5 Days Uganda Gorilla and Wildlife Safari

Trip Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 5-day Gorilla Trekking and Wildlife Safari, exploring Uganda’s top attractions. From the vibrant city of Kampala to the enchanting depths of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, encounter majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Bwindi, located in southwestern Uganda, is home to half the world’s mountain gorilla population, as well as a wealth of birds, mammals, and rich cultural traditions. The adventure continues in Queen Elizabeth National Park, where stunning landscapes meet diverse wildlife, including four of the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, and buffalo. This safari promises thrilling gorilla encounters, exciting game drives, a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, and peaceful moments in nature, offering a true taste of Uganda’s natural wonders.

Safari Highlights

  • Scenic domestic flights
  • Sightseeing
  • Enthralling encounters with mountain gorillas
  • Cultural experience with the Batwa
  • Tree-climbing lions in Ishasha
  • Game drive in Queen Elizabeth
  • Boat cruise on Kazinga channel 

Trip Itinerary

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative, who will transfer you to your hotel in Kampala or Entebbe. During the transfer, you will receive a briefing about your upcoming Uganda safari and what to expect. Depending on your arrival time, you can choose to explore the city or simply relax at your hotel.

After an early breakfast, set off on a scenic drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, renowned as the home of the endangered mountain gorillas. This 8 to 9-hour journey offers breathtaking views of Uganda's rolling hills, vibrant tea plantations, and charming local villages. Enjoy a brief stop at the Equator Monument in Kayabwe for a memorable photo opportunity, followed by a lunch break in Mbarara town. Continue your journey to Bwindi, where your driver-guide will transfer you to your lodge for check-in. Relax and enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at your lodge.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the lodge before heading to the park headquarters for a briefing by experienced rangers, who will provide insights into gorilla families, safety protocols, and trekking guidelines. At 8:00 am, embark on a guided trek through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, navigating dense vegetation and rugged terrain. The trek, lasting 2 to 6 hours depending on the gorillas’ location, offers encounters with vibrant birds, butterflies, and monkeys, as your guide shares fascinating details about the forest. When you meet the gorilla family, spend a magical hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat, watching them feed, play, and interact. After this unforgettable experience, return to the park headquarters for a commemorative certificate and relax at your lodge. Later, enjoy a cultural visit to the nearby Batwa communities, engaging with their traditions and learning about their unique connection to the forest. End your day with dinner and an overnight stay in Bwindi.

After breakfast, bid farewell to Bwindi and embark on a scenic 4-hour drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, renowned for its rich wildlife and stunning landscapes. Entering through the Ishasha sector, keep an eye out for the famous tree-climbing lions lounging in acacia and fig trees. Proceed to your lodge for lunch before enjoying an afternoon boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway connecting lakes Edward and George. Marvel at hippos, Nile crocodiles, and vibrant birdlife, including African fish eagles and kingfishers, as well as elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes along the shores. After this picturesque experience, return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay in Queen Elizabeth.

Wake up early at 6:30 am for an exciting game drive in the Kasenyi Area, a prime spot for observing active wildlife at dawn. With your guide’s expertise, spot predators like lions and leopards alongside elephants, buffaloes, warthogs, hyenas, and antelopes grazing in the morning light. After the 3 to 4-hour game drive, return to your lodge for breakfast before checking out and embarking on a scenic 6 to 7-hour drive back to Kampala. Enjoy the stunning countryside views, with brief stopovers for lunch and souvenirs. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel or the airport, concluding your memorable 5-day Uganda Gorilla and Wildlife Safari.