, rural communities, lush plantations, and changing landscapes. Each destination adds another layer to the journey, creating a safari that combines wildlife, nature, exploration, and authentic encounters.

Cost of the safari:

Starting from: $3010 (Budget Accommodation) per person based on two travelers sharing

 1 Person2 People3 People4 People5 People6 People
Budget$3500$3010$2810$2710$2610$2510
Mid-Range$4200$3360$3160$3060$2960$2860
Upper-Midrange$5250$4550$4360$4260$4160$4060
Luxury$6650$5950$5750$5650$5550$5450

Cost Per Child (Discount)

Age0-2 years old3-6 years old7-10 years old11-13 years old14+ years old
Discount Rate100%65%50%15%0%

 

 

  • 18
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Budget Lodges
  • English, Spanish, French, Dutch, German, Italian, and Chinese speaking guides
  • Safari Van/ 4X4 Landcruiser
  • 1-100 people
  • January - December
  • Entebbe International Airport
  • Entebbe International Airport

Why This Tour?

7-Day Ultimate Uganda Gorilla & Chimpanzee Safari

Seven days of Uganda’s wild landscapes, remarkable wildlife, and unforgettable encounters await on this immersive safari through some of the country’s most celebrated national parks. From tracking rhinos on foot to searching for chimpanzees in the forest and meeting mountain gorillas in their misty habitat, this journey brings together an exceptional variety of experiences.

Destinations;

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary,

Murchison Falls National Park,

Kibale National Park,

Queen Elizabeth National Park,  

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

When you choose to travel with us, your 7-Day Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking Safari becomes more than just a journey, it becomes an opportunity to experience Uganda’s remarkable wildlife, diverse landscapes, and unforgettable cultural encounters. From tracking rhinos on foot at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to exploring the vast wilderness of Murchison Falls National Park, every stage of the adventure is thoughtfully designed to bring you closer to the very best of Uganda.

The journey begins at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where you can track rhinos on foot before continuing to Murchison Falls National Park, home to sweeping savannahs, abundant wildlife, and the powerful Murchison Falls. From there, travel to Kibale National Park, renowned for its chimpanzees and remarkable primate diversity, before proceeding to Queen Elizabeth National Park for exciting game drives and a boat cruise along the wildlife-rich Kazinga Channel. The adventure then continues to the Ishasha Sector, famous for its scenic wilderness and unique tree-climbing lions, before concluding in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where the ultimate highlight awaits, a thrilling trek through the ancient forest in search of endangered mountain gorillas.

Highlights

  • Gorilla Trekking
  • Chimpanzee Trekking
  • Batwa Cultural Interactions
  • Game Drives
  • Boat Cruises
  • Bird Watching
  • Rhino Tracking

Tour Plan

  • Day
    01

    Pick-Up From Airport / Hotel | Travel To Murchison Falls Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

    Kutalii Tours And Safaris welcomes you to Uganda to enjoy this exceptional tour!

    Your safari will start once you fly into Entebbe International Airport where our professional driver will be happily stationed to receive and drive you to Lake Mburo National Park.

    As you make your way toward Murchison Falls National Park, your journey takes an exciting detour to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where you will set out on foot with expert guides to encounter Uganda’s magnificent rhinos in their protected natural surroundings.

    Arrival at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

    Afterwards, you will proceed to Murchison Falls National and kick-off with the top of the falls tour.

    Visit the spectacular Top of the Falls, where the mighty Nile squeezes through a narrow rocky gorge before plunging 43 metres toward Lake Albert. The powerful spray often creates beautiful rainbows, making this a truly breathtaking sight.

    11-Day Thrilling Luxury Safari In Uganda And Tanzania

    You will enjoy an evening game drive enroute your lodge.

    Dining and Lodging at: Parkside Safari Lodge (Mid-range) / Wild Palace Safari Lodge (Mid-range) / Gipir and Labongo Safari Lodge (Mid-range) / Pakuba Lodge (Upper Mid-range) / Fort Murchison Lodge (Upper Mid-range) / Sambiya Lodge (Upper Mid-range) / Paraa Safari Lodge (Luxury) / Entikko Safari Lodge (Luxury) / Nile Safari Lodge (Ultra-luxury)

  • Day
    02

    Full Day In Murchison Falls National Park

    Start the day with an early morning game drive across Murchison Falls National Park’s savannah plains, when wildlife is most active. Look out for elephants, lions, buffaloes, giraffes, Uganda kobs and other antelope species.

    Later, enjoy a boat cruise along the Nile to the base of Murchison Falls, offering close views of hippos, crocodiles, elephants and abundant birdlife as you cruise toward the spectacular falls.

