This 5-Day Wildlife & Gorilla Tour combines Uganda’s best wildlife experiences with the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to encounter mountain gorillas in their natural habitat, making it ideal for adventurous travelers seeking both wildlife and cultural immersion.
5-Day Wildlife & Gorilla Tour: Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions
- Gorilla Trekking Permit in Bwindi
- Accommodation in lodges or hotels as per itinerary
- Meals specified in the itinerary
- Transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- Game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Kazinga Channel boat cruise
- Cultural visit to Batwa communities
Exclusions
- International flights to/from Uganda
- Personal travel insurance
- Drinks, snacks, and meals outside the itinerary
- Medical expenses and vaccinations
- Tips and gratuities for guides or staff
- Personal camera or photography fees
Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Your adventure begins with arrival at Entebbe International Airport, where you will meet your safari guide. From here, you will travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park (QENP), approximately 6–7 hours by road, passing through scenic landscapes and rural communities.
On the way, there are opportunities to visit local markets and enjoy the rolling hills of western Uganda. Upon arrival, check into your lodge or safari camp. Relax and enjoy dinner while preparing for the exciting wildlife encounters ahead.
Accommodation Options: Mweya Safari Lodge, Ishasha Wilderness Camp, or budget alternatives near the park.
Day 2: Game Drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Begin the day with an early morning game drive, the best time to spot wildlife. QENP is home to a variety of animals, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and antelopes, as well as over 600 bird species.
After a mid-morning break, enjoy a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, known for its dense populations of hippos, crocodiles, and water birds. The combination of game drive and boat safari offers a complete wildlife experience in one of Uganda’s top parks.
Evening: Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 3: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
After breakfast, travel to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, approximately 6–7 hours drive. The route takes you through picturesque towns like Kabale and offers opportunities to see the lush Ugandan countryside.
On arrival, check into your lodge. Prepare for the next day’s gorilla trekking experience. Some lodges offer evening walks, nature trails, or cultural experiences with local Batwa communities.
Accommodation Options: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Buhoma Lodge, or budget-friendly options nearby.
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest
This is the highlight of your tour. After an early breakfast, attend a gorilla trekking briefing with Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. You will then start your guided trek into the dense Bwindi forest in search of a habituated gorilla family.
The trek can take 1 to 6 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location. Once found, you will have one hour observing and photographing these magnificent creatures. Experience their social behavior, gentle nature, and curiosity firsthand.
Optional: Visit the Batwa community, learn about their traditions, and see how they live in harmony with the forest. Return to the lodge for dinner and rest.
Day 5: Return to Kampala or Entebbe
After breakfast, begin your journey back to Kampala or Entebbe, enjoying the scenic countryside one last time. Stops can be made for souvenir shopping or short sightseeing, depending on your departure time.
For those with limited time, a scenic flight from Kisoro to Entebbe is available, offering aerial views of Bwindi and the surrounding hills. Arrive at the airport in time for your departure flight or continue your travels in Uganda.