Gorilla Trekking Uganda
If you are a primate-lover, this Gorilla Trekking Uganda is the ultimate safari for you. From the impressive mountain gorillas of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to the fascinating chimpanzees in Kibale National Park. Explore the beautiful tropical forests on foot, trekking chimpanzees and the last wild mountain gorillas. Vervet monkeys, red colobus monkeys and the endangered golden monkeys are also found in these forests, making it a true primate dream destination. Prepare yourself for one of Africa’s most thrilling wildlife experiences.
Day 1: Arrival
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport (close to Kampala) your driver-guide will welcom you and take you to your accommodation. Overnight at The Boma in Entebbe, just a 15 minutes’ drive from the airport, where you can enjoy beautiful views of Lake Victoria.
Day 2: Transfer to Kibale National Park
Early in the morning we drive to Kibale in the Toro Kingdom, one of the five traditional kingdoms located in Uganda. After lunch in Fort Portal we continue to drive to our accommodation. Dinner and overnight will be at Chimpanzee Guest House. This lovely accommodation has a beautiful garden for birding and serves delicious meals. It is located within tea fields in the tropical rainforest of Kibale National Park. This park is often called the primate capital of the world since it is home to 13 species of primates.
Day 3: Kibale National Park – chimp trekking
Today we rise up early and you have the chance to meet chimpanzees up close and personal on a chimp trekking in the park. Kibale has the highest concentration of primates in Africa of which chimpanzees are the most famous. Be aware that chimps are quick and can climb high up in the trees, so it takes time and patience to spot them. After lunch and some rest we go for a walk in Bigodi Wetland. Here you can spot other primates such as the ed-tailed monkey, the acrobatic Black and White Colobus, Red Colobus and Grey-cheeked Mangabey. We return for overnight and dinner to Chimpanzee Guest House.
Day 4: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Today we drive after breakfast to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. A beautiful green forest that lies on the edge of the Great Rift Valley, close to the border of the Democratic Republic of Congo. During this drive you will have spectacular views of the hills in the southwestern region of Uganda. Overnight will be at the idyllic Mahogany Springs which offers beautiful mountain views and delicious food. This lodge is only a few minutes away from the gorilla trekking base. It’s also an excellent location for a bird walk into the forest.
Day 5: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – gorilla Trekking
Experience today one of the most thrilling wildlife experiences Africa offers: gorilla trekking. Bwindi is home to 39 gorilla families who roam in the wild jungle, which is half of the world’s population. The humidity and steep slopes in the rainforest can be a challenge. So, it’s important you are fit and wear comfortable walking shoes. It’s definitely worthwhile since nothing beats the sight of an impressive mountain gorilla. Bwindi is also a hotspot for butterflies, birds and other primates like the golden monkey and black-and-white colobus monkeys. This park is the only protected area in the world where mountain gorillas and chimpanzees live together. In the afternoon we return to Mahogany Springs.
Day 6: Transfer to Kampala
After breakfast you will be transferred to Entebbe International Airport (close to Kampala) in time for your flight.
Tips:
Both gorilla and chimp trekking requires good hiking boots, garden gloves, long sleeved shirts, rain jackets, sun glasses, huts, a hiking stick and some energy snacks. You might not need a porter for chimp trekking in Kibale but we highly recommend one for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for your gorilla trek.
Check also the Highlight of Uganda Safari itinerary.
