10 Day Uganda Memorable Lifetime Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari

Traveling to Uganda for a safari that promises close encounters with mountain gorillas and chimpanzees sounds like a dream — and from the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary, this 10-day tour certainly aims to deliver just that. While we haven’t taken this trip ourselves, it’s clear that it offers a highly curated experience, packed with wildlife, stunning scenery, and expert guiding.

What we love about this safari? First, the opportunity to see both gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural habitat, which isn’t as common in a single trip. Second, the expert guides—reviewers consistently praise guides like John and Derrick for their knowledge and friendliness. Third, the diversity of landscapes, from the savannahs of Murchison Falls to the lush forests of Bwindi, ensures an engaging journey.

A potential consideration? The physical fitness required for gorilla trekking can be demanding, and some might find the itinerary quite packed with long drives and active excursions. This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who love wildlife and are prepared for some rugged outdoor moments.

If you’re looking for an authentic, well-organized safari that balances wildlife encounters with local culture and scenery, this tour seems to tick all those boxes.

Key Points

• Extensive wildlife: Close gorilla and chimpanzee tracking, plus game drives to see elephants, lions, giraffes, and more.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides like John and Derrick enhance the experience, offering insightful briefings and spotting skills.
• Diverse landscapes: From the savannahs of Murchison to the rainforests of Bwindi, each stop provides unique scenery.
• Cultural immersion: Visits to communities like Bigodi Wetlands add a local touch and support community-based tourism.
• Value for money: At $4,999, the tour includes permits, park entry, boat cruises, and most meals — a comprehensive package for wildlife lovers.
• Active and adventurous: Be prepared for some physically demanding forest treks and game drives, suited for active travelers.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You Can Expect

Day 1: Arrival and Kampala Welcome

Your journey begins in Entebbe, where the tour company warmly greets you and transfers you to your hotel in Kampala. Expect a leisurely start with a briefing about the upcoming adventures, giving you a clear picture of what lies ahead. The hotel stay sets the tone for comfort and orientation, especially after international travel.

Day 2: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and Transfer to Murchison Falls

The adventure kicks off with a morning drive northward, leaving behind Kampala’s hustle for Uganda’s countryside. At Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, you’ll have the rare chance for on-foot rhino tracking, allowing close-up views of one of Africa’s Big Five. Reviewers highlight this as a “homage” to the rhino species, with plenty of photo opportunities.

After lunch in Masindi, you’ll continue to Murchison Falls National Park, famous for its dramatic waterfall and broad savannahs. The drive itself offers views of rural Uganda, giving travelers a glimpse into local life.

Day 3: Safari in Murchison Falls National Park

Early mornings are best for spotting wildlife, and here, you’ll get to see elephants, lions, giraffes, and possibly leopards in the early light. The guide’s skill in spotting animals is often praised — one reviewer mentions the guide’s “eye for detail” that helped spot a leopard on the plains.

The park is also a birdwatcher’s haven, with over 50 bird species, including the rare shoe-billed stork. Expect a full day of game drives, with chances to see animals at watering holes and in their natural routines.

Day 4: Transfer to Kibale National Park

Moving south, the drive through Uganda’s scenic towns and villages offers travelers a chance to witness daily life. Upon arrival at Kibale, the “primate capital of the world,” you’ll relax and prepare for the next day’s primate adventures.

Day 5: Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary and Queen Elizabeth National Park

The morning starts with a community swamp walk at Bigodi, supporting local livelihoods while providing a peaceful introduction to Uganda’s wetland ecosystems. After lunch, you’ll proceed to Queen Elizabeth National Park, known for its spectacular crater lakes and savannah plains.

Evening nature walks around crater lakes are included, giving you a chance to see the landscape and wildlife at a quieter time of day.

Day 6: Kazinga Channel Boat Safari

One of the highlights in Queen Elizabeth is the Kazinga Channel, where hundreds of hippos and crocodiles bask along the banks. The boat cruise offers a close-up view of aquatic life and the chance to spot elephants and buffalo coming to drink.

Reviewers frequently mention the guide’s sharp eyes and the beauty of the scenery, making this experience a favorite.

