Silhouettes of the bush
7 Days Uganda Primate Safari – Chimpanzees
BOOK TOURThis 7 Days Uganda Primate Safari – Chimpanzees, Gorillas & Golden Monkeys offers an unforgettable wildlife adventure across Uganda, combining chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest, gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and golden monkey trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and primate lovers, this itinerary provides close encounters with Uganda’s most iconic primates in lush tropical forests.
7 Days Uganda Primate Safari – Chimpanzees
Tour highlights
- Destinations: Kibale Forest National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Fort Portal
- Attractions: Chimpanzee trekking, gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, forest walks, birdwatching, cultural visits
- Activities: Guided primate treks, wildlife photography, cultural immersion, forest exploration
7 Days Uganda Primate Safari – Chimpanzees
Detailed itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Transfer to Fort Portal
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be met by your guide and transferred to Fort Portal, the gateway to western Uganda’s forests. Enjoy scenic views of rolling hills, tea and coffee plantations, and local villages. Check in at your lodge, relax, and enjoy dinner as you prepare for the upcoming primate adventures.
Accommodation options:
- Budget: Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse
- Mid-range: Primate Lodge Kibale
- Luxury: Kibale Guest Cottages
Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest
After breakfast, embark on a guided chimpanzee trekking expedition in Kibale Forest National Park. Trek through dense tropical forest while listening for chimpanzee calls and tracking them with the help of experienced rangers. Spend up to one hour observing the chimpanzees as they feed, play, and interact. In the afternoon, return to your lodge to relax and enjoy dinner.
Accommodation options:
- Budget: Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse
- Mid-range: Primate Lodge Kibale
- Luxury: Kibale Guest Cottages
Day 3: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Following breakfast, drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The scenic journey passes through tea plantations, local villages, and rolling hills. Check in at your lodge or camp. The afternoon is free to relax or take a short nature walk. Dinner is served at the lodge in preparation for gorilla trekking.
Accommodation options:
- Budget: Buhoma Community Rest Camp
- Mid-range: Gorilla Mist Camp
- Luxury: Bwindi Lodge / Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
After an early breakfast, embark on a guided gorilla trekking expedition in Bwindi. Trek through dense jungle terrain to locate a habituated gorilla family. Spend up to one hour observing these gentle giants, capturing their social interactions, and taking photographs. Return to your lodge in the afternoon to relax and enjoy dinner.
Accommodation options:
- Budget: Buhoma Community Rest Camp
- Mid-range: Gorilla Mist Camp
- Luxury: Bwindi Lodge / Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
Day 5: Transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – Golden Monkey Trekking
After breakfast, drive to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Upon arrival, prepare for golden monkey trekking, a unique experience in which you follow these small, playful primates through bamboo forests. Learn about their habitat and behavior while enjoying the lush scenery. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Accommodation options:
- Budget: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge (budget sector nearby)
- Mid-range: Gorilla Safari Lodge Mgahinga
- Luxury: Nkuringo Gorilla Camp
Day 6: Cultural Visit & Optional Hike
After breakfast, take a guided cultural visit to local communities around Mgahinga or Bwindi. Learn about the Batwa pygmy culture and their traditional way of life. For those interested, optional short hikes to view scenic volcano landscapes or crater lakes can be arranged. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Accommodation options:
- Budget: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge
- Mid-range: Gorilla Safari Lodge Mgahinga
- Luxury: Nkuringo Gorilla Camp
Day 7: Departure
After breakfast, check out and transfer back to Entebbe International Airport or your next destination, concluding your 7-day Uganda primate safari.
Accommodation options:
(No overnight stay unless extending your trip.)
Best Time to Go on Safari
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June to October (Dry Season):
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Best overall wildlife viewing across East and Southern Africa.
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Animals gather around rivers and waterholes, making sightings easier.
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Ideal time for the Great Migration river crossings in the Serengeti and Maasai Mara (July–October).
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December to March:
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Great time for calving season in the Southern Serengeti and Ndutu plains.
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Fewer crowds and lush green landscapes.
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Excellent for birdwatching with migratory species present.
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April to May (Long Rains):
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Some camps close due to heavy rains and muddy roads.
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Cheaper prices and fewer tourists.
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Beautiful, dramatic skies for photography, though game viewing can be harder.
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What to Pack for a Safari
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Clothing
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Neutral-colored, lightweight clothing (khaki, beige, green—avoid bright colors and dark blue/black which attract insects).
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Long-sleeved shirts and trousers for sun protection and cooler evenings.
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A warm fleece or jacket for chilly mornings and nights.
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Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots.
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A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
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Gear & Essentials
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Binoculars for close-up wildlife viewing.
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Camera with extra batteries and memory cards.
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Reusable water bottle.
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Sunscreen and insect repellent.
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Small backpack or daypack for game drives.
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Travel Essentials
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Valid passport and required visas.
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Travel insurance documents.
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Vaccination certificates (Yellow Fever often required).
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Personal medications and a small first aid kit.
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Local currency and/or cards for expenses and tips.
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For more info or to book this tour
Consult our specialist to design a personalized safari itinerary!
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7 Days Uganda Primate Safari – Chimpanzees
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