Value+ Midrange 7-Day Gorilla – Chimpanzee Trekking – Wildlife Safari – Uganda
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest – Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest – Wildlife in Queen Elizabeth Park
Value+ Midrange 7-Day Gorilla – Chimpanzee Trekking – Wildlife Safari: Discover the amazing biodiversity of Uganda with our Value+ Midrange 7-Day Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking Wildlife Safari. This trip takes you through the mind-blowing Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its mountain gorilla population. Watching these incredible animals in their natural home is an experience you won’t forget.
Next up is Queen Elizabeth National Park, a hotspot for all sorts of wildlife. Get ready for thrilling game drives where you might spot elephants, lions, and buffaloes amidst stunning landscapes.
You’ll also have the chance to visit Kyambura Gorge, where expert guides will help you watch chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Plus, don’t miss the immersive chimpanzee habituation experience in Kibale Forest Park, where you’ll gain some great insights into their social lives.
To cap off the adventure, hike to a beautiful crater lake and soak in the breathtaking views of Uganda’s landscape. This well-rounded experience in the Pearl of Africa is bound to create unforgettable memories, so booking your safari is the perfect first step toward this fantastic journey!
Highlights of the Value+ 7-Day Gorilla-Chimpanzee Trekking-Wildlife Safari in Uganda
Gorilla Trekking: Track Gorillas in the Buhoma Area 0f Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Permits are included in the price of the Safari.
- Chimpanzee Trekking: Trek Chimpanzees in Kibale Forest, the primate capital of East Africa. Permits are included in the Safari price.
- Tree Climbing Lions: In Ishasha in Queen Elizabeth Park. The best spot for tree-climbing Lions.
- Game Drives: Game Drives in Queen Elizabeth Park Ishasha and Mweya areas.
- Explosion Crater Drive: This is one of the most scenic drives in East Africa.
- Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise: This highlights your Safari with its wildlife, birds, and reptiles. The channel has the highest concentration of hippos in East Africa.
- Bigodi Wetlands – Jungle Swamp: Traverse a jungle swamp made from roughly hewn planks on a boardwalk.
- Nocturnal Forest Walk: See Kibale Forest at night. Meet the creatures of the night.
- Top of the World – Crater Lake Hike: This a great, scenic hike that takes in villages, crater lakes, and panoramic views.
Fitness Level required for this Safari: A moderate fitness level is needed for this Safari. Read more here.
Your Value+ 7-Day Gorilla-Chimpanzee Trekking-Wildlife Safari in Uganda in Detail:
Arrival Day in Uganda:
When you land at Entebbe International Airport, you’ll be greeted warmly in the Tourist Arrival area. Getting through immigration and customs is usually pretty quick, often taking less than an hour. It’s a good idea to check out the info page for Entebbe Airport before your trip; it has all the essential details about Ugandan Tourist Visas and Yellow Fever Certificates, which you’ll need for a smooth entry into the country.
Once you’re through, you’ll be transferred to the 2 Friends Beach Hotel, right along the beautiful shores of Lake Victoria. This place offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a private beach, and a lovely swimming pool, making it the perfect spot to unwind after your travels. The friendly staff is dedicated to ensuring you have a great stay, and the restaurant offers a wide range of local and international dishes to choose from.
Depending on the time you arrive, you can arrange for lunch or dinner to suit your taste, ensuring a tasty and relaxing experience. The aim is to kick off your adventure in Uganda comfortably, making sure your arrival day is smooth and memorable.
International Airport information page.
Read more about 2 Friends Beach Hotel here.
Meal Plan: Depending on your arrival time.
Day 1 – Depart for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest:
Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest:
Start your day bright and early at 6:30 a.m. from Kampala or Entebbe and get ready for a scenic nine-hour drive to the Buhoma section of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. On the way, you can stop at the Equator to snap some incredible photos at this unique landmark where the two hemispheres meet. After that, take a break for a relaxed lunch in the lively town of Mbarara to refuel before continuing through Uganda’s beautiful landscapes.
