Midrange Value+ Six Day-Gorilla-Chimpanzee-Wildlife Safari – Uganda
6-Days in the Pearl of Africa on this midrange Value+ Uganda Gorilla – Chimpanzee Wildlife Safari
Value+ Midrange 6-Day Gorilla-Chimpanzee-Wildlife Safari in Uganda: Join us on an exciting 6-day adventure through the Pearl of Africa with our Value+ Midrange Gorilla-Chimpanzee-Wildlife Safari in Uganda. This private and moderately priced Safari offers you a taste of the best Uganda has to offer.
Get ready to trek the majestic Mountain Gorillas in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and encounter the playful Chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge or Kalinzu Forest. Explore the diverse wildlife of Queen Elizabeth Park, including the unique experience of spotting tree-climbing lions. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Lake Mburo Park, where you can observe graceful giraffes, zebras, and other captivating wildlife.
This 6-day adventure takes you through three incredible parks, ensuring a thrilling African experience that will create lasting memories. To enhance your comfort and reduce long drives, we have arranged an overnight stay at Lake Mburo Park, allowing you to witness the wonders of its wildlife.
Discover the true essence of Uganda in just six days with our affordable Value+ Midrange Gorilla-Chimpanzee-Wildlife Safari. Experience the magic of Uganda’s primates, encounter magnificent wildlife, and witness the breathtaking scenery that makes the Pearl of Africa genuinely unforgettable.
What is a Value+ Midrange Safari with Kabiza Wilderness Safaris?
Our Value+ Safaris are private, full-service Safari using quality, midrange lodges with ensuite rooms or cottages. Our Value+ Hakuna Matata Safaris come with a full-board meal plan and a private safari vehicle with your experienced driver guide, who will introduce you to Uganda, its primates, wildlife, and Ugandan culture.
Highlights of your Value+ Midrange 6-Day Gorilla-Chimpanzee-Wildlife Safari
Gorilla Trekking: Trek Gorillas in the Buhoma area of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
- Chimpanzee Trekking: Chimpanzees Trek in Kalinzu Forest.
- Lake Mburo National Park: Here, you will see wildlife such as Giraffes, Zebras, Leopards, Hippos, Eland antelopes, and other Wildlife.
- Queen Elizabeth Park: See the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha. Take the Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise. See the craters on the Explosion Crater Trail. See the wildlife on game drives.
- Visit the Equator: Step over the equator into the Southern Hemisphere.
- Midrange Loges: Stay in quality, moderately priced lodges with full board meals.
Your Value+ Midrange 6-Day Gorilla-Chimpanzee-Wildlife Safar in Detail
Arrival Day at Entebbe – Welcome to Uganda:
On your arrival day in Entebbe, Uganda, we warmly welcome the Pearl of Africa, where your exciting African Gorilla Adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest awaits. CNN Travel has recognized Bwindi Impenetrable Forest as one of the premier parks in Africa, offering an exceptional experience for wildlife enthusiasts.
No matter what time you arrive, our team will be there to greet you. We will ensure your comfort and convenience as we transport you to the 2-Friends Beach Hotel, a picturesque location overlooking the stunning Lake Victoria.
If your arrival allows some leisure time, take advantage of the hotel’s private beach and swimming pool. Relax and soak in the tranquil surroundings, enjoying the serene ambiance before your adventure begins.
In addition, we understand that travel plans often involve connecting flights or onward journeys. If needed, we can assist in arranging a day room or overnight stay to accommodate your schedule before you depart from Uganda. Please feel free to inquire at the Entebbe International Airport Tourist Information for further assistance and guidance.
Regarding meals, the meal plan will be tailored to your specific arrival time, ensuring that you are well taken care of throughout your stay.
Get ready to embark on an incredible journey through Uganda, immersing yourself in its natural wonders and encountering the magnificent gorillas of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Your adventure starts here, in the heart of Uganda’s remarkable beauty.
Entebbe International Airport Tourist Information.
Meal Plan: depends on arrival.
Day 1 – Lake Mburo National Park:
Our journey towards Lake Mburo National Park begins as we bid farewell to the 2-Friends Beach Hotel. The scenic drive to the park will take approximately three hours, offering ample time to immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes unfolding before you.
