9 Days Ultimate Gorilla and Primate Safari
A deep, unhurried journey through Uganda’s most wildlife-rich landscapes — from playful chimpanzees to a life-changing face-to-face encounter with mountain gorillas.
- Uganda
- 9 Days
- From $3198 Per Person
Overview
This 9-day safari is designed for travelers who want more than a quick wildlife tick-list. You’ll move slowly through Uganda’s best primate and savannah destinations, giving you time to connect with nature, people, and wildlife.
You’ll track chimpanzees in the lush forests of Kibale Forest National Park, explore classic game-viewing areas in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and finish with the ultimate highlight — gorilla trekking in the misty forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
This safari balances adventure, comfort, and authentic African moments, guided by experienced local professionals who know these landscapes intimately.
Highlights
- Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest
- Big game safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel
- Optional tree-climbing lions experience (seasonal)
- Scenic drives through rural Uganda
- Gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
- Small-group or private safari options
- Expert local safari guides throughout
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Welcome to Uganda
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport where you’ll be warmly welcomed by the Safari Vibes Africa team. Transfer to your hotel near Lake Victoria. Rest and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Overnight: Entebbe
Day 2: Entebbe – Kibale Forest National Park
After breakfast, begin your scenic drive west toward Kibale Forest. Enjoy changing landscapes, tea plantations, and countryside life along the way. Arrive in Kibale in the afternoon and relax at your lodge surrounded by forest sounds.
Overnight: Kibale area
Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking & Bigodi Community Walk
Today you track wild chimpanzees in Kibale Forest with expert rangers. Watching them swing, feed, and communicate is an unforgettable experience.
In the afternoon, enjoy a guided walk in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, known for birds, monkeys, and local culture.
Overnight: Kibale area
Day 4: Kibale – Queen Elizabeth National Park
Drive south into Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most diverse wildlife areas. Spot elephants, buffalo, antelope, and warthogs as you enter the park.
Overnight: Queen Elizabeth National Park
Day 5: Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
Start the day with a morning game drive in the Kasenyi plains. Later, enjoy a relaxing boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, famous for hippos, crocodiles, and large herds of elephants along the banks.
Overnight: Queen Elizabeth National Park
Day 6: Queen Elizabeth – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
After breakfast, drive through the Ishasha sector, home to the famous tree-climbing lions (sightings depend on season). Continue to Bwindi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home of mountain gorillas.
Overnight: Bwindi area
Day 7: Gorilla Trekking Experience
This is the most emotional and powerful day of the safari. After a briefing by park rangers, trek through dense forest to find a gorilla family. Spending time with these gentle giants in their natural home is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Overnight: Bwindi area
Day 8: Bwindi – Lake Bunyonyi (Relaxation Day)
After days of adventure, enjoy a slower pace as you travel to Lake Bunyonyi. Relax by the lake, enjoy canoeing, or simply take in the peaceful views.
Overnight: Lake Bunyonyi
Day 9: Lake Bunyonyi – Entebbe & Departure
Drive back to Entebbe or connect to a domestic flight (optional). Depending on your departure time, enjoy a relaxed transfer to the airport, marking the end of your Ultimate Gorilla and Primate Safari.
Includes
- Airport pick-up and drop-off
- All ground transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- Accommodation and meals as per itinerary
- Chimpanzee trekking permit
- Gorilla trekking permit
- Park entrance fees
- Game drives and boat cruise
- Bottled drinking water during the safari
Excludes
- International flights
- Domestic flights
- Travel insurance & medical coverage
- Visa fees and personal travel documents
- Alcoholic and premium beverages
- Tips & gratuities for driver/guide (customary but discretionary)
- Optional activities
- Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, souvenirs)
FAQ
How difficult is gorilla trekking
Gorilla trekking can be physically demanding due to steep terrain, dense vegetation, and varying trek durations. A moderate level of fitness is recommended, but porters are available to assist if needed.
How close do we get to the gorillas?
You may be as close as 7 meters. Gorillas are habituated to human presence, but strict rules are followed to ensure both visitor safety and gorilla conservation.
Is this safari suitable for limited time travelers?
Absolutely. This express itinerary is specifically designed for travelers who want a genuine gorilla experience within a short timeframe, without compromising quality.
What is the best time to do this safari?
Gorilla trekking is possible year-round. The drier months (June–September and December–February) offer easier trekking conditions, while wetter months provide lush scenery and fewer visitors.
Are gorilla permits guaranteed?
Permits are limited and issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. We strongly recommend booking well in advance. Safari Vibes Africa will handle the permit process on your behalf.
