Uganda Safaris
This tour travels through western Uganda to Kibale National Park to track chimpanzees—Kibale is the largest home to the greatest diversity and profusion of primates in Uganda and East Africa. The rainforest offers unique chances to trek chimpanzees and watch birds. The highlight is tracking mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Mountain gorillas are among the world's most endangered species, with more than half of the population living in Bwindi. The forest is one of the oldest and most biologically diverse rainforests in Uganda, with about 400 plant species and an estimated 320 mountain gorillas, including habituated groups that can be tracked by visitors.
After early breakfast, drive westward via Mityana–Fort Portal road through the countryside, past traditional homesteads and cattle farms. Drive through Fort Portal in the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains to Kibale National Park. Dine and overnight at a comfortable lodge.
Luxury: Ndali Lodge or Kyaninga Lodge. Mid-range: Primates Lodge. Basic: Chimpanzee Guesthouse. Meal plan: Full board. Travel time: Approximately 7 hours.
Go to the park headquarters for a briefing, then begin chimp tracking at 8:00am. The activity may take half the day as you search for chimps and other monkeys—grey-cheeked mangabeys, red colobus, red-tailed and blue-tailed—in the forest. Spot bird species, butterflies and insects. After lunch, explore the Bigodi Wetland eco-tourism site with its profusion of wildlife.
Accommodation: Ndali/Kyaninga (luxury), Primates Lodge (mid-range), Chimpanzee Guesthouse (basic). Meal plan: Full board.
After breakfast, drive from Kibale to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park with lunch along the way.
Luxury: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge / Mahogany Springs. Mid-range: Gorilla Mist Camp / Silver Back Lodge. Basic: Wagtail Eco Lodge / Buhoma Community Bandas. Meal plan: Full board. Travel time: Approximately 5 hours.
Early breakfast, then go to the park headquarters for briefing before searching Bwindi forest for mountain gorillas. Tracking time is unpredictable; the thrill of spending time with these gentle giants is unforgettable. Set out with packed lunch and water; wear strong boots and a light rain jacket. Walking sticks are provided. You are allowed one hour with the gorillas. In the evening, take a cultural walk to interact with local people and enjoy traditional performances.
Accommodation: Silverback Lodge or Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge (luxury), Lake Mutanda Chameleon Hill (mid-range), Wagtail Eco Lodge or Buhoma Community Bandas (basic). Meal plan: Full board.
After early breakfast, drive back to the capital with lunch along the way through the beautiful countryside.
Meal plan: Breakfast & lunch. Travel time: Approximately 7–9 hours.