7-Day Murchison Falls, Chimps & Gorilla Trekking

Introducing the 7-Day Murchison Falls, Chimps & Gorilla Trekking Tour

If you’re considering a trip to Uganda, this 7-day safari offers a well-rounded glimpse into some of the country’s most stunning wildlife and landscapes. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed itineraries and glowing reviews suggest it’s a thoughtfully designed experience that balances adventure, comfort, and authentic encounters.

What we especially love about this tour is the chance to see both the Big Five and the gentle giants—gorillas and chimps—in their natural habitats. The inclusion of Murchison Falls’ dramatic river rapids, combined with the lush forest treks and relaxing lake visits, makes it a comprehensive adventure. Plus, with all meals included, it offers great value for what seems like a truly immersive experience.

One potential consideration is the amount of driving involved, which might be tiring if you prefer ultra-relaxed vacations. However, for those eager to maximize wildlife sightings and scenic views, the drive is part of the adventure. This tour best suits travelers who love nature, are comfortable with long journeys, and want to see Uganda’s diverse ecosystems in just a week.

Key Points

• Diverse Wildlife Encounters: Gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, lion, giraffe, and rhino spotting.
• Stunning Landscapes: From Murchison Falls’ roaring rapids to the scenic Kigezi Highlands.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Meals, transfers, and guided tours included for stress-free travel.
• Experienced Guides: Knowledgeable, safety-conscious guides like James and Stanley enhance the journey.
• Value for Money: At $3,000, you get a comprehensive 7-day experience with premium activities.
• Authentic Experiences: Opportunities to relax, enjoy boat trips, and see wildlife up close.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and What You Can Expect

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Murchison Falls

Your adventure kicks off with a pickup from Entebbe Airport, heading straight into Uganda’s largest national park. The drive is approximately a few hours, giving you your first glimpse of Uganda’s sprawling savannahs, lush greenery, and scattered wildlife.

The highlight here is the chance to see lions, giraffes, buffalo, elephants, and hippos during the game drive—a classic African safari experience. Bird watchers will also love the 450 species in the park, including the elusive shoebill stork and dwarf kingfisher, so keep your binoculars handy.

Day 2: Game Drive and Murchison Falls Boat Trip

Early morning game drives are a staple, and this trip promises plenty of opportunities to spot big game like lions and elephants. The park’s varied terrain supports a wide array of wildlife, with secretary birds and snake eagles adding to the birding excitement.

After lunch, the boat trip to the base of Murchison Falls offers magnificent views of crocodiles, hippos, and water birds. The boat ride is a real highlight, providing close-up views of water-loving wildlife in their natural environment. If you’re up for it, a hike to the top of the falls reveals one of Uganda’s most breathtaking sights—the thunderous rapids and the sheer power of nature.

Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking in Budongo Forest

This day is dedicated to primates and birdlife. The bio-diverse Budongo Forest is home to over 800 chimpanzees, along with other primates like colobus monkeys and mangabeys.

Your guide will lead you through dense forest trails, where the sounds of chimps and birds create a lively soundtrack. Reviewers mention the impressive variety of bird species, making this a treat for bird enthusiasts. The forest itself is a sight—dense, green, and teeming with life, providing a real sense of connection with Uganda’s rainforest.

Day 4: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

A scenic drive takes you from Murchison to Queen Elizabeth National Park, passing through colorful countryside and perhaps a quick stop at the Uganda Equator line for photos.

This is a day of transition, but the landscape change is dramatic, with rolling plains and lakes. The relaxed pace lets you enjoy the scenery and prepare for the next wildlife adventures.

Day 5: Journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Crossing the Kigezi Highlands and the Equator, this day involves a longer drive, but the views make it worthwhile. The drive takes you through banana plantations and herds of long-horned Ankole cattle, setting the scene for the next big highlight: gorilla trekking.

The drive itself is part of the experience, providing insight into Uganda’s rural life and diverse terrain. The eventual arrival at Bwindi promises lush, dense forests that are home to over 300 mountain gorillas.

