Overview
Discover Uganda’s rich tapestry of wildlife and landscapes on this classic 5-day safari. From lions on the savannah plains to chimpanzees swinging through lush tropical forests, this journey takes you deep into two of Uganda’s most iconic national parks — Queen Elizabeth and Kibale — offering unforgettable encounters and diverse ecosystems.
Your adventure begins after an early breakfast, with a scenic drive from Kampala to the southwest. Along the way, pause for photos at the Equator before continuing through vibrant towns and rich farmlands. Lunch will be enjoyed en route. As you enter Queen Elizabeth National Park, keep your eyes open for antelopes grazing in the distance.
Arrive at your lodge by evening, ready to relax and enjoy dinner as you take in the quiet beauty of the wilderness.
Start the day with an early morning game drive across the Kasenyi plains. Expect sightings of lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, hyenas, and waterbucks, along with dozens of savannah bird species.
Return to the lodge for breakfast and leisure time. After lunch, embark on a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, a 32-km waterway teeming with life. Witness enormous pods of hippos, Nile crocodiles, buffaloes, and a remarkable concentration of water birds — including African fish eagles, pelicans, jacanas, and possibly the elusive shoebill stork.
Depart early for Kyambura Gorge, also known as the “Valley of Apes,” located in the eastern part of the park. After a safety briefing, descend into the forested gorge for an exhilarating chimpanzee tracking experience.
Following the trek, continue your journey to Kibale National Park via Fort Portal, with scenic views of the crater lakes and Rwenzori foothills along the way.
Spend the morning exploring Fort Portal, a charming town surrounded by tea plantations and volcanic landscapes. Visit local villages or stop at cultural sites before heading to Kanyanchu Visitor Centre for an afternoon chimpanzee trek in Kibale Forest.
This lush rainforest is home to 13 primate species, including vervet monkeys, red colobus, L’hoest monkeys, and black-and-white colobus. You may also encounter forest elephants, bush pigs, and rare birds such as the Great Blue Turaco.
Optionally, visit the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-run conservation area rich in wildlife.
After breakfast, enjoy a guided nature walk through Bigodi Wetlands, renowned for its biodiversity and community conservation efforts. Spot bird species such as the Emerald Cuckoo, Snowy-headed Robin-chat, and Black-and-white Casqued Hornbill, along with butterflies and swamp-dwelling primates.
After lunch, begin the return drive to Kampala or Entebbe, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel or airport.
End of Safari with AA Safaris & Tours Ltd.
Inclusion
Includes
- Park Entrance Fees
- Airport transfers
- Private 4x4 safari vehicle
- English-speaking professional driver/guide
- Chimpanzee tracking permit
- Park entry fees and activity fees (as per itinerary)
- Accommodation
- Bottled drinking water in the vehicle
Excludes
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Tips and gratuities to guides and hotel staff
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, shopping)
FAQs
Chimpanzee trekking requires moderate physical fitness. Trails can be steep and muddy, but rangers tailor the experience based on group ability.
Expect to see large pods of hippos, Nile crocodiles, elephants, and buffaloes, along with African fish eagles, pelicans, and other water birds.
This itinerary is ideal year-round, but the dry seasons (June–August and December–February) offer easier trekking and clearer game viewing conditions.
Chimpanzee permits are usually included in your safari package, but always confirm with your tour consultant during booking.
Bigodi is a community-based conservation area near Kibale Forest, known for its birdlife, swamp mammals, and ecotourism programs benefiting local residents.
Comfortable hiking shoes, long-sleeved clothing, insect repellent, binoculars, rain gear, a hat, and sun protection are all essential.