By late afternoon, you’ll reach Buhoma and check in at the cozy Haven Lodge, your home for the next two nights. It’s the perfect spot, right on the edge of Bwindi, where you can enjoy its exceptional biodiversity and see some incredible primates.
You can kick off your trip from Kigali, Rwanda, and take a direct five-hour ride to Bwindi, which is a quicker and just as exciting option.
For a faster route, you can hop on a flight from Entebbe to Kihihi (about 75 minutes) and then take a one-hour drive to Buhoma. This way, you’ll have more time for fun activities like the Batwa Cultural Experience or exploring local villages. Just remember the luggage limit is 15 kg, so it’s a good idea to wear your trekking gear on board to keep it light.
No matter which route you choose, you’re in for a smooth and enriching journey to the heart of Uganda’s magical rainforest.
Haven Lodge in Buhoma:
Welcome to the Haven Lodge in Buhoma, a friendly and inviting accommodation option nestled overlooking the beautiful Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. As a community project and the latest addition to the Buhoma area, the Lodge offers guests a comfortable and memorable stay.
The Haven Lodge features charming cottages, including a family cottage that can accommodate up to four guests. Each house is equipped with an ensuite bathroom, ensuring convenience and privacy. Additionally, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding Forest from the cottage’s deck, allowing you to connect with nature and soak in the serene atmosphere.
What sets Haven Lodge apart is its commitment to exceptional guest services. The staff takes pride in providing warm and attentive hospitality, going the extra mile to ensure your stay is delightful and satisfying. From the moment you arrive, you can expect to be greeted with genuine smiles and a desire to make your experience memorable.
One of the highlights of your stay at Haven Lodge is the culinary experience. The Lodge takes pride in serving delicious and carefully prepared meals that cater to various preferences. You can savor multiple flavors and local delicacies, creating a memorable dining experience. The Lodge’s bar is well-stocked with a selection of local and imported alcoholic beverages and popular soft drinks to quench your thirst.
To learn more about Haven Lodge, please visit our website for more details.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 2 – Gorilla Tracking in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest-Buhoma Area:
Today is the highlight of your safari: the unforgettable gorilla encounter in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest’s Buhoma sector. After a hearty breakfast to fuel your body for the day ahead, you’ll prepare for a journey unlike any other—tracking mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Starting early—often before sunrise—is essential to make the most of the trek. Dressing right is crucial: sturdy hiking boots will help you navigate the often muddy and uneven trails, while long pants and sleeves protect you from nettles and thorny vines. A reliable rain jacket is a must, as Bwindi’s weather can shift from sunshine to downpour in moments.
Guided by expert trackers and armed rangers, you’ll step into the lush, vibrant forest where humidity hangs in the air and the sounds of wildlife surround you. The trek’s difficulty varies but the promise of seeing the elusive gorillas keeps your spirits high throughout the hike.
When you finally come face-to-face with the gorilla family, prepare for a deeply moving experience. Watching the gentle giants interact—the commanding silverback, nurturing mothers, and playful youngsters—is truly awe-inspiring. Remember to respect their space, follow your guides’ instructions carefully, and soak in the profound connection to these magnificent creatures and their fragile ecosystem.
To ensure your comfort and safety, pack essential gear: a waterproof daypack for your belongings, tough gardening gloves to protect your hands, a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection, and at least two liters of water to stay hydrated. For first-timers, hiring a porter and using a walking stick can greatly ease the physical demands of the trek.
Ultimately, gorilla tracking in Bwindi is more than an adventure—it’s a chance to witness wildlife up close, deepen your appreciation for nature, and contribute to the vital conservation of these endangered animals for generations to come.
Read more about Gorilla Gear and Wear here.
Read more here about Porter Services.
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 a school and home visit. 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.
- Bwindi Bar: Have a delightful Snack and drink at the Bwindi Bar along Mainstreet in Buhoma. Shop for souvenirs and then have a snack and drink at the Bwindi Bar. 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 3 – Tree Climbing Lions – Queen Elizabeth Park:
Tree-Climbing Lion Game Drive
We leave and head for the Ishasha region of Queen Elizabeth National Park, widely recognized as the premier destination in East Africa to witness the rare and mesmerizing tree-climbing lions. Unlike anywhere else on the continent, Ishasha offers consistently reliable sightings of these majestic big cats relaxing in the branches of towering fig and acacia trees — a behavior unique to this area.
The reason Ishasha stands out is its distinctive landscape of open savannah interspersed with rocky outcrops and dense woodland, creating the perfect environment for lions to climb trees to escape heat, insects, or simply to survey their territory. This phenomenon is rarely observed elsewhere, making Ishasha a truly one-of-a-kind experience for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Led by expert Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers, our 3-hour game drive will take us directly to the hotspots where these elusive lions spend their days perched high above the ground. Alongside the lions, Ishasha boasts a rich diversity of wildlife including vibrant Topi antelopes, majestic elephants, stealthy leopards, and formidable buffaloes, ensuring an unforgettable safari adventure.
Explosion Crater Drive
But the adventure doesn’t stop there! We’ll continue our exploration towards the Mweya area of Queen Elizabeth Park, culminating at the excellent Enganzi Game Lodge, approximately two hours away.
Before settling in, prepare to be mesmerized by a stunning 27-kilometer drive along the Katwe Explosion Craters. This landscape, featured by National Geographic, showcases ancient craters filled with sparkling freshwater or salt lakes, interspersed with lush savanna and mysterious forests.
From the park’s highest point, panoramic views will unfold before you: the western rift escarpment, the shimmering Lake Edward and Lake George, the winding Kazinga Channel, and the distant, snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains (Mountains of the Moon). Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way, including elephants, buffaloes, and various antelope species.
This day promises an unforgettable safari experience filled with incredible wildlife encounters and breathtaking scenery. Get ready for an adventure you won’t soon forget!
Check ioto Enganzi Game Lodge:
Located right on the edge of Queen Elizabeth National Park, Enganzi Game Lodge is a fantastic spot that combines quality and affordability, making it perfect for travelers who want a great experience without breaking the bank. This cozy lodge is the ideal base for checking out the park’s stunning scenery, from the impressive explosion craters and expansive Kyambura Gorge to the lush Maramagambo Forest and its rich wildlife.
At Enganzi, you’ll find spacious tented cottages that come with their own private baths and gorgeous views of the Albertine Rift Escarpment and the wild landscapes of Queen Elizabeth Park. The peaceful atmosphere and thoughtful touches make it a great place to unwind after a day full of adventure.
For over four years, we’ve happily recommended Enganzi Game Lodge to our mid-range safari clients, and the feedback has been fantastic—people love the excellent service, comfy accommodations, and exceptional value. Families will be glad to know that the lodge welcomes kids of all ages, ensuring everyone has an inclusive and unforgettable safari experience.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 4 – Queen Elizabeth Park:
Morning Game Drive
Kick off your day with an incredible morning game drive starting at 6:30 a.m., led by a pro-driver guide and a Uganda Wildlife Ranger. This adventure is a fantastic opportunity to see some truly amazing wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, and hippos, all in their natural habitat.
The game drive lasts approximately three hours and is the perfect time to spot predators returning after a night of hunting. After your exciting drive, you can enjoy a hearty breakfast—whether it’s before or after, the choice is yours.
If you’re looking for something a bit different, check out the optional Lion Tracking Research activity. You’ll have the chance to join researchers in tracking electronically collared lions, ensuring you’ll definitely see some lions while learning about their behavior up close. This unique experience comes at $100 per person.
Another great option is the traditional Safari bush breakfast, offered right in the middle of your morning adventure, providing a delicious meal amidst the stunning beauty of the African wilderness.
Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise:
The Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise is a must-try when checking out Queen Elizabeth National Park. Kicking off from the Mweya Landing site in the afternoon, you’ll smoothly cruise along the Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake George and Lake Edward. This two-hour boat ride gives you a front-row seat to one of Africa’s coolest wildlife hangouts.
While you drift along, get ready to see vast herds of elephants drinking by the water, graceful antelopes munching on grass, and buffalos chilling on the shoreline. Keep your camera ready—crocodiles often sunbathe on the banks, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a hippo surfacing with its mouth wide open—definitely a shot worth capturing! The late afternoon light sets a beautiful scene, perfect for taking some unforgettable photos.
This boat cruise mixes relaxation with exciting wildlife spotting, making it a highlight of any safari in Queen Elizabeth Park. It’s a unique way to soak in the park’s amazing biodiversity while enjoying a peaceful moment on the water. Read more
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 5 – Kibale Forest – Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary:
Drive to Kibale Forest, which is a 2-hour plus Drive. Check into the Isunga Lodge.
Check into Isunga Lodge:
Welcome to Isunga Lodge, a fantastic spot that gives you excellent value! This hidden gem is nestled in a serene location. It features cozy cottages with ensuite bathrooms, which means you can enjoy some serious privacy and relaxation during your stay.
But it’s not all about the comfy rooms! Isunga Lodge really shines when it comes to food. Get ready for delicious meals crafted just for you, ensuring a top-notch dining experience.
What really makes Isunga Lodge stand out is that you get all this without spending a fortune. Many more expensive lodges in Uganda can’t compare to the value and quality you’ll find here. Additionally, with an impeccable track record and outstanding customer service, there have never been any complaints about Isunga Lodge. They’re committed to making every guest happy.
So, if you’re looking for a great place to stay in Uganda that won’t break the bank, Isunga Lodge should be your go-to choice. Get ready for their friendly hospitality, comfy rooms, and tasty meals that will leave you impressed!g!
Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary:
Calling all nature lovers! Get ready for an incredible adventure at Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary, right next to Kibale Forest. Keep your eyes open—you might even catch a glimpse of some chimpanzees!
This place is a birdwatcher’s dream, teeming with a diverse array of amazing birds. The real showstopper here is the stunning Large Blue Turaco, so be sure to have your cameras ready—this beauty deserves a photo!
But that’s not all! Kibale Forest isn’t just about primates; it’s also home to a unique array of wildlife. Look out for Forest Elephants, which are a bit hairier and have smaller tusks that are perfect for navigating the forest. And keep an eye out for Forest Buffaloes, which have a reddish coat, setting them apart from their savanna cousins.
The coolest part? Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary is a community project doing incredible things. When you pay for your entrance and guides, you’re directly helping the local community and supporting their conservation efforts. So, while you’re out enjoying nature, you’re also making a real difference in the lives of the people who live here.
Get ready to dive into the beauty of Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary, check out the birds, and spot some unique wildlife. It’s an adventure that combines nature, conservation, and community, making it an unforgettable experience.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 6 – Kibale Forest – Chimpanzee Trekking:
Get ready for an awesome adventure in Kibale Forest – Chimpanzee Trekking style!
Just like the Gorilla Trek, we’ll kick things off with a quick orientation to go over the ground rules. Remember to wear the same kind of clothes you’d wear for gorilla trekking. But this time, you can leave the gardening gloves and packed lunch at home.
The Chimpanzee Trek itself is a three-hour blast, and guess what? You get to hang out with a chimpanzee troop for a whole hour! How amazing is that? You’ll get to see these incredible creatures up close in their own backyard, watching their funny antics and learning all about how they act.
Good news: the Chimpanzee Trek isn’t as tough as the gorilla trek. The land in Kibale Forest is different from Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, so it’s not as hard on your legs. It’s still super exciting and worth it, but a bit easier.
