10 Days Uganda Gorilla, Chimpanzee & Wildlife Safari

Planning a trip to Uganda to witness its world-famous wildlife — from mountain gorillas to the Big Five — can be daunting, but this 10-day tour covers all the highlights with an impressive level of detail and professionalism. While we haven’t personally taken it, reviews from travelers consistently praise its well-organized itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and authentic encounters.

What we love about this experience? First, the focus on up-close wildlife encounters such as gorilla and chimpanzee trekking that are truly once-in-a-lifetime. Second, the variety of parks visited, from the lush Kibale Forest to the plains of Queen Elizabeth, ensures a well-rounded safari experience. Third, the attention to detail in logistics and the quality of experiences, including boat cruises and game drives, makes this tour stand out.

The main consideration? It’s a long and packed itinerary, with some early mornings and extensive travel between parks, which might tire less energetic travelers. However, for those eager to see Uganda’s best sights in a relatively short time, this trip offers great value.

This adventure is perfect for wildlife lovers, first-time safari visitors, or more experienced travelers seeking a comprehensive Ugandan experience. If you’re looking for a well-rounded, immersive tour with professional guides, this could be an excellent choice.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Uganda’s top parks and wildlife experiences
• Expert guides like Jerome and Denis, praised for their knowledge and friendliness
• Authentic encounters with mountain gorillas and chimpanzees, alongside Big Five game drives
• Well-organized logistics, including transfers, game drives, and boat cruises
• Good value for money when you consider the variety of activities and accommodation quality
• Potentially tiring due to the long drives and early mornings, so travelers should prepare accordingly

In-Depth Review of the 10-Day Uganda Safari Experience

Starting Off in Kampala and Visiting Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Your adventure begins with a pickup from Entebbe International Airport, setting the tone for a hassle-free experience. The drive to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is particularly notable because Uganda is home to this rare species of white rhino, found only here. The 7km trek through the sanctuary is an exciting highlight, especially for those who haven’t seen rhinos in the wild before. Reviewers like those who describe guides as helpful and safe drivers emphasize the smooth transition from urban chaos to wilderness.

Murchison Falls National Park: Classic African Safari

The journey from Kampala to Murchison Falls takes about five hours, with a scenic drive through Uganda’s countryside and the impressive Nakasongora plains. The park’s highlights include the iconic Murchison Falls, where the Nile River squeezes through a narrow gorge, and the game drives that follow. Expect to see lions, elephants, Rothschild giraffes, and leopards among the open savannahs and scattered palms.

Travelers have praised the early game drives on Buligi, Queen, and Albert tracks for their opportunity to spot predators like lions and elusive leopards. The boat cruise to the base of Murchison Falls is a must-do, offering a close-up view of the powerful waterfall and the chance to see hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds. According to reviews, the boat ride is a highlight and a chance to unwind after a morning of game viewing.

Kibale Forest for Chimpanzee Trekking

Next, you’ll journey southwest to Kibale National Park — a lush paradise for primates. The drive through Hoima and Kagadi offers beautiful views of Uganda’s rolling hills. The chimp trekking at Kanyanchu is usually early in the morning, with guides briefing you beforehand. Reviewers rave about guides like Emma, praising their knowledge and patience as they help locate the lively chimps.

Kibale’s forest teems with over 12 primate species, including the threatened red colobus and the rare Lhoests monkey. Expect a challenging but rewarding trek through dense, vibrant foliage, with the possibility of seeing chimps foraging, grooming, or vocalizing. The experience of gazing into the expressive eyes of a mountain gorilla is often described as a life-changing moment, and the same sentiment is echoed by those who have done this trek.

Visiting Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary

A walk in Bigodi Wetlands is a perfect way to wind down after primate trekking, offering birdwatching opportunities with over 138 species spotted, including the great blue turaco and hornbills. The community-led nature walk also provides insight into local life, with visits to a traditional healer and a local school. Reviewers love the personal touch of this stop, describing it as both educational and engaging, with arts and crafts from local women adding a memorable souvenir.

Queen Elizabeth National Park: Game Drives and Boat Safari

The drive to Queen Elizabeth introduces you to Uganda’s diverse landscape, with extensive savannah plains ideal for spotting the Big Five. Game drives here can be quite productive, with sightings of elephants, buffaloes, lions, and leopards. Reviewers highlight the Kasenyi tracks as particularly rewarding for predator sightings.

In the afternoon, a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel offers a different perspective — close encounters with hippos, elephants bathing, and an array of waterbirds. The combination of land and water safari experiences provides a well-rounded view of the park’s wildlife, making it a favorite among travelers.

Ishasha Sector and the Search for Tree-Climbing Lions

Traveling south to Bwindi, the drive through Ishasha sector is notable for its tree-climbing lions perched on fig trees overlooking the plains. This unique sight is often mentioned in reviews as a surreal, almost cinematic experience. Expect a relaxed game drive, watching these majestic cats lazily observing the prey below.