    In the evening, head out for another game drive as the savannah cools down. This is a wonderful opportunity to spot wildlife becoming active again and enjoy the golden light across the park before returning to your lodge.

    Meals and overnight at Parkside Safari Lodge/ Leosim Hotel/ Wild Palace Safari Lodge.

  • Day
    03

    Drive To Kibale National Park and Bigodi Walk

    Enjoy breakfast before setting off towards Kibale National Park, with the journey taking you through some of western Uganda’s most beautiful scenery. As you travel across the Albertine Rift, the landscape gradually changes into lush forests, rolling countryside and picturesque valleys. Stop along the way for lunch before continuing to Kibale.

    In the afternoon, head to Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, where a guided community and nature walk offers a closer look at both the environment and local life. As you explore the trails through the Magombe Wetland, keep your eyes open for an impressive selection of wildlife.

    Bigodi walk

    Dining and Lodging at: Chimpanzee Capital Safari Lodge (Budget) / Kibale Forest Camp (Non-self contained tents) (Budget) / Kibale Tourist Safari Lodge (Mid-Range) / Kibale Forest Camp (Mid-Range) / Isunga Lodge (Mid-Range) / Primate Lodge Kibale (Luxury) / Turaco Tree-tops (Luxury)

  • Day
    04

    Track Chimps | Drive To Queen Elizabeth | Kazinga Channel Cruise | Evening Game Drive

    Following an early breakfast, set off for your chimpanzee tracking adventure with your guide and packed lunch. At the park headquarters, you will receive a short orientation on trekking guidelines before entering the forest in search of the chimpanzees. The experience can last anywhere from two to six hours, depending on where the troop is located and the conditions of the trail.

    6 Days Uganda Primates Trekking Mid-Range Adventure

    Encountering chimpanzees in their natural habitat offers an unforgettable glimpse into the lives of one of our closest wild relatives. As you follow their calls and movements through the forest, every moment brings the possibility of a remarkable encounter.

    After the trek, continue your journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park, a diverse wilderness known for its sweeping savannahs, forests, lakes and rich variety of wildlife.

    Once you arrive, head to the Kazinga Channel for a relaxing boat safari. The cruise provides excellent opportunities to observe hippos, crocodiles, elephants and numerous waterbirds along the shores as the channel links Lake Edward and Lake George.

    Visit tours Travel Destinations Africa Big Trips Five Safaris

    Following the cruise, venture into the park as the afternoon fades into evening. The cooler temperatures bring renewed activity across the savannah, creating excellent conditions for wildlife viewing and the possibility of witnessing predators on the move. Keep watch for lions, Uganda kobs, elephants, buffaloes, warthogs, waterbucks and, if luck is on your side, elusive leopards as the day comes to an end.

    7 Days Breathtaking Mid-Range Safari In Uganda

    Meals and overnight at: Songbird Safari Lodge (Budget)/ Enshama Game Lodge & Campsite (Mid-range) / Engiri Game Lodge / Ishwa Game Lodge (Mid-range) / Buffalo Safari Lodge (Upper mid-range) / Elephant Plains Lodge (Luxury).

  • Day
    05

    Travel To Ishasha Sector | Transfer To Bwindi Impenetrable National Park | Batwa Cultural Interaction

    After an early morning breakfast, you will be transferred to Ishasha Sector for the tree-climbing lions on the Kasenyi Plains. Ishasha is located in the southern sector of Queen Elizabeth.

    Have a game drive in Ishasha, famous for its tree climbing lions. The Ishasha Sector is notably recognized for its resident tree-climbing lions which are an exceptional attraction.

    After the game drive in Ishasha it is time to move to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home of the famous mountain gorillas. You will have lunch en route.

    On arrival, you will check in at your lodge, then later in the evening,  you will head out for a community walk where you will visit the Batwa. This is an indigenous group of people that have lived in the forest for over 500,000 years. You will enjoy traditional dances and drama from them.

    Batwa In Uganda

    Meals and overnight at Ruhija Gorilla Friends Resort/ Gorilla Friends Resort Lodge/ Nshongi Camp.

  • Day
    06

    Gorilla Trekking | Relaxing

    After breakfast, you will head out with your guide and a packed lunch to the park head offices for a briefing about the do’s and don’ts of gorilla trekking.

    Afterwards, you will head out for gorilla trekking through the misty rain forest. Trekking lasts two to six hours, depending on the location of the gentle giants. Make sure you carry enough water, sturdy shoes, non-flash cameras, and rain jackets.

