Uganda: 9-Day Midrange Wildlife, Chimps & Gorilla Safari

Planning a safari to Uganda can feel overwhelming, especially with so many parks and wildlife experiences to choose from. This 9-day tour by EMMKAMP TOURS offers a well-rounded introduction to Uganda’s most iconic animals and landscapes, blending game drives, boat cruises, and unforgettable primate encounters. It’s tailored for travelers who want a midrange experience that balances comfort, adventure, and authentic wildlife moments without breaking the bank.

What we love about this tour is its focus on close encounters with primates, especially the chance to see mountain gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural homes. The inclusion of varied activities like boat safaris on Lake Mburo and Kazinga Channel adds a relaxing yet exciting dimension to the trip. Plus, the journey through Uganda’s stunning landscapes with knowledgeable guides makes each day memorable. The only potential consideration might be the long travel days, but for most, the sights and sounds far outweigh this minor inconvenience.

This tour suits nature lovers, wildlife photographers, and those eager to see Uganda’s famous primates. It’s particularly ideal for travelers who appreciate a balanced mix of adventure and culture, and those who don’t mind a bit of travel time between parks. If you’re after a comprehensive, well-organized safari with excellent value, this 9-day adventure delivers.

Key Points

• Primates Up Close: Get the chance to track and observe mountain gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural habitats.
• Diverse Activities: Enjoy game drives, boat cruises, and community walks for a rounded wildlife experience.
• Scenic Landscapes: Travel through Uganda’s lush hills, riverbanks, and national parks, with plenty of picture-perfect moments.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides help you spot wildlife and share insights into Uganda’s flora and fauna.
• Value for Money: The tour covers park fees, most activities, and accommodations, making it a cost-effective option.
• Potential Long Days: Be prepared for some travel on the road, but with stunning scenery along the way.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction

This 9-day safari in Uganda is designed to introduce you to some of Africa’s most impressive wildlife and landscapes. While we haven’t personally gone on this exact trip, the detailed itinerary and reviews suggest it offers a well-balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and cultural exposure. From tracking mountain gorillas in Bwindi to spotting tree-climbing lions in Ishasha, this tour hits many of Uganda’s wildlife highlights.

What stands out most? The proximity to mountain gorillas and chimpanzees, which are often top reasons travelers choose Uganda. The inclusion of boat cruises means you’ll get to see water-loving animals like hippos and crocodiles, plus enjoy some peaceful moments on the water. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable nature expertise, which can make or break wildlife sightings, and the scenic drives through Uganda’s mountains and plains are a bonus.

One thing to consider is the overall travel pace; some days involve a fair amount of driving, but the landscapes and wildlife sightings make it worthwhile. This tour really suits those who enjoy a mix of active wildlife tracking and relaxing boat rides, with enough comfort to keep things enjoyable. It’s perfect if you want a comprehensive Uganda experience without opting for luxury or budget extremes.

Exploring Each Day of the Tour

Day 1: Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park

Starting from your hotel or the airport, you’ll be greeted by your driver guide and head west towards Uganda’s Lake Mburo National Park. A quick stop at the Equator in Kayabwe offers that classic photo-op, where you can stand in two hemispheres at once—an amusing and memorable moment. Continuing to Mbarara for lunch, you’ll get a taste of local Ugandan cuisine before settling into Mburo Safari Lodge.

The drive itself through the rolling hills is a treat, revealing Uganda’s lush landscapes. The lodge offers a comfortable base for the night, where you can relax after your travel day. The guides are praised for their friendliness and local knowledge, adding a personal touch to the journey.

Day 2: Game Drive and Boat Cruise at Lake Mburo

Early morning, you’ll head out for a game drive to see animals like antelopes, buffaloes, leopards, and warthogs. The terrain is ideal for spotting wildlife, and the guides are adept at tracking. We love that the morning drive tends to be cooler and more active for animals.

After lunch, it’s time for a boat cruise on Lake Mburo. Here, you’ll see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of water birds, making for fantastic photo opportunities. Water-based safaris are often less crowded, giving you a more intimate wildlife experience. Reviewers mention how peaceful and scenic these cruises are, with plenty of animals coming to the water’s edge.

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Day 3: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

The drive to Bwindi is a highlight in itself. The scenic route through the Kigezi Highlands offers stunning views of terraced hills and banana plantations. Expect the drive to take several hours, but with stops for lunch and photos, the journey becomes part of the adventure. This area is often called Uganda’s “Switzerland,” thanks to its lush, mountainous terrain.

Once arrived, you check into Bahoma Community Haven Lodge, a cozy and welcoming spot that supports local community projects. The guides often share tips on how to maximize your gorilla tracking experience, which is the main event for most visitors.

Day 4: Gorilla Tracking and Community Walks

Gorilla tracking begins early with a briefing at the park headquarters. Equipped with guides and porters, you set out into the impenetrable forest—expect a hike that varies in difficulty but is rewarding regardless. The guides are praised for their expert knowledge and patience, helping guests identify signs of gorillas and interpret their behaviors.

Once you encounter the mountain gorillas, it’s a moment that stays with you for a lifetime. Reviewers mention that the experience is often emotional and humbling, made even better by guides who share fascinating facts about the gorillas’ lives. After tracking, some guests opt for a Batwa community visit, gaining insight into local traditions and history.

Day 5: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park via Ishasha

Today’s journey takes you south to Queen Elizabeth National Park, with an exciting stop in the Ishasha sector—famous for tree-climbing lions. It’s a unique sight to see lions hanging out in the branches, a behavior that puzzles many first-timers. En-route, you’ll spot elephants, giraffes, and perhaps even the elusive Uganda kob.

The lodge here offers a comfortable base for your night, with options to relax or do a brief night walk, as some reviewers enjoy doing. The scenery along the way is breathtaking, with views of the rolling plains and distant mountains.

Day 6: Game Drive and Boat Cruise at Queen Elizabeth

Mornings start with a game drive through the Kasenyi plains—a hotspot for spotting lions, elephants, and buffalo. The guides are skilled at getting you close to wildlife while respecting their space, making every sighting more thrilling.

In the afternoon, a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel offers close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, and water birds. Reviewers often highlight how these cruises provide some of the best wildlife sightings, especially as animals come to drink or graze by the water.

Later in the day, you’ll head to Kibale National Park, walking through lush rainforest scenery that’s perfect for birdwatching and primate spotting.

Day 7: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest

The highlight of this day is chimpanzee tracking. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable birding tips, helping you spot species like the great blue turaco and tinker bird. Expect a walk through dense forest, where primates are often quite active, and the guides’ expertise makes all the difference.

You may also see other primates like colobus monkeys and vervet monkeys. The atmosphere is lively, with plenty of opportunities for photos and learning about the forest ecology. Afterward, some travelers enjoy a relaxed lunch before heading back to the camp.

Day 8: Return to Kampala

Starting early, you leave Kibale behind and begin the journey back towards Kampala. The drive offers beautiful landscape views—perfect for last-minute photos. You’ll stop for lunch en-route and arrive in the city in the afternoon, where you’ll be dropped off at the airport or your hotel, depending on your plans.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Expert Guides: From tracking gorillas to spotting waterbirds on boat cruises, guides are highly valued for their knowledge and patience. Their ability to spot wildlife that travelers might miss makes a significant difference.

Primates Close Encounters: Seeing mountain gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural environment tops many visitors’ wish lists—and this tour delivers. The guides’ storytelling and tracking skills make these moments even more special.

Varied Activities: The combination of game drives, boat safaris, and community walks ensures you experience Uganda’s wildlife from different angles, avoiding the monotony of just game drives.

Stunning Landscapes: Traveling through Uganda’s hills, lakes, and forests offers plenty of scenic picture opportunities, giving you a visual feast alongside animal encounters.

Value for Price: The $4,263 package covers all park fees, activities, accommodations, and transport, making it easier to budget without surprises. The focus on midrange lodges keeps things comfortable but accessible.

Travel Considerations: The only potential downside is the number of travel hours between parks, but with the scenery and wildlife, these are often seen as part of the adventure rather than obstacles.

Final Thoughts

For those dreaming of a multi-faceted safari experience in Uganda, this 9-day itinerary offers an excellent blend of primate encounters, wildlife viewing, and scenic exploration. The inclusion of guided walks, boat cruises, and community visits ensures a comprehensive understanding of Uganda’s natural beauty and local culture.

The tour strikes a fine balance—providing enough comfort and organization, while still delivering authentic wildlife moments. The knowledgeable guides are a highlight, often making the difference in spotting elusive animals or sharing fascinating facts along the way.

While some days involve lengthy drives, the stunning landscapes and wildlife sightings make these journeys worthwhile. It’s a great choice for travelers seeking a well-rounded, value-packed adventure that captures Uganda’s essence without sacrificing comfort.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

It’s perfect for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see mountain gorillas and chimpanzees up close, as well as those who want to combine game drives and boat safaris. If you enjoy scenic landscapes and cultural community visits, this tour offers a nicely balanced program.

Travelers who appreciate guides with expert knowledge and organized logistics will find this safari straightforward and rewarding. It’s less suited for those seeking luxury or traveling with very young children due to the travel times and activity levels, but overall, it offers excellent value and memorable experiences for most adventure-loving travelers.

FAQ

• Is this safari suitable for children? This tour is not recommended for children under 5 years due to the physical nature of some activities like gorilla trekking.
• Do I need a visa for Uganda? Yes, travelers should have a valid visa, and it’s advised to check entry requirements before booking.
• What should I pack? Include comfortable shoes, sun protection, insect repellent, camera, and rain gear as weather can change quickly.
• Are meals included? Yes, most meals are included as specified in the itinerary, along with drinking water.
• What’s the best time to go? While not explicitly stated, generally, the dry seasons (December to February and June to September) are ideal for wildlife viewing.
• Are park fees covered? Yes, the tour price includes all park fees for non-residents.
• Is there an option to customize or extend the tour? You can reserve and pay later, offering flexibility, but extensions or upgrades would need to be arranged directly with the provider.
• Can I do this tour if I’m pregnant? The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, especially due to physical activities like gorilla trekking.

In summary, this Uganda safari offers a fantastic opportunity to witness some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife, explore breathtaking landscapes, and enjoy authentic local culture—all in a comfortable, well-organized setting. It’s a great pick for explorers eager to see primates and wildlife in their natural environment, with guides who truly know their stuff.

You can check availability for your dates here: