7 Days Uganda Primate Safari; Best Wildlife Adventure 2025
Embark on a 7 Days Uganda Primate Safari taking you to the top primate destination in Uganda: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for Gorilla trekking adventures, Kibale Forest National Park for Chimpanzee trekking experiences, Mgahinga gorila national park for golden monkey tracking, and Bigodi Swamp for thrilling nature walks. It also takes you to the second largest National park in Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park for thrilling game drive experience and on a Batwa culutural encounter ensuring a memorable and enjoyable Uganda safari experience.
Tour Highlights of the 7 Days Uganda Primate Safari
- Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest National Park
- Wildlife Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Visit to the Kibale Forest and Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary
- Scenic drive through Uganda’s lush forests, savannahs, and valleys
- Experience of Uganda’s diverse cultures and local communities
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Brief Itinerary of the 7 Days Uganda Primate Safari
- Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Transfer to Kampala
- Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Day 3: Game drive and Bigodi Swamp walk
- Day 4: Transfer to Bwindi and Batwa visit
- Day 5: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi
- Day 6: Golden MonkeyTrekking in Mgahinga
- Day 7: Transfer back to Kampala
Detailed Itinerary of the 7 Days Uganda Primate Safari
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Transfer to Kampala
- Distance to be covered: 40 km
- Meals: Dinner
- Accommodation: Overnight stay at Lake Victoria Serena Resort or similar in Kampala
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport, where your guide will warmly welcome you. After a short briefing, drive to Kampala (about 40 km). Check-in at your hotel, freshen up, and enjoy a delicious dinner at your accommodation. Overnight stay in Kampala gives you a relaxing start to the adventure.
Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale – Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Distance to be covered: 320 km (approximately 6-7 hours)
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Mweya Safari Lodge or similar in Queen Elizabeth National Park
After breakfast, drive to Kibale Forest National Park for an exciting day of chimpanzee trekking (a journey of 6-7 hours). Kibale is renowned for its large population of chimpanzees. Upon arrival, enjoy a briefing before embarking on your trek to see these fascinating primates in their natural habitat. The trek typically lasts 2-4 hours, depending on the chimpanzees’ location. You’ll be accompanied by expert rangers who provide insight into the forest and chimpanzee behavior.
After your chimpanzee encounter, transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park (3-4 hours). Check-in to your accommodation, where you will enjoy dinner and relax after the day’s adventures.
Day 3: Game Drive and Bigodi Swamp Walk
- Distance to be covered: 100 km (game drive in the park)
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Mweya Safari Lodge or similar in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Start the day with an early morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park. This park is known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, buffaloes, and various antelope species. The drive will give you a chance to experience the park’s unique savannah landscape and spot some of the famous wildlife.
Afterward, enjoy lunch at your lodge. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic Bigodi Swamp walk, a unique opportunity to see various bird species, monkeys, and other wildlife in this lush, biodiverse area. The swamp is also home to the sitatunga, a rare swamp-dwelling antelope, and many species of colorful birds.
After your walk, return to the lodge for dinner and rest for the night.
Day 4: Transfer to Bwindi – Batwa Visit
- Distance to be covered: 130 km (approximately 4-5 hours)
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge or similar in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (about 4-5 hours). This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its population of mountain gorillas and its dense, mist-covered forests. Upon arrival, check into your lodge, where you will enjoy lunch before embarking on a Batwa community visit.
The Batwa, also known as the “Pygmies,” are the original inhabitants of the Bwindi Forest, and their visit will provide an insightful cultural experience. You will learn about their traditional lifestyle, how they lived in harmony with nature, and how they have adapted to life outside the forest after being relocated.
Return to your lodge for dinner and rest before your gorilla trekking adventure the next day.
Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
- Distance to be covered: Depends on the trekking route
- Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge or similar in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
This is the highlight of your safari – gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. After breakfast, you’ll be driven to the park headquarters for a briefing on the trekking protocol. Depending on the gorilla family assigned to you, you will hike through the thick forest, led by a team of experienced rangers.
The trek can last anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas. The rewarding moment comes when you encounter a family of mountain gorillas, and you can spend up to one hour observing them. This intimate and unforgettable experience allows you to witness the gorillas’ social interactions, behavior, and interactions with their environment.
Return to your lodge for a well-deserved lunch, and enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure. You can relax, enjoy the view, or participate in optional activities like nature walks around the area.
Day 6: Golden Monkey Trekking in Mgahinga
- Distance to be covered: 60 km (approximately 2 hours)
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Mountains Gorilla View Lodge or similar near Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
After breakfast, drive to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (about 2 hours). This park is home to golden monkeys, which are an endangered species found in the volcanic slopes of the Virunga Mountains. You will embark on a trek to spot these fascinating primates as they leap through the bamboo forests.
Golden monkey trekking is typically shorter and easier than gorilla trekking, usually lasting 2-3 hours. The monkeys are highly energetic and known for their playful and acrobatic behavior. You’ll have the opportunity to observe their unique social structure and vibrant golden fur.
After your trek, return to your lodge for lunch, followed by leisure time in the afternoon. You can enjoy views of the Virunga Mountains or take a stroll through the surrounding area.
Day 7: Transfer Back to Kampala
- Distance to be covered: 510 km (approximately 9-10 hours)
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
- Accommodation: N/A (Departure)
On your final day, you’ll have breakfast and begin the long drive back to Kampala (approximately 9-10 hours). Enjoy scenic views of the Ugandan countryside as you make your way back. Along the way, stop for lunch in a local town.
Upon arrival in Kampala, you will be dropped off at your hotel or the airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your incredible Uganda Primate Safari.
End of 7 Days Uganda Primate Safari
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Tour Inclusions
- Accommodation for 6 nights in mid-range or luxury lodges
- All meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- All park entrance fees
- Chimpanzee tracking permits in Kibale
- Gorilla trekking permits in Bwindi
- Golden monkey trekking permit in Mgahinga
- Guided tours and activities including game drives, cultural visits, and nature walks
- Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Bottled water during the safari
- Experienced and knowledgeable guide
Tour Exclusions
- Flights to and from Uganda
- Personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, and beverages
- Tips for guides and lodge staff
- Insurance (travel and medical insurance is recommended)
- Visa fees (if applicable)
Primate Tracking Gear
- Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots
- Light, breathable long-sleeve shirts and pants (to protect from insects and thorns)
- Rain jacket (for unpredictable weather)
- Binoculars and camera
- Gloves (for climbing through dense vegetation)
- Water bottle and snacks
What to Expect on a Uganda Primate Safari
On a 7 Days Uganda Primate Safari, you can expect thrilling encounters with some of the world’s most endangered primates in their natural environments. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi and chimpanzee tracking in Kibale will offer unique insights into the lives of these intelligent creatures. The safari is not just about tracking primates – you’ll also experience Uganda’s diverse landscapes, enjoy game drives, and encounter a variety of wildlife. Expect as well Comfortable accommodations and delicious meals will ensure a relaxing experience after your exciting adventures.
While the trekking experience can be physically demanding, it’s incredibly rewarding. Prepare for challenging terrain and unpredictable weather, but also expect some of the best wildlife sightings of your life.
Best Time to Track Primates in Uganda
The best time to track primates in Uganda is during the dry season, which runs from June to September and December to February. During this period, the trails are less slippery, and trekking is more comfortable. However, chimpanzee and gorilla tracking is possible year-round, as the parks remain open in all seasons. The wet season (March to May and October to November) brings fewer tourists, but rain can make the trails muddy and trekking more challenging.
How Well to Be Prepared for a Primate Safari in Uganda
Prepare for a primate safari by ensuring physical readiness for the treks. Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking can involve long hours of walking through dense forests at high altitudes, so stamina is essential. Travel with a small daypack carrying necessary items like water, snacks, a camera, and your tracking permit. Ensure your vaccinations are up to date, and purchase comprehensive travel insurance. Booking in advance is crucial, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your permits and accommodations.
A 7 Days Uganda Primate Safari promises an unforgettable wildlife experience, combining physical adventure with nature’s splendor. Whether tracking gorillas in the mist or chimps in the forest, you’ll leave Uganda with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for its incredible biodiversity.