Life-changing experience
10 Days Combined Chimpanzee & Gorilla Trekking
BOOK TOURThis 10 Days Combined Chimpanzee & Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda & Rwanda combines the best primate experiences in Uganda and Rwanda, including chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest, gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and additional gorilla encounters in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda. Travelers will explore lush rainforests, scenic landscapes, and local cultures, making it perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and photographers.
10 Days Combined Chimpanzee & Gorilla Trekking
Tour highlights
- Destinations: Kibale Forest National Park (Uganda), Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Uganda), Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda), Kigali
- Attractions: Chimpanzee trekking, gorilla trekking, primate observation, forest walks, cultural visits, scenic drives
- Activities: Guided chimpanzee trek, gorilla trek, primate photography, forest exploration, cultural immersion
10 Days Combined Chimpanzee & Gorilla Trekking
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, passing through scenic hills, tea and coffee plantations, and local villages. Check in at your lodge and enjoy dinner while preparing for the 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, tracking chimpanzees with experienced rangers. Spend up to one hour observing the 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 & Transfer to Bwindi
After breakfast, take a guided walk through Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, spotting birds, primates, and enjoying the swamp ecosystem. Continue your journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, passing through scenic landscapes. Check in at your lodge or camp in the late afternoon and enjoy dinner.
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. Trek through dense forest terrain to locate a habituated gorilla family. Spend up to one hour observing these gentle giants, capturing memorable photographs and witnessing their social interactions. 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 Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
After breakfast, cross into Rwanda and drive to Volcanoes National Park. Check in at your lodge and enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Prepare for gorilla trekking and golden monkey encounters in the following days. Dinner is served at the lodge.
Accommodation options:
- Budget: Volcanoes Guest House
- Mid-range: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
- Luxury: Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
Day 6: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
After an early breakfast, embark on a guided gorilla trekking expedition in Volcanoes National Park. Trek through bamboo forests and lush vegetation in search of a habituated gorilla family. Spend up to one hour observing these magnificent primates before returning to your lodge for lunch and relaxation. Dinner and overnight stay follow.
Accommodation options:
- Budget: Volcanoes Guest House
- Mid-range: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
- Luxury: Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
Day 7: Golden Monkey Trekking & Cultural Visits
After breakfast, undertake golden monkey trekking, following these playful primates through bamboo forests. In the afternoon, enjoy a cultural visit to nearby local communities to learn about Rwandan traditions and conservation efforts. Return to your lodge for dinner.
Accommodation options:
- Budget: Volcanoes Guest House
- Mid-range: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
- Luxury: Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
Day 8: Optional Hike & Scenic Exploration
After breakfast, take an optional hike to see the stunning Virunga Volcanoes, crater lakes, or scenic viewpoints. Spend the afternoon relaxing at your lodge or engaging in optional nature walks. Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge.
Accommodation options:
- Budget: Volcanoes Guest House
- Mid-range: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
- Luxury: Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge
Day 9: Transfer to Kigali & City Exploration
After breakfast, drive to Kigali, Rwanda’s capital. En route, stop at scenic viewpoints and local markets. In Kigali, visit the Genocide Memorial or explore the city’s cultural sites. Check in at your hotel and enjoy dinner.
Accommodation options:
- Budget: Discover Rwanda Guesthouse
- Mid-range: Heaven Boutique Hotel
- Luxury: Kigali Serena Hotel
Day 10: Departure from Kigali
After breakfast, check out and transfer to Kigali International Airport for your onward journey, marking the end of your 10-day combined chimpanzee and gorilla trekking safari across Uganda and Rwanda.
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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10 Days Combined Chimpanzee & Gorilla Trekking
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