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12 Days Uganda Chimpanzee Safari with Rwenzori
BOOK TOURThis 12 Days Uganda Chimpanzee Safari with Rwenzori & Cultural Experiences offers an in-depth exploration of Uganda’s primates, wildlife, and culture, combining chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest, scenic drives in the Rwenzori Mountains, and immersive cultural encounters with local communities. Travelers will experience lush forests, rich biodiversity, and authentic Ugandan culture, making this itinerary ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and culture seekers.
12 Days Uganda Chimpanzee Safari with Rwenzori
Tour highlights
- Destinations: Kibale Forest National Park, Fort Portal, Rwenzori Mountains, Queen Elizabeth National Park, local communities
- Attractions: Chimpanzee trekking, primate observation, game drives, cultural visits, Rwenzori mountain scenery, birdwatching
- Activities: Guided chimpanzee trek, wildlife safari, forest walks, cultural immersion, nature photography, scenic drives
12 Days Uganda Chimpanzee Safari with Rwenzori
Detailed itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Transfer to Fort Portal
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, meet your guide and transfer to Fort Portal. The drive takes you through rolling hills, tea and coffee plantations, and scenic Ugandan countryside. Check in at your lodge and enjoy dinner while preparing for the upcoming chimpanzee trekking adventure.
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 rainforest with experienced rangers, listening for chimpanzee calls. Spend up to one hour observing chimpanzees as they feed, play, and interact. Return to your lodge in the afternoon to relax and enjoy dinner.
Accommodation options:
- Budget: Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse
- Mid-range: Primate Lodge Kibale
- Luxury: Kibale Guest Cottages
Day 3: Bigodi Wetland Walk & Local Community Visit
After breakfast, take a guided walk through Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, spotting birds, primates, and other wildlife in the swamp ecosystem. In the afternoon, visit local communities to learn about Rwandan culture, crafts, and traditional conservation practices. Return to your lodge for dinner.
Accommodation options:
- Budget: Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse
- Mid-range: Primate Lodge Kibale
- Luxury: Kibale Guest Cottages
Day 4: Transfer to the Rwenzori Mountains Region
Following breakfast, drive to the Rwenzori Mountains region, passing scenic landscapes and picturesque villages. Check in at your lodge and spend the afternoon at leisure, enjoying views of the “Mountains of the Moon.” Dinner is served at the lodge.
Accommodation options:
- Budget: Rwenzori View Guesthouse
- Mid-range: Rwenzori View Lodge
- Luxury: Mount Rwenzori Hotel / Kilembe Resort
Day 5: Rwenzori Mountains Hiking & Nature Walks
After breakfast, embark on guided hiking and nature walks in the Rwenzori Mountains, exploring montane forests, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints. Spot unique flora, birds, and small wildlife endemic to the region. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Accommodation options:
- Budget: Rwenzori View Guesthouse
- Mid-range: Rwenzori View Lodge
- Luxury: Mount Rwenzori Hotel / Kilembe Resort
Day 6: Cultural Village Visits
Following breakfast, visit local villages to learn about the Bakonzo people, their traditions, and farming practices. Participate in cultural activities and interact with community members. Afternoon at leisure for optional short hikes or photography sessions. Dinner at the lodge.
Accommodation options:
- Budget: Rwenzori View Guesthouse
- Mid-range: Rwenzori View Lodge
- Luxury: Mount Rwenzori Hotel / Kilembe Resort
Day 7: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After breakfast, drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s premier safari destination. Stop for scenic photo opportunities along the way. Check in at your lodge and enjoy an evening game drive or relaxation. Dinner and overnight stay follow.
Accommodation options:
- Budget: Enganzi Game Lodge
- Mid-range: Ihamba Lodge
- Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge
Day 8: Game Drive & Ishasha Tree-Climbing Lions
Enjoy a morning game drive in the Ishasha Sector, famous for tree-climbing lions. Spot elephants, leopards, and other savannah wildlife. Afternoon at leisure for relaxation or short nature walks. Dinner at the lodge.
Accommodation options:
- Budget: Enganzi Game Lodge
- Mid-range: Ihamba Lodge
- Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge
Day 9: Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise & Afternoon Game Drive
After breakfast, embark on a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, observing hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife. Afternoon game drive through the park for additional wildlife sightings. Return to your lodge for dinner.
Accommodation options:
- Budget: Enganzi Game Lodge
- Mid-range: Ihamba Lodge
- Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge
Day 10: Morning Game Drive & Transfer Back to Fort Portal
After an early morning game drive, depart for Fort Portal. Stop at scenic viewpoints, tea plantations, and villages along the way. Check in at your lodge in the evening and enjoy dinner.
Accommodation options:
- Budget: Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse
- Mid-range: Primate Lodge Kibale
- Luxury: Kibale Guest Cottages
Day 11: Optional Chimpanzee or Primate Walks
After breakfast, take an optional morning primate walk or forest exploration to spot red-tailed monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and other wildlife. Afternoon cultural visit or relaxation at the lodge. Dinner and overnight stay.
Accommodation options:
- Budget: Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse
- Mid-range: Primate Lodge Kibale
- Luxury: Kibale Guest Cottages
Day 12: Departure
After breakfast, check out and transfer to Entebbe International Airport for your onward journey, concluding your 12-day Uganda chimpanzee safari with Rwenzori and cultural experiences.
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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12 Days Uganda Chimpanzee Safari with Rwenzori
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