Uganda:5-Day Kibale Chimps & Queen Elizabeth Wildlife Safari

Uganda: 5-Day Kibale Chimps & Queen Elizabeth Wildlife Safari

Exploring Uganda’s wildlife and scenery is a dream for many travelers, and this 5-day tour offers a well-rounded experience packed with chimpanzees, game drives, and stunning views. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and the detailed itinerary suggest it could be a fantastic choice for those eager to see Uganda’s iconic wildlife without breaking the bank.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it offers a chance to see chimpanzees in their natural environment, along with the thrill of game drives across diverse landscapes. Second, the boat cruise along Kazinga Channel promises close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife. Lastly, the chance to explore Bigodi Swamp and take in views of the Rwenzori Mountains adds a scenic touch.

The potential downside? The long drives between parks—about 5-6 hours on Day 1—may feel a bit tiring, especially for those who prefer less time in transit. Nonetheless, if you’re patient and love scenic road trips, this won’t be a major issue.

This tour is well-suited for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking an authentic Ugandan experience at a fair price. It’s ideal for travelers who are comfortable with some busier days and want a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: See chimpanzees, elephants, buffalo, lions, and Uganda kobs.
• Scenic Diversity: Enjoy views of crater lakes, tea plantations, and the Rwenzori Mountains.
• Variety of Activities: Mix of game drives, boat cruises, and swamp walks for varied experiences.
• Authentic Experiences: Guided walks, chimp tracking, and local wildlife sightings.
• Value for Price: Includes park fees, permits, activities, and accommodation, making it a comprehensive package.
• Travel Practicality: Roundtrip transfers and all transportation make logistics easier, though expect some long travel days.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Review of the 5-Day Uganda Safari

Arrival and Transfer to Kibale National Park

The adventure kicks off with a scenic drive from Kampala or Entebbe, passing through lush landscapes, crater lakes, and tea plantations. The journey takes about 5 to 6 hours, which might seem lengthy but is visually rewarding. Traveling through areas like Mubende and Fort Portal introduces travelers to Uganda’s diverse terrain.

Most reviews highlight the enjoyable scenery along this route, with some even mentioning stopping at local markets or viewpoints. The inclusion of lunch in Fort Portal offers a chance to sample local flavors while taking in views of the surrounding greenery.

The accommodation at Kibale Forest Camp is praised for its comfortable setting and proximity to the forest, offering a solid base for the next day’s adventures.

Chimpanzee Trekking & Bigodi Swamp Walk

The core of the trip is the chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park. You’ll start with a briefing at Kanyachu Visitor Center, where guides set expectations and share tips for spotting chimps. The trek itself varies from 30 minutes up to 4 hours depending on chimp location, which keeps the experience unpredictable—adventurous for sure.

Once you encounter the chimpanzees, you’ll spend about an hour observing their behavior. Many reviewers convey a sense of awe at watching these intelligent primates in their natural habitat, noting that seeing chimps up close really makes the trip memorable. One mentioned that the guides are very knowledgeable, helping you spot the chimps and explain their behaviors.

Post-trek, a guided walk through Bigodi Swamp lets you see a variety of wildlife and bird species. Reviewers often highlight the diverse birdlife and primates, with some mentioning sightings of monkeys and other forest creatures. The walk is also a good chance to appreciate Uganda’s lush, vibrant ecosystem.

Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park and Evening Game Drive

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll leave Kibale for Queen Elizabeth National Park, a drive that reveals more of Uganda’s beautiful landscape—think crater lakes, rolling hills, and tea plantations. The journey provides a scenic transition from the lush forests to the savannah-like plains.

Upon arrival, your stay at Buffalo Safari Lodge offers comfort amid nature. Many guests appreciate the views from the lodge and the chance to relax before the evening game drive.

The game drive is described as exciting and rewarding, with the chance to spot elephants, buffalo, Uganda kobs, and perhaps the elusive lion. The guides’ local knowledge and patience are often praised, as they help track wildlife when sightings are scarce. Some reviews mention seeing big herds of elephants and a variety of bird species, adding to the richness of the experience.

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Morning Game Drive and Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel

Early mornings are prime time for wildlife viewing, and this tour capitalizes on that. Expect to see lions, elephants, and perhaps even predators like leopards. Reviewers often find the early start worth it for the opportunity to catch animals at their most active.

After lunch at the lodge, the boat cruise along Kazinga Channel offers a different perspective—close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, and a stack of waterbirds. Many describe this as a highlight, with the chance to see large pods of hippos and daring crocodiles basking along the banks. The cruise also offers excellent photo opportunities and a chance to relax after a busy morning.

Return Journey to Kampala and Entebbe

The final day involves a morning game drive followed by the drive back towards Kampala, with a stop for lunch in Mbarara. Visiting the Equator en route provides a fun photo opportunity and a sense of crossing into a different part of the world.

The trip wraps up at Entebbe International Airport, ready for departures. The logistics are straightforward, with all transportation and transfers included, making the journey smooth—though long travel times mean you’ll want to pack snacks and patience.

Overall Value and Experience

This tour offers a well-rounded Ugandan wilderness experience at a competitive price of $2,063 per person. It covers significant highlights—chimpanzees, game drives, boat cruises, and scenic views—all included in the package. The permits, park fees, and activities are part of the upfront cost, which helps avoid surprise expenses.

The accommodation options, like Kibale Forest Camp and Buffalo Safari Lodge, are praised for their comfort and strategic locations, ensuring you’re close to wildlife and scenic spots. The guided nature walks and game drives are led by knowledgeable guides, enhancing the chances of wildlife sightings and providing insightful commentary.

While some travelers might find the long driving hours a bit tiring, it’s also an opportunity to soak in Uganda’s landscapes. The experience of seeing chimps swing through the trees or a herd of elephants crossing the plain makes the effort worthwhile.

In terms of logistics, the tour is designed for convenience—roundtrip airport transfers, all transportation, and organized activities—so you can focus on enjoying rather than planning. Plus, the option to reserve and pay later offers flexibility in planning.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari is perfect for wildlife lovers keen on seeing chimpanzees and big game without the hassle of organizing every detail. It suits travelers looking for an authentic experience with a mix of adventure, relaxation, and scenic beauty.

Those comfortable with some travel time and eager to explore multiple parks in a short span will find this tour ideal. It’s also a good fit for families with older children (over 5 years) who want a safe, guided experience in Uganda’s wilderness.

The Sum Up

The 5-day Uganda safari offers a solid balance of wildlife encounters, scenic travel, and relaxing moments. From spotting chimpanzees in Kibale to cruising Kazinga Channel, you’ll gain a comprehensive taste of Uganda’s natural wealth. The inclusion of all major activities and park fees makes it a convenient, value-packed option for those seeking an authentic African safari experience.

While the long drives may challenge some, the payoff—meeting wild chimpanzees, seeing elephants and lions, and enjoying stunning vistas—more than compensates. It’s a trip that promises memorable moments for wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Overall, if you’re after an immersive, well-organized Ugandan safari that balances comfort and authentic encounters, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially suited for those who want to experience Uganda’s diverse landscapes and incredible wildlife in a compact, thoughtfully curated package.

FAQ

Is the price of $2,063 per person inclusive of all activities?
Yes, it includes park fees, permits, all activities listed in the itinerary, accommodations, meals, and transportation.

How long is the drive from Kampala to Kibale?
It’s approximately 5 to 6 hours, passing through scenic areas like Mubende and Fort Portal.

What wildlife can I expect to see during game drives?
You might spot elephants, buffalo, Uganda kobs, lions, and other animals, especially during early morning drives.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
Yes, reviews mention that Kibale Forest Camp and Buffalo Safari Lodge are comfortable and well-situated for wildlife viewing.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, insect repellent, camera, snacks, and water are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5 years due to the nature of activities and travel demands.

You can check availability for your dates here: