Overview
This journey through Uganda offers an immersive look at the country’s remarkable biodiversity, cultural depth, and dramatic landscapes. From the playful chimpanzees of Ngamba Island to the majestic mountain gorillas of Bwindi, each stop is designed to bring you closer to the wild heart of East Africa. The route winds through lush forests, crater-dotted highlands, scenic lakes, and savannah plains, culminating in rich wildlife encounters and genuine community interactions. It is a route crafted for travelers who want more than a vacation — those who seek connection, awe, and memory-making moments.
Itinerary
Start your adventure with a boat ride across Lake Victoria to Ngamba Island, home to a sanctuary for rescued chimpanzees. After a short briefing, you will watch the chimpanzees during their feeding session and learn about their rehabilitation stories. You may observe unique behaviors such as clapping or vocalizing for food. In the afternoon, return to Entebbe or Kampala for dinner and an overnight stay.
Overnight: Hotel in Entebbe or Kampala (HB)
Travel north through Luweero and Masindi to Murchison Falls National Park. Cross the River Nile by ferry (if staying on the north side) and arrive at your lodge nestled in the park’s savannah or riverine forest.
Overnight: Paraa Safari Lodge / Nile Safari Camp / Sambiya River Lodge / Red Chilli Camp (FB)
Take an early morning game drive to spot giraffes, antelopes, buffaloes, elephants, and lions. After a relaxed breakfast and lunch, set out on an afternoon boat cruise on the Nile to the base of Murchison Falls. Look for hippos, crocodiles, waterbucks, and abundant birdlife along the riverbanks.
Overnight: Same lodge as previous night (FB)
Head south via Hoima and the scenic Albertine Rift Valley to reach Fort Portal. The journey is long but rewarding, passing tea plantations, crater lakes, and lush countryside.
Overnight: Ndali Lodge / Primates Lodge / Rwenzori View Guest House / Sky Tree House (FB)
After an early breakfast, head to the Kanyanchu Visitor Center for a chimpanzee tracking experience in Kibale Forest. Besides chimpanzees, you may encounter red colobus monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, blue monkeys, and bush babies. After lunch, take a guided walk in Bigodi Wetland, known for birds, butterflies, and community tourism.
Overnight: Ndali Lodge / Rwenzori View Guest House / Kanyanchu Campsite (FB)
Depart for Semuliki National Park to visit the Sempaya hot springs and interact with local Batwa (Pygmy) communities. Later, continue to Queen Elizabeth National Park for a short game drive en route to your lodge.
Overnight: Mweya Safari Lodge / Jacana Safari Lodge / Institute of Ecology (FB)
Start the day with a game drive along Kasenyi Plains, where you may see lions, Uganda kob, elephants, and buffaloes. In the afternoon, cruise along the Kazinga Channel to see hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds. A sunset nature walk offers a quieter perspective on the park’s birdlife.
Overnight: Same lodge as previous night (FB)
Enjoy a second chimpanzee tracking session (optional) or birdwatching walk. Then travel south through the Ishasha sector, looking for tree-climbing lions, before continuing to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Overnight: Gorilla Forest Camp / Lake Kitandara Tented Camp / Buhoma View Bandas (FB)
Begin the day with a briefing by park rangers before heading into the forest. The trek may take several hours, but the moment you find a mountain gorilla family, you’ll have one unforgettable hour in their company. Return to your lodge for a well-earned rest.
Overnight: Acadia Cottages / Lodge from previous night (FB)
Drive to Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda’s deepest and most scenic lake. Enjoy a boat ride among its many islands, then continue through Kabale and Mbarara to Lake Mburo National Park. If time allows, enjoy an evening boat cruise.
Overnight: Mihingo Lodge / Mantana Tented Camp / Rwonyo Rest Camp (FB)
Set out early for a game drive in Lake Mburo, known for zebras, elands, and impalas. After breakfast, begin your return journey to Kampala. A stop at the equator for photos and souvenirs wraps up your safari before your airport transfer in Entebbe.
Inclusions
Includes
- Gorilla trekking permit (Uganda)
- Chimpanzee tracking permit
- Rhino tracking at Zziwa Sanctuary
- All park entry fees and conservation charges
- All accommodation (mid-range/luxury options)
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary
- 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- English-speaking safari guide
- Bottled drinking water during road travel
- Airport transfers
Excludes
- International flights
- Uganda visa fees
- Travel and medical insurance
- Personal expenses (laundry, tips, souvenirs)
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Optional activities not included in the main itinerary
FAQs
During chimpanzee tracking and gorilla trekking, you may come as close as 7 meters, but the primates often move closer on their own. Guides ensure a safe and respectful distance is maintained.
Yes, during the forest walk on Ngamba Island, chimps accustomed to humans may approach you, touch you, or walk alongside. Trained staff supervise the entire experience to ensure safety.
Yes, but flash photography is prohibited around the chimpanzees and gorillas. It’s best to carry a camera with a good zoom lens.