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Overview: 5 Days Gorilla & Chimp Trekking Combo
Embark on an unforgettable 5 Days Gorilla & Chimp Trekking Combo adventure through Uganda’s most iconic rainforests—Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Kibale Forest National Park. This carefully crafted itinerary combines the thrill of encountering endangered mountain gorillas with the high-energy experience of tracking wild chimpanzees. Perfect for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers, this journey offers rich biodiversity, breathtaking scenery, and meaningful encounters with Uganda’s most captivating primates. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this primate-focused safari delivers a compact yet immersive East African experience.
5 Days Gorilla & Chimp Trekking Combo Highlights
- Day 1: Transfer from Kampala/Entebbe to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Day 2: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Day 3: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
- Day 4: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest and Bigodi Swamp
- Day 5: Transfer to Kampala/Entebbe
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Transfer from Kampala/Entebbe to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
After your early morning breakfast, depart from Kampala for Bwindi, which is located in South Western Uganda and is home to the endangered mountain gorillas. Along the way, you will be treated to spectacular views of the landscape, which ranges from flatlands to rolling steep hills; it is truly a breathtaking journey. Have lunch en route in Mbarara before continuing on to Bwindi National Park, where you will arrive in the late afternoon. Check into your preferred lodge; whichever lodge you choose will provide you with the feel and view of the park, as well as the amazing sounds of water flowing and birds in the dense forest. Have a good dinner and a good night’s sleep.
Day 2: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Start your day with an early breakfast, then pack your lunch and head to the park headquarters with your driver-guide. At 8:00 a.m., you’ll attend a briefing by park rangers on gorilla trekking etiquette, including important guidelines for when you encounter the gorillas. The trek can take anywhere from 2 to 8 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location. Be sure to carry enough drinking water, wear sturdy hiking boots, and bring a rain jacket and walking stick for support.
Once you locate the gorilla family, the experience is nothing short of magical. Watch silverbacks, mothers, and playful juveniles interact in their natural habitat—an unforgettable wildlife encounter. You’ll have one hour to observe and photograph them (flash photography is not allowed).
After the trek, return to your lodge to rest and refresh. In the evening, you may choose to unwind at the lodge or take a guided walk to the nearby Batwa community. This cultural visit offers insight into the traditional forest-dwelling lifestyle of the Batwa people, complete with storytelling, music, and dance. Return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 3: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
After a hearty breakfast, check out of the lodge and begin your scenic drive to Kibale Forest National Park. The journey offers beautiful views of Uganda’s countryside, particularly the lush highlands of Kabale. Enjoy optional photo stops along the way to capture the breathtaking landscapes. You’ll arrive at Kibale in the late afternoon or early evening and check in to your lodge. Depending on your lodge’s location and schedule, you may have the opportunity for an evening forest walk—a chance to spot nocturnal wildlife like bush babies. Return to the lodge for dinner and a good night’s rest in preparation for the adventures ahead.
Day 4: Chimpanzee Tracking and Bigodi Swamp Walk
After an early breakfast, head to the Kibale Forest Park headquarters for a briefing before embarking on your chimpanzee tracking adventure. Trek through the lush tropical forest in search of our closest relatives—the wild chimpanzees. Along the way, you may encounter a variety of other primates such as L’Hoest’s monkeys, Grey-cheeked mangabeys, olive baboons, and Black-and-White colobus monkeys, as well as a variety of forest bird species. Once you locate the chimpanzees, spend a captivating hour observing them as they feed, groom, swing through the trees, and socialize. It’s a thrilling experience and a fantastic opportunity for photography—just remember to switch off your flash.
Return to the lodge for lunch and a bit of relaxation. In the afternoon, take a guided nature walk through Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a birder’s paradise and home to numerous primates. Keep your eyes peeled for the Great Blue Turaco, Papyrus Gonolek, and other wetland species. The walk offers not only excellent wildlife viewing but also a glimpse into community conservation efforts.
Return to your lodge for dinner and a restful evening.
Day 5: Return to Kampala or Entebbe – End of Safari
After a relaxed breakfast at your lodge, check out and begin your scenic drive back to Kampala or Entebbe, depending on your flight schedule. Enjoy the last views of Uganda’s beautiful countryside along the way, with optional stops for lunch and photography. If time permits, you may visit a local craft market or roadside stalls for some final souvenir shopping. Your driver-guide will drop you off at your hotel in Kampala or directly at Entebbe International Airport in time for your departure flight.
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch
End of 5-Day Gorilla & Chimpanzee Trekking Safari
Cost Inclusions
- Uganda gorilla trekking permit
- Accommodation & meals as indicated
- 4×4 safari vehicle
- A professional English speaking knowledgeable driver guide.
- Bottled drinking water on board
- Flight fees
- Activity fees
Cost Exclusions
- International flights & Visas
- Tips
- Drinks
- Any changes to the itinerary
- Laundry
