12-Day Uganda Primate and Wildlife Safari

12-Day Uganda Primate and Wildlife Safari – Immersive Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking Experience

Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Uganda with our 12-Day Uganda Primate and Wildlife Safari. This exclusive adventure unveils the country’s diverse landscapes, offering encounters with elusive mountain gorillas, native Batwa pygmies, and breathtaking views of western Uganda. Immerse yourself in the unparalleled beauty of Uganda, a safari destination like no other in Africa.

Private Uganda Safari Expedition – Western Circuit Exploration

Your private Uganda safari encompasses the most popular circuits, starting from Entebbe and traversing the scenic landscapes of Lake Mburo National Park. The expedition then leads you into the mountain jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where an exhilarating gorilla trekking experience awaits. Challenge yourself with a canoe and hiking excursion before venturing north to Queen Elizabeth National Park for thrilling game drives and a boat safari.

The primate capital of Kibale Forest and the magnificent Murchison Falls National Park mark the final chapters of this remarkable journey. Whether you are a solo traveler, a family, or a group of friends, this safari promises a shared adventure. Alternatively, opt for a private experience tailored to your preferences by consulting with our local safari experts to commence planning your guided safari.

Safari Highlights – Unveiling Uganda’s Rich Tapestry

• Explore the southern, central, and north-western regions of the “Pearl of Africa.”
• Encounter the awe-inspiring Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and chimpanzees in Kibale National Park.
• Embark on a beautiful hike across Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, accompanied by professional guides and armed rangers.
• Engage in game drives and boat cruises in Lake Mburo National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Murchison Falls National Park.
• Witness the rare white Rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
• Immerse yourself in local communities, supporting sustainable tourism initiatives.

Detailed Itinerary for the 12-Day Uganda Primate and Wildlife Safari

Day One: Arrival in Entebbe & Optional Mabamba Swamps

Arrive in Entebbe according to your international flight schedule. Optionally, embark on an afternoon excursion to Mabamba Swamp, renowned for spotting rare shoebill storks. Enjoy birding and a relaxing sundowner on Lake Victoria before returning to the Guest House.

Day Two: Travel to Lake Mburo National Park

Commence your 12-day journey with an early breakfast, embarking on a country trip to Western Uganda. En-route, explore traditional drum-making in Mpambire and visit the Equator line. Upon reaching Lake Mburo National Park, indulge in a game drive and a boat ride on Lake Mburo, encountering diverse wildlife. The journey takes approximately 5-7 hours.

Day Three: Mburo – Bwindi, Experience Batwa Natives Cultures

Embark on an early morning game drive in Lake Mburo National Park before heading to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Traverse rolling hills, tea plantations, and tropical rainforests, reaching the Virunga Volcanoes’ majestic chain. Experience the culture of the Batwa tribe in the afternoon during a stroll down the Buniga Forest Trail Walk. The drive spans 5-7 hours.

Day Four: Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Embark on a thrilling gorilla tracking adventure after an early breakfast. The rainforest’s beauty and steep landscape offer a spectacular backdrop. Spend precious moments observing these gentle giants, an experience both rare and moving. The tracking can take place at Nkuringo or Rushaga, depending on Gorilla permits obtained. Afterward, relax at the lodge or explore the community and enjoy sunset views.

Day Five: Hike and Canoe across Lake Mutanda

Embark on a morning hike across beautiful landscapes and local communities. Reach Lake Mutanda and enjoy a serene canoe ride for 1.5-2 hours, relishing the panoramic views. Return to Nkuringo, savoring a lifetime experience on a canoe ride, witnessing the Virunga mountain ranges. Alternatively, drive directly to the lake, indulge in a canoe ride, and drive back to the lodge. The choice is yours!

Day Six: Hike across Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (16 km)

Embark on a pre-dawn drive to the Nteko Ridge, starting an unforgettable 16 km hike across Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Marvel at the ecological richness and encounter diverse wildlife, guided by knowledgeable local guides. The trail offers insights into the forest’s significance and its role as an ecological island. Conclude the hike at the park headquarters in Buhoma and proceed to Queen Elizabeth National Park. The southern area of Ishasha is known for its unique ‘tree climbing’ lions, offering a special highlight.

Day Seven: Queen Elizabeth National Park

Dedicate a full day to game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, followed by a boat trip on the Kazinga Channel. The waterway, connecting Lake George and Lake Edward, provides exceptional views of game and birds on the riverbanks. Encounter hippos and, if water levels permit, embark on a short walk accompanied by a ranger guide. Queen Elizabeth National Park, established in 1952, hosts a diverse array of mammals and bird species.

Day Eight: Queen Elizabeth NP, Game Drive & Boat Safari

Morning game drives and a boat trip on the Kazinga Channel await you. Capture the scenic beauty and wildlife spectacles, including elephants, giraffes, buffalos, crocodiles, and antelopes. Queen Elizabeth National Park stands out for its rich biodiversity, making it a captivating destination. In the afternoon, proceed to Kibale National Park, a drive of approximately 3 hours (180 km).

Day Nine: Chimpanzee Tracking and Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary

Embark on an early morning chimpanzee tracking adventure in Kibale National Park, home to Africa’s largest population of these charismatic primates. The park boasts 13 primate species, including the rare I’Hoest’s monkey and East Africa’s largest population of endangered red colobus monkeys. In the afternoon, explore the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-based conservation initiative with diverse bird species and primate sightings.

Day Ten: North Bound to Murchison Falls NP

Depart early for Murchison Falls National Park, situated at the northern end of the Albertine Rift Valley. Marvel at the park’s unique landscape, where the Bunyoro escarpment meets the vast palm-dotted savannah. The park is bisected by the Victoria Nile, culminating in the spectacular Murchison Falls. Witness the falls’ dramatic descent, marking the conclusion of an 80 km stretch of rapids.

Day Eleven: Murchison Falls National Park Game Drives & Boat Safari

Embark on a full day of discovery in Murchison Falls National Park. Enjoy an early morning game drive, followed by a boat safari in the Victoria Nile Delta. Explore the diverse bird species and endemic wildlife, with the opportunity for a short walk accompanied by a ranger guide. The afternoon offers a boat safari to the Murchison Falls, providing panoramic views and encounters with local fauna. Conclude the day with a game drive back to the lodge.

Day Twelve: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and Travel to Entebbe

After an early breakfast, depart for Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in Uganda where southern white rhinos can be tracked. Learn about the conservation efforts to reintroduce rhinos into the country and witness these majestic creatures. Conclude your safari with a return to Entebbe, arriving around 17:00. Transfer to the airport for your evening flight. End your unforgettable 12-day Uganda primate and wildlife safari with cherished memories of the diverse landscapes and captivating wildlife encounters.