Day 7: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kyambura Gorge & Transfer to Bwindi

Today involves chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge, a forested area teeming with primates. Reviewers note the thrill of hearing chimpanzees’ calls and watching them swing through the trees.

Later, you’ll drive into the impenetrable forests of Bwindi, home to mountain gorillas. The journey itself offers scenic views, and the anticipation builds as you approach this famous destination.

Day 8: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

This is the day many travelers have been waiting for. The trek can take 2-4 hours through challenging terrain, but hearing that first gorilla grunt makes every step worth it. Once you encounter the mountain gorillas, you’ll spend an hour observing and taking photos.

Reviewers emphasize the importance of being physically fit for this activity, but also mention the emotional payoff of such a close encounter with these gentle giants.

Day 9: Lake Mburo National Park

After the intense gorilla day, a more relaxed drive takes you to Lake Mburo, Uganda’s smallest savannah park. It’s known for its guided nature walks and horseback safaris, offering a different way to see wildlife.

The park’s ancient rocks and quiet lakes contrast beautifully with the previous destinations, perfect for unwinding and enjoying Uganda’s varied landscapes.

Day 10: Return to Kampala via the Equator

Your last day blends adventure and souvenir shopping. A morning walk and horseback ride in Lake Mburo set a peaceful tone, and a stop at the Equator in Masaka provides fantastic photo opportunities.

Finally, you’ll head back to Kampala or Entebbe for your international flight, ending a trip packed with wildlife, scenery, and stories to tell.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $4,999 per person, this package covers a lot — permits for gorilla and chimpanzee tracking, park entry fees, boat cruises, most meals, and private transportation. While that might seem steep, the inclusion of permits alone is significant, as gorilla permits can be costly elsewhere. Reviewers appreciate how well-organized the tour is, with many praising guides for their professionalism, knowledge, and friendly attitude.

The guided nature walks and boat cruises are particularly valuable, offering diverse perspectives on Uganda’s ecosystems. Plus, staying at comfortable lodges during the trip balances adventure with relaxation.

Who Will Love This Safari?

This tour is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural habitats. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with long drives, outdoor activities, and some physical exertion during treks. Families, solo travelers, or groups of friends looking for a comprehensive Ugandan experience will find it suits their needs.

Those interested in Uganda’s landscapes, local culture, and a mix of adventure and comfort will also find this tour rewarding.

FAQ

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, gorilla and chimpanzee permits, park entry fees, boat cruise fees, most meals, and guided tours.

Are all activities suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can enjoy the tour, but gorilla trekking can be physically demanding. It’s best suited for those in good health and ready for some outdoor activity.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 6 days before the tour for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 6 days in advance are not refunded.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. This is a private tour, so solo travelers can enjoy the experience without sharing with strangers.

What kind of guides will I have?
Reviewers highlight guides like John and Derrick, who are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and attention to detail.

How physically demanding is gorilla trekking?
It can be challenging, involving walking through dense forest trails that might be muddy or steep, so physical fitness is recommended.

Are meals included?
Most meals are included, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided during the tour. Specific comfort levels depend on the accommodations chosen.

What types of wildlife will I see besides gorillas and chimpanzees?
Expect elephants, lions, giraffes, buffalo, antelopes, crocodiles, hippos, and numerous bird species like kingfishers, storks, and herons.

Will I get time for cultural experiences?
Yes, visits to communities like Bigodi Wetlands add cultural insights and support local initiatives.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, rain gear, insect repellent, sun protection, and your camera for capturing incredible moments.

Final Thoughts

This 10-day safari offers a well-rounded taste of Uganda’s wildlife, landscapes, and local life. The inclusion of gorilla and chimpanzee permits makes it a standout value, especially given the opportunity for intimate primate encounters. With knowledgeable guides and thoughtfully planned activities, you’re set for a trip that’s both adventurous and enriching.

While the physical demands of gorilla trekking mean you should be prepared, the many reviews praising guide expertise and scenic diversity suggest it’s an experience worth every effort. If you’re passionate about primates, big game, and authentic Africa landscapes, this tour ticks all those boxes.

It’s best suited for active travelers seeking a high-quality, all-inclusive wildlife adventure. If that sounds like your kind of trip, you’ll come away with stories, photos, and memories that last a lifetime.