Uganda: 8-Day Wildlife, Gorilla and Chimp Trekking Safari

Planning an African safari often means contemplating iconic wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and authentic cultural experiences. This 8-day adventure offered by EMMKAMP TOURS promises all that and more, taking you through Uganda’s most remarkable national parks—from lush forests to expansive savannahs. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary and reviews highlight it as a well-rounded, immersive experience for wildlife enthusiasts.

What truly stands out about this safari are the opportunities for close encounters with mountain gorillas and chimpanzees, the chance to see a broad spectrum of wildlife on game drives, and the chance to relax on scenic boat cruises. The trip’s inclusion of visits to four diverse national parks makes it a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation. That said, a potential consideration is the busy schedule, which might feel a bit rushed for those seeking a more laid-back pace.

This safari is ideal for travelers eager to combine wildlife tracking, cultural visits, and scenic boat rides in a single trip. It also suits those who appreciate knowledgeable guides and well-organized logistics. If you’re looking for a comprehensive experience that showcases Uganda’s rich biodiversity and vibrant local communities, this tour could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Diverse Wildlife Encounters: From gorillas and chimpanzees to lions, elephants, and more.
• Variety of Activities: Game drives, boat cruises, and community visits.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enrich the experience with local insights.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines wildlife, scenery, and culture.
• Full-Service Package: All transportation, park fees, and accommodations included.
• Cost-Value Relationship: At $4,263 per person, offers a well-rounded, premium experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Uganda’s Wildlife and Landscapes in 8 Days

This safari offers a well-organized journey through Uganda’s most renowned national parks, giving you a taste of its incredible biodiversity and vibrant culture. The itinerary balances wildlife viewing, adventure activities, and community interactions, making it appealing for travelers who want an all-encompassing Ugandan adventure.

Starting in Kamwenge, the tour begins with an easy transfer to Lake Mburo National Park. Who wouldn’t love the chance to see zebras, giraffes, and buffaloes on a game drive in this beautiful park? The first highlight is a morning game drive where you can spot lions, elephants, leopards, and more. The park is known for its varied wildlife and bird species, so binoculars and patience will be your best friends here.

The boat cruise on Lake Mburo is a laid-back but fascinating way to see hippos, crocodiles, and water birds. It’s a peaceful way to appreciate the landscape while possibly catching a glimpse of elusive animals coming to drink or bathe. Many reviews highlight how these boat safaris offer a different perspective—viewing wildlife from the water rather than land.

Next, the tour moves to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home of the mountain gorillas. The early morning start for gorilla trekking is definitely the highlight—an experience that’s both humbling and exhilarating. The guides are praised for their knowledge, helping visitors spot and understand these gentle giants. If you’re lucky, you’ll see them feeding, resting, or playing—a truly unforgettable sight. The optional Batwa community walk adds a cultural layer to the experience, allowing you to see how indigenous groups live in harmony with the forest.

Traveling through the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a chance to see tree-climbing lions, a rare and striking sight. The game drives here are especially rewarding for their variety of large mammals and birdlife, providing a classic safari experience. The landscape shifts from lush greenery to open plains, giving a full picture of Uganda’s ecological diversity.

Kasenyi Plains in Queen Elizabeth NP is where the morning game drive really shines. Expect to see elephants, Uganda kobs, buffaloes, and perhaps even leopards stalking in the distance. The Kazinga Channel cruise is another highlight, connecting Lake George and Lake Edward, with opportunities to spot hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds. Many travelers comment on the peacefulness of the waterway and the abundance of wildlife along its banks.

Kibale Forest is the final stop, famous for chimpanzee tracking. The forest walks are described as lush and vibrant, with guides pointing out a variety of bird species like the great blue turaco and other tropical birds. Chimpanzee encounters are a mix of excitement and awe, especially considering how close and interactive these primates can be. Bird lovers will find this part especially rewarding, thanks to the diverse avian life.

