5 Day Gorillas, Wildlife and Kalinzu Forest Chimp Trek

Review of the 5 Day Gorillas, Wildlife and Kalinzu Forest Chimp Trek

Traveling to Uganda for a safari can feel overwhelming—so many parks, animals, and adventures to choose from. This 5-day tour, offered by Bamboo Ecotours, condenses Uganda’s wildlife highlights into a well-organized, immersive experience that feels both manageable and memorable. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a thoughtfully curated adventure that balances excitement, comfort, and authentic encounters.

What we love about this tour? First, the expert guides—reviewers consistently praise the knowledge, friendliness, and professionalism of guides like Herbert and Godfrey. Second, the stunning visuals—from the lush forests of Bwindi to the sprawling savannahs of Queen Elizabeth, the scenery is breathtaking. Third, the all-inclusive approach—meals, accommodations, and transfers are covered, meaning fewer surprises and more focus on the experience.

One potential consideration is the long travel days, especially the 8–9 hour drive on Day 1, which might be tiring but offers a chance to see Uganda’s diverse landscapes. This trip suits active travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience without the headache of planning every detail. It’s perfect for wildlife lovers, first-timers to Uganda, or those craving a quick yet in-depth overview of the country’s top parks.

Key Points

• Expert-guided treks provide insightful, friendly explanations that enrich your wildlife encounters.
• All-inclusive package covers permits, transportation, meals, and accommodations, making it easier to budget and focus on the adventure.
• Diverse wildlife experiences include gorilla tracking, chimps in Kalinzu, lions, elephants, and more at Queen Elizabeth.
• Convenient transfers from Entebbe or Kampala simplify logistics, with pickup included.
• Tour size limited to 5 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.
• Travel days involve long drives but are designed to maximize wildlife and scenic viewing.

From Arrival to Adventure: What to Expect

Day 1: The Journey Begins – Kampala to Bwindi

The adventure kicks off early with a pickup from Entebbe or Kampala, heading through Uganda’s scenic western regions. Expect roughly 8–9 hours of travel, but the route itself is a highlight, offering glimpses of Uganda’s farmland, mountains, and rural life. The stops along the way are well-placed: a quick visit to the Equator crossing near Masaka, where you’ll get the chance for a coffee break and to browse local crafts—an excellent photo-op and cultural taste of Uganda.

Lunch in Mbarara at the Igongo Cultural Centre is more than just a meal—it’s an introduction to the local culture and cuisine. Reviewers mention the drive as a chance to marvel at the lush landscape, although it’s a long day, so packing snacks and a good playlist helps.

Day 2: Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi

This day is the highlight for many—gorilla trekking in Bwindi. After a briefing, you’ll venture into the forest, searching for one of the habituated gorilla families. The trek can take from a few to several hours depending on the gorillas’ location. Reviewers emphasize the guides’ expertise: “Herbert was friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to make our trip memorable.” The reward? A close-up view of these gentle giants, often just meters away, giving you an unforgettable connection to wildlife.

Expect a physically moderate trek—sometimes challenging but very rewarding. The experience is made smoother by the included permits and the well-organized process, as highlighted by reviewers who appreciated the seamless arrangement of obtaining permits and navigating the forest.

Day 3: Transition to Queen Elizabeth National Park

A scenic drive brings you from Bwindi to Queen Elizabeth, famed for its expansive savannahs and diverse animals. After arrival, the afternoon game drive on the Kasenyi Plains offers a chance to spot lions lounging in the grass, elephants crossing the plains, and herds of Uganda Kobs. The reviews note that guides are knowledgeable about animal behaviors and best spotting spots, making the game drive both educational and exciting.

Day 4: Wildlife Encounters and Boat Cruise

The early morning game drive continues in Kasenyi, where the likelihood of seeing top predators like lions and possibly leopards adds thrill to the experience. The guide’s insights help you understand animal habits, increasing your chances of spotting elusive species.

Post-lunch, the Kazinga Channel boat cruise is a major highlight. Reviewers rave about the variety of wildlife—hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and water birds—and the peaceful scenery. It’s a fantastic way to see animals in their natural habitat, often closer than during land safaris.

Day 5: Chimpanzee Trek at Kalinzu Forest and Departure

The final day takes you to Kalinzu Forest Reserve for chimpanzee trekking. This is a different flavor of wildlife adventure—more forest canopy views and the chance to observe these intelligent primates in their environment. The reviews mention that, with some luck, you might also see colobus monkeys, olive baboons, and red-tailed monkeys. The guides’ expertise shines again, making sure you get the best possible encounter.

After the trek, it’s time to transfer back to Kampala or Entebbe, concluding your whirlwind Ugandan safari.

Why This Tour Delivers Real Value

The price of $2,780 per person covers a lot—permits, all transfers, accommodations, and meals—eliminating hidden costs. Considering the number of national parks visited and the wildlife encounters planned, this package offers a lot of value for those eager to see Uganda’s highlights without the hassle of self-planning. Reviewers point out that the guides are highly knowledgeable and attentive, often describing their guides as friendly, patient, and eager to share insights—key for making these experiences truly special.

The tour’s limited size (maximum five travelers) means you’ll benefit from personalized attention, flexible scheduling, and the chance to ask many questions. This intimacy often translates to a more relaxed, in-depth experience than larger group tours.

While the long travel days might seem daunting, many reviews praise the scenic drives—and some note that the stops at the Equator and cultural centers are well-chosen breaks that add context and fun to the journey.

Comfort and Logistics

Included transfers from Entebbe or Kampala mean you won’t need to worry about arranging transportation—saving time and effort. The lodges and accommodations are generally comfortable, with reviewers mentioning their satisfaction, though some note that the drive from Kampala is lengthy. However, the journey itself is part of the adventure, offering a chance to see Uganda’s rural life and landscape.

Wildlife and Guides: Highlights and Insights

What sets this tour apart is the combination of well-organized permits and guided treks. Reviewers mention how guides like Herbert and Godfrey are not only knowledgeable about animal behaviors but also considerate of guests’ physical fitness, ensuring everyone gets the best experience possible.

The gorilla trek is often described as “tough but worth it,” with many saying the sight of a silverback or a family of gorillas in the wild is an overwhelming moment. The chimpanzee encounter in Kalinzu adds variety, giving you a different primate experience in a lush forest setting.

Potential Drawbacks and How to Prepare

The main consideration is the long drive on Day 1, which could be tiring, especially after a long flight. Bringing snacks, water, and entertainment will help pass the time. Some reviews mention that the driver was a bit fast or that certain moments could have been safer, so if you’re sensitive about road safety, it’s worth noting.

Also, as with all wildlife experiences, sightings are subject to animal behavior and weather conditions. The reviews indicate that guides do their best to maximize your chances, but nature can’t always guarantee a sighting of elusive animals like leopards.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari is best suited for adventurous travelers who want a comprehensive, guided look at Uganda’s most iconic wildlife. If you’re comfortable with some long travel days and moderate physical activity, you’ll appreciate the well-organized logistics and expert guides. Families with older children, wildlife enthusiasts, and first-time visitors will find this tour ideal, especially since meals, permits, and transfers are included, reducing logistical stress.

Those who value authentic wildlife encounters—rather than just scenic drives—will find plenty to love here. Meanwhile, travelers seeking a balance of comfort and adventure will appreciate the thoughtfully planned stops and accommodations.

The Sum Up

This 5-day safari offers an authentic glimpse into Uganda’s incredible biodiversity, from mountain gorillas and chimpanzees to lions and elephants. The tour’s strength lies in its expert guides, all-inclusive approach, and well-paced itinerary, making it a great choice for those wanting a thorough yet manageable wildlife adventure.

While the drives are lengthy, they’re also gateways to experiencing Uganda’s diverse landscapes and communities. The small-group setting fosters a personal touch, ensuring you get plenty of attention and insider knowledge. This trip delivers a high-value, memorable experience—perfect for wildlife lovers, first-timers, or anyone eager to tick off Uganda’s top national parks in just five days.

If you’re looking for a safari that combines adventure, comfort, and expert guidance in one package, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour provides return transfers from Entebbe or Kampala, making logistics straightforward.

What animals will I see? Expect to encounter mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, lions, elephants, Uganda Kobs, and possibly leopards, depending on luck.

How physically demanding is the trek? The gorilla trek can take several hours and require moderate physical fitness, but guides are attentive to individual needs.

Are meals and accommodation included? Yes, your package covers meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and accommodations as per the itinerary, removing extra costs.

Can I customize the tour? Given the small group size and personalized service, you might be able to discuss specific interests with your guide, but major itinerary changes aren’t specified.

Is this tour suitable for children? It’s best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness, so older children or teenagers might enjoy it more, especially given the long drives and physical activity involved.

This tour stands out as a fantastic way to experience Uganda’s wildlife with minimal hassle and maximum authenticity. Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned nature lover, it offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and expert guidance you’re unlikely to forget.