12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour
12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour – Epic Wildlife Adventure
The 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour is an unforgettable journey through Uganda’s remarkable national parks, combining mountain gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, Big Five wildlife encounters, spectacular waterfalls and beautiful African landscapes. This carefully designed 12-day Uganda safari takes travellers from Entebbe to Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Lake Bunyonyi and Lake Mburo National Park.
Experience the excitement of encountering endangered mountain gorillas during a guided gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi, observing playful chimpanzees in Kibale Forest and searching for Africa’s Big Five across Uganda’s protected wildlife areas. The journey also includes guided rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, thrilling game drives in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Parks, a scenic Nile River boat cruise, a Kazinga Channel boat safari and relaxing moments beside Lake Bunyonyi.
Our 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour is suitable for couples, families, wildlife photographers, honeymooners and small private groups who want an exceptional combination of primates and traditional African wildlife. With NextGen Safaris, you travel in a comfortable 4×4 safari Land Cruiser with an experienced driver-guide, carefully selected accommodation and a flexible itinerary tailored to your preferences.
Starting and ending at Entebbe International Airport, this safari offers one of the most rewarding ways to explore Uganda, popularly known as the Pearl of Africa. From unforgettable primate encounters and Big Five wildlife experiences to breathtaking landscapes and comfortable safari lodges, every destination contributes to a memorable African adventure. Book your personalised 12-day Uganda safari and discover the extraordinary wildlife and natural beauty of Uganda.
Why Choose the 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour?
The 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour brings together Uganda’s most celebrated wildlife attractions in one well-planned itinerary. Rather than concentrating exclusively on gorilla trekking, the journey introduces travellers to different ecosystems, from tropical rainforests and rolling highlands to open savannah grasslands, wetlands and the mighty Nile River.
One of the greatest advantages of this safari is the opportunity to experience Uganda’s two most famous primates. In Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, visitors follow experienced rangers through ancient rainforest to encounter a habituated mountain gorilla family. In Kibale National Park, chimpanzee tracking offers an opportunity to observe our closest living relatives as they communicate, feed and move through their forest habitat.
The safari also provides opportunities to search for the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes and rhinoceroses. Rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary complements traditional game drives in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Parks, where different wildlife species can be observed in their natural environments.
With twelve days available, the itinerary includes sufficient time for major activities, overnight stays in strategic locations and moments of relaxation. Experienced local guides, comfortable lodges and private transportation make the experience particularly attractive to travellers who value convenience and personal attention.
Highlights of the 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour
- Mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
- Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park.
- Guided white rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
- Wildlife game drives in Murchison Falls National Park.
- Nile River boat cruise to the bottom of Murchison Falls.
- Big Five wildlife viewing opportunities in Uganda.
- Queen Elizabeth National Park game drives.
- Kazinga Channel boat cruise with hippos, buffaloes and abundant birdlife.
- Search for tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector.
- Relaxation and beautiful scenery at Lake Bunyonyi.
- Wildlife viewing and an optional walking safari in Lake Mburo National Park.
- Private 4×4 safari transportation and carefully selected lodges.
12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour – Brief Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe International Airport and hotel transfer.
Day 2: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park via Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
Day 3: Morning game drive and afternoon Nile River boat cruise in Murchison Falls.
Day 4: Transfer from Murchison Falls to Kibale National Park.
Day 5: Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest and Bigodi community experience.
Day 6: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park and afternoon wildlife viewing.
Day 7: Morning game drive and Kazinga Channel boat cruise.
Day 8: Transfer through Ishasha to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Day 9: Mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Day 10: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi for relaxation and scenic experiences.
Day 11: Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park for an afternoon game drive.
Day 12: Morning safari activity and return to Entebbe for departure.
Detailed 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe International Airport – Welcome to Uganda
Your 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour begins upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, where a professional representative from NextGen Safaris welcomes you to Uganda. After completing immigration and collecting your luggage, you will meet your private safari driver-guide, who will assist with your bags and transfer you to your selected accommodation.
Entebbe is a peaceful lakeside town situated along the northern shores of Lake Victoria. Its beautiful tropical environment provides an excellent introduction to Uganda, particularly for international visitors arriving after long flights.
Depending on your arrival time, you may relax at your hotel, enjoy the gardens or explore nearby attractions through an optional guided excursion. Your guide will also introduce the safari programme, discuss the journey ahead and answer any questions about the activities.
The remainder of the day is reserved for relaxation before your exciting wildlife adventure begins.
Accommodation: Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa.
Meal Plan: Dinner, depending on arrival time.
Day 2: Entebbe to Murchison Falls National Park via Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
After an early breakfast, depart Entebbe and travel north toward Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest national park. The scenic drive introduces you to rural communities, green countryside, roadside markets and beautiful landscapes.
Your first major activity is a visit to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Nakasongola District, where you will participate in guided rhino tracking. Accompanied by an experienced sanctuary ranger, walk through the protected landscape in search of southern white rhinoceroses. The ranger explains their behaviour, conservation importance and the efforts being made to restore rhino populations in Uganda.
This experience is particularly significant because rhinoceroses complete the Big Five wildlife collection alongside lions, leopards, elephants and buffaloes.
Following the tracking experience, enjoy lunch and continue toward Murchison Falls National Park. Depending on your arrival time and the day’s route, you may enjoy scenic views of the park before proceeding to your lodge.
Accommodation: Nile Safari Lodge.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 3: Murchison Falls Game Drive and Nile River Boat Cruise
Today is dedicated to exploring the extraordinary wildlife and scenery of Murchison Falls National Park, one of the highlights of the 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour.
Begin with an early morning game drive across the park’s savannah plains. This is an excellent opportunity to encounter African elephants, Rothschild’s giraffes, Uganda kobs, buffaloes, waterbucks and other grazing animals. Your guide will also search for lions and leopards, although sightings of these elusive predators cannot be guaranteed.
The morning light creates beautiful photography opportunities, particularly as animals begin moving across the grasslands.
Return to the lodge for lunch before preparing for an afternoon boat cruise along the Victoria Nile toward the base of Murchison Falls. The river journey offers close views of large hippopotamus groups, Nile crocodiles, waterbirds and animals gathering along the banks.
The cruise reaches a viewpoint below the powerful waterfall, where the Nile forces its way through a narrow rocky gorge before plunging into the river below.
After this memorable experience, return to your accommodation for dinner and relaxation.
Accommodation: Nile Safari Lodge.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 4: Transfer from Murchison Falls to Kibale National Park
After breakfast, leave Murchison Falls National Park and begin your scenic journey southwest toward Kibale National Park, widely recognised as one of Africa’s finest destinations for chimpanzee tracking.
This is one of the longer driving days of the safari, so your guide will arrange an early departure and appropriate stops along the way. The route passes through western Uganda’s beautiful countryside, with changing landscapes that may include farmland, rural communities, trading centres and forested hills.
As you approach the Fort Portal region, the scenery becomes increasingly green, with tea plantations and views of the Rwenzori foothills.
Kibale National Park is famous for its remarkable primate diversity and tropical rainforest habitat. In addition to chimpanzees, the forest supports several monkey species, including red colobus monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys and red-tailed monkeys.
Arrive at your accommodation in the late afternoon or evening, check in and enjoy dinner. Your guide will brief you about the following day’s chimpanzee tracking experience.
Accommodation: Tabebuia Resort.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 5: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale National Park and Bigodi Experience
Today brings one of the most exciting primate encounters of the 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour.
After an early breakfast, transfer to the designated Kibale National Park briefing point, where Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers explain the tracking regulations and introduce the forest experience.
Accompanied by professional guides, enter the rainforest in search of habituated chimpanzees. Tracking duration varies according to the location and movement of the chimpanzees, but the experience provides fascinating opportunities to observe their behaviour in the wild.
You may see chimpanzees feeding in trees, grooming one another, communicating through loud vocalisations or moving rapidly through the forest canopy. Once a chimpanzee community is located, standard tracking normally allows approximately one hour of observation under ranger supervision.
After returning from the forest, enjoy lunch and prepare for an afternoon community experience in the Bigodi area. Depending on your selected programme, this may include a guided nature walk, birdwatching or interaction with local community initiatives.
Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight accommodation.
Accommodation: Tabebuia Resort.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 6: Kibale National Park to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After breakfast, depart Kibale and travel south toward Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most diverse wildlife destinations.
The journey passes through the scenic Kasese region, with views of rolling hills, agricultural landscapes and, when the weather is clear, the magnificent Rwenzori Mountains.
Queen Elizabeth National Park is characterised by extensive savannah grasslands, wetlands, crater lakes and beautiful waterways. Its wildlife includes elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, warthogs, lions, leopards and numerous bird species.
After arriving in the park, proceed to your lodge for lunch or check-in, depending on travel time. If conditions permit, enjoy an afternoon or evening game drive through the park’s scenic wildlife areas.
Your driver-guide will search for grazing herds and other animals while explaining the park’s varied habitats and conservation significance.
Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and relaxation.
Accommodation: Elephant Plains Lodge.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 7: Queen Elizabeth National Park Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
Wake up early for a morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The Kasenyi plains are particularly rewarding for wildlife viewing, with opportunities to encounter Uganda kobs, elephants, buffaloes and various antelope species.
The open grasslands also support lions and other predators, making the morning game drive an important part of your Uganda Big Five safari experience.
Your professional guide will follow suitable wildlife tracks and use local knowledge to identify promising viewing locations. Photographers will appreciate the beautiful sunrise lighting and opportunities to capture animals against the park’s spectacular natural scenery.
After the game drive, return to your lodge for lunch before departing for the famous Kazinga Channel boat cruise.
This natural waterway connects Lake Edward and Lake George and supports large numbers of hippos, crocodiles, waterbirds and wildlife visiting the shoreline. During the cruise, you may observe elephants drinking at the water’s edge, buffaloes resting along the banks and numerous bird species.
Return to Elephant Plains Lodge after the cruise for dinner and overnight accommodation.
Accommodation: Elephant Plains Lodge.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 8: Queen Elizabeth National Park to Bwindi Through Ishasha
After breakfast, depart the northern section of Queen Elizabeth National Park and travel through the Ishasha sector toward Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Ishasha is particularly famous for its tree-climbing lions, which may occasionally be observed resting in the branches of large fig trees. Your guide will conduct wildlife viewing along suitable routes, searching for lions, elephants, buffaloes and other animals inhabiting the southern part of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Although tree-climbing lion sightings are not guaranteed, the Ishasha landscape provides a rewarding wildlife experience before the journey continues toward Bwindi.
As you approach Bwindi, the scenery changes dramatically from open savannah to forested mountains, terraced hillsides and rural communities.
Bwindi is internationally recognised for its mountain gorilla population and remarkable biodiversity. The forest forms one of Africa’s most important conservation landscapes, protecting mountain gorillas alongside many other mammals, birds and plant species.
Arrive at your lodge in the selected gorilla trekking sector, check in and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Accommodation: Four Gorillas Lodge, subject to the assigned trekking sector.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 9: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Day nine is the unforgettable highlight of the 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour.
After an early breakfast, transfer to the designated gorilla trekking briefing point in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Here, experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers explain the rules, conservation procedures and what to expect during the trek.
You will then enter the rainforest with your assigned trekking group, following forest trails through thick vegetation and mountainous terrain in search of a habituated mountain gorilla family.
The trek may take several hours, depending on the location of the gorillas, weather conditions and the nature of the terrain. The forest itself is breathtaking, with giant trees, lush vegetation and the sounds of numerous birds.
