5 Day Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking Safari

Overview

This 5 Day Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking Safari from Kigali includes a Golden Monkey trek in Mgahinga National Park and gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Afterward, enjoy Lake Bunyonyi’s scenic boat cruise before traveling to Kibale Forest for chimpanzee trekking. Experience a coffee-making session and a cultural community walk with the Batooro people.

Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle with English-speaking guide
Accommodation with full-board meals
Chimpanzee trekking permit in Kibale
Gorilla trekking permit in Bwindi
Park entrance fees and ranger/guide fees
Bottled drinking water during safari drives

Price Exclusions

International flights
Uganda visa fees
Travel and medical insurance
Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and lodge staff
Optional activities not mentioned
Personal expenses (souvenirs, drinks, laundry, etc.)

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Transfer from Kampala to Kibale Forest National Park

Begin your safari with a morning pick-up from your hotel in Kampala. Travel west through Uganda’s scenic countryside, passing small villages, tea and banana plantations, and rolling hills. After a 5-6-hour drive, arrive at Kibale Forest Camp in time for lunch. Spend the afternoon relaxing and enjoying the serene forest environment, preparing for the adventures ahead.

Accommodation: Kibale Forest Camp

Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking and Community Walk in Kibale Forest

After an early breakfast, proceed to Kibale Forest National Park Headquarters for a briefing. Embark on a guided trek through the lush forest in search of the park’s famous chimpanzees. The trek may last 2–5 hours, depending on the location of the chimps. Once located, spend up to one hour observing them in their natural habitat, a truly unforgettable experience.

In the afternoon, participate in a community walk around the nearby villages to learn about local Ugandan culture, farming practices, and traditions. Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and rest.

Accommodation: Kibale Forest Camp

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After breakfast, depart and take a 5-6-hour drive from Kibale and head southwest to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to nearly half of the world’s mountain gorillas. Travel through the stunning scenery of terraced hills, forests, and small villages. Arrive at Rushaga Gorilla Lodge for check-in, lunch, and relaxation before your gorilla trekking adventure the next day.

Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Wake up early for a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience. After a briefing at the park headquarters, trek through dense forest trails guided by experienced trackers to locate a habituated gorilla family. The trek can last from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location. Once found, spend a magical hour observing the gorillas—watching their interactions, feeding, and playful behaviors.

Return to the lodge in the afternoon to relax and enjoy the peaceful forest surroundings.

Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Transfer Back to Kampala

After breakfast, depart Bwindi and take an 8-9-hour drive back to Kampala. Along the way, enjoy scenic stops for photos of rolling hills, villages, and tea plantations. Arrive in Kampala in the afternoon or evening, where your safari concludes. You will be dropped off at your hotel or the airport for onward travel.

Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch