5 Days Uganda Primate Safari

Uganda, known as the “Pearl of Africa,” offers some of the most thrilling primate experiences on the continent. Home to nearly half the world’s mountain gorillas, the country also shelters chimpanzees, golden monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and many other primate species.

This 5-day Uganda Primate Safari focuses on two key destinations: Kibale National Park, renowned for chimpanzee tracking, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the legendary site for mountain gorilla trekking. This itinerary promises close-up encounters with these magnificent creatures, lush tropical forests, and unforgettable moments in the heart of Africa.

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Kibale Forest

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport or in Kampala, you will meet your safari guide and begin your journey westward to Kibale National Park — about a 5–6 hour scenic drive through rolling hills, tea plantations, and traditional villages.

On arrival, check in at your lodge near Kibale Forest and relax after the journey. Depending on arrival time, you may opt for a nature walk in the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-run project rich in birdlife and primates such as red-tailed monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and black-and-white colobus.

Enjoy a welcome dinner and overnight stay at your lodge, surrounded by the sounds of the forest.

Day 2: Chimpanzee Tracking and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

After an early breakfast, head into Kibale Forest for an unforgettable chimpanzee tracking experience. With a guide, you’ll trek through the lush forest to locate and observe a habituated chimpanzee community, watching their social behaviors, feeding, grooming, and vocal interactions. Along the way, you may also spot other primates, forest birds, and unique plant species.

After lunch, depart for Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most popular savannah reserve, famous for its tree-climbing lions, diverse wildlife, and beautiful crater lakes. Enjoy an evening game drive en route to your lodge, spotting elephants, buffalo, antelope, and possibly lions or leopards.

Dinner and overnight at your safari lodge overlooking the park.

Day 3: Game Drive and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Start your day with a morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, exploring the Kasenyi plains for lions, hyenas, Uganda kob, warthogs, and a wealth of birdlife. If time allows, you can also take an optional boat safari on the Kazinga Channel (recommended), known for large populations of hippos, crocodiles, and water birds.

After lunch, continue your journey south through scenic countryside, terraced hills, and rural landscapes to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places in the world to see mountain gorillas.

Arrive at your lodge near the forest, settle in, and prepare for the next day’s main event.

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking Adventure

Today is the highlight of your safari! After an early breakfast, head to the Bwindi park headquarters for a briefing from the Uganda Wildlife Authority. You’ll be assigned a gorilla family group and guided into the dense forest to begin your gorilla trekking experience.

The trek can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours depending on the gorillas’ location, but the reward is unforgettable: spending a magical hour with a habituated group of mountain gorillas, observing their social bonds, feeding, playing, and resting in their natural habitat.

After the trek, return to your lodge to relax, share stories, and enjoy a well-earned dinner. Optional activities in the afternoon (if time and energy allow) include a visit to a local Batwa pygmy community or a guided forest walk.

Day 5: Return to Kampala or Entebbe

After breakfast, begin your return journey to Kampala or Entebbe — a drive of about 8–9 hours, with scenic stops along the way for photos, leg stretches, or to purchase crafts from local artisans. You can opt for a packed lunch or a sit-down meal en route.

Depending on your flight schedule, you can either catch a late evening flight out of Entebbe or add an overnight stay to explore more of the city, perhaps visiting attractions like the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre or the craft markets.