When you finally encounter the gorillas, you will normally be allowed one hour to observe them under ranger supervision. Watching a powerful silverback resting beside his family, young gorillas playing or mothers caring for their infants is an extraordinary wildlife experience.
After the encounter, return to the starting point and meet your safari guide for the transfer back to your lodge.
Spend the remainder of the day relaxing and reflecting on this remarkable experience.
Accommodation: Four Gorillas Lodge.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 10: Bwindi to Lake Bunyonyi – Relaxation and Scenic Views
After the excitement of gorilla trekking, the 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour continues to the peaceful shores of Lake Bunyonyi in southwestern Uganda.
After breakfast, depart Bwindi and travel through beautiful highland countryside, passing terraced hills, small villages and panoramic viewpoints.
Lake Bunyonyi is famous for its spectacular scenery, cool highland atmosphere and numerous islands scattered across the water. Its peaceful environment makes it an excellent place to relax after several days of wildlife activities and forest trekking.
Upon arrival, check in at your lakeside accommodation and enjoy the surrounding views.
Depending on your interests and arrival time, you may arrange an optional canoe excursion, guided boat ride, cultural visit or relaxing nature walk. These experiences offer opportunities to explore the lake’s islands and learn about local communities.
Alternatively, spend the afternoon relaxing at your lodge while enjoying views of the beautiful lake and surrounding green hills.
Accommodation: Arcadia Lodge Lake Bunyonyi.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 11: Lake Bunyonyi to Lake Mburo National Park
After breakfast, leave Lake Bunyonyi and travel toward Lake Mburo National Park, the final wildlife destination of your twelve-day Uganda adventure.
The journey passes through Kabale and Mbarara, offering beautiful views of southwestern Uganda’s agricultural landscapes, rural communities and rolling hills.
Lake Mburo National Park is smaller than Uganda’s major savannah parks, but its varied habitats provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. The park is particularly known for zebras, impalas, buffaloes, giraffes, elands and numerous bird species.
Upon arrival, proceed to your lodge and enjoy lunch or a short rest before embarking on an afternoon game drive.
The relatively open landscapes create rewarding photography opportunities, especially when zebras and antelopes gather in the grasslands.
Return to the lodge in the evening, where you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and reflect on the remarkable destinations visited during the safari.
Accommodation: Mihingo Lodge.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Day 12: Morning Safari Activity and Return to Entebbe – Departure
Your 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour concludes with a final wildlife experience in Lake Mburo National Park.
Depending on your departure arrangements, begin the morning with an optional guided walking safari accompanied by an authorised ranger. This experience offers a different perspective on Uganda’s savannah landscapes and may provide opportunities to observe zebras, antelopes and other animals on foot.
After breakfast, check out of your lodge and begin the return journey toward Entebbe.
Along the way, your guide may stop at the Equator crossing near Kayabwe, where you can take photographs, explore local craft shops and enjoy lunch.
Continue to Entebbe International Airport for your onward flight or to your preferred hotel for an additional night.
Because the return journey involves several hours of driving, an evening international flight is recommended. Departure arrangements will be tailored to your confirmed flight schedule.
This marks the end of your memorable twelve-day Uganda gorilla, chimpanzee and Big Five wildlife adventure with NextGen Safaris.
Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch.
Accommodation During the 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour
Accommodation plays an important role in ensuring a comfortable and memorable safari. Our 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour can be arranged with luxury, mid-range or budget-friendly lodges depending on your travel style and available budget.
The proposed luxury itinerary features Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa in Entebbe, Nile Safari Lodge in Murchison Falls, Tabebuia Resort near Kibale, Elephant Plains Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Four Gorillas Lodge in Bwindi, Arcadia Lodge at Lake Bunyonyi and Mihingo Lodge in Lake Mburo.
These properties offer different experiences, from luxurious lakeside relaxation and intimate safari accommodation to scenic forest lodges and peaceful wildlife retreats.
For travellers seeking a more affordable safari, NextGen Safaris can recommend suitable mid-range alternatives while maintaining the main wildlife activities and private transportation.
All accommodation is subject to availability, and the final confirmed lodge in Bwindi must correspond with the trekking sector allocated on your gorilla permit.
Request a personalised accommodation and safari quotation.
12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour Cost
The cost of the 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour depends on the travel dates, accommodation category, number of guests sharing the safari vehicle, room arrangements and applicable permit fees.
Private safaris for two travellers generally cost more per person than tours for four or six guests because vehicle and guiding expenses are shared among fewer participants. Luxury lodges also attract higher accommodation costs than mid-range properties.
Safari Cost Breakdown
Gorilla Trekking Permit: The standard foreign non-resident permit is US$800 per person, subject to the applicable Uganda Wildlife Authority tariff.
Chimpanzee Tracking Permit: The standard foreign non-resident Kibale tracking tariff is scheduled at US$300 per person from 1 January 2027. Earlier travel dates and eligible visitor categories may have different rates.
Rhino Tracking: Charged according to the sanctuary’s applicable visitor tariff.
Park Entry and Activities: Includes relevant national park entrance fees, wildlife drives and the boat cruises specified in the confirmed itinerary.
Accommodation and Meals: Eleven nights in the selected lodges, with meals according to the agreed programme.
Transportation: Private 4×4 safari Land Cruiser, professional driver-guide, fuel, airport transfers and the scheduled road journeys.
Additional Expenses: Optional community activities, drinks, tips, visas, travel insurance and personal purchases are charged separately unless included in the quotation.
For 2027 departures, the standard gorilla and Kibale chimpanzee permits alone amount to US$1,100 per foreign non-resident adult before other safari expenses. Actual permit availability and tariffs must be reconfirmed when booking.
Rather than publishing a fixed price that may not reflect your preferred lodges or group size, NextGen Safaris prepares a detailed quotation for your selected travel dates.
Get the cost of your 12 Days Uganda Safari.
Safari Inclusions
The standard 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour package can include:
- One mountain gorilla trekking permit per person.
- One Kibale chimpanzee tracking permit per person.
- Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary tracking experience.
- Eleven nights of accommodation in selected lodges.
- Meals as specified in the itinerary.
- Private 4×4 safari Land Cruiser transportation.
- Professional English-speaking safari driver-guide.
- National park entry fees.
- Scheduled wildlife game drives.
- Murchison Falls Nile River boat cruise.
- Kazinga Channel boat cruise.
- Airport pickup and drop-off.
- Drinking water during safari transfers.
Safari Exclusions
Unless specifically included in the quotation, the safari excludes:
- International flights.
- Uganda visa fees.
- Travel and medical insurance.
- Tips and gratuities.
- Alcoholic and premium beverages.
- Personal shopping and laundry.
- Optional activities not included in the confirmed itinerary.
- Additional accommodation before or after the safari.
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
One of the main attractions of the 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour is the opportunity to encounter endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Gorilla trekking takes place in designated sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, including Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga and Nkuringo. The exact sector is determined by permit availability and the final itinerary.
Before the trek, visitors attend a briefing conducted by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. Participants are then assigned to a gorilla family and guided into the forest.
Trekking may involve walking uphill, navigating uneven paths and moving through thick vegetation. A reasonable level of fitness is helpful, although tracking groups are organised with consideration for visitors’ abilities.
The minimum age for standard gorilla trekking in Uganda is 15 years.
Visitors should wear appropriate hiking boots, long trousers, gardening gloves and a waterproof jacket. Porters may be hired locally to assist with carrying personal belongings and provide support along difficult sections of the trail.
Gorilla encounters are conducted under strict conservation guidelines to protect both visitors and the animals.
Learn more about gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Uganda gorilla trekking permits.
Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale National Park
Chimpanzee tracking is another unforgettable part of this Uganda safari, offering visitors the chance to observe one of humanity’s closest living relatives.
Kibale National Park is home to several primate species and one of Uganda’s best-known habituated chimpanzee populations. The forest’s dense vegetation, tall trees and extensive trail network create an excellent environment for guided primate tracking.
During the experience, visitors may hear chimpanzees calling from the forest before seeing them moving through the canopy or gathering on the ground. Their complex social behaviour, vocal communication and interactions make chimpanzee tracking especially fascinating.
The duration of the search varies, and wildlife sightings are never guaranteed. Standard chimpanzee tracking generally provides approximately one hour with the chimpanzees once they have been located.
For travellers interested in a longer primate experience, a separate chimpanzee habituation activity may be available, subject to permits and the applicable regulations.
Discover more about chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park.
Where to See the Big Five During the Uganda Safari
The 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour is carefully designed to provide opportunities to encounter all five of Africa’s iconic large mammals.
Lions: Search for lions during game drives in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Parks. The Ishasha sector is particularly associated with occasional tree-climbing lion sightings.
Leopards: These elusive predators inhabit several Ugandan wildlife parks, including Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Parks. Sightings require patience and luck.
African Elephants: Frequently encountered in suitable habitats across Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Parks, where they may be seen grazing or moving toward water.
African Buffaloes: Commonly observed during savannah game drives and along the Kazinga Channel and Nile River.
Rhinoceroses: The itinerary includes guided white rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, an important centre for Uganda’s rhino conservation efforts.
Together, these destinations provide a remarkable wildlife experience, although encountering every Big Five species during a single safari cannot be guaranteed.
Best Time for the 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour
The 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour can be undertaken throughout the year, although weather conditions influence wildlife viewing, forest trekking and travel experiences.
The relatively drier periods, commonly experienced from June to September and December to February, are popular for Uganda safaris. During these months, forest trekking trails may be less muddy and animals are often easier to observe in open savannah areas.
The wetter months, including March to May and October to November, can bring lush vegetation, beautiful photographic conditions and fewer visitors in some destinations. However, rainfall can make mountain gorilla and chimpanzee tracking more demanding.
Uganda’s equatorial location means rainfall can occur at any time of year, particularly in rainforest areas such as Bwindi and Kibale.
Travellers planning their safari during the busiest travel periods should secure gorilla and chimpanzee permits well in advance because daily permit numbers are limited.
Private Safari or Group Safari – Which Is Better?
A private safari is an excellent choice for travellers seeking flexibility, personal attention and a comfortable wildlife experience.
With a private 4×4 Land Cruiser, you can enjoy game drives with your own professional driver-guide, adjust photography stops where permitted and travel at a pace appropriate to your group.
Private safaris are particularly suitable for couples, honeymooners, families, senior travellers and photography enthusiasts who prefer more control over their schedule.
Group safaris may offer a more affordable alternative by sharing transportation and guiding expenses. However, group departures normally follow fixed travel dates and agreed programmes.
NextGen Safaris can customise the 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour for private groups and advise on suitable shared arrangements when available.
What to Pack for Your Uganda Gorilla, Chimpanzee and Big Five Safari
Preparing suitable clothing and equipment helps make your Uganda safari more comfortable.
For gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, bring sturdy waterproof hiking boots, long trousers, long-sleeved shirts, a rain jacket and gardening gloves. Lightweight layers are useful because temperatures can change between warm savannah regions and cooler highland forests.
A small daypack, refillable water bottle, sunscreen, insect repellent and personal medication are also recommended.
For wildlife game drives, neutral-coloured clothing, binoculars, a camera and additional memory cards can help you make the most of photography opportunities.
Visitors should also carry a valid passport, appropriate travel documentation and proof of any required vaccinations or travel insurance.
Why Book the 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour with NextGen Safaris?
NextGen Safaris specialises in creating personalised wildlife experiences across Uganda and East Africa.
Our 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour is designed to provide a balance between unforgettable wildlife encounters, comfortable accommodation and realistic travel arrangements.
We assist with gorilla and chimpanzee permits, carefully selected safari lodges, private transportation and professional guiding throughout the journey.
Our experienced guides understand Uganda’s national parks, wildlife habitats, local communities and seasonal conditions. This knowledge helps travellers enjoy meaningful experiences while travelling responsibly.
Whether you are planning your first African safari, a special holiday or a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking adventure, we can customise the itinerary around your interests, preferred travel dates and accommodation budget.
Travellers with less time can also explore our 8 Days Gorilla, Chimpanzee and Murchison Falls Safari or the 10 Days Uganda Gorilla, Chimpanzee and Wildlife Safari.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour
Is 12 days enough to see gorillas, chimpanzees and the Big Five in Uganda?
Yes. Twelve days provide sufficient time to combine Bwindi gorilla trekking, Kibale chimpanzee tracking, rhino tracking at Ziwa and game drives in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Parks. The itinerary also includes Lake Bunyonyi and Lake Mburo.
How much does the 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour cost?
The final price depends on accommodation, group size, travel dates and current permits. A personalised quotation includes transportation, guiding, selected accommodation, meals and the scheduled activities.
Are gorilla trekking permits included in the safari?
Yes, the proposed package includes one standard Uganda gorilla trekking permit per traveller, subject to permit availability and the confirmed quotation.
Is chimpanzee tracking included?
Yes. One standard chimpanzee tracking experience in Kibale National Park is included in the proposed programme.
Will I see all the Big Five animals?
The itinerary provides opportunities to search for all five species, including rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. However, wildlife moves freely, and sightings of lions, leopards and other animals cannot be guaranteed.
Where does the Uganda safari start and end?
The standard itinerary begins and ends at Entebbe International Airport. Alternative arrival or departure arrangements can be discussed when planning the safari.
Is this safari suitable for senior travellers?
Yes, with appropriate planning. However, gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking involve walking through natural forest environments. Travellers with mobility concerns should discuss their requirements before booking so that suitable support and accommodation can be arranged.
Can I upgrade to luxury lodges?
Yes. The proposed itinerary already features a selection of luxury accommodations, but alternatives can be arranged according to your preferences and availability.
What is the minimum age for gorilla trekking?
The minimum age for standard gorilla trekking in Uganda is 15 years. Families travelling with younger children can discuss alternative activities for the trekking day.
Can I book this safari as a private tour?
Yes. The 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour can be arranged as a private safari with a dedicated vehicle and professional guide.
What is the best month to visit Uganda for gorilla trekking and wildlife?
June to September and December to February are popular periods, although the safari is possible throughout the year. Each season offers different scenery and wildlife viewing conditions.
How do I book the 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour?
Simply contact NextGen Safaris with your preferred travel dates, number of travellers, accommodation category and any special requests. Our team will prepare a personalised itinerary and quotation.
Book Your 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour
Discover the remarkable beauty of Uganda on a wildlife adventure that combines endangered mountain gorillas, fascinating chimpanzees, Big Five wildlife experiences, spectacular waterfalls and beautiful natural landscapes.
From the powerful Nile River in Murchison Falls National Park to the ancient rainforests of Bwindi, the savannah landscapes of Queen Elizabeth National Park and the peaceful shores of Lake Bunyonyi, the 12 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps & Big 5 Safari Tour delivers an extraordinary journey through the Pearl of Africa.
Travel with NextGen Safaris and enjoy professional guiding, comfortable accommodation, private transportation and carefully organised wildlife activities.
Whether you are travelling as a couple, family, solo adventurer or private group, we can design a safari that matches your travel expectations and budget.
BOOK YOUR 12 DAYS UGANDA GORILLAS, CHIMPS & BIG 5 SAFARI TOUR