    Spending time in the presence of mountain gorillas is a real privilege, so we are sure you will enjoy trekking deep into the forest to find them. This is one of the most memorable experiences you can have while on safari.

    At the end of this long and exciting adventure, you will head back to your lodge to freshen up and do some relaxing for the rest of the day.

    Meals and overnight at Ruhija Gorilla Friends Resort/ Gorilla Friends Resort Lodge/ Nshongi Camp.

  • Day
    07

    The Last Day With Us | Equator Stopover | Transfer To The Airport | Fly Back Home

    After having a delightful breakfast, you will be transferred to the Airport. Along the way, you will have a stopover at the Equator in Masaka.

    You will be able to see where this imaginary line divides our planet into two equal hemispheres. Lunch, snacks, souvenirs and photographs may be taken here.

    After you will be transferred to Entebbe International Airport for your scheduled flight back home.

    All good things must come to an end, and your time with us on safari in Uganda will now draw to a close. We're sure that you've had a wonderful time.

Inclusions

  • One gorilla permit per person to be secured and paid for well in advance
  • One chimpanzee permit per person to be secured and paid for well in advance
  • Services of an expert guide
  • Airport transfer (Airport pick up and drop off)
  • Daily meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Ground transportation (4×4 safari Landcruiser / minivan with pop-up tops)
  • Full board accommodation and en route meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • Park fees and relevant government taxes.

Exclusions

  • Airfares
  • Visa fees
  • Personal insurance
  • Expenses of personal nature, such as drinks, tips, laundry, telephone, and cigarettes
  • Accommodation and meals not indicated in the itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

General

1. What is included in the safari package cost?

The cost covers all accommodations, meals as specified, park entrance fees, game drives, gorilla and chimpanzee permits, boat cruises, guide services, and ground transportation throughout the safari.

2. Are gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits included?

Yes. Gorilla trekking permits (Bwindi) and chimpanzee trekking permits (Kibale) are included in the total cost of the trip.

3. What should I pack for this 7-day safari?

Essentials include lightweight clothing, hiking boots, a rain jacket, insect repellent, sunscreen, binoculars, a camera, a reusable water bottle, and personal medication. A full packing list will be shared upon booking.

4. Is this safari suitable for families with children?

Yes, but children under 15 are not allowed to participate in gorilla and chimpanzee trekking. We offer alternative activities for young children on those days.

5. What type of accommodations are provided?

We use clean, safe, and comfortable lodges. All accommodations have private self-contained rooms; bathrooms are inside the rooms/tents.

6. Can dietary requirements be accommodated?

Yes. We cater to most dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and others. Please let us know your preferences in advance.

7. How physically demanding is the safari?

While most of the safari involves vehicle-based game drives and scenic travel, gorilla and chimpanzee trekking require moderate physical fitness due to hiking in mountainous and forested terrain.

8. Is travel insurance required?

Yes. We strongly recommend that all participants have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.

9. What is the group size?

Our private safari is tailored to provide an intimate and immersive experience for small groups. We accommodate groups of 4 to 24 travelers, ensuring that each participant receives personalized attention and a unique safari experience.

10. Can the itinerary be customized?

Yes, we can tailor this safari to fit your schedule, interests, or accommodation preferences. Contact us for a personalized quote.

Why Should You Visit Uganda?

  • Uganda

Uganda is known as "The Pearl of Africa" with good cause. It is one of the few places in the world where you may enjoy safaris, mountains, forests, rivers, and rich culture all in one trip.

It is one of just three nations where you can journey to observe wild mountain gorillas, particularly in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Meeting these gentle giants is an unforgettable experience.

The Nile River's source is in Uganda! Jinja, Africa's adventure capital, offers whitewater rafting, kayaking, bungee jumping, and relaxing sunset cruises.

What are Gorilla Tracking Rules And Regulations?

Before Departing On Your Gorilla Trekking:

  • A maximum number of eight visitors may visit a group of habituated mountain gorillas in a day. This minimizes behavioral disturbance to the gorillas and the risk of their exposure to human-borne diseases.
  • Always wash your hands before you head out to the gorillas.

On The Way To The Gorillas:

  • Please always keep your voices low. You will also be able to observe the great birdlife and other wildlife in the forest.
  • DO NOT leave rubbish in the park. Whatever you bring into the forest should be carried back out with you.
  • You will be taken to where the guides observed the gorillas the day before. From there you will follow the gorilla’s trail to find them. Look out for the gorilla’s nesting sites along the way!
  • When you approach the mountain gorillas, the guides will inform you to get ready.

When You Are With The Gorillas:

  • A seven-meter (21 feet) distance should be tried to be observed at all times from the gorillas. The further back you are, the more relaxed the group will be.
  • You must stay in a tight group whey you are near the gorillas.
  • Keep your voices down at all times. However, it is okay to ask the guide questions.
  • Do not smoke, drink, or eat when you are near the gorillas. Eating or drinking inevitably will increase the risk of food/drink morsels/droplets falling, which could increase the risk of transmission of diseases.
  • Sometimes the gorillas charge. Follow the guides example (crouch down slowly, do not look the gorillas directly in the eyes, and wait for the animals to pass). Do not attempt to run away because that will increase the risk.
  • Flash photography is not permitted! When taking pictures move slowly and carefully.
  • Do not touch the gorillas. They are wild animals.
  • The maximum time you can spend with the gorillas is one hour. However, if the gorillas become agitated or nervous, the guide will finish the visit early.
  • After the visit keep your voices down until you are 200 meters away from the gorillas.

General Health Rules:

  • Remember that mountain gorillas are very susceptible to human diseases. The following rules are ways to minimize the risk your visit might pose to them.
  • Respect the limits imposed on the number of visitors allowed with the gorillas each day. This minimizes the risk of disease transmission and stress to the group.
  • If you are feeling ill, or you are carrying a contagious disease, volunteer to stay behind. An alternate visit will be arranged for you, or you will be refunded your money.
  • If you feel the urge to cough or sneeze when you are near the gorillas, please turn your head away and cover your nose and mouth in order to minimize the spread of bacteria or viruses.
  • Always stay seven meters (21 feet) away from the gorillas. This is to protect them from catching human diseases.
  • Do not leave any rubbish (eg. food wrappers) in the park; foreign items can harbor diseases or other contaminants.
  • If you need to go to the toilet while in the forest, please ask the guide to dig you a hole with his panga. Make sure the hole is 30 centimeters deep and fill it in when you are finished.

What To Bring On Your Gorilla Safari:

  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes suitable for steep muddy slopes.
  • Put on earplugs for those who feel uncomfortable with the jungle sounds.
  • Carry a packed lunch and enough drinking water.
  • Carry rain gear, sunscreen lotion, a hat (as the weather is unpredictable), and insect repellent.
  • Bring a photo of a film camera. Using a flashlight is not permitted so we recommend using films of 400-800 ASA.

Frequently Asked Question About Uganda

  1. When is the best time of year to visit Uganda?

Uganda is accessible at any time of year. Mountain gorilla trekking is on most tourists’ bucket lists, and permits are available all year.

Uganda is a tropical country that receives a lot of rain. The wettest months are March to May, which can make travel difficult. During the Wet Season some roads become extremely muddy and difficult to navigate.

The dry season months of June to August and December to February provide the best travel conditions, and are also ideal for Ugandan gorilla trekking. The dry season months are also ideal for general wildlife viewing in savannah reserves because animals congregate around rivers and waterholes, and the grass is shorter, making spotting easier.

2. How are the wildlife viewing opportunities in Uganda?

Uganda is home to some of the best wilderness areas on the African continent. Uganda unquestionably has some of the best and most beautiful wildlife in the world.

Uganda has a diverse wildlife population and is home to the big five game animals. Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park, and Lake Mburo National Park are the best places in Uganda to see wildlife.

A wildlife viewing experience in Uganda is well worth your time and money, and it will leave you with lasting memories. Uganda, unspoiled and raw, offers a genuine sense of off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Uganda is endowed with numerous natural and cultural wonders that are largely unknown to the general public. Uganda is still relatively unknown, with the majority of tourists interviewed stating that this was their first visit and promising to return with their friends. With an astounding number of hippos, rhinos, lions, leopards, elephants, gorillas, chimps, giraffes, buffalos, and other animals thriving in Uganda’s national parks, Uganda is undeniably endowed.

Uganda is home to over 350 different species of mammals of various sizes. They include large mammals such as gorillas, rhinos, hippos, chimps, buffaloes, lions, leopards, elephants, zebras, giraffes, and warthogs, as well as small mammals such as bats, moles, and shrews. These mammals are classified into three groups: primates (gorillas, chimps, monkeys, and others), carnivores (leopards, African wildcats, cheetahs, and others), and herbivores (Buffalos, elephants, Giraffes and more).

3. Is Uganda safe for tourists?

When traveling to urban areas, travelers should take the usual precautions for their safety and try to avoid traveling at night. Petty crime is a problem in urban areas, just as it is in all poor countries. Each national park is equipped with security personnel in order to guarantee the tourists’ well-being.