If you want to see what makes Uganda different from Kenya and Tanzania, this is the trip. In one week it covers the three experiences most visitors come for: chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest, a savannah safari and boat cruise in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
The order is planned to keep the driving manageable. You start in Kibale, west of Kampala, move south to Queen Elizabeth, then continue through the Ishasha sector - known for tree-climbing lions - to Bwindi for the gorilla trek near the end. Each stop has at least one full activity day.
It is a fuller schedule than our shorter Uganda trips, with more time on the road between parks. It suits serious wildlife watchers and travellers who want depth, whether this is their first visit to Uganda or a return trip.
Journey at-a-glance:Customize This Journey. Request More Information »
KIBALE FOREST
Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest (permit included)
Game drives and a Kazinga Channel cruise in Queen Elizabeth
Ishasha's tree-climbing lions on the way south (sightings not guaranteed)
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (permit included)
Drive west from Entebbe towards Fort Portal and Kibale, arriving in time to settle in.
Track a habituated chimpanzee troop with a park ranger, following calls and fresh signs through the forest. Walks are often shorter than gorilla treks, but the length still depends on where the chimps are that morning. The afternoon is free - an optional walk in Bigodi Wetland nearby is a good use of it.
Drive south past crater lakes and tea estates to Queen Elizabeth National Park, with an afternoon game drive on arrival.
A morning game drive across the savannah for elephant, buffalo, Uganda kob and lion, then an afternoon boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, where hippos, crocodiles and waterbirds crowd the banks.
Head south through the Ishasha sector, checking the fig trees for resting lions, then climb into the hills to Bwindi.
An early briefing at the park office, then a guided trek into the forest with your ranger, following trackers who have gone ahead to locate the gorilla family. The walk can take under an hour or several hours, depending on where the group has moved. Once you reach them you have one hour to watch.
The long drive back to Entebbe for onward travel, with stops along the way.
Planning tip: see our guide on Gorilla Trekking in Uganda: How It Works and How to Prepare.
Accommodation: Six nights at mid-range lodges near Kibale, in Queen Elizabeth National Park and near Bwindi, upgradeable to luxury.
Vehicle: 4x4 safari vehicle
Tracking runs all year. The drier months, roughly June to August and December to February, make trails easier. Chimp sightings are not strongly seasonal.
Full Kibale Forest destination guide »
Yes. The route is planned to avoid putting long drives and big activities on the same day. If you would like a slower pace, we can add a night.
It is uncommon because trackers follow the groups closely, but encounters with wild animals are never certain. We will always be straightforward with you about that.
Yes. Scheduled flights connect airstrips near Bwindi with Entebbe, which saves the long final drive. Ask us to price it.
Send us your travel dates and group size and we'll confirm availability and pricing.
