Magical
5 DAYS THE GREAT APES OF UGANDA
BOOK TOURThis 5 days the great apes of Uganda adventure takes you deep into the heart of Uganda — a land of endless green forests, rich wildlife, and unforgettable primate encounters. Experience the rare thrill of meeting mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and chimpanzees in Kibale Forest, complemented by scenic drives and the untamed beauty of the Ishasha plains. This journey is the ultimate great ape experience in the Pearl of Africa.
5 DAYS THE GREAT APES OF UGANDA
Tour highlights
- Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
- Day 2: Transfer to Bwindi National Park with a Game Drive in Ishasha.
- Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
- Day 4: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park.
- Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking & Bigodi Wetland Visit.
5 DAYS THE GREAT APES OF UGANDA
Detailed itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly received by your driver-guide who will brief you about your safari. You’ll then be transferred to your hotel in Entebbe or Kampala for relaxation after your flight. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy a short visit to the nearby Botanical Gardens or Uganda Wildlife Education Centre for a taste of the country’s natural charm. Dinner and overnight stay in Entebbe.
Day 2: Transfer to Bwindi National Park with a Game Drive in Ishasha.
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive toward the southwestern part of Uganda — a region of terraced hills and dense rainforests. You’ll drive through Queen Elizabeth National Park’s famous Ishasha sector, renowned for its unique tree-climbing lions. Keep your eyes open for elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes as you enjoy this incredible detour. Continue your journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, arriving in the evening to settle into your lodge surrounded by lush forest landscapes. Dinner and overnight in Bwindi.
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Today marks the highlight of your safari — the unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing about gorilla tracking rules. With an expert ranger guide, venture into the dense, mist-covered forest to search for a habituated gorilla family. The trek may take several hours depending on their location, but the moment you find them is magical — observing these gentle giants interact in their natural world is truly humbling. Spend an awe-inspiring hour with them before returning to your lodge for a relaxed afternoon surrounded by the soothing forest sounds.
Day 4: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park.
After breakfast, depart for Kibale Forest National Park — Uganda’s primate capital. The drive takes you through stunning countryside, rolling hills, and crater lakes that paint a perfect picture of rural Uganda. Arrive in the afternoon and check in at your lodge nestled at the edge of the forest. The evening can be spent at leisure or enjoying a guided nature walk around the nearby community trails. Dinner and overnight in Kibale.
Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking & Bigodi Wetland Visit.
Rise early for a briefing before setting out for an exciting chimpanzee trekking experience in Kibale Forest. The park is home to over 1,400 chimpanzees, as well as several other primate species such as red colobus, black-and-white colobus, and L’Hoest’s monkeys. Watching chimpanzees play, feed, and communicate in their natural habitat is both fascinating and emotional. Later, enjoy a guided walk through Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, an important eco-tourism site known for its birdlife and community-based conservation initiatives. Return to your lodge for lunch before beginning your scenic transfer back to Entebbe, marking the end of your unforgettable Great Apes of Uganda safari.
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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5 DAYS THE GREAT APES OF UGANDA
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