We will make a planned stop during the drive, allowing you to stretch your legs, take in the surroundings, and perhaps capture some memorable photographs. This stop provides a chance to break the journey and appreciate Uganda’s natural beauty.
After the refreshing break, we will continue our route towards Lake Mburo National Park, eagerly anticipating the remarkable wildlife and stunning landscapes that await us.
Get ready to embark on this exciting leg of your adventure and prepare to be captivated by the wonders of Lake Mburo National Park.
Upon arrival at Lake Mburo National Park, you will check into Rwakobo Rock Lodge.
Rwakobo Rock Lodge:
Rwakobo Rock Lodge, a mid-range accommodation option at Lake Mburo National Park, offers a truly stunning view of the park’s natural beauty. The Lodge’s highlight is its picturesque setting, allowing you to appreciate the breathtaking scenery while refreshingly swimming in the pool.
The rooms at Rwakobo Rock Lodge are designed for comfort and convenience, featuring ensuite baths for relaxation. The Lodge’s main area includes a cozy bar-lounge and a spacious dining area where you can savor delicious meals prepared on-site.
In addition to its comfortable amenities, Rwakobo Rock Lodge offers a range of activities to enhance your experience. You can explore the surroundings through biking or hiking, immersing yourself in the park’s captivating landscapes. The Lodge also arranges cultural visits to nearby homesteads and villages, providing an opportunity to engage with the local community and learn about their way of life.
Rwakobo Rock Lodge is the premier mid-range Lodge at Lake Mburo National Park, offering exceptional value for its guests. Our mid-range safari clients have highly appreciated it and have thoroughly enjoyed their stay here. Experience the best of Lake Mburo National Park with the comfort, hospitality, and unforgettable views provided by Rwakobo Rock Lodge.
Afternoon Activities:
Wildlife Boat Cruise on Lake Mburo:
Join us for an exciting afternoon wildlife adventure on Lake Mburo with a thrilling boat cruise. Hop aboard a safe and reliable vessel the Uganda Wildlife Authority provides for a 90-minute cruise. As you glide along the lake, keep your eyes peeled for crocodiles, hippos, and water birds. You may even spot other animals coming to the Water’s edge, creating memorable wildlife encounters.
Afternoon Wildlife Game Drive:
Following the boat cruise, our adventure continues with a refreshing afternoon game drive. Lake Mburo National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife. Keep your camera ready as you search for Burchell Zebras, graceful giraffes (including the rare Rothschild Giraffes, unique to this park in Western Uganda), majestic eland antelopes, and elusive leopards. If luck is on your side, you might even glimpse a lion. Listen closely during the night; you might be fortunate enough to hear their mighty roars echoing through the park.
Despite its smaller size, Lake Mburo National Park has gained popularity, particularly after the introduction of giraffes from Murchison Falls Park, making it the sole Western Ugandan park where you can find the impressive Rothschild Giraffes, known as the tallest giraffes in Africa.
Prepare for an unforgettable wildlife experience as you embark
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 2 – Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest:
Morning Activity at Lake Mburo:
After enjoying a delicious breakfast, prepare for an exciting morning activity at Lake Mburo National Park. At 7:30 am, accompanied by a knowledgeable Uganda Wildlife Ranger, we head to the Saltlick. This adventure allows you to explore the park and observe wildlife on foot. As you venture near the Saltlick, a designated area where animals gather, you can capture incredible photos from a hide, providing you with a unique perspective of the animal interactions at the Saltlick.
The Saltlick hike typically takes around three hours to complete and is an excellent introduction to the diverse African wildlife in the park. Keep your eyes open for sightings of zebras, giraffes, magnificent eland antelopes, and more, making this experience unforgettable.
Alternatively, you can embark on a guided bike game drive if you prefer a different activity. This thrilling adventure allows you to explore the park’s wildlife while riding a bike, providing a unique and exhilarating perspective as you traverse the park’s trails.
After the morning activity, we will return to the Lodge for an early lunch, ensuring you have a satisfying meal before departing for our adventure’s next leg: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Recharge and prepare for the upcoming journey as we bid farewell to Lake Mburo National Park, leaving behind cherished memories of the wildlife encounters and natural wonders experienced during your stay.