Day 6: Gorilla Trekking and Lake Bunyonyi

Gorilla trekking is the main event here. After a briefing, you head into the thick, dramatic landscape of Bwindi, where the terrain varies with the movements of the primates.

Once you find a gorilla group, you get an hour to observe and photograph these gentle giants. Reviewers describe this as “an awesome, exciting experience,” emphasizing how close and personal you can get to the gorillas. Afterward, you relax at Lake Bunyonyi—famous for its calm waters and scenic islands, perfect for unwinding after the trek.

Day 7: Return Journey to Entebbe

The final day involves a relaxed breakfast overlooking Lake Bunyonyi before heading back towards Entebbe. En route, you’ll stop at Mbarara for lunch and the Uganda Equator for last-minute photos and souvenirs.

The journey ends with a drop-off at Entebbe Airport, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Uganda’s wildlife, landscapes, and warm hospitality.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The combination of wildlife, scenery, and comfort makes this tour particularly appealing. The inclusion of gorilla and chimpanzee trekking offers truly unique, up-close encounters with some of Africa’s most beloved primates. The boat trips and game drives showcase Uganda’s diverse ecosystems, from river rapids to savannah plains.

The guides, such as James and Stanley, are praised for their knowledgeable and attentive approach, which can make or break your experience. According to reviews, Stanley is an expert game spotter and safe driver, ensuring you feel secure and well-informed throughout.

At a price of $3,000 per person, this tour appears to offer good value for a comprehensive 7-day safari. The package includes all meals, transfers, and guided activities, reducing the stress often associated with planning such an adventure independently.

However, it’s worth noting that the long drives between parks can be physically tiring. If you’re someone who prefers less travel time and more relaxation, this might be a minor downside. But for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see as much as possible, it’s a trade-off worth making.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari is perfect for adventurous wildlife lovers who want to experience Uganda’s primary ecosystems in a compact timeframe. It’s suited for travelers who appreciate guided tours with knowledgeable guides, as well as those comfortable with long drives and outdoor activities.

It’s also ideal for families or groups who want a safe, all-inclusive experience that covers the highlights—plus, the inclusion of meals and transfers provides peace of mind. If you’re after a mix of adventure, relaxation, and authentic encounters, this tour ticks all those boxes.

FAQs about the 7-Day Murchison Falls, Chimps & Gorilla Trekking Tour

Is transportation included during the entire trip?
Yes, the tour includes transfers from Entebbe Airport, as well as transportation between parks and activities, all handled by a private guide/driver.

Are the activities suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour involves some walking, especially during chimpanzee and gorilla treks. While generally manageable, those with mobility concerns should check with the provider.

What is the price of $3,000.00 per person covering?
This fee covers guide services, all meals during the trip, park entrance fees, boat trips, and transportation. It’s a comprehensive package aiming for a hassle-free experience.

Can I expect guided tours at each site?
Absolutely, all activities are guided, with knowledgeable guides like James and Stanley providing insights and ensuring safety.

Are there opportunities for relaxation?
Yes, the itinerary includes time at Lake Bunyonyi for unwinding and enjoying scenic views after the gorilla trek.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s nature suggests it’s best for older children or family groups comfortable with outdoor activities and long drives.

What should I pack for this trip?
Given the forest treks and boat trips, pack lightweight, long-sleeved clothing for protection against insects, good walking shoes, binoculars, and camera gear.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund. Less notice means no refund, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

This 7-day safari offers a well-rounded mix of Uganda’s wildlife, landscapes, and cultural experiences. With excellent guides, stunning scenery, and a variety of activities, it provides a complete adventure for nature enthusiasts. The inclusion of all meals and transfers simplifies planning, making it a good value for a week of exploration.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want to see gorillas, chimps, and the Big Five, while also enjoying boat trips and scenic drives. If you’re comfortable with longer travel days and eager to maximize your wildlife sightings, this tour likely won’t disappoint.

For those seeking a balanced, authentic Ugandan safari experience that combines adventure with comfort, this package from Ngoni Safaris Uganda appears to deliver exactly that.

Note: Always confirm the latest details and availability directly with the provider before booking to ensure the experience matches current offerings and COVID-19 safety protocols.