Game drives in Queen Elizabeth, chimp tracking in Kyambura Gorge, and gorilla trekking in Bwindi — all in just 5 days!
This 5-day Uganda safari combines thrilling game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, an exciting chimpanzee tracking adventure in the scenic Kyambura Gorge, and a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience in the dense jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. It’s a perfect short primate and wildlife safari tailored for nature lovers and adventurers.
Highlights:
Begin your adventure with a scenic drive from Entebbe or Kampala to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Along the way, pass rural landscapes, tea plantations, and crater lakes before arriving at your lodge inside the park. In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxed game drive where you may spot elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and colorful birdlife. Settle in for dinner with views of the savannah and prepare for the exciting days ahead.
Start the day with an unforgettable chimpanzee tracking experience in the Kyambura Gorge — known as the "Valley of Apes." Hike through tropical forest terrain as you search for chimpanzees in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, embark on a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, one of Africa’s densest concentrations of hippos and a favorite watering hole for elephants and buffalo. Overnight at your lodge.
Depart early for the southern Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its unique tree-climbing lions. Enjoy a game drive through the remote savannah plains, spotting wildlife like topi, kob, and possibly leopards. After lunch, continue your journey through the highlands to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to nearly half of the world’s mountain gorillas. Check in to your rainforest lodge for dinner and overnight.
After breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a pre-trek briefing. Led by expert guides, hike through dense forest in search of a habituated gorilla family. The trek can last 2–6 hours, but the reward is unmatched — one magical hour observing gorillas in their natural habitat. Witness their behavior, interactions, and the commanding presence of the silverback. Return to the lodge for lunch, relaxation, and optional cultural visits in the afternoon.
Enjoy breakfast in the tranquil forest before starting the return drive to Entebbe or Kampala. En route, pass banana plantations, hillside farms, and bustling local markets. Stop for lunch and souvenirs along the way. Arrive in Entebbe by evening, marking the end of a life-changing journey through Uganda’s most iconic national parks and primate sanctuaries.
Select your comfort level. All packages include full-board lodging near Queen Elizabeth and Bwindi Forest, en-suite rooms, meals, and private safari transport with driver-guide.
| Comfort Level | Recommended Lodges | Price (Per Person) |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | Bush Lodge, Ride 4 a Woman Guest House | $1,670 |
| Midrange | Bush Lodge, Bweza Gorilla Lodge | $1,835 |
| Luxury | Mweya Safari Lodge, Buhoma Lodge | $3,090 |
The best time to enjoy this 5-day safari is during Uganda’s dry seasons, from June to August and December to February. These months offer better hiking conditions for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking and excellent wildlife viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Yes, this safari includes both permits:
These permits are pre-booked to guarantee availability.
Gorilla trekking can range from moderate to strenuous, depending on the location of the gorilla family. Chimpanzee tracking is usually less demanding but still requires walking through forested terrain. A moderate fitness level is recommended.
You can choose between budget, midrange, and luxury accommodation options. All lodges are en-suite, offer hot showers, and are located close to the parks for convenience. The package includes full-board meals.
This is a fully private safari, meaning your group will have its own dedicated 4x4 safari vehicle and an experienced English-speaking driver-guide throughout the trip. However, the park-regulated treks for gorillas and chimps are done in small groups of up to 8 people.
Recommended items include:
Yes, the tour is customizable. You can add activities like:
While wildlife is unpredictable, sightings are highly likely — with over 95% success rate for both gorillas and chimpanzees, thanks to expert trackers and habituated families.
Yes. You’ll need a Uganda visa or East African Tourist Visa (if entering from Rwanda or Kenya). A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required upon entry. Malaria prevention pills are strongly recommended.
We recommend booking at least 3 to 6 months in advance, especially if traveling during the dry season. This ensures we secure your gorilla and chimpanzee permits, which are limited and sell out quickly.
Interested in this primate & wildlife adventure? Submit your travel preferences to receive a personalized quote.
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