But wait, there’s more! We’ve got an extra option for you – the Chimpanzee Habituation Experience. This one’s for the real adventurers. With this, you’ll get to spend even more time with a chimpanzee troop that’s getting used to people. It’s a longer trek, about six hours, but trust me, it’s worth it. Not many people can do this, so it’s extra special.
Get ready for a day full of chimpanzee encounters and stunning nature. It’s time to make memories that will last forever in the heart of Kibale Forest!
Nocturnal Forest Walk:
Nature lovers, get ready for an unforgettable adventure with a Nocturnal Forest Walk in Kibale! As the sun sets and darkness takes over, you’ll step into the mysterious world of the forest after hours. Guided by skilled Uganda Wildlife Authority Rangers, you’ll explore moonlit trails, uncovering the forest’s secret nightlife.
With spotlights in hand, your guides will reveal the hidden creatures that come alive after dusk — think curious nocturnal mammals, elusive owls, and other fascinating critters. Every step brings a new surprise, from glowing eyes peering through the shadows to the magical sounds of the forest at night.
This walk offers a rare chance to see Kibale’s incredible ecosystem from a fresh perspective, highlighting the amazing adaptations animals use to thrive in the dark. You’ll feel the forest’s pulse through rustling leaves and enchanting calls, making for a truly immersive experience.
So, grab your flashlight and sense of adventure for this thrilling night journey. Discover Kibale’s wild side — it’s a magical, inspiring way to connect with nature like never before! Read more.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 7 – Top of the World Hike – Drive to Entebbe:
After a hearty breakfast to fuel your energy, get ready for an unforgettable hike to the “top of the world.” Along the way, you will discover three stunning crater lakes that are sure to take your breath away.
As you trek through lush tea plantations, quaint villages, and peaceful settlements, the scenery becomes increasingly captivating. When you finally reach the summit, the panoramic views will astonish you! You can feast your eyes on the majestic Rwenzori Mountains of the Moon, the sprawling Queen Elizabeth National Park, and the shimmering crater lakes that stretch out like a dream.
This 3-hour nature hike is absolutely worth it. Your expert guide will enrich your journey with fascinating facts and stories about the region, making the experience even more memorable.
After working up an appetite, enjoy a delicious lunch to recharge. Then, you will head back to Entebbe in the late afternoon, allowing time to relax. If you need a day room to freshen up, we’ve got you covered. Why not top off your day with a tasty dinner before your flight? You’ve earned it!
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch
What is included in this Value+ 7-Day Gorilla – Chimpanzee Trekking – 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 Habituation Experience 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.
- ; Automatic AMREF-Flying Doctors Air-Medivac Insurance coverage: Our clients have covered a rare 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.
Why Take This Value+ Midrange 7-Day Gorilla, Chimpanzee & Wildlife Safari?
Since 2008, our Hakuna Matata – No Worries Safaris has been providing unforgettable adventures that blend comfort, excitement, and expert guidance. This Value+ Midrange 7-day safari is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic wildlife experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.
You will travel in a well-equipped safari vehicle driven by a knowledgeable driver-guide who knows Uganda’s best locations. Each day offers thrilling encounters, from tracking majestic mountain gorillas and playful chimpanzees to exciting game drives where you can spot elephants, lions, and more.
After your wildlife adventures, you can relax in carefully selected midrange lodges that blend cozy comfort with local charm, providing a peaceful retreat each evening.
Your thoughtfully planned itinerary includes all key activities and cultural experiences, allowing you to focus on enjoying every moment hassle-free. With personalized service and a commitment to creating lifelong memories, this safari promises the perfect balance of adventure, comfort, and genuine Ugandan hospitality. Get ready for the trip of a lifetime!
Contact us if you are interested in this Value+ 7-Day Gorilla – Chimpanzee Trekking – Wildlife Safari.
Be aware of our Flexible Booking Policy and our Price Guarantee.