Drive to the Buhoma area of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest:
We depart for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and reach the Haven Lodge in Buhoma in the late afternoon.
Haven Lodge:
Welcome to The Haven Lodge, a remarkable community project in the Buhoma area of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
The Lodge features cozy cottages, one of which is a spacious family cottage capable of accommodating up to four guests. Each house has a private bath, ensuring comfort and convenience during your stay.
With the assistance of the US Government, which has supported tourism initiatives in Uganda, The Haven Lodge was established, reflecting a harmonious collaboration between local communities and international support.
At The Haven Lodge, you can expect exceptional customer service from the well-trained staff. They are dedicated to making your stay memorable and enjoyable. The culinary experience at the Lodge is a delightful fusion of Western, Asian, and African flavors. Indulge in various dishes that will tantalize your taste buds and satisfy you fully.
One of the highlights of The Haven Lodge is its stunning view of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. You can admire the breathtaking beauty of the Forest from both the cottages and the main Lodge, creating a captivating backdrop for your stay. Additionally, the Lodge’s proximity to the park headquarters makes attending the gorilla tracking orientation convenient, ensuring a seamless start to your gorilla trekking adventure.
Immerse yourself in the warm hospitality and enchanting surroundings of The Haven Lodge, where community involvement and natural splendor come together to provide an unforgettable experience in the heart of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 3 – Gorilla Tracking in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest-Buhoma Area:
This is one of the monumental days of your life and the day when you will spend time with a mountain gorilla family in the rainforest. This is not a day to sleep in but to rise early, enjoy a hearty breakfast, and get dressed for the Gorilla Trek.
What Should I wear tracking Gorillas?
Here is practical advice about what to wear while Gorilla Trekking 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 on personal discomfort and misery. Wearing suitable clothing and footwear is about protection.
Gorilla Wear and Gear you will need:
- Daypack: Preferably a waterproof daypack, you can use it as a carry-on 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 Water.
- 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.
Gorilla Trekking Orientation:
The Gorilla Trek begins with an orientation. You are assigned a Gorilla family based on your age, physical shape, and fitness level by a ranger—a moderate level of fitness. Many trekkers prepare in advance for their gorilla safari by taking walks and hikes at home. If you are disabled and unable to take a trek, you can be carried into and out of the Forest by a team of porters in a Sedan Chair. This is something that we can arrange for you.
Gorilla Trekking Rules and Regulations:
There are three main rules for the protection of the gorillas and you. If you are sick, cancel your gorilla trek. That is to protect the gorillas. There is the ten-meter distance rule. Again, to protect the gorillas and you from the transmission of infections. Read more about Gorilla Rules.
Porter Services:
If you are on Safari with us, we will arrange for the services of a porter. They will carry your daypack and assist you on the often tricky trek. Being a porter is quite profitable since most have an income exceeding mid-level government officials. The importance of having a porter cannot be minimized since they allow you to focus on the trek and not on your load and discomfort.
We also provide our gorilla trekking clients with a walking stick, protective masks, and bottled Water. Do not forget to pick up your lunch at the Lodge. Read more here about Porter Services.
The Encounter with a Gorilla Family:
The Gorilla Family Encounter is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience for most trekkers. Mountain Gorillas are not found in any zoo, only in the wilds of Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo.
In the presence of gorillas, wearing a mask and keeping the ten-meter distance rule is vital.
You will enjoy your one hour with a gorilla family, and you will have the opportunity to get some incredible up-close photos.
After your time with a gorilla family, you return to the Buhoma trailhead, where your driver-guide will meet you and return to your Lodge around lunchtime.
Optional Activities that you can choose to do:
- Batwa Experience: See the Forest through the eyes of its first people, the indigenous Batwa People, who are today Conservation refugees living outside the Forest. Read more here.
- Buhoma Village Walk: This is a guided walk through the Buhoma village, including school and home visits. Additionally, you have time with the Batwa people. Read more here.
- Mountain Biking: You can rent a bike with a guide and bike ride inside and outside the park. This helps the Ride for a Woman community self-help group. Read more here.
