6 Day Gorillas, Golden Monkeys and Chimp Trek at Kibale

Engaging Introduction

If you’re dreaming of tracking mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and golden monkeys in Uganda while enjoying scenic safaris, this 6-day tour by Bamboo Ecotours might just be your perfect match. While we haven’t personally joined, countless travelers rave about the authentic, well-organized experience that blends wildlife encounters with cultural insights.

What we love about this tour is its diverse itinerary, offering everything from game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park to the thrill of gorilla trekking in Bwindi. The presence of knowledgeable guides who genuinely care about your experience really makes a difference. Plus, the chance to end your adventure in Kigali offers a seamless gateway to exploring Rwanda.

On the flip side, keep in mind that this is a fairly packed schedule—so if you prefer slow-paced trips, this might feel rushed at times. Still, for those eager to maximize wildlife sightings and cultural exposure in a short span, this tour is an excellent pick.

This experience is ideally suited for adventurous travelers with moderate physical fitness, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an all-in-one safari that covers Uganda’s best wildlife and mountain gorilla encounters.

Key Points

• Comprehensive wildlife experience covering chimpanzees, gorillas, golden monkeys, and big game safaris
• Expert guides who are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach
• Cultural and scenic highlights including Lake Bunyonyi and drive through stunning landscapes
• All-inclusive value with permits, park fees, and most meals included
• Flexible ending point in Kigali, Rwanda, for easy onward travel
• Moderate physical activity required, suitable for most travelers with average fitness

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

What to Expect from the Itinerary

This 6-day journey balances wildlife encounters, scenic drives, and cultural moments, making it a well-rounded safari experience.

Day 1: Journey Begins in Entebbe or Kampala

Travelers are picked up from either Entebbe or Kampala and then driven to Kibale National Park. The drive takes about six hours, but the route itself is a treat—passing through western Uganda’s lush landscapes, dotted with small villages and patches of farmland. Visitors can expect a relaxed start, with ample opportunities for photos and to soak in the scenery. Arriving in Kibale in the afternoon, you’ll settle into your lodge and enjoy dinner with a view of the forest.

Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth

Early breakfast kicks off day two, before heading straight into Kibale Forest for chimpanzee tracking. This trek can last around five hours, depending on the chimp’s location, but the reward of seeing these intelligent primates up close makes it worth the effort. As one reviewer noted, “It was a thrilling experience” and some even encountered other monkey species such as colobus, olive baboons, and red-tailed monkeys during the trek.

After the chimpanzee adventure, you’ll head towards Queen Elizabeth National Park, passing through the famous Fort Portal crater lakes—an unforgettable scenic drive. Expect to arrive in Queen Elizabeth by late afternoon, ready for the next day’s game drive.

Day 3: Game Drive in Queen Elizabeth and Transfer to Bwindi

Starting early, the day’s highlight is the game drive at Kasenyi plains—an expansive savannah dotted with wildlife. Expect to see elephants, buffalo, Uganda kobs, and perhaps lions or topi. One reviewer shared, “We saw all the animals during transfers, trekking, and lodge stays,” highlighting how packed the itinerary is with wildlife sightings.

Post-game drive, the journey continues to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where the lush canopy and mountainous terrain set the scene for gorilla trekking the next day.

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Gorilla trekking begins with a briefing at the park gate, where guides prepare you for what’s ahead. The trek can last from a few hours to many, depending on where the gorillas are in their habitat. Several reviews praise the guides’ expertise—“Edison and the guides are knowledgeable and caring,” noted one traveler—making the experience more enjoyable.

The chance to see these gentle giants in their natural environment is a highlight that justifies the cost of permits, which are included in your package. This encounter is emotional, humbling, and often cited as the trip’s most memorable moment.

Day 5: Golden Monkey Trek and Scenic Lake Bunyonyi Visit

From Bwindi, the adventure continues at Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where golden monkey trekking takes around 4-5 hours. These striking, playful primates are a delight and offer great photo opportunities. Afterward, you’ll visit Lake Bunyonyi—famous for its calm waters, terraced hills, and birdlife, making it an ideal spot for relaxation or a community walk.

Reviewers mention the visit as a “beautiful way to wind down,” with some highlighting the local community interactions.

