Uganda Gorilla Wildlife & Chimpanzee Trekking 7-Day Safari from Kigali City

Uganda, often referred to as the “Pearl of Africa,” is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant cultures. This 7-Day Uganda Gorilla Wildlife & Chimpanzee Trekking Safari offers an immersive experience, combining thrilling gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with fascinating cultural interactions. As you traverse the stunning terrain of Uganda, you will also explore the rich traditions and lifestyles of the local communities. This itinerary encompasses unforgettable wildlife experiences, cultural visits, and the warm hospitality of Ugandan lodges.

This 7-day Uganda Gorilla Wildlife and Chimpanzee Trekking Safari offers a profound exploration of both the remarkable wildlife and the vibrant cultures surrounding Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Through engaging experiences with the Batwa people and other local communities, you will gain a unique understanding of Uganda’s rich heritage and natural beauty.

At Winton Africa Safaris Ltd, we believe in creating transformative travel experiences that connect you with the landscapes and cultures of Uganda. Join us for this unforgettable journey, and allow the charm of the Pearl of Africa to inspire and captivate you. We look forward to welcoming you to this incredible adventure!

7-Day Uganda Gorilla Wildlife & Chimpanzee Trekking Safari Highlights

Detailed 7-Day Uganda Gorilla Wildlife & Chimpanzee Trekking Safari

Day 1: Drive from Kigali, Visit Iby’Iwachu Cultural Village, and Proceed to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – Overnight at Four Gorillas Lodge

Your 7-Day Uganda Gorilla Wildlife & Chimpanzee Trekking Safari adventure begins with a scenic drive from Kigali, Rwanda, through lush green hills and valleys. As you make your way to Uganda, the vibrant landscapes will captivate you. Your first stop will be Iby’Iwachu Cultural Village, where you will immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the local Batwa people, known as the “Keepers of the Forest.” Here, you will engage with the community, learn about their traditional customs, and witness their unique crafts, dance performances, and storytelling.

After this enriching cultural experience, you will continue your 7-Day Uganda Gorilla Wildlife & Chimpanzee Trekking Safari journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to almost half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The park’s lush forests and misty mountains create an enchanting atmosphere, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts and culture seekers alike.

Upon arrival, check in at Four Gorillas Lodge, a cozy accommodation that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. After settling in, take some time to relax and prepare for the adventures ahead. Dinner will be served at the lodge, allowing you to savor delicious local cuisine while soaking in the tranquil ambiance.

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Batwa Cultural Experience – Overnight at Four Gorillas Lodge

Awakening to the sounds of the forest, you will enjoy breakfast before embarking on one of the most anticipated activities of your 7-Day Uganda Gorilla Wildlife & Chimpanzee Trekking Safari —gorilla trekking. Accompanied by experienced guides, you will venture into the dense vegetation of Bwindi to seek out these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Trekking through the impenetrable forest can be challenging, but the excitement of encountering a mountain gorilla makes it all worthwhile.

As you navigate the trails, you will learn about the unique ecosystem of Bwindi, including its diverse flora and fauna. The park is home to numerous bird species, butterflies, and other wildlife, making the trek an adventure in itself. After locating a gorilla family, you will spend an unforgettable hour observing them, capturing the moment through photographs and appreciating their behaviors.

Following the trek, return to Four Gorillas Lodge for lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, you will engage in a Batwa cultural experience, where you will visit the Batwa community living near the park. Here, you will learn about their ancient traditions, hunting techniques, and medicinal practices. You may even have the opportunity to participate in traditional dances and songs, creating a deeper connection with their culture.

Day 3: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Evening Game Drive in Ishasha Sector – Overnight at Enjojo Safari Lodge

After breakfast, you will check out of Four Gorillas Lodge and begin your 7-Day Uganda Gorilla Wildlife & Chimpanzee Trekking Safari journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most diverse wildlife reserves. The drive offers picturesque views of the countryside, dotted with small villages and lush farmlands.

Upon arriving at the park, you will have the chance to explore the Ishasha Sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions. This unique behavior is a sight to behold, as these majestic felines often lounge in the branches of fig trees, providing excellent photo opportunities. Your evening game drive will offer a chance to spot other wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, and various antelope species.

After an exciting day in the park, you will check in at Enjojo Safari Lodge, a comfortable lodge that offers panoramic views of the savannah. Relax and refresh before dinner, where you can discuss the day’s adventures with your fellow travelers.

  • Overnight: Enjojo Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Drinking Water

Day 4: Game Drives and Boat Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park – Overnight at Elephant Hab Safari Lodge

Day four promises exhilarating wildlife encounters as you set out for morning and afternoon game drives within Queen Elizabeth National Park. The park boasts an impressive array of wildlife, with over 95 mammal species and 600 bird species. Your knowledgeable 7-Day Uganda Gorilla Wildlife & Chimpanzee Trekking Safari guide will lead you through various habitats, from grassy plains to acacia woodlands, increasing your chances of spotting the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinoceroses.

In the afternoon, you’ll embark on a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, a waterway that connects Lake Edward and Lake George. This relaxing cruise offers a different perspective of the park, allowing you to observe hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species, such as pelicans, kingfishers, and herons, in their natural habitats.

After an action-packed day, return to Elephant Hab Safari Lodge for a well-deserved dinner and overnight stay. As you reflect on your day, enjoy the soothing sounds of nature surrounding you.

Day 5: Morning Game Drive in Queen Elizabeth, Visit the Twin Lakes and Tea Plantations, Transfer to Kibale for Chimpanzee Tracking – Overnight at Chimpanzee Forest Lodge

Your day begins with an early morning game drive to capture the wildlife waking up in the park. The early hours are the best time for spotting predators and other animals as they begin their daily routines.

