5-Day Gorillas and Wildlife Safari
5 Days Gorillas and Wildlife Safari.This 5-day safari takes you deep into Uganda’s spectacular landscapes, from the lush mountains of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to the serene shores of Lake Bunyonyi and the savannas of Lake Mburo National Park. Experience thrilling gorilla encounters, captivating wildlife, and picturesque views, making this an unforgettable adventure in the Pearl of Africa.
Day 1: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Your journey begins as we pick you up from your hotel in Kampala and set out southwest along the Kampala-Masaka-Mbarara road. We’ll pause at the Equator in Nabusanke trading center for photos and a chance to experience the unique location of standing in both hemispheres. After lunch in Mbarara, we’ll continue to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a world-renowned sanctuary for mountain gorillas. This biodiverse forest is home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas and is truly a conservation marvel.
Upon arrival, you’ll check in at your lodge near Bwindi and relax in anticipation of tomorrow’s gorilla trekking adventure.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Today’s adventure takes you deep into Bwindi’s thick, ancient forest for a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience. After an early breakfast, you’ll head to the park headquarters for a briefing, grab your packed lunch, and set off with a guide and ranger to track a gorilla family. The trek can last anywhere from 3 to 5 hours, leading you through dense foliage, rugged trails, and a stunning variety of flora and fauna.
When you finally encounter the gorillas, you’ll have one hour to observe them closely. Witness their family dynamics and behavior as they interact, play, and forage, all while in awe of these magnificent creatures. Afterward, you’ll return to the lodge. In the evening, you may opt for a cultural visit to the Batwa community to learn about their traditions or explore one of Bwindi’s trails to spot birdlife, primates, and scenic waterfalls.
Day 3: Bwindi to Lake Bunyonyi
After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to Bwindi and drive to Lake Bunyonyi, one of Africa’s most beautiful lakes. Meaning “place of many little birds,” Lake Bunyonyi is a paradise for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. You’ll have the chance to explore its unique serpentine shape, admire its terraced hillsides, and visit some of its 29 islands.
Enjoy a canoe ride to take in the serene beauty of the lake, explore the shores, or visit Bwama Island, an excellent spot for bird watching. You can also hike around the lake to observe the diverse small bird species that inhabit this region. In the evening, relax at a lakeside lodge, soaking in the views of this tranquil natural gem.
Day 4: Lake Bunyonyi to Lake Mburo National Park
After breakfast, depart Lake Bunyonyi and journey to Lake Mburo National Park, one of Uganda’s smaller but unique parks, known for its rolling hills, savannah, and wildlife-rich landscapes. This park is especially famous for impalas, a beautiful antelope species, which only reside here among Uganda’s parks.
Arriving at Lake Mburo, you’ll enjoy a game drive to spot zebras, elands, topis, and other savanna animals in addition to impalas. The park’s picturesque valleys and scattered lakes also attract hippos, buffaloes, and other wildlife, making it a fantastic destination for nature lovers.
Day 5: Lake Mburo and Return to Kampala
On your final day, start with an early morning boat cruise on Lake Mburo, where you’ll encounter hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife, including the iconic crested crane, Uganda’s national symbol. Marvel at the lush shores of the lake and take in the views of Kazuma and Bwa Lakes nearby.
After the boat cruise, begin the drive back to Kampala. Enjoy a lunch stop in Mbarara and make one final stop at the Equator, taking with you lasting memories of Uganda’s breathtaking landscapes and incredible wildlife. We’ll arrive back in Kampala in the late afternoon or drop you at the airport if it’s time for your departure.
Conclusion: End of a Remarkable Safari
Your 5-day adventure has brought you face-to-face with Uganda’s iconic wildlife, from majestic gorillas in Bwindi to the serene shores of Lake Bunyonyi and the abundant wildlife of Lake Mburo. These experiences in the wild heart of Africa will leave you with unforgettable memories, newfound appreciation for Uganda’s biodiversity, and stories to cherish for a lifetime. Safe travels as you carry Uganda’s magic with you until your next journey!
