8 days Murchison Falls, Chimpanzee & Gorilla Trekking Safari

Travel enthusiasts often talk about the thrill of seeing big game, the intimacy of close encounters with primates, and the serenity of Uganda’s stunning lakes. This 8-day safari from Simba African Expeditions promises just that — a mix of wildlife, scenic landscapes, and unforgettable moments. The tour’s strength lies in its balanced itinerary, expert guides, and authentic experiences that go beyond mere sightseeing.

What we love most? The chance to spot the Big Five in Murchison Falls, the opportunity to see chimpanzees in their natural habitat, and the memorable gorilla trek in Bwindi. Plus, the visit to Lake Bunyonyi’s tranquil waters adds a peaceful finish. However, the journey involves quite a bit of travel – so if you prefer slow-paced trips or minimal transit, it might feel a bit hectic.

This tour is perfect for wildlife lovers, adventure seekers, and those wanting a comprehensive Ugandan experience packed into just over a week. It’s also well-suited for travelers eager to include both iconic safaris and primate encounters on one trip.

Key Points

• Diverse Experience: Combines savanna game drives, river cruises, primate treks, and lake relaxation.
• Expert Guides: Known for friendly, knowledgeable guides like Meddie Buwendo, who enhance the experience.
• Authentic Encounters: Close-up views of chimpanzees and mountain gorillas, with limited group sizes.
• Great Value: All key permits, accommodations, and most activities included for the price.
• Active Days: Expect early mornings, lots of wildlife viewing, and some walking.
• Ideal for Adventure & Wildlife Enthusiasts: Suited for those eager to see Uganda’s top highlights in one trip.

Discovering the Ugandan Wilderness

The Adventure Begins at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

The trip kicks off with an early start, leaving Kampala at 7:00 am. The drive north to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary takes about two and a half hours — a comfortable window for gearing up. Here, you’ll get your first thrill: tracking the elusive White Rhinos on a guided hike. This is a real highlight, especially since it’s a rare opportunity to see these majestic creatures up close in a protected environment.

Ziwa isn’t just about rhinos. The sanctuary is a lively hub of wildlife — hippos, bushbucks, oribis, and a variety of birds. One reviewer mentioned that the staff is friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience both fun and educational. After about two hours of wildlife spotting, you’ll hop back into the vehicle for lunch in Masindi, setting the tone for the adventures ahead.

Game Drive at Murchison Falls National Park

Arriving at Murchison Falls National Park, you’ll be greeted by sprawling savanna landscapes and the promise of big game. The early morning game drive is a classic safari experience, lasting roughly four hours. Expect to see Lions, elephants, buffalos, giraffes, and rare species like Jackson’s hartebeests and Uganda Kobs.

One review praised the guide for being friendly, patient, and super knowledgeable — “He keeps your needs in mind and does all he can to give you the best experience.” That level of personalized attention elevates the game drive from a routine activity to a memorable highlight.

Nile River Cruise & The Mighty Falls

Later, you’ll hop onto a boat cruise along the Nile, which offers a different perspective on the park’s wildlife. The cruise takes you to the base of Murchison Falls, where the Nile squeezes through a narrow gorge, creating a spectacular cascade. Wildlife sightings here are plentiful — hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes, and waterbirds make frequent appearances.

If you’re up for it, you can hike to the top of the falls, getting an even better view of this natural wonder. Reviewers mention that this cruise is both scenic and full of animal surprises, making it a favorite part of the safari.

From Savannah to Rainforest: Kibale National Park

After a couple of days in the savannah, the journey continues southwards to Kibale National Park, renowned for its primate population. The scenic drive along the Albertine Rift Valley is a highlight in itself — lush landscapes and local villages on the way.

Kibale’s forest is a prime spot for chimpanzee tracking. The morning briefing prepares you for an exciting trek, where you might see chimps swinging through the treetops and other primates. One traveler shared that their guide was exceptional, keeping their needs in focus and making the experience both fun and informative.

Chimpanzee & Bigodi Swamp Walks

Expect to spend around two hours in the forest, listening to the calls of chimpanzees and observing other wildlife. Afterward, a walk through Bigodi Swamp offers a chance to see more primates and birds, giving a well-rounded nature experience outside the forest.

