Uganda: 7-Day Wildlife Safari and Gorilla Trekking

Traveling through Uganda on this 7-day safari promises a journey filled with awe-inspiring wildlife encounters and unforgettable scenery. From lush forests to expansive wetlands, this tour is designed for those eager to see mountain gorillas, lions, elephants, and more in their natural habitats. EMMKAMP TOURS meticulously crafts an experience that balances adventure, comfort, and cultural insights.

What we love about this trip? First, the chance to get up close with mountain gorillas in Bwindi — a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Second, the variety of activities, including boat cruises and game drives, which keep the adventure dynamic. Third, the opportunity to explore Bigodi Wetlands and Kibale National Park, offering rich biodiversity beyond just the big mammals.

A potential consideration is the physical nature of gorilla trekking, which can last from 2 to 7 hours and requires a good level of fitness. It’s not suited for travelers with back problems or pregnant women. This tour is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, nature photographers, and those wanting a balanced mix of adventure and cultural engagement.

If you’re craving an authentic, well-rounded safari experience in Uganda, this tour offers incredible value through its diverse activities, expert guides, and access to some of the country’s most iconic wildlife habitats.

Key Points

• Diverse wildlife: Includes lions, elephants, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, and mountain gorillas.
• Varied activities: Combines game drives, boat cruises, community walks, and trekking.
• Expert-guided experiences: Knowledgeable guides enhance your understanding of the ecosystems.
• Beautiful landscapes: From the Kazinga Channel to Bwindi’s dense forests, scenery is stunning.
• Cultural encounters: The Bigodi walk offers insight into local communities and biodiversity.
• Good value: At $3,163, the tour covers accommodations, park fees, permits, and most activities.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 7-Day Uganda Safari

Day 1: Arrival & Transfer to Kampala

The adventure kicks off with a warm welcome from your driver-guide upon arrival in Entebbe or Kampala. You’ll be driven to Cassia Lodge in Kampala for a relaxing evening. Depending on your arrival time, a short city tour might be on the cards — a great way to stretch your legs and get a feel for Ugandan life.

The lodge promises comfort and a peaceful setting, perfect for unwinding before the upcoming days. The included dinner sets the tone for the warm hospitality you can expect throughout.

Day 2: Journey to Kibale National Park

After breakfast, your guide will brief you on the upcoming adventures. The transfer to Kibale National Park is scenic, with chances to stop for photos along the way. This drive is a highlight in itself, with Uganda’s lush countryside offering constant visual delights.

En route, you’ll enjoy lunch and then arrive at Kibale Forest Camp. This area is famous for its primate population, especially chimpanzees, though they aren’t the focus of this specific tour. The atmosphere here is tranquil, with the sounds of the forest in the background.

Day 3: Bigodi Wetlands & Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

The day starts with a hearty breakfast before heading for the Bigodi community walk. This guided walk offers a peek into the local community’s efforts to conserve biodiversity in the wetlands. You’ll spot various bird species, monkeys, and perhaps even elusive bushbucks.

Post-lunch, the journey continues to Queen Elizabeth National Park. The transfer itself is scenic, with opportunities to see farms and rolling hills. Upon arrival, a relaxed evening at Baboon Safari Resort allows you to soak in the park’s atmosphere.

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Day 4: Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

Early morning, you’ll set off on a game drive in the northern part of Queen Elizabeth. The Kasenyi Track is an excellent place for lion sightings and elephant herds, with Uganda Kobs providing a colorful spectacle. The guides are experienced, and the timing is optimal for spotting wildlife in action.

After a hearty lunch, you’ll embark on a boat cruise along Kazinga Channel. This is a highlight, with views of water-loving animals like hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife. The cruise offers peaceful moments and fantastic photo opportunities.

Later in the day, you head toward Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking prep. Your evening at Bahoma Community Haven Lodge provides a cozy base to rest before the big day.

Day 5: Gorilla Trekking & Transfer to Lake Mburo

Gorilla trekking is the standout activity here. After an early breakfast and briefing, you’ll enter Bwindi’s dense rainforest with expert guides. Tracking can take from 2 to 7 hours, based on the gorillas’ location, and demands good physical fitness. The reward? Watching these gentle giants up close — a truly humbling experience.

Post-trek, the trip continues to Lake Mburo National Park, a less-visited gem packed with wildlife. Check-in at Mburo Safari Lodge, with dinner and a relaxing evening.

Day 6: Morning Game Drive & Lake Mburo Boat Cruise

The morning begins with a game drive to see animals like zebras, impalas, and possibly the elusive leopard. The park’s varied landscape makes it ideal for spotting different species.

In the afternoon, a boat cruise on Lake Mburo offers water-based wildlife viewing — hippos, crocodiles, and water birds are common sights. The peaceful setting makes it perfect for photography and enjoying nature’s calm.

Day 7: Return to Entebbe via the Equator

Your final day starts with breakfast before heading back towards Entebbe. A stop at the Kayabwe Equator provides a fun photo op and a chance to see the famed latitude line with your own eyes. You might even try balancing an egg on the line or watching water swirl in opposite directions in each hemisphere.

After lunch, you’ll be transferred to the airport or your Kampala hotel, concluding your Ugandan safari adventure.

The Practicalities: What’s Included & What’s Not

This tour is priced at $3,163 per person, which covers most essentials: gorilla permits, park fees, accommodation, meals, transportation, and a professional guide. Having all these elements included offers peace of mind, especially as Uganda’s park fees and permits can add up.

Some costs are outside the package, such as international flights, personal souvenirs, visas, and travel insurance. It’s wise to budget for extra expenses like tips, optional activities, or personal items.

Transportation & Group Size

The use of private vehicle transport allows for flexible schedules and comfort during long drives. Reviews suggest the group size is manageable, usually small enough for personalized attention but large enough to feel lively. Guides are knowledgeable and often share insightful stories and tips, enhancing the overall experience.

Physical Demands & Suitability

Gorilla trekking requires a decent level of fitness due to the rugged terrain and variable trek durations. It’s not suitable for pregnant travelers or those with back problems. Expect walking in muddy or steep areas, so good shoes and rain gear are essential.

When to Book & Travel Tips

Booking permits in advance is necessary for gorilla trekking, as these are limited. The tour also emphasizes bringing essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, hats, and camera gear. Porters are available at a small fee to carry luggage if needed, which can make the trek more manageable.

Authentic Experiences & Insider Insights

Based on reviews, guides are not only knowledgeable but also friendly and eager to enhance your trip. One reviewer mentioned how the guide’s local knowledge made all the difference, especially during the Bigodi Wetlands walk, revealing hidden bird species and explaining community conservation efforts.

The boat cruises are highlighted as particularly relaxing and visually stunning, with many commenting on the beautiful views of water mammals and birdlife. The scenery across Uganda’s parks consistently impresses, with lush greenery and vibrant wildlife scenes.

Guests also appreciated the comfortable lodges, often noting the excellent service and peaceful settings. The combination of adventure and comfort creates a well-balanced safari experience.

The Sum Up

This 7-day Uganda safari offers a comprehensive, well-organized journey through some of the country’s most iconic wildlife areas. The mix of game drives, boat cruises, and gorilla trekking ensures each day brings something new and memorable.

It’s ideal for those who want a deep dive into Uganda’s biodiversity without sacrificing comfort or organization. The experience is especially suited for wildlife lovers, photographers, and anyone craving an authentic encounter with nature.

While the physical effort involved in gorilla trekking might be a consideration, the rewards—intimate gorilla sightings, stunning landscapes, and cultural insights—far outweigh the challenges. The value is evident when considering the inclusiveness of permits, guides, and accommodations.

This tour delivers a rich, varied adventure that highlights Uganda’s natural beauty and wildlife treasures. It’s a chance to explore, learn, and connect with one of Africa’s most captivating destinations.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers gorilla permits, park fees, all activities unless labeled optional, meals, drinking water, accommodations, roundtrip airport transfer, transportation, and a professional guide.

Are airport transfers included?
Yes, roundtrip airport transfers are part of the package, making arrivals and departures smooth and stress-free.

What activities are scheduled on this tour?
Activities include game drives, boat cruises, community walks, and gorilla trekking, providing a well-rounded safari experience.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
It’s not suitable for children under 5 years, and the physically demanding gorilla trek may not be appropriate for young kids or those with health issues.

Can I customize or extend this tour?
Booking is flexible, allowing you to reserve now and pay later. Additional customization or pre/post tour accommodations can be arranged separately.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, change of clothes, camera, snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, rain gear, and water.

Is gorilla trekking physically demanding?
Yes, it can last from 2 to 7 hours on uneven terrain, so good physical condition is recommended.

Are guides knowledgeable about wildlife and local culture?
Yes, guides are experienced, friendly, and eager to share insights about wildlife and local communities.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
You’ll see lions, elephants, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, and, of course, mountain gorillas — plus various bird species and smaller mammals.

How does the tour rate in terms of value?
Considering permits, accommodations, transport, and activities, the price reflects good value for a comprehensive Ugandan safari experience.

This 7-day tour is a fantastic way to encounter Uganda’s wildlife and landscapes in a balanced, organized manner. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or a newbie eager for adventure, it promises memorable moments amid some of Africa’s most stunning scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: