Uganda: 9-Day Roundtrip with Chimpanzee Tracking

Uganda: 9-Day Roundtrip with Chimpanzee Tracking

Exploring Uganda through a 9-day guided tour promises a blend of thrilling wildlife adventures, stunning scenery, and authentic local experiences. While the $15,000 per person price might seem steep, it covers a lot—luxury accommodations, expert guiding, most activities, and all transport.

What really grabs our attention? The chance to see mountain gorillas in Bwindi, the unforgettable boat safari on Kazinga Channel, and the opportunity for chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge or Kalinzu Forest. Plus, the variety of landscapes—lush forests, open savannahs, and peaceful lakes—makes this trip visually rewarding.

However, it’s worth noting that gorilla permits are not included and cost an additional $800, which can add up, especially for families or larger groups. Also, the tour is tailored for small groups (2-12 people), so if you’re after a more private or flexible experience, it’s a good fit. This tour suits wildlife lovers, adventure seekers, and those wanting a comprehensive Ugandan experience, albeit at a premium price point.

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Key Points

Wildlife Encounters: Spot elephants, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and more across multiple parks.
Gorilla & Chimpanzee Tracking: Unique opportunities to observe primates in their natural habitat, with optional gorilla treks.
Boat Safaris & Lake Visits: Enjoy scenic boat rides on Kazinga Channel and Lake Bunyonyi, plus island visits and local markets.
Diverse Landscapes: From savannahs to lush forests and peaceful lakes, each stop offers stunning views and photo opportunities.
Flexible Activities: Options for nature walks, community visits, hikes, and canopy walks ensure varied experiences.
Inclusive Pricing: Accommodation, most meals, and transport are covered, making this a hassle-free adventure—minus the gorilla permit and optional extras.

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An Honest Look at Uganda’s 9-Day Tour

Looking for more options in Entebbe? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Starting Point: Entebbe and the Journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park

The adventure kicks off with your arrival at Entebbe International Airport. After a warm welcome, you’ll be transferred to your lodge, giving you a chance to relax and gear up for the days ahead. Expect scenic views en route, including patches of tea plantations and rolling hills, which set the tone for Uganda’s lush countryside.

The drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park generally takes several hours but is filled with photo-worthy vistas. Travelers have noted the pleasant scenery, and some mention enjoying the stop for lunch along the way. Upon arrival, a sundowner by the campfire is a perfect way to unwind and soak in the landscape.

Wildlife in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Day 3 is a highlight—your first chance to spot wildlife during game drives. Expect to see elephants, buffaloes, and possibly lions, depending on luck and timing. The park’s varied terrain makes for interesting sightings, with reviews noting the guides’ knowledge of animal behavior, enhancing the experience.

The afternoon session on this day involves a boat safari on the Kazinga Channel. This is considered one of the tour’s crown jewels. As the boat glides past, you’ll see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of waterfowl. Several reviews emphasize how close you can get to wildlife in their natural water habitats, making it a truly memorable experience.

Chimpanzee Tracking & Transition to Bwindi

Your next morning starts with chimpanzee tracking—a favourite among travelers. Guides like Burton and Helen, who have been praised for their enthusiasm and local knowledge, lead these excursions in Kyambura Gorge or Kalinzu Forest. Expect to spend a few hours walking through forested trails, listening to chimp calls, and spotting these intelligent primates.

In the afternoon, your journey continues to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The drive offers more scenic views of lush hills and tropical forest, promising a change of scenery from the savannahs. Travelers often comment on how the landscape shifts dramatically, heightening anticipation for the gorilla encounter.

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Gorilla Trekking & Community Experiences

The next day presents a major decision—gorilla trekking or a nature walk. Gorilla permits are extra, costing around USD 800 per person, and reviews suggest the trek can be physically demanding but deeply rewarding. Many describe the experience as “magical,” with the chance to observe these gentle giants in their natural environment.

Alternatively, some opt for a guided community walk or forest walk—a less intense option, but still providing insight into local life and ecosystems. Afterward, you head to Lake Bunyonyi, which is praised for its tranquil beauty and stunning views, perfect for relaxing and soaking in the scenery.

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Lake Bunyonyi & Island Exploration

Day 6 involves a boat trip on Lake Bunyonyi. Visitors rave about visiting islands and local markets (available only on certain days). The lake’s calm waters and terraced hills create a postcard setting. Beyond just boat rides, options include hiking on islands, canopy walks, zip-lining, and paddling, catering to active travelers.

Some reviews mention swapping this night for an extra day at Lake Mburo to maximize wildlife viewing, at an additional cost of $150. This flexibility allows travelers to tailor their experience based on interests and energy levels.

Lake Mburo National Park & Return Journey

On Day 7, the tour moves to Lake Mburo National Park, famous for its zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, antelopes, and long-horned Ankole cattle. The park is also a top bird-watching locale. Early morning game drives here are highly recommended, giving a last safari chance before heading back to Entebbe.

On Day 8, a morning game drive provides a final wildlife encounter before transferring to Entebbe. A brief stop at the Equator Memorial offers a fun photo op—perfect for travelers looking to tick that off their list.

Optional Shoebill & Final Relaxation

The final day features an optional boat trip to Mabamba Swamps to spot the elusive Shoebill—a birdwatching highlight, especially for avid ornithologists. This activity is extra and geared toward bird enthusiasts. The rest of the day is yours to explore Entebbe or relax, depending on flight timings.

How Value Stacks Up for Travelers

While the $15,000 price tag appears hefty, it covers most essentials—luxury accommodations, all transportation, activities, and guide services. The primary extra expense is the gorilla permit at $800, which is unavoidable if you want to see the mountain gorillas in Bwindi. Many reviews emphasize the quality of the accommodations and the professionalism of local guides, which elevate the overall value.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its mix of game drives, boat safaris, primate encounters, and cultural experiences. The variety ensures you leave with a well-rounded understanding of Uganda’s natural beauty and biodiversity.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers willing to invest in a high-quality, guided experience with a focus on wildlife and scenery. Because of its small group size and inclusive format, it’s ideal for couples, friends, or solo explorers who want comfort and expert guidance.

However, those with limited mobility or on a tight budget might find the additional costs—especially gorilla permits—less appealing. The tour’s pace is moderate, with some physical activity involved (especially during gorilla or chimpanzee tracking).

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 15 due to the physical nature of activities like gorilla tracking and the overall pace of the tour.

What’s included in the price?
All accommodations, meals as specified, all transfers, park entry fees, and activities are included.

Are guides fluent in languages other than English?
Yes, the experience provider offers guides speaking German, Spanish, and French.

Can I book the tour and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and choose to pay later, offering flexibility for your travel planning.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, hats, cameras, sunscreen, water, and insect repellent are recommended.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, it’s designed for small groups (2-12 participants), which fosters a more personalized experience.

What is the maximum group size?
Small, intimate groups of up to 12 people.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Flexibility exists, especially with optional activities like the extra day at Lake Mburo or the Shoebill boat trip.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
While specific details weren’t provided, reviews indicate a good standard of lodges and camps, balancing comfort and immersion in nature.

Final Thoughts

This 9-day Uganda tour offers an in-depth look at some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife and landscapes. It combines adventure and relaxation, with the chance to see gorillas, chimpanzees, elephants, and more in their natural settings.

The inclusion of boat safaris, market visits, and optional hikes adds layers of activity and cultural insight, making it ideal for travelers who crave a dynamic experience. The price reflects the quality of guides, accommodations, and access to certain highlights, ensuring a seamless trip from start to finish.

If you’re a wildlife enthusiast eager for close encounters with primates and big-game animals, and you appreciate scenic lakes and lush forests, this tour is a compelling choice. Just be prepared for some physical activity and the additional gorilla permit cost—these are the keys to unlocking Uganda’s most treasured wildlife moments.

To sum it up, this tour is a well-rounded, value-packed journey through Uganda’s most breathtaking landscapes and wildlife. Perfect for explorers who want a guided, comfortable, and immersive experience, it’s best suited for those ready to invest in an adventure that delivers unforgettable memories and stunning vistas.