The last day involves a scenic drive back to Kampala, with a stop for lunch en route. It’s a good time to reflect on the trip’s highlights and the incredible wildlife and landscapes you’ve experienced.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

• Guided Expertise: The tour’s guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. They help make sightings easier and share local insights, which enhances the overall experience.
• Variety of Activities: From game drives to boat cruises and community visits, the itinerary offers diverse ways to connect with Uganda’s wilderness.
• Authentic Encounters: The gorilla and chimpanzee tracking are genuine highlights, providing rare opportunities to observe these intelligent primates in their natural habitat.
• Scenic Diversity: The journey covers forests, savannahs, lakes, and rivers, highlighting Uganda’s ecological richness.
• Complete Package: All logistics—from park entry fees to accommodations and transportation—are handled, simplifying travel planning.
• Value for Money: At $4,263 per person, the price reflects a premium experience with comprehensive inclusions and expert guides.

Practical Details and Travel Tips

Travelers should be prepared for early mornings, especially during gorilla and chimpanzee tracking, which generally start around dawn. The tour involves quite a bit of driving—expect long but scenic journeys through different ecosystems. The group size tends to be manageable, and the transportation is comfortable, making the long drives less tiring.

Weather can vary, so packing layers, rain gear, and sun protection is essential. The tour recommends comfortable shoes for walking in forests and on uneven terrain. Photography is encouraged, but remember to bring extra batteries or memory cards, as wildlife scenes can be fleeting.

Given the price point, travelers might appreciate knowing that the tour includes all activities, park fees, meals, and accommodations, offering good value for a comprehensive safari. However, personal expenses like souvenirs, visas, or additional alcohol are not included, so budget accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari suits travelers seeking a full immersion into Uganda’s wildlife and landscapes. It’s perfect if you’re eager to see gorillas and chimps up close, enjoy scenic boat rides, and have a taste of local culture. The itinerary is quite full, so if you prefer a more leisurely pace, some days might feel busy.

It’s also ideal for those who value guided expertise and all logistics handled, allowing you to focus on the experience rather than planning. However, it may not be suitable for young children under five, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility issues due to walking and uneven terrain.

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FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour? Yes, all transportation is included—the tour provides comfortable vehicles for all transfers and game drives.

What do I need to bring? Pack comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, change of clothes, camera, sunscreen, water, rain gear, insect repellent, binoculars, and personal essentials.

Are park fees included? Yes, park fees for non-residents are included in the package.

What activities are part of the tour? The trip includes game drives, chimpanzee and gorilla tracking, boat cruises, and cultural visits.

Is this tour suitable for children? No, it’s not suitable for children under five years or pregnant women due to the physical activities involved.

How long are the drives? Expect long drives between parks—scenic, but good to plan for rest breaks and patience.

Can I book this tour without paying upfront? Yes, you can keep your plans flexible with the option to reserve and pay later.

What is the best time to go? While not explicitly stated, Uganda’s dry seasons (December to February and June to September) generally offer the best wildlife viewing conditions.

What if I have dietary restrictions? Meals are included, and special dietary needs should be communicated in advance; most lodges can accommodate common requests.

Final Thoughts

This 8-day Uganda safari offers a well-rounded experience for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers alike. The combination of primate tracking, game drives, boat cruises, and cultural visits make it a rich, memorable journey. The guides’ local knowledge and the variety of landscapes will keep your interest piqued from start to finish.

While the schedule is quite packed—meaning you’ll be on the move often—it’s a fantastic way to see the highlights of Uganda in one trip. The inclusions and professional organization help ensure a smooth experience, especially for first-time visitors.

If you’re after a comprehensive, high-quality safari that balances wildlife encounters with scenic beauty and cultural insights, this trip provides solid value and authentic adventures. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to maximize their time in Uganda and come away with unforgettable stories and photos.

In summary, this safari is a superb option for those looking to combine wildlife, scenery, and culture on an expertly guided journey. With a focus on authentic experiences and comprehensive logistics, it offers a memorable way to explore Uganda’s wild heart.

You can check availability for your dates here: