Destination

8-Day Gorillas, Chimps & Wildlife Safari in Uganda

Shoebill • Golden Monkeys • Gorillas • Chimps • Big Game • Culture

Your Journey At a Glance

Embark on an unforgettable 8-day journey through Uganda’s most iconic wildlife destinations. Begin in Kibale Forest, home to over 13 primate species including the famous chimpanzees. Continue through the wildlife-rich Kasenyi plains and Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, where tree-climbing lions, elephants, and buffalo roam freely. Trek mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter, then relax in the scenic landscapes of Lake Mburo National Park with walking safaris and game drives.

This premium safari offers a perfect blend of primates, big game, lakes, and cultural experiences, ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and adventure travellers seeking a luxury East African safari experience.

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detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe

Arrive at Entebbe International Airport and meet your Wild Compass Africa representative. Transfer to your hotel for a relaxed evening. Depending on your arrival time, explore Entebbe town, browse local markets, stroll the Botanical Gardens, or enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Victoria to Mabamba Swamp for a chance to spot the rare shoebill stork

Accommodation: Karibu Guest House | Protea Hotel Entebbe

Day 2: Transfer to Kibale National Park

 

After breakfast, depart Entebbe and drive west toward Kibale National Park, home to the highest density of primates in East Africa. Arrive at your lodge in time to relax and enjoy the peaceful forest setting.

Meals and Accommodation: Turaco Tree Tops | Kibale forest camp

Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking & Bigodi Community Walk

Enter the lush Kibale Forest for a thrilling chimpanzee trekking experience. Observe these remarkable primates in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, visit the Bigodi community for a guided walk through the wetlands, learning about local culture, flora, and fauna.

Meals and Accommodation: Turaco Tree Tops | Kibale forest camp

Day 4: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park –Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise & Kasenyi Evening Game Drive

After breakfast, depart Kibale and drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Arrive at the Kasenyi plains in time for lunch at your lodge.

In the afternoon, embark on a scenic boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, home to large pods of hippos, elephants drinking at the banks, and a rich variety of birdlife including herons, kingfishers, and African fish eagles.

Following the boat cruise, continue with an evening game drive in Kasenyi, a prime predator and wildlife corridor. Spot lions, buffalo, elephants, antelopes, and other savannah species as the sun sets over this iconic landscape. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Meals and Accommodation: The Bush Lodge | Elephant Hub

Day 5: Ishasha Game Drive – Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Begin with a morning game drive in the Ishasha sector, famous for tree-climbing lions lounging in giant fig trees. Later, continue to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and check into your lodge in preparation for the gorilla trek.

Meals and Accommodation: Four Gorillas | Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

Day 6: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Today is the highlight of your safari—mountain gorilla trekking. Hike through Bwindi’s dense rainforest until you encounter a habituated gorilla family. Spend an hour observing their behaviour, taking photographs, and enjoying this rare, intimate wildlife experience. Return to your lodge for a relaxing evening.

Meals and Accommodation: Meals and Accommodation: Four Gorillas | Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

Day 7: Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park – Afternoon Game Drive

Travel to Lake Mburo National Park, a small but diverse park known for zebras, giraffes, elands, impalas, and hippos. Enjoy an afternoon game drive and sundowner over the savannah, capturing the golden African sunset.

Meals and Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock | Mihigo lodge | Mpogo safari Lodge

Day 8: Morning Walking Safari – Transfer to Entebbe Airport

Start your final day with a walking safari accompanied by a ranger, one of the few parks in Uganda where this is possible. Observe wildlife at close range while learning about their habitats. Afterwards, transfer back to Entebbe for your departure flight.

Meals | No accommodation

INCLUDES

  • Airport transfers in Entebbe
  • All ground transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
  • Professional English-speaking safari guide
  • Gorilla trekking permit
  • Chimpanzee trekking permit
  • All park entrance fees and activities listed
  • Lake Mburo walking safari
  • Kazinga Channel boat cruise
  • Accommodation and meals as per itinerary
  • Bottled water in the safari vehicle

 

BEST TIME TO TRAVEL

  • Best for gorilla trekking: June–August and December–February (drier trails, easier trekking)
  • Best for chimps and general wildlife viewing: June–September & December–February
  • Best for birding and photography (green season): March–May & September–November
  • Shoulder months (fewer visitors): March, May, September, November

EXCLUDES

  • International flights to/from Uganda
  • Visa fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
  • Alcoholic drinks at lodges
  • Tips and personal expenses

OPTIONAL ADD-ONS (at extra cost)

  • Domestic flight (Entebbe–Kihihi return) to shorten road transfers
  • Additional night in Bwindi or Entebbe for rest or international flight timing
  • Private vehicle/upgrade to a premium safari vehicle with pop-up roof for photography groups
  • Camera guide or private photography tour leader
  • Extra cultural/community visits and extended Batwa experiences
  • Travel/holiday insurance upgrades and evacuation cover
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