Day 6: Scenic Morning at Lake Bunyonyi & Transfer to Kigali

The tour concludes with a sunrise canoeing experience on Lake Bunyonyi—an optional, peaceful activity that captures the morning tranquility. Other options include bird watching or cultural tours before heading to Kigali through the Gatuna border crossing. This smooth transition makes this tour perfect for travelers looking to explore both Uganda and Rwanda without extra logistical hassle.

Transportation, Accommodation, and Logistics

The tour operates as a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, which allows for a tailored pace and personalized attention. Transportation is by comfortable vehicle suited for long drives, with experienced guides who are celebrated for their knowledge and friendliness—many reviewers highlight guides like Herbert and Fred as highlights of their journey.

The tour includes most meals—dinners for six nights, five breakfasts, and four lunches—ensuring you are well-fed after long days of activity. While airport pickups and visas aren’t included, the meeting point at Bamboo Ecotours’ office in Kisoro is conveniently located near public transportation options.

Price and Value

At around $3,206 per person, this tour offers inclusive permits, guide fees, and most meals—features that normally amount to a significant extra cost if booked separately. Travelers have expressed that the value for money is excellent, especially given the quality of guides and the variety of experiences packed into six days.

What Travelers Say About Their Guides

From detailed reviews, guides like Herbert and Fred aren’t just drivers—they’re passionate about wildlife and local culture. Reviewers mention guides’ attentiveness, professionalism, and deep knowledge, making every moment informative and enjoyable. “Puro guide Herbert is really nice and professional,” noted one traveler, emphasizing how guides make these trips special.

Many reviewers also appreciate the flexibility and responsiveness of the tour organizer, Edison, who helps customize the experience and handle logistics smoothly.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to cover a lot of ground in Uganda’s top wildlife parks. It’s suited for those with moderate physical fitness, as some treks are physically demanding yet rewarding. The all-inclusive nature of permits and most meals simplifies planning and budgeting, making it a good value for wildlife enthusiasts.

If you’re looking for an authentic, guided experience with expert wildlife viewing opportunities and scenic landscape drives, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s perfect for travelers who prioritize diversity of experiences—from primates and big game to cultural sights—and want a well-organized, hassle-free adventure.

For those with limited time but a strong desire to see Uganda’s iconic wildlife, this 6-day package offers a genuine taste of what the country has to offer—done with care, expertise, and a touch of Ugandan hospitality.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness, trekking in forests and game drives can be physically demanding, so it’s best suited for older children and adults.

Are permits included in the price?
Yes, gorilla and chimpanzee permits are included in the tour price, which helps avoid unexpected costs during the trip.

What meals are covered?
Breakfast is provided on five days, dinners for all six nights, and four lunches. Meals are typically at the lodges or local restaurants along the way.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour is private, which allows some flexibility. However, all activities outlined are part of the package, and any major changes should be discussed with the provider beforehand.

What is the best time to go?
While the exact timing isn’t specified, Uganda generally offers good wildlife viewing from June to September and December to February when the weather is drier.

How physically demanding is the gorilla trek?
Gorilla treks can vary from a few hours to many, depending on where the gorillas are located, and require moderate fitness. Guides provide briefings to prepare you.

What happens if I can’t find gorillas or chimpanzees?
Wildlife sightings depend on animal behavior and weather. Guides do their best to locate the animals, and many travelers have reported successful sightings, but there’s always an element of unpredictability.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a comfortable vehicle with experienced guides, ensuring smooth long drives through scenic landscapes.

Final Words

This 6-day Uganda safari by Bamboo Ecotours presents a well-rounded and authentic wildlife adventure. From chimpanzees in Kibale to gorillas in Bwindi, and safaris in Queen Elizabeth, you’ll get a taste of Uganda’s extraordinary biodiversity—all wrapped up in a professionally organized package.

Ideal for wildlife lovers, cultural explorers, and those wanting a taste of adventure without sacrificing comfort, this tour promises memorable encounters with Uganda’s natural treasures. The knowledgeable guides and scenic routes help bring every experience to life, creating a trip that’s both inspiring and enriching.

In short, if you’re after a thoughtfully curated, wildlife-focused journey that takes you from lush forests to savannahs, this tour is worth considering—and it might just be the highlight of your African adventure.