The Road to Bwindi & The Search for Gorillas

Leaving Kibale, the journey takes you to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Along the way, you’ll pass through Ishasha, famous for its tree-climbing lions — a rare sight that adds an exciting twist to the safari. For those lucky enough, sightings of these unusual predators add a special touch to the trip.

Once in Bwindi, the focus shifts to one of the most sought-after wildlife encounters: mountain gorilla trekking. The briefing at park headquarters sets expectations, and then the trek begins. The actual walk into the forest can be challenging but rewarding — as one reviewer noted, “You are allowed only an hour with the gorillas, but it’s enough time to be deeply moved by their calm presence.”

Meeting the Mountain Gorillas

The gorilla groups are carefully selected, and your guide will help you find the best opportunity to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat. The experience is often described as humbling and awe-inspiring, with many reviewers mentioning how their guides kept them informed and comfortable throughout.

Visiting the Batwa Community

Post-trek, you can visit local Batwa communities, gaining insight into their indigenous ways of living. This cultural aspect enriches the trip, providing a fuller picture of the region’s history and traditions.

Relaxing at Lake Bunyonyi

Finally, your safari winds down at Lake Bunyonyi, one of the deepest lakes in the world. The peaceful setting offers a perfect escape after days of adventure. You can enjoy a canoe ride, either self-guided or with a guide, soaking in the scenic views and tranquil waters.

Practical Aspects & Value

The tour’s price of $4,209 per person includes all the key permits for chimpanzee and gorilla tracking, plus most meals and accommodations. With permits being a significant part of the overall cost, this package offers good value for the chance to see Uganda’s iconic wildlife. The tour duration, around eight days, strikes a balance between seeing top sites and avoiding overly long travel days.

Transportation is via a private vehicle, allowing flexibility and comfort, with most of the journey on well-maintained roads. The tour operates as a private experience, so your group gets personalized attention, which reviewers say is a definite plus.

The tour is designed for active travelers comfortable with early mornings, walking, and some bumpy roads. It’s perfect for wildlife aficionados, adventure lovers, and those eager for a mix of game drives, primate encounters, and scenic relaxation.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This safari offers a well-rounded overview of Uganda’s diverse wildlife and landscapes, making it ideal for those who want to maximize their experience in a short period. The guides, like Meddie Buwendo, are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, which truly enhances the trip.

The value for money is evident, especially when considering the inclusions of permits, accommodations, and activities. The itinerary’s mix of game drives, boat cruises, primate tracking, and cultural visits provides a comprehensive look at Uganda’s natural and cultural riches.

However, remember that this is a fast-paced tour with significant travel between locations. If you prefer slow, relaxing trips or are sensitive to long days in the vehicle, you might want to consider more leisurely options.

This safari is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to see Africa’s famous Big Five, primates, and stunning landscapes in just over a week. It combines authenticity, expert guidance, and excellent value, making it a trip to remember.

FAQ

How many days does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 days, covering key wildlife parks, primate sites, and scenic lakes in Uganda.

Are permits included in the price?
Yes, the package includes one chimpanzee tracking permit and one gorilla tracking permit, which are essential for these activities.

What’s the main highlight of the safari?
Most travelers cite gorilla trekking in Bwindi and game viewing at Murchison Falls as the top experiences, along with close encounters with chimpanzees.

Is transportation comfortable?
Transportation is by private vehicle, which offers comfort and flexibility, though the roads can be bumpy in some areas.

Can I expect early mornings?
Yes, early starts are typical — expect to wake up around 6:00 am for game drives, primate treks, and other activities.

Who guides the tours?
Guides like Meddie Buwendo are known for being friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive to guests’ needs, significantly enhancing the experience.

Are meals included?
Most meals are included — breakfast, lunch, and dinner — simplifying planning and allowing you to focus on the adventure.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While most travelers are active and comfortable with early mornings, families with older children and those prepared for some walking will enjoy it.

How does the tour balance adventure and relaxation?
The itinerary combines active wildlife viewing with peaceful lake visits, providing a good mix of adventure and downtime.

This 8-day safari stands out as a well-crafted, value-packed journey into Uganda’s wild heart. Whether you’re chasing the Big Five, primates, or scenic views, it offers authentic, memorable encounters with Africa’s natural wonders.