Uganda Rwanda Primates Safari

Kabale Chimpanzee Tracking Safari

6 Days Uganda Rwanda Primates Safari – Chimpanzee Tracking, Gorilla Trekking, and Golden Monkey Tracking

Embark on an exhilarating journey through Uganda and Rwanda, where the landscapes are as breathtaking as the wildlife encounters. This 6-Day Uganda-Rwanda Primates Safari offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of endangered chimpanzees, mountain gorillas, and golden monkeys. Traverse through pristine forests, witness some of the world’s most awe-inspiring creatures, and immerse yourself in the conservation efforts that protect them. This 6-Day Uganda-Rwanda Primates Safari is designed for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers who wish to explore the heart of Africa’s natural heritage.

6-Day Uganda-Rwanda Primates Safari Introduction

East Africa’s diverse ecosystems provide a sanctuary for some of the planet’s most remarkable primate species. Uganda’s Kibale Forest and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, together with Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, form a biodiversity corridor teeming with life. From the tree-climbing chimpanzees of Kibale to the iconic mountain gorillas of Bwindi and Volcanoes, this region is a haven for nature lovers. The Uganda-Rwanda Primates Safari is a masterful blend of wildlife encounters and cultural experiences, providing not only the thrill of tracking primates but also the opportunity to engage with local communities and learn about conservation efforts.

This 6-Day Uganda-Rwanda Primates Safari is designed to balance intense wildlife tracking with moments of relaxation, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of East Africa. Each day, you’ll journey deeper into these lush forests, accompanied by expert guides who will interpret the sights and sounds of the wilderness, ensuring that your experience is as enriching as it is exciting. Whether you’re trekking through dense forests in search of chimpanzees or coming face-to-face with a silverback gorilla, each moment is filled with the wonder of discovery.

Through this 6-Day Uganda-Rwanda Primates Safari itinerary, you’ll experience the best of Uganda and Rwanda’s primate safaris, from the stunning beauty of Kibale’s forests to the rugged volcanoes of Rwanda. You’ll track chimpanzees and gorillas, visit the grave of famed primatologist Dian Fossey, and take part in the conservation efforts aimed at protecting these species for future generations. Let’s explore each day’s adventure in detail.

 

6-Day Uganda-Rwanda Primates Safari Highlights

Detailed 6-Day Uganda-Rwanda Primates Safari

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe Airport and Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park

Your 6-Day Uganda-Rwanda Primates Safari begins upon your arrival at Entebbe International Airport, Uganda’s main gateway to the world of primates and wilderness adventures. After a warm welcome from your safari guide, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to Kibale Forest National Park, often referred to as the primate capital of the world. The journey, which takes about 5-6 hours, passes through a variety of landscapes, from bustling towns to the lush green countryside dotted with tea plantations and rural villages.

Kibale Forest is famous for its diversity of primates, boasting the highest concentration of primate species in Africa. With 13 different species of primates, including the famous chimpanzees, this forest is a treasure trove for nature lovers. Along the way, you’ll stop for lunch in Fort Portal, a charming town located at the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains, offering a perfect blend of local culture and scenic beauty.

As you approach Kibale Forest National Park, the towering trees and rich birdlife signal your arrival into one of Uganda’s most important ecological areas. Upon reaching your lodge near the park, you’ll check in and have time to unwind and acclimatize to the serene environment. Your lodge, set amidst the forest, offers a tranquil retreat with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner and a briefing from your 6-Day Uganda-Rwanda Primates Safari guide on the exciting chimpanzee tracking adventure that awaits you the following day.

What to See on Day 1:

  • Scenic drive through Uganda’s countryside and tea plantations
  • Bird-watching en route to Kibale Forest
  • Picturesque views of the Rwenzori Mountains
  • Fort Portal town, known for its rich cultural heritage

Safari Inclusions for Day 1:

Uganda Rwanda Primates Safari

Kibale Forest National Park

Day 2: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest and Afternoon Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Today marks your first day of primate tracking as you venture into the depths of Kibale Forest to track wild chimpanzees. Kibale National Park is home to more than 1,500 chimpanzees, as well as several other primate species such as red colobus monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and vervet monkeys. After an early breakfast, you’ll head to the park headquarters for a briefing by Uganda Wildlife Authority guides who will accompany you on this 6-Day Uganda-Rwanda Primates Safari adventure.

Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale is an immersive experience as you trek through the forest, following the sounds of the chimps’ vocalizations. The trek can last anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the location of the chimpanzee families. Along the way, your 6-Day Uganda-Rwanda Primates Safari guide will point out various flora and fauna, providing insights into the ecology of the forest. Once you locate the chimpanzees, you’ll have a magical hour observing their behavior. Watching these intelligent creatures swing from tree to tree, interact with each other, and even display human-like gestures is truly fascinating.

After your chimpanzee tracking experience, you’ll return to your lodge for lunch before embarking on a scenic drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The 6-Day Uganda-Rwanda Primates Safari journey takes you through the rolling hills of southwestern Uganda, passing small villages and stunning landscapes along the way. Bwindi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to about half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Upon arrival at Bwindi, you’ll check into your lodge and enjoy a relaxing evening.

What to See on Day 2:

  • Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest
  • Sightings of other primates such as red colobus and L’Hoest’s monkeys
  • Scenic drive to Bwindi through Uganda’s “Switzerland of Africa”

Safari Inclusions for Day 2:

3-Day Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Safari

Bwindi Gorilla Trekking Safari

Day 3: Enjoy Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi and Cross to Volcanoes National Park

Today, you’ll embark on the highlight of your 6-Day Uganda-Rwanda Primates Safari: gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. After an early breakfast, you’ll make your way to the park headquarters for a detailed briefing about gorilla trekking. The briefing includes guidelines on how to behave while in the presence of the gorillas and safety precautions for the trek.

Gorilla trekking is a physically demanding but immensely rewarding experience. Depending on the location of the gorilla families, the trek can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours through the dense, mist-covered forest. Your 6-Day Uganda-Rwanda Primates Safari guide will lead the way, and once you encounter a gorilla family, you’ll be allowed to spend an hour observing them in their natural habitat. The sight of a massive silverback gorilla peacefully interacting with his family, the playful antics of young gorillas, and the nurturing care of mothers will leave a lasting impression.

After the trek, you’ll return to the park headquarters for a well-deserved rest and lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll cross the border into Rwanda, heading towards Volcanoes National Park. This park is renowned not only for its mountain gorillas but also for its rich history as the base of famed primatologist Dian Fossey. You’ll check in to your lodge in Rwanda, where you’ll spend the evening resting and reflecting on the incredible day you’ve just experienced.

What to See on Day 3:

Safari Inclusions for Day 3:

Uganda Rwanda Primates Safari

Mount Bisoke Hiking Safari

Day 4: Hike Dian Fossey Grave in Volcanoes National Park and Visit Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund

You’ll pay homage to one of the world’s most iconic conservationists, Dian Fossey, who dedicated her life to the protection of mountain gorillas. After breakfast, you’ll embark on a guided hike to Dian Fossey’s grave, located between the volcanic peaks of Mount Karisimbi and Mount Bisoke. The hike takes about 3-4 hours round trip and offers stunning views of Volcanoes National Park’s diverse ecosystems.

Along the way, your 6-Day Uganda-Rwanda Primates Safari guide will share stories of Dian Fossey’s pioneering work with mountain gorillas and the challenges she faced in protecting them from poachers and habitat destruction. The hike also offers opportunities to spot various wildlife species and enjoy the park’s lush montane forest. Once you reach the site, you’ll visit Dian Fossey’s grave and the remains of her Karisoke Research Center, where she conducted groundbreaking studies on gorilla behavior.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, an organization dedicated to the continued conservation of mountain gorillas. Here, you’ll learn about the ongoing research and conservation efforts that are helping to protect these critically endangered animals. You’ll also gain insights into how tourism plays a crucial role in funding conservation programs.