- Hitting the trails: You can hike inside and outside the park, including the famous waterfall trail. Read more here.
- Relax and Chill out: Relax and chill out at the Haven Lodge and read a book.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 4 – Tree Climbing Lions – Queen Elizabeth Park:
This morning, we take the 1 ½ to 2-hour drive to the Ishasha region of Queen Elizabeth Park. This is home to tree-climbing lions and is seen as the best spot in Africa for sightings of tree-climbing Lions.
Here, we take a game drive with a Ugandan Wildlife Authority Tanger who knows where to spot the lions and other wildlife on this day. The game drive is about three hours long, and you will see countless antelopes, including the colorful Topi, Elephants, Leopards, Buffaloes, and more savannah animals.
After the game drive, you can have a nice lunch at the nearby Savannah Resort. /w then continue to the Mweya area of Queen Elizabeth Park. Our destination is Enganzi Game Lodge – 2 hours drive time.
Before we check-in, we take the scenic 27-kilometer Katwe Explosion Crater Drive. This is one of the most scenic drives where you see the ancient explosion craters; some filled with fresh Water or salt lakes, others covered by savanna grass or forests – beautiful enough that they recently were featured in National Geographic.
You can also see from this the highest point of the park, a portion of the western rift escarpment, Lake Edward and Lake George, the Kazinga Channel, the endless savannah, and the majestic, snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains of the moon. Along with the fabulous views, you will see some wildlife here, such as elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes.
Enganzi Game Lodge:
Experience the perfect blend of quality and affordability at Enganzi Game Lodge. This charming Lodge offers an extra touch of luxury without breaking the bank.
Located in the picturesque Queen Elizabeth Park, Enganzi Game Lodge serves as an ideal base for exploring the park’s breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife. Immerse yourself in the park’s beauty, from its impressive nature to the stunning explosion craters, the vast Kyambura Gorge, and the captivating Maramagambo Forest.
The Lodge features comfortable tented cottages that provide a relaxing retreat amidst nature. Each house has a full bath, ensuring your comfort during your stay. Enjoy sweeping views from your place, overlooking the Albertine Escarpment and offering magnificent vistas of Queen Elizabeth Park.
With over four years of experience, we have consistently chosen Enganzi Game Lodge as the preferred accommodation for our mid-range safari clients, and they have been delighted with the exceptional results. This Lodge offers outstanding value for its price, ensuring you can enjoy a memorable and comfortable stay without compromising quality.
Enganzi Game Lodge prides itself on being family-friendly, welcoming guests of all ages, including children. So, whether traveling with your loved ones or embarking on a solo adventure, Enganzi Game Lodge is ready to provide a warm and inviting atmosphere for your stay.
Indulge in an unforgettable experience at Enganzi Game Lodge, where quality, affordability, and a touch of luxury come together to create the perfect safari getaway in Queen Elizabeth Park.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 5 – Queen Elizabeth Park:
Chimpanzee Trekking in Kalinzu Forest:
Prepare for an incredible adventure as we embark on a Chimpanzee Trekking experience in Kalinzu Forest, just a forty-five-minute drive away.
Kalinzu Forest is renowned as one of Uganda’s best destinations for chimpanzee trekking, offering a unique opportunity to observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. It’s important to note that Kalinzu Forest is a National Forest and not a national park, and it has been a site of research by Japanese scientists for over 25 years.
The chances of encountering chimpanzees during the trek are high, estimated at around 85%. Kalinzu Forest provides an excellent alternative to the more expensive Kibale Forest for those seeking an immersive chimpanzee experience.
The chimpanzee trek will commence upon your arrival at the Forest. Like gorilla trekking, you’ll need the same clothing and gear, except gardening gloves, which are not required for this activity.
Guided by experienced trackers, the chimpanzee trek will last approximately three hours. In addition to the chimpanzees, you’ll have the opportunity to observe around five other primate species, adding to the richness of the experience. Keep your eyes and ears open as you might also spot various bird species and small mammals, including antelopes, further enhancing your wildlife encounter.
After the trek, your driver will transport you to a nearby lodge, where a delicious lunch awaits, allowing you to savor a well-deserved meal and reflect on the incredible chimpanzee trekking experience you’ve just had.