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

The highlight of many trips, mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi, involves a guided walk through dense forest trails. The guides are praised for their expertise in locating these gentle giants, sometimes after a trek of 2-8 hours. The one-hour close encounter with a family of gorillas — staring into their brown eyes and observing their curious behaviors — is described as unforgettable by reviewers.

The challenging part? The physical effort required. The terrain can be steep and muddy, so moderate fitness is recommended. But, as many say, the reward outweighs the effort, especially with the guides’ support.

Lake Bunyonyi: Rest and Scenic Beauty

After gorilla trekking, the tour moves to Lake Bunyonyi, renowned for its islands and cool climate. The scenic drive through the Kigezi Highlands offers captivating terraced landscapes. Relaxing here offers a break from the intense wildlife experiences and a chance to enjoy local food and community interactions.

Lake Mburo National Park: Game Walks and Nature Experience

The journey back north to Lake Mburo offers a different kind of safari. The park is smaller but rich in wildlife, including zebras, impalas, and waterbucks. The early morning nature walk is a highlight, with many reviewers mentioning the chance to see primates, birds, and even elusive species like the eland or bushbuck.

This park’s proximity to Entebbe makes it a practical yet rewarding finale, with a transfer to the Uganda Equator crossing at Kayabwe providing perfect photo opportunities and souvenirs.

What Really Makes This Tour Shine?

Knowledgeable Guides Like Jerome, Denis, and others are consistently praised for their patience, local knowledge, and ability to spot wildlife efficiently. Travelers describe guides as polite, helpful, and very experienced, which enhances the overall experience.

Authentic Encounters with wildlife — whether it’s the excitement of trekking mountain gorillas, watching chimpanzees in their natural habitat, or spotting lions lounging in the grass — is the core value of this trip. The reviews mention that the gorilla trek, in particular, is a “lifetime thrill,” with some travelers describing it as “unforgettable” and “beyond words.”

Diverse Activities including game drives, boat safaris, nature walks, and community visits make this an engaging and varied safari. The inclusion of community-led initiatives like Bigodi Wetlands showcases Uganda’s efforts to combine conservation with local empowerment, enriching the travel experience.

Well-Organized Logistics ensure smooth transfers between parks, timely game drives, and scheduled activities. The tour’s structure allows travelers to see a wide array of Uganda’s ecosystems with minimal stress.

Value for Money: For around $5,055, travelers receive 10 days of guided safaris, park entries, and activities in some of Uganda’s most iconic parks. While the price might seem steep, reviews emphasize that the quality of guides, the variety of experiences, and the well-chosen accommodations provide a strong sense of value.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari suits those eager for an in-depth Ugandan adventure, especially wildlife enthusiasts and first-timers. It’s ideal for travelers who don’t mind some long drives and early mornings in exchange for the chance to see mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, lions, and elephants within a single trip.

Families or groups of friends will appreciate the private tour setting, and the inclusion of community experiences adds meaningful context to the wildlife encounters. However, those with mobility issues should note the trek to gorillas and the sometimes rugged terrain.

Final Thoughts

This 10-day Uganda safari offers a well-rounded mix of iconic wildlife, scenic landscapes, and cultural insights. The carefully curated itinerary, combined with quality guides and a variety of activities, delivers a truly memorable experience.

While the pace may be demanding for some, the rewards — from the thrill of gorilla encounters to the serenity of Lake Bunyonyi — are worth it. If you’re after an authentic, immersive safari adventure that balances adventure with comfort, this tour is likely to check all your boxes.

This experience is best for those who value expert guidance, diverse wildlife sightings, and the opportunity to connect with Uganda’s natural beauty on a deeper level.

FAQs

How long is the drive from Kampala to Murchison Falls?
Approximately 5 hours, covering 311 km, with stops along the way and scenic views of the Ugandan countryside.

Are park entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour’s description indicates that admission tickets are included in the package.

What wildlife can I expect to see during game drives?
You can expect to see lions, elephants, Rothschild giraffes, leopards, Jackson’s hartebeest, waterbucks, oribis, and kudus.

Is Gorilla Trekking suitable for all fitness levels?
While the trek can take 2-8 hours and may be physically demanding, moderate fitness is recommended for navigating the forest trails.

Are boat cruises included?
Yes, the afternoon boat cruise at Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth’s Kazinga Channel are part of the itinerary.

Can I participate in community visits?
Yes, visits to Bigodi Wetlands and local community projects are included, offering cultural insights.

What kind of guides will I have?
Guides like Jerome, Denis, and others are praised for their expertise, patience, and friendly demeanor, enhancing your experience.

What should I pack for this safari?
Lightweight clothing for daytime, warm layers for early mornings, sturdy walking shoes, insect repellent, and camera gear.

Is the tour private or group-based?
This is a private tour, with only your group participating for a more personalized experience.

What is the booking policy?
The tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed. Confirmations are provided upon booking, and the trip requires a minimum number of travelers.

In essence, this 10-day Uganda safari promises an authentic and engaging wildlife adventure, perfect for travelers wanting to see the very best Uganda has to offer, with the guidance and logistics that make it easier to enjoy every moment.