Combined Primate- Gorilla – Chimpanzee Habituation Experience Safari
Value+ Midrange 5-Day Gorilla-Chimpanzee Habituation Experience Safari in Bwindi & Kibale Forest
Immerse Yourself in the Extraordinary with Our Value+ Midrange 5-Day Gorilla-Chimpanzee Habituation Experience Safari: Embark on a truly exceptional adventure with our 5-Day Gorilla-Chimpanzee Habituation Experience Safari, where we combine two extraordinary primate habituation experiences in East Africa. This Safari offers an unparalleled opportunity to spend four immersive hours with a gorilla family in the Rushaga Area of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, followed by an all-day chimpanzee habituation experience in the renowned Kibale Forest, the best location for observing chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
To enhance your convenience and optimize your time, you can fly into Entebbe, Uganda, and depart from Kigali, Rwanda. This reduces the overall drive times, allowing you to maximize your precious moments on this Safari. Please note that due to the limited availability of gorilla and chimpanzee habituation experience permits, booking this Safari in advance is essential. Only a select few can participate in these exclusive habituation experiences daily, ensuring an intimate and immersive encounter with these remarkable primates.
Now, let’s address the reality of the safari experience. We want to provide full transparency so you can make an informed decision. One lengthy drive between Kibale Forest and the Rushaga Area of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest exists. Depending on the road conditions and selected routes, the shortest drive is approximately 6 1/2 hours. However, it’s important to note that the clients who choose this gorilla-chimpanzee habituation experience safari are driven by their unwavering passion to tick off two incredible bucket list items in Uganda. The focus is on the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to engage with gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural habitats, making the drive time well worth it.
Embrace the extraordinary and fulfill your wildest primate-watching dreams with our Value+ Midrange 5-Day Gorilla-Chimpanzee Habituation Experience Safari. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of gorillas and chimpanzees, creating treasured memories that will stay with you forever. Seize this unique opportunity to witness the wonders of nature up close and make your dreams a reality in the heart of Uganda.
Value+ Midrange 5-Day Gorilla-Chimpanzee Habituation Experience Safari Highlights:
- Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary – Jungle Swamp Walk – Hike
- Six-Hour Chimpanzee Habituation Experience (CHEX)
- All-Day Gorilla – 4-Hours with a Gorilla Family in Rushaga – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
- Quality Midrange Lodge4s for you to enjoy with full-board meals.
- Safari Vehicle with experienced Driver-guide.
- End Safari in Kigali, Rwanda, or drive or fly back to Entebbe.
- Gorilla 0 Chimpanx=nzee permits are included.
Value+ Midrange 5-Day Gorilla-Chimpanzee Habituation Experience Safari in Detail:
Day 1 – Drive to Kibale Forest from Entebbe:
We take the scenic journey as we venture west from Entebbe towards the captivating region of Fort Portal, renowned for its Explosion Crater Lakes. The road will lead us to Kibale Forest, where the lush jungle forests of West and Central Africa converge with the beauty of East Africa.
Upon reaching our destination, you will be welcomed at the exquisite Isunga Lodge, where you can check in and settle into your accommodations. This charming Lodge provides a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere, allowing you to unwind and prepare for the incredible experiences in Kibale Forest.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the wonders of nature as you embark on this remarkable journey to Kibale Forest. Let the beauty of the surroundings and the warm hospitality of Isunga Lodge set the stage for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Uganda.
Isunga Lodge:
Isunga Lodge gives you exceptional value for your money. As you check into the inviting and affordable Lodge, you’ll discover many added benefits. We have successfully selected this Lodge for our safaris, and our clients have responded overwhelmingly positively.
The Lodge offers private cottages, each featuring an ensuite bath, ensuring guests a private and comfortable retreat. Nestled in a secluded setting, you can enjoy tranquility and privacy during your stay. The thoughtful preparation of food and excellent service provided by the Lodge’s staff further enhance your experience, ensuring that every aspect of your visit is taken care of to the highest standard.
The feedback from our clients who have stayed at Isunga Lodge has been overwhelmingly enthusiastic. Their experiences have been nothing short of exceptional, further solidifying the Lodge’s reputation for providing an outstanding stay.
Being one of the newer lodges in the area, Isunga Lodge has quickly established itself as one of the best in terms of service, value, and culinary delights. Rest assured that your stay at Isunga Lodge will exceed your expectations and leave you with cherished memories of your time in Uganda.
Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary:
Enjoy the captivating beauty of the Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary with an enlightening guided hike during the afternoon. This three-hour adventure takes you through a mesmerizing jungle swamp, with much of the path constructed as sturdy planks, creating a boardwalk-like experience above the wetlands.
Your knowledgeable guide comes from the local community, which has diligently preserved and cared for the wetlands for many years, attracting thousands of visitors annually. Their expertise and connection to the area will enrich your journey, providing insights into the unique ecosystem and its inhabitants.
