Embark on thrilling primate adventures in Uganda, with the local specialist Primate Journeys Africa. Stay at some of our best partner lodges and trek the endangered mountain gorillas and adorable chimpanzees in the forests and national parks of Uganda. Combine these primate encounters with sightings of the rare golden monkey, experience the ancient Batwa culture in Uganda or go white water rafting on the mighty River Nile!
Highlights
Depending on the location of your gorilla safari, you will experience:
- Gorilla tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
- Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest National Park
- Golden monkey tracking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
- Explore Gahinga Batwa Cultural Village at Mount Gahinga National Park
- Delight in the flavours of a traditional Ugandan ‘rolex’ wrap
- Participate in local community and conservation projects
RECOMMENDED SAFARI ITINERARY
4 Day Fly-In Gorilla Safari – Uganda
This safari takes you to the remarkable Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, known for its diverse wildlife.
Start from Entebbe (Uganda) or Kigali (Rwanda). Driving time from Entebbe to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is 7-8 hours (we advise flying) while from Kigali to Bwindi, it’s only 5 hours drive.
DAY 1: ENTEBBE – BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport, Uganda, where our staff will assist you with the transfer to your domestic flight to Kihihi. At Kihihi, you will be welcomed by your expert safari guide who will provide knowledge and assistance throughout your journey.
Transfer to your lodge in Bwindi. Enjoy pre-dinner cocktails on the veranda overlooking the dramatic Bwindi Forest with the calls of more than 150 bird species echoing in the distance.
Dinner & Overnight at Buhoma Lodge (lunch, dinner).
DAY 2: GORILLA TREKKING EXPERIENCE
After enjoying an early breakfast, you will set off gorilla tracking. Trekking through the steep, densely forested hills and then finally coming across the gorillas camouflaged in the vegetation is an inspiring and privileged moment. Tracking in the Bwindi Forest can be steep and requires stamina as some gorilla families can be more elusive. Tracking can take a full day, especially if it is wet and muddy.
Dinner & Overnight at Buhoma Lodge (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
DAY 3: OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES
Go for a second gorilla trek (additional permits, payment of supplement and subject to availability) or choose from one of the following community and conservation activities:
- Take a guided walk in the rainforest to a beautiful waterfall
- Visit a local village and learn about community life
- Visit the Bwindi Community Hospital
- Visit Conservation Through Public Health to learn about their gorilla conservation programs
- Enjoy a demonstration of our local tea processing cooperation at Bwindi Lodge
- Enjoy a guided birding walk along the Munyanga River Trail.
Dinner & Overnight at Buhoma Lodge (breakfast, lunch, dinner).
DAY 4: FLIGHT – DEPARTURE
After breakfast at the Lodge, transfer from Buhoma to Kihihi airstrip for your morning or afternoon return flight to Entebbe and connect in time for your international flight.
Approx. travel times: Flying 1-2 hours; Driving 7-8 hours. Please book international flights departing after 8pm.
FULL DAY EXCURSION TO NGAMBA ISLAND CHIMPANZEE SANCTUARY IN ENTEBBE
Experience the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary with our exciting full-day excursion. Embark on a boat cruise across the stunning Lake Victoria, where you’ll be enchanted by the sight of chimpanzees feeding and encounter other wildlife such as monitor lizards and various bird species. Have your camera ready for plenty of photo opportunities.
At Primate Journeys, we offer both half-day and full-day trips to Ngamba Island, with departure times at 9am or 12:45pm. When you arrive at the sanctuary, our friendly staff will guide you to the visitor’s center, where you’ll gain insight into the project’s history, the chimpanzees’ stories, and their conservation efforts. A dedicated chimpanzee caregiver will provide a personal orientation, ensuring you have a deeper understanding of these incredible creatures. Full-day visitors will have the opportunity to witness not just one, but two chimpanzee feedings from the raised platform along the sanctuary fence.
Enjoy lunch at the sanctuary, featuring a selection of salads, sandwiches, a Ugandan buffet and freshly baked Ngamba confections.
Extra activities available
- Swimming on the equator
- Exploring a neighbouring fishing village
- Bird watching
- More wildlife encounters
PRIMATE JOURNEYS AFRICA has a successful 12-year track record of creating and managing memorable Gorilla, Golden Monkey and Chimpanzee safaris in Uganda and Rwanda. Contact us to create a custom itinerary.