Prepare for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Kalinzu Forest as you meet with chimpanzees and immerse yourself in the natural wonders surrounding you.
Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise:
Get ready for an enjoyable adventure in the afternoon as we embark on the renowned Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise. The cruise begins at the Mweya Landing site and takes you along the picturesque channel banks leading towards Lake Edward.
This boat cruise provides the perfect opportunity to capture stunning photographs of the wildlife that thrives along the channel. Keep your camera ready to snap shots of magnificent elephants and graceful antelopes, and look for predators like crocodiles appearing in the late afternoon. You may also spot buffaloes grazing along the shore, creating a picturesque scene. And if luck is on your side, you might even capture that perfect shot of a wide-mouthed hippo.
The Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise typically lasts approximately two hours, and for most visitors, it stands out as one of the highlights of their Queen Elizabeth Park safari experience. So please sit back, relax, and soak in the breathtaking views and wildlife encounters as we cruise along the Kazinga Channel.
Prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey where nature’s beauty and wildlife wonders unfold before your eyes during this remarkable boat cruise in Queen Elizabeth Park.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 6 – Return to Entebbe:
Morning Game Drive:
Get ready for an exciting morning adventure as we embark on a game drive in Queen Elizabeth Park. The industry typically begins at dawn, around 6:30 a.m. Accompanied by your knowledgeable driver-guide and a Uganda Wildlife Ranger, you’ll venture into the park searching for fascinating wildlife.
During the game drive, keep your eyes peeled for a variety of animals, including majestic lions, elusive leopards, towering elephants, mighty buffaloes, graceful giraffes, playful hippos, quirky warthogs, cunning hyenas, and much more. The early morning timing allows you to witness the predators returning from their night’s hunt, adding to the thrill of the experience.
The game drive lasts approximately three hours, providing ample time to explore the park and spot its diverse wildlife. You can enjoy breakfast before or after the game drive, ensuring you start the day energized and ready for adventure.
As an optional activity, you can participate in Lion Tracking Research, where you join researchers in search of electronically collared lions. This unique experience offers valuable insights and guarantees sightings of these magnificent creatures. (Note: Additional cost of $100D per person applies for Lion Tracking Research.)
For a truly immersive safari experience, a traditional bush breakfast can be arranged, combining it with the morning game drive. Enjoy a delicious meal surrounded by the beauty of the park, creating lasting memories.
After the game drive, we’ll have an early lunch before returning to Entebbe. To break up the approximately six-hour campaign, we’ll make a stop at the equator. Here, you can enjoy lunch, browse for souvenirs, and capture the obligatory picture of yourself standing on the equator.
We’ll reach Entebbe in the late afternoon, where we can arrange dinner and a dayroom for you at 2-Friends Beach Hotel, providing a comfortable space to relax before your flight.
Prepare for an unforgettable morning filled with wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and a taste of authentic African adventure during our game drive in Queen Elizabeth Park.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch
What is included in this Value+ Midrange 6-Day Gorilla-Chimpanzee-Wildlife Safari?
- Experienced Ugandan Driver-Guide: A Safari becomes more enjoyable with a knowledgeable and professional Local Driver-Guide.
- Greet and Meet at Airport upon arrival: We provide meet and greet services, including 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, and bottled Water.
- Gorilla Trekking: Gorilla Trekking Permits are included in your Safari. Additionally, we provide porter services, a walking stick for support, and bottled Water. Read our Practical Gorilla Trekking Advice:
- WiFi Internet Access: Most Lodges only provide a WiFi Internet Connection in the main 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 met on Safari. a.
- AMREF-Flying Doctors Air-Medivac Insurance coverage: Our clients have covered a rare need for medical evacuation to a hospital that meets international standards.
I have not included Visas, Travel Insurance, Laundry, Tips, drinks at lodges such as Alcoholic drinks and sodas, and optional listed activities.
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 with everything 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 the income.
Contact us if you are interested in this Value+ Midrange 6-Day Gorilla-Chimpanzee-Wildlife Safari.
Be aware of our Flexible Booking Policy and our Price Guarantee.