After your drive, you will visit the Twin Lakes, Lake Bunyonyi and Lake Mutanda, which are stunningly beautiful and provide opportunities for bird watching and relaxation. Following the lake visit, you will proceed to tea plantations in the region, where you can learn about the tea production process and enjoy a cup of locally sourced tea.

Afterward, you will transfer to Kibale National Park, renowned for its dense rainforest and incredible biodiversity, particularly its population of chimpanzees. Upon arrival, check in at Chimpanzee Forest Lodge, your home for the night. The lodge’s idyllic setting makes it a perfect place to unwind and prepare for the thrilling chimpanzee tracking experience ahead.

Day 6: Chimpanzee Tracking and Bigodi Swamp Walk in Kibale Forest – Overnight at Chimpanzee Forest Lodge

Today is dedicated to chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest, one of the best places in Africa to see these intelligent primates. Early in the morning, your guide will provide a briefing on what to expect during the trek. As you hike through the forest, listen for the distinctive calls of chimps and the sounds of other wildlife that inhabit this biodiverse ecosystem.

Once you locate a troop of chimpanzees, you will spend an hour observing them as they interact, play, and feed. The 7-Day Uganda Gorilla Wildlife & Chimpanzee Trekking Safari experience of watching chimps in their natural habitat is both exciting and educational, offering insights into their social structures and behaviors.

In the afternoon, you will explore the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, known for its rich birdlife and various primate species. A guided walk through the swamp allows you to appreciate the unique flora and fauna of the area, and your guide will share fascinating information about the ecosystem and conservation efforts. After a full day of adventures, return to Chimpanzee Forest Lodge for dinner and rest.

Day 7: Drive to Entebbe Airport for Departure – Flight Back Home

On your final day, enjoy breakfast at the lodge before beginning your journey to Entebbe International Airport. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a brief stop at the Uganda Wildlife Education Center or local craft markets for last-minute souvenirs.

Reflect on the incredible experiences you’ve had throughout the 7-Day Uganda Gorilla Wildlife & Chimpanzee Trekking Safari —tracking gorillas and chimps, exploring stunning national parks, and engaging with the rich cultures of Uganda. As you prepare to depart, carry the memories of the Pearl of Africa in your heart, hoping to return someday to relive these extraordinary moments.

  • Overnight: Flight Back Home
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Drinking Water

Cultural Experiences During the 7-Day Uganda Gorilla Wildlife & Chimpanzee Trekking Safari

Batwa Cultural Experience

The Batwa people, known as the original inhabitants of the forests surrounding Bwindi, have a rich cultural heritage that is deeply connected to the land. Their way of life is intricately woven with the environment, having depended on the forest for their survival for centuries. During your visit to the Batwa community, you will have the opportunity to witness traditional ceremonies, such as dance and music performances, which reflect their connection to nature.

One highlight of this cultural experience is learning about their traditional hunting techniques, herbal medicine practices, and how they used to live harmoniously with the forest. Engaging with the Batwa offers insight into their resilience and adaptability in the face of changes in their environment and lifestyle. You may even participate in traditional cooking sessions, where you will learn about their staple foods and preparation methods, allowing for a hands-on experience of their culinary traditions.

Iby’Iwachu Cultural Village

Located near the Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, Iby’Iwachu Cultural Village offers an engaging platform for visitors to learn about the culture of the Rwandan people. Your visit will include demonstrations of traditional crafts, including basket weaving and pottery, highlighting the artistic skills passed down through generations.

Visitors can participate in traditional dance performances, experiencing the vibrancy of Rwandan music and rhythms. Through these interactions, you will gain a deeper understanding of Rwandan customs, beliefs, and social structures. Sharing stories with the locals provides a unique perspective on their history and the changes that have shaped their lives over the years.

Engagement with Local Communities

Throughout your 7-Day Uganda Gorilla Wildlife & Chimpanzee Trekking Safari, you will have opportunities to interact with various local communities, each with its unique traditions and lifestyles. Whether visiting a small village near Queen Elizabeth National Park or engaging with tea farmers in the region, these experiences allow for meaningful connections and a broader understanding of Uganda’s cultural landscape.

These interactions can include participating in local festivals, witnessing traditional ceremonies, and even joining in on daily activities, such as farming or cooking. Such experiences enrich your 7-Day Uganda Gorilla Wildlife & Chimpanzee Trekking Safari and create lasting memories and friendships that extend beyond borders.

7-Day Uganda Gorilla Wildlife & Chimpanzee Trekking Safari Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions

  • Accommodation: 6 nights in comfortable lodges with full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
  • Transportation: All ground transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle.
  • Gorilla Permits: One gorilla trekking permit per person.
  • Chimpanzee Permits: One chimpanzee tracking permit per person.
  • Game Drives: All game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
  • Boat Safari: A boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel.
  • Cultural Experiences: Visits to cultural sites and engagements with local communities, including the Batwa and Iby’Iwachu Cultural Village.
  • Experienced Guide: Services of an experienced driver/guide throughout the safari.
  • Airport Transfers: Transfer from Entebbe International Airport to Kigali and back.

Exclusions

  • International Airfare: Flights to and from Rwanda.
  • Travel Insurance: Personal travel insurance covering medical emergencies and cancellations.
  • Additional Activities: Optional activities not included in the itinerary.
  • Drinks: Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages outside those provided by the lodges.
  • Gratuities: Tips for guides and lodge staff.
  • Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, laundry, and other personal expenditures.