Entebbe/Kampala to Kibale Forest National Park

Your Uganda safari begins with an early pickup from your hotel or guesthouse in Entebbe or Kampala. After a short briefing on the days ahead, you'll set off toward western Uganda, driving through the scenic Rwenzori foothills and lush tea and coffee plantations that carpet the countryside near Fort Portal. Expect photo stops at scenic viewpoints along the way. On arrival, check in to your lodge near Kibale National Park, relax, and enjoy dinner.

Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest & Bigodi Wetland Walk

Rise early for breakfast before heading to Kanyanchu, the park headquarters, for a briefing on chimpanzee trekking etiquette. Guests are grouped in small teams of six, accompanied by expert ranger guides, for a trek through Kibale's rainforest in search of wild chimpanzees. The search can take anywhere from one hour to most of the day, since chimps roam constantly in search of food. Once located, you'll spend an unforgettable hour observing and photographing these highly intelligent primates.

After a relaxed lunch back at the lodge, an optional afternoon nature walk through the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary offers a chance to spot rare birds, monkeys, and butterflies while supporting a community-led conservation initiative.

Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After breakfast, depart Kibale for the scenic drive south to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, passing Mbarara town, rolling banana plantations, and grazing long-horned Ankole cattle en route. Many travelers stop at the Equator crossing for photos and souvenir shopping. Arrive at your lodge in the late afternoon, check in, and unwind before dinner.

Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

An early breakfast is followed by a 7:30 a.m. briefing at park headquarters on gorilla trekking rules. Accompanied by armed rangers and trackers, you'll hike through dense, misty forest — anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours — in search of a habituated mountain gorilla family. Once found, trekkers are granted one magical hour with the gorillas at close range for photographs and observation, guided by insights from experienced wardens.

After lunch in the forest, return to the lodge to receive your official gorilla trekking certificate. In the evening, visit the Batwa Community for an immersive cultural experience featuring traditional dance, storytelling, and history from Bwindi's original forest-dwelling people. Gorilla trekking is strenuous; a walking stick and moderate fitness are recommended.

Return to Entebbe/Kampala

After a final breakfast, bid farewell to Bwindi and begin the drive back to Entebbe in time for your international departure, or transfer to your Kampala hotel.