This 5-day best-of-Uganda primate safari is a perfect blend of thrilling wildlife encounters and cultural immersion. From chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park to gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, every moment offers unparalleled experiences that showcase Uganda’s natural wonders and rich heritage. The addition of community tours with the Bigodi and Batwa people further enriches this journey by providing insights into local traditions and conservation efforts.
A Uganda safari offers a unique tapestry of experiences, weaving together breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and the world’s most incredible primate populations. It is a journey that transcends typical wildlife viewing, inviting you into the emerald heart of ancient forests to stand in the presence of giants and witness the exhilarating chaos of our evolutionary cousins.
This 5-day primate safari is designed to offer the perfect balance of these two bucket-list experiences. It moves beyond the trails to include cultural interactions with local communities, providing context to the land and its people, and scenic delights like the tranquil crater lakes and the beautiful Lake Bunyonyi.
Tour highlights
Arrival and Transfer to Kibale National Park with Evening Crater Lake View
Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale National Park and Bigodi Community Tour
Transfer to Bwindi National Park with Batwa Community Tour
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi and Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
Depart Back to Kampala via Equator Line
Price Includes
Tour includes
All national park entrance fees and conservation levies
All activities mentioned in the itinerary
Ground transportation in a comfortable 4WD safari vehicle
Bottled water during drives and activities
Full board accommodation as specified in the itinerary
Services of a professional English-speaking driver-guide
Driver allowances and fees
Gorilla trekking permit
Chimpanzee trekking permit
All mentioned activities except for optional experiences
Price excludes
Tour Excludes:
Uganda Visa (available online or on arrival)
International and internal flights
Personal expenses including gratuities
Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Laundry services
Tips for guides and hotel staff
Travel and medical insurance
Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages beyond water
Itineraries
Day 1Arrival and Transfer to Kibale National Park with Evening Crater Lake View
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your safari guide who will give you a brief introduction of your 5 Days best of Uganda primate safari, After you’ll start on your a scenic drive to Kibale National Park, famously of known as the "Primate Capital of the World." The park is home to an astonishing diversity of primates, including chimpanzees, red colobus monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and many others.
As you traverse Uganda’s picturesque countryside, you’ll pass through rolling hills, tea plantations, and small villages that offer glimpses into local life. Upon arrival at Kibale National Park, you’ll check into your lodge and unwind before heading out for an evening excursion to explore one of the region’s stunning crater lakes. These tranquil lakes are remnants of ancient volcanic activity and provide breathtaking views as the sun sets over the horizon.
The crater lake experience offers a peaceful introduction to Uganda’s natural beauty and sets the tone for the exciting adventures ahead. After soaking in the serene atmosphere, you’ll return to your lodge for dinner and prepare for an exhilarating day of chimpanzee trekking.
Day 2Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale National Park and Bigodi Community Tour
Today start your day with an early breakfast before heading into Kibale National Park headquarters for one of the most thrilling experiences of your safari chimpanzee trekking. Accompanied by experienced rangers and guides, you’ll venture into the dense rainforest in search of these fascinating primates. Kibale boasts one of the highest densities of chimpanzees in Africa, making it an ideal destination for this activity.
As you trek through the forest, you’ll encounter other wildlife species and marvel at the biodiversity that surrounds you. Once you locate a group of chimpanzees, you’ll have the incredible opportunity to observe their behavior up close. Watch them swing from tree to tree, groom each other, and communicate through vocalizations a truly mesmerizing experience that highlights their intelligence and social dynamics.
After your trek, you’ll enjoy lunch before heading to Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for a community tour. This sanctuary is not only a haven for birdwatchers but also a hub for community-based tourism initiatives. Here, you’ll learn about local conservation efforts and interact with members of the Bigodi community. The tour includes visits to craft shops, traditional homesteads, and cultural performances that showcase Uganda’s vibrant heritage. By evening, you’ll return to your lodge for relaxation and dinner, reflecting on the unforgettable encounters of the day.
Day 3Transfer to Bwindi National Park with Batwa Community Tour
After breakfast, you’ll bid farewell to Kibale and encounter on a scenic drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The journey takes you through Uganda’s stunning landscapes, from terraced hills to lush valleys. Along the way, you’ll stop for lunch at a local restaurant before continuing toward Bwindi.
Upon arrival at Bwindi National Park, you’ll check into your lodge and prepare for an engaging cultural experience with the Batwa community. The Batwa are indigenous forest dwellers who have lived in harmony with nature for centuries. During this tour, you’ll learn about their traditional way of life, including hunting techniques, medicinal plant use, and storytelling traditions.
The Batwa community tour offers a unique perspective on conservation and cultural preservation, making it an enriching addition to your safari itinerary. After an immersive experience with the Batwa people, you’ll return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 4Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi and Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
Today marks the highlight of your Uganda safari gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. After an early breakfast, you’ll head to the park headquarters for a briefing on trekking guidelines and safety protocols. Equipped with walking sticks and accompanied by expert guides, you’ll venture into Bwindi’s mist-covered forests in search of mountain gorillas.
The trek can vary in duration depending on the location of the gorilla family assigned to your group. As you navigate through steep trails and dense vegetation, anticipation builds until you finally come face-to-face with these gentle giants. Spending an hour with a gorilla family is a profoundly moving experience that leaves most visitors in awe. You’ll witness their playful interactions, nurturing behaviors, and sheer presence – a moment that will stay etched in your memory forever.
After your gorilla trekking, transfer to Lake Bunyonyi one of Uganda’s most picturesque destinations. Known as "the place of many little birds," Lake Bunyonyi is surrounded by terraced hills and dotted with islands. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your lakeside accommodation and enjoy a relaxing evening by the water's edge.
Day 5Depart Back to Kampala via Equator Line
On the final day of your safari, you’ll enjoy breakfast by Lake Bunyonyi before encountering on your journey back to Kampala or Entebbe. The drive takes you through scenic landscapes and provides opportunities for roadside stops to capture memorable photographs or purchase souvenirs from local artisans.
A highlight of this return journey is a stop at the Equator line – a geographical landmark where you can stand in both hemispheres simultaneously. The Equator stop also features demonstrations about water flow direction in different hemispheres and offers great photo opportunities to commemorate your trip. Upon arrival in Kampala or Entebbe, your guide will drop you off at your hotel or airport for your departure flight.
