5 Days Gorillas and Chimp Trekking
5 Days Gorillas and Chimp Trekking is a safari that takes you deep into the heart of Uganda, home to some of the world’s most endangered and awe-inspiring wildlife. This adventure is perfect for those seeking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the African wilderness, with a focus on primates – specifically chimpanzees and mountain gorillas. You will visit Kibale Forest National Park, known as the “Primate Capital of the World,” and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where the last remaining mountain gorillas reside. This safari promises an unforgettable experience of wildlife tracking, cultural encounters, and breathtaking landscapes.
Day 1: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
Your adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Kampala, the capital city of Uganda. You will meet your friendly driver-guide, who will accompany you on your journey to Kibale Forest National Park, approximately a six-hour drive from Kampala. As you leave the bustling city behind, you will drive through Uganda’s beautiful countryside, passing farmlands, rolling hills, and vibrant local communities. Along the way, you can observe the rural lifestyle of the Ugandan people and take in the stunning landscapes.
Your first stop on this journey will be at one of the many scenic viewpoints along the route, where you can stretch your legs, take some photos, and enjoy the surrounding beauty. Arriving in Kibale Forest National Park by late afternoon, you will head straight to your lodge, where you will be greeted with a warm welcome and given time to check in. After the long drive, you’ll have the opportunity to unwind, enjoy a delicious dinner, and rest in preparation for the exciting activities that await you the following day.
Day 2: Chimpanzee Tracking and Bigodi Swamp Tour
On Day 2, you will wake up early for a hearty breakfast before heading to Kibale’s park headquarters for a briefing about chimpanzee tracking. This briefing will cover the safety rules and guidelines that ensure both your safety and the well-being of the chimpanzees. Kibale Forest is home to over 1,400 chimpanzees, making it one of the best places in the world to track these fascinating primates.
You will then set off on your chimpanzee trekking adventure, led by an experienced ranger guide. The trek can last from one to four hours, depending on the location of the chimpanzees, so be prepared for a walk through the dense forest. As you make your way deeper into the forest, keep your eyes peeled for other primates, such as colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and baboons. The forest is also home to many bird species, so don’t forget to bring your binoculars.
Once you locate the chimpanzees, you will have one hour to observe them in their natural habitat. Chimpanzees are highly social animals, and you may witness them grooming, playing, or foraging for food. Watching these incredible creatures in the wild is an unforgettable experience, and you’ll be amazed at their intelligence and social dynamics.
After the chimpanzee trek, you will return to the lodge for a well-deserved lunch. In the afternoon, you will take a guided walk through the Bigodi Swamp Sanctuary, a beautiful area that’s home to a variety of birds and other primates. The swamp is a haven for birdwatchers, and you might spot species such as the Great Blue Turaco, African Pygmy Kingfisher, and Papyrus Gonolek. You may also encounter monkeys like the rare L’Hoest’s monkey, which is often seen in the area. After your swamp tour, return to your lodge for dinner and relaxation.
Day 3: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After an early breakfast, you will begin the journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, one of Uganda’s most famous national parks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The drive to Bwindi will take you through Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you may catch glimpses of the park’s wildlife along the way, such as elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some lions or leopards resting in the grasslands.
The route to Bwindi is incredibly scenic, with sweeping views of the lush, green landscapes of southwestern Uganda. As you pass through local villages, you’ll get a chance to experience the rural Ugandan lifestyle and interact with friendly villagers. Lunch will be in the charming town of Kihihi, where you can sample local cuisine and take a walk through the vibrant market.
After lunch, continue your journey towards Bwindi, driving through picturesque hills and lush rainforests. Upon arrival in Bwindi in the late afternoon, you will check into your lodge, enjoy dinner, and rest before tomorrow’s exciting gorilla trekking experience. Bwindi is home to the endangered mountain gorillas, and it’s a special place where you’ll have the rare opportunity to spend time with these gentle giants in their natural environment.
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Day 4 is the highlight of your safari – gorilla trekking! After an early breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters for a briefing on the rules and guidelines for trekking the mountain gorillas. These guidelines are in place to protect both the gorillas and trekkers, ensuring a safe and respectful experience.
You will be assigned to one of the park’s habituated gorilla families, and your ranger guide will lead you into the dense forest to begin the trek. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi can take anywhere from 1 to 8 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas, the weather, and the terrain. The forest can be dense and challenging to navigate, but the reward of seeing the gorillas up close is worth every step.
Once you find the gorillas, you’ll have one hour to observe them in their natural habitat. You might see a silverback (the dominant male) resting, playing, or interacting with his family members. Watching these incredible creatures in the wild is an emotional and awe-inspiring experience. The gorillas are gentle and peaceful, and you’ll be amazed at their human-like behavior and expressions. Don’t forget to take photos and enjoy the moment.
After your hour with the gorillas, you’ll return to your lodge to relax and reflect on the unforgettable encounter. If you’re interested, you can visit the Batwa community, an indigenous group that once lived in the forest before the park was established. The Batwa people have a fascinating culture, and visiting their village offers a unique opportunity to learn about their traditions and way of life.
Day 5: Transfer to Entebbe Airport for Departure
On your final day, you will enjoy a leisurely breakfast before starting your journey back to Entebbe. The drive will take you through the beautiful landscapes of Kabale and the Kigezi Highlands, known for their stunning terraced hills and scenic vistas. You will stop for lunch at Igongo Hotel in Mbarara before continuing the drive back to Kampala.
Once in Kampala, you’ll transfer to Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight. As you board your flight, you’ll leave Uganda with memories of a lifetime – memories of spending time with chimpanzees in Kibale, trekking through the misty forests of Bwindi, and having an unforgettable encounter with the endangered mountain gorillas.
End of 5 Days Gorillas and Chimp Trekking Safari
This 5-day Gorillas and Chimp Trekking Safari offers a rare and remarkable opportunity to witness some of the world’s most incredible wildlife in their natural habitats. From tracking the playful chimpanzees in Kibale to meeting the majestic mountain gorillas in Bwindi, this safari is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking an authentic African adventure. With expert guides, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable wildlife encounters, this trip will undoubtedly leave you with lifelong memories of Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa.”