What to See on Day 4:

  • Hike to Dian Fossey’s grave and former Karisoke Research Center
  • Wildlife and scenic views in Volcanoes National Park
  • Visit to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund for conservation insights

Safari Inclusions for Day 4:

Gorilla & Golden Monkey Tracking

Gorilla & Golden Monkey Tracking

Day 5: Enjoy Golden Monkey Tracking in Volcanoes National Park and Rest

After breakfast, prepare for another remarkable primate tracking experience: golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park. The golden monkey is an endangered species that can only be found in the Virunga volcanic mountains of Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. These playful and strikingly beautiful monkeys are known for their vibrant golden-orange fur and energetic behavior, making them a joy to watch.

Golden monkey tracking is a relatively short and easy trek compared to gorilla tracking, typically taking around 2-3 hours. Your expert 6-Day Uganda-Rwanda Primates Safari guide will lead you through the bamboo forests where these primates reside. As you observe their fascinating behavior, you’ll notice their unique social interactions and playful nature as they jump from tree to tree. The experience offers a delightful contrast to the more intense gorilla trekking, as golden monkeys are lighter and more active.

After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch and an afternoon of relaxation. Take this opportunity to unwind and reflect on the incredible wildlife experiences you’ve enjoyed so far. You may also explore the surroundings of your lodge, take a nature walk, or simply enjoy the views of the volcanoes in the distance.

What to See on Day 5:

Safari Inclusions for Day 5:

Uganda Rwanda Primates Safari

Volcanoes National Park

Day 6: Enjoy Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park and Afternoon Drive to Kigali Airport – Flight Back Home

Your final day of 6-Day Uganda-Rwanda Primates Safari adventure brings you face-to-face with mountain gorillas once again, this time in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. After breakfast, you’ll head to the park headquarters for a briefing before embarking on your second gorilla trekking experience of the safari. This trek, like the one in Bwindi, is a physically challenging but immensely rewarding experience.

Volcanoes National Park is home to several habituated gorilla families, and the terrain is characterized by volcanic slopes and dense forest. Your 6-Day Uganda-Rwanda Primates Safari guide will lead you through the forest as you follow signs of gorilla activity, such as broken bamboo stems and droppings. When you finally encounter the gorillas, you’ll have another unforgettable hour observing them in their natural habitat. The close proximity to these magnificent creatures offers a sense of awe and respect for the efforts to protect them.

After the trek, you’ll return to your lodge for lunch and then begin your drive to Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital city. Depending on your flight time, you may have the opportunity to visit some of Kigali’s cultural sites, such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, which offers a moving tribute to Rwanda’s history and resilience. Finally, you’ll be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your flight back home, bringing an end to your incredible 6-Day Uganda-Rwanda Primates Safari.

What to See on Day 6:

Safari Inclusions for Day 6:

Uganda Rwanda Primates Safari

Volcanoes National Park

About Winton Africa Safaris

Winton Africa Safaris is a renowned tour operator specializing in immersive wildlife and cultural safaris across East Africa. With a strong focus on conservation, eco-tourism, and community engagement, Winton Africa Safaris offers expertly crafted itineraries that take travelers deep into the heart of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations. Their knowledgeable guides and exceptional service ensure that each 6-Day Uganda-Rwanda Primates Safari is a unique and unforgettable experience.

Winton Africa Safaris’ commitment to sustainable tourism extends beyond providing exceptional wildlife encounters. They work closely with local communities to ensure that tourism benefits the people and wildlife of the region. By choosing Winton Africa Safaris, travelers contribute to vital conservation efforts and local development projects that protect endangered species and support sustainable livelihoods.

The 6-Day Uganda-Rwanda Primates Safari is just one of many exciting itineraries offered by Winton Africa Safaris. Whether you’re interested in gorilla trekking, game drives, cultural experiences, or luxury lodges, Winton Africa Safaris provides personalized adventures tailored to your interests and preferences. With a deep passion for Africa’s wildlife and a dedication to creating lasting memories for their clients, Winton Africa Safaris is the perfect partner for your next African safari adventure.