As you explore the wetlands, be prepared for enchanting encounters with various wildlife species. Keep your eyes peeled for sightings of chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and playful baboons. The region is renowned for its diverse birdlife, with the majestic Blue Turaco stealing the spotlight alongside numerous other avian species.
In addition to the avian wonders, the wetlands are home to various fascinating mammals. Look out for otters gracefully gliding through the Water, bush pigs foraging in the undergrowth, agile mongooses scurrying about, and perhaps even the elusive Sitatunga Antelope, a rare gem of the region.
It’s important to note that your visit to the Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary contributes to the UNESCO self-sustaining eco-tourism project initiated by the local community. By participating in this experience, you directly support the conservation efforts and livelihoods of the community members, ensuring the preservation of this remarkable ecosystem for future generations.
Meal Plan: Lunch-Dinner
Day 2- Kibale Forest – Chimpanzee Habituation Experience:
What to wear and bring for the Chimpanzee Habituation Experience:
Wear the same clothes you would wear for the Gorilla Habituation Experience Safari (which you will find below), except gardening gloves. You will need a lunch from the Lodge and two liters of Water. We supply you with Water.
.
The Six-Hour Chimpanzee Habituation Experience:
Early Breakfast, and you are off to meet with your Ranger-Guide, who will take you into Kibale Forest, where a Chimpanzee Troop is being habituated, a process that takes up to two years. The method teaches Chimpanzees to be in the presence of humans. In this activity, you actively participate in the habituation experience process.
Before you see the chimpanzees, you will hear their hooting calls in the Distance. So you come upon them and spend one hour with them, observing their ways and habits.
Usually, you might see 4 to 6 other primate species here, many birds, butterflies, mammals, and, of course, the forest with its unique vegetation. You will see a lot more on all-day habituation than on a trek.
You must wear the proper clothing and shoes and have at least 2 liters of Water, plus a packed lunch.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 3- Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – Rushaga Area:
After an early breakfast, we leave for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest at 6:30 am. The drive time is 6 1/2 hours. Adding a night in Queen Elizabeth Park Ishasha Region can break this drive time into smaller legs.
Lunch on the road.
We arrive late in the afternoon at Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge, where you check-in.
Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge:
Nestled amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Virunga Volcanoes and overlooking the serene Lake Mulehe, Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge is a remarkable choice for those seeking an excellent and moderately priced lodge. The Lodge offers splendid views that showcase the majestic beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Enjoy the delightful culinary offerings that blend European and Ugandan flavors, creating a fusion of tastes that will tantalize your senses. The fantastic service provided by the Lodge’s staff ensures a memorable dining experience.
The stone cottages the Lodge provides are the perfect haven during your gorilla trekking or habituation experience in the Rushaga Area of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Unwind in the comfort of these well-appointed accommodations, allowing yourself to recharge before and after your remarkable primate encounters.
Owned by a woman with years of experience providing quality accommodations to international and domestic tourists, the Lodge reflects her dedication to ensuring a memorable and fulfilling stay for every guest.
Choose Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge as your base for exploration and relaxation, immersing yourself in the remarkable surroundings and enjoying the warm hospitality that awaits you.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 4 – Gorilla Habituation Experience Encounter:
Have an early breakfast and pick up your packed lunch from the Lodge. We have provided you with what to wear and the gear to bring.
What Should I Wear Tracking for the Gorilla Habituation Experience?
Here is practical advice about what to wear during the Gorilla Habituation Experience in Uganda. Often, Trekkers are not dressed
right for the occasion, which can spoil your day, and your focus might not be on the Gorillas but personal discomfort and misery. Wearing suitable clothing and footwear is about protection.
Gorilla Wear and Gear you will need:
- Daypack: A waterproof daypack is preferred; you can use it as a carry-on when flying to Uganda. Pack all essentials inside the daypack.
- Hiking Boots: Make sure that they have good treads on them. You will need ankle support, something boots give you and give you reactions on muddy trails. Have a good pair of merino wool socks.
- Long Trouser: They will protect you from nettles and thorns. Tuck the trousers into your socks for added protection from ants.
- Long-Sleeved Shirt: Neutral in color. Again, this is for your comfort and protection.
- Rain Jacket or Poncho: Pack into your daypack. You never know when it will train. You are in an Afro-montane Rainforest.
- Tough Gardening Gloves protect your hands from thorns, nettles, and sharp branches.
- Wide Brimmed Hat: It gives you protection from the Sun.
- Camera Equipment – Binoculars: Ensure extra batteries and storage devices. Put them into Ziploc bags. Binoculars are not needed if you are not a birder.
- Packed Lunch and Bottled Water: You will need your lunch from the Lodge and two liters of bottled water that we will provide you.
- Insect Repellent – Sun Lotion – Sunglasses: We recommend the effective Australian RID Insect Repellent. Good Sun blocker cream and sunglasses.
- You will need a Porter and Walking Stick: The services of a porter free you on the often-difficult trail, and a local walking stick helps you and steadies you on the often-challenging path. We supply our clients with both.
Read more about Gorilla Gear and Wear here.
Have an early breakfast and take your packed lunch from the Lodge for Gorilla Trekking Gear. Having the right gear and wearing the right clothes and boots make a difference in the quality of a Trek that you will have.
The Gorilla Habituation Experience Orientation:
Here, you receive instructions about the Gorilla Habituation Experience. You are given specific instructions for the Habituation Experience, which is different since there are only four participants.
The Rangers will go over the Rules and Guidelines before going on you embark on the Habituation trek. The Distance and Face Mask Rules are there for the protection of Mountain Gorillas from diseases, including respiratory illnesses.
If you are ill on the day of your Gorilla Habituation Experience, you are required to cancel the Habituation Experience Trek. This requirement protects the Mountain Gorillas and all human participants, including rangers, researchers, and porters.
Your Time with the Gorilla Family Being Habituated:
The length of your trek is determined by the location of the Gorilla family being habituated. The gentle giants make new nests daily and move up to
three kilometers up and down ridges and valleys. One reason you need the assistance of a porter and a walking stick.
The Gorilla Habituation Experience turns into an all-day trek with a return to the trailhead in the late afternoon.
You are one of the fortunate few who can take the Gorilla Habituation Experience. There have been many attempts, but since there are only four permits per day, few trekkers have experienced more time with the Gorillas.
The actual encounter with the Gentle Giants is like entering someone’s living room. You experience with your eyes and ears how they live out their days, how they relate to one another, what they eat, and how they communicate.
It is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You will never forget an event, a most moving experience that can only be done in Uganda.
Trek in and trek out, the 4 hours with a gorilla family, is an all-day activity. There are only four participants, not eight like regular gorilla trekking.
Tips – Advice that you may find helpful.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 5: Return to Entebbe – or drive to Kigali, Rwanda:
Return to Entebbe:
This is a nine-hour drive to Entebbe. We break the industry by having lunch on the Equator, which is about halfway to Entebbe. We can arrange a dayroom and dinner at Entebbe before your flight out.
Drive to Kigali, Rwanda:
It is a four-hour drive to Kigali Airport from here for your flight out. This is the shortest drive to an international airport from which you can fly out.
What is included in Value+ Midrange 5-Day Gorilla-Chimpanzee Habituation Experience Safari?
- Experienced UgandSafariver-Guide: A Safari comes from local gardens and the spices used. Read more here. It is more enjoyable with a knowledgeable and professional Local Driver-Guide.
- Greet and Meet at Airport upon arrival: We provide meet and greet Services, which include a welcome gift and Safari Informational Packet.
- Full-Board Lodging: All meals are included except alcoholic drinks, sodas, and snacks that you might order apart from meals. Some luxury Lodges have non-premium alcoholic beverages and sodas.
- Private 4×4 Safari Vehicle with Pop-Up Roof: The vehicle has a car fridge, WiFi, bottled water, local fruit, and nuts; car seats for children are available. Beer, Wine be cooled in Car Fridge upon special request.
- Habituation Permits: Permits are included in your Safari. Additionally, we provide porter services, a walking stick for support, and bottled Water.
- WiFi Internet Access: Most Lodges only provide a WiFi Internet Connection in the Safari lodge. We offer you a MiFi Router that gives you and your party access to the internet in your cottage or room, depending on nearby transmission towers. Read Staying in touch with home.
- Spanish, French, Italian, German, Russian, Mandarin, Arabic Speaking Driver-Guides: At an extra cost.
- Your Dietary Needs can be met: Notify us if you are a vegan, vegetarian, or need a gluten-free diet. Halala dietary requirements can be completed in most instances. Strictly kosher nutritional requirements cannot be satisfied on safari.
- AMREF-Flying Doctors Air-Medivac Insurance coverage: Our clients are covered in the case of an infrequent need for medical evacuation to a hospital that meets international standards.
Not included: Visas, Travel Insurance, Laundry, Tips, drinks at lodges such as Alcoholic drinks and sodas, and optional listed activities.
Our Flexible Booking Policy and our Price Guarantee offer our clients peace of mind when booking a Safari with us. We suggest you take out travel insurance with a cancellation policy that Protects you.
For over a Decade since 2008, we have offered Hakuna Matata – No-Worries Safaris:
Our private Hakuna Matata – No Worries Safaris are full-service Value+ Midrange and Luxury Safaris that come with all needed for a successful Safari in Uganda. You have your own Safari Vehicle with an experienced driver. You stay at a quality midrange or luxury Lodge; all the activities listed are included. The outcome of your safari is more important to us than income.
