13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour – Ultimate
The 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour is an extraordinary wildlife adventure that brings together Uganda’s most remarkable natural attractions, from endangered mountain gorillas and wild chimpanzees to Africa’s legendary Big Five animals. Carefully designed for travellers seeking an authentic and comprehensive African safari, this thirteen-day journey combines unforgettable gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, remarkable chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest, and exceptional wildlife encounters across Uganda’s magnificent savannah national parks. Travellers experience dramatic waterfalls, tropical rainforests, scenic lakes, beautiful countryside and diverse ecosystems while discovering why Uganda is celebrated as the Pearl of Africa. From the moment of arrival in Entebbe to the final wildlife experience in Lake Mburo, this carefully structured safari offers a rewarding balance of adventure, relaxation, photography, conservation experiences and personalised service.
Beginning at Entebbe International Airport, the journey travels north through Uganda’s picturesque countryside towards Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where visitors have the remarkable opportunity to track white rhinoceroses on foot alongside experienced conservation rangers. The adventure continues to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest national park and one of the country’s most spectacular wildlife destinations. Here, extensive savannah grasslands provide excellent opportunities to search for elephants, African buffaloes, giraffes, lions, leopards, Uganda kobs and numerous bird species during exciting morning and afternoon game drives. Travellers also enjoy an unforgettable boat cruise along the Victoria Nile, observing hippopotamuses, crocodiles and wildlife gathering along the riverbanks before approaching the mighty Murchison Falls. The additional time allocated to this remarkable destination allows for extended wildlife photography, optional Nile Delta exploration and more opportunities to appreciate Uganda’s spectacular northern wilderness.



Continuing into western Uganda, the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour introduces travellers to the lush rainforest landscapes of Kibale National Park, one of Africa’s most rewarding destinations for primate encounters. Guided chimpanzee tracking provides an opportunity to observe these intelligent primates feeding, climbing, grooming and communicating within their natural habitat. The journey may also include a guided walk through Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, where diverse birdlife, monkeys and community conservation initiatives create another memorable experience. The safari then proceeds to Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its expansive Kasenyi Plains, beautiful crater landscapes, abundant wildlife and the spectacular Kazinga Channel. Visitors enjoy rewarding game drives, a boat cruise among concentrations of hippos and other animals, and additional time for Big Five wildlife viewing opportunities. Exploring the southern Ishasha region also provides the chance to search for the famous tree-climbing lions before continuing towards the mist-covered mountains of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
The ultimate highlight of this thirteen-day adventure is the opportunity to encounter a habituated mountain gorilla family in the ancient rainforest of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Accompanied by professional Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers, visitors walk through dense forest vegetation in search of endangered mountain gorillas, enjoying a remarkable wildlife experience that supports conservation and local communities. After gorilla trekking, the journey continues to Lake Mburo National Park, where scenic grasslands, acacia woodlands, zebras, impalas, elands and guided nature walks provide a beautiful conclusion to the safari. Travelling with Nextgen Safaris in a comfortable private 4×4 Land Cruiser, guests benefit from experienced local guiding, carefully selected accommodation and a flexible itinerary tailored to individual interests. Whether planning a romantic honeymoon, a family wildlife holiday, a luxury African safari or an extraordinary photographic expedition, this Uganda adventure can be customised to suit your preferred travel dates, accommodation category and personal expectations.
Detailed Day-by-Day 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour
Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe International Airport – Welcome to Uganda
Your 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour begins upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, where a professional representative from Nextgen Safaris will warmly welcome you to the Pearl of Africa. After meeting your experienced private driver-guide, enjoy a comfortable transfer to your hotel overlooking the beautiful surroundings of Lake Victoria. Entebbe is a peaceful lakeside town and provides an excellent starting point for your wildlife adventure through Uganda’s remarkable national parks.
Depending on your international flight arrival time, spend the afternoon relaxing at your hotel, enjoying the gardens or taking an optional sightseeing excursion around Entebbe. Your safari guide will provide a detailed introduction to the upcoming journey, including the planned wildlife activities, national park visits, gorilla and chimpanzee tracking arrangements, and important travel information. Enjoy dinner and a relaxing overnight stay as you prepare for the extraordinary experiences awaiting you over the next twelve days.
Accommodation: Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa.
Meals: Dinner, depending on arrival time.



Day 2: Entebbe to Murchison Falls via Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
After an early breakfast, depart Entebbe and begin your scenic journey north toward Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, passing through Kampala’s outskirts, traditional villages and beautiful countryside. Upon arrival, join experienced sanctuary rangers for an exciting guided rhino tracking experience on foot. Walking through the natural habitat of southern white rhinoceroses provides a remarkable opportunity to observe these impressive animals while learning about Uganda’s conservation efforts and the importance of protecting endangered wildlife.
Rhino tracking is an essential highlight of the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour, providing the opportunity to encounter one of Africa’s legendary Big Five animals before exploring the country’s major savannah parks. After the experience, enjoy lunch along the route and continue toward Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest national park. Depending on your arrival time, visit the top of Murchison Falls to witness the powerful River Nile forcing its way through a narrow rocky gorge before continuing to Nile Safari Lodge for dinner and relaxation.
Accommodation: Nile Safari Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 3: Murchison Falls Game Drive and Nile Boat Cruise
Begin the day with an exciting early morning game drive across the northern savannah plains of Murchison Falls National Park, one of Uganda’s most rewarding wildlife destinations. Your experienced safari guide will search for African elephants, buffaloes, Rothschild’s giraffes, Uganda kobs, Jackson’s hartebeests, lions and potentially leopards. The open grasslands and riverine habitats provide excellent wildlife photography opportunities, making this one of the most memorable wildlife viewing days of the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour.
After lunch, embark on an unforgettable boat cruise along the Victoria Nile toward the bottom of Murchison Falls. During the journey, observe hippopotamuses, Nile crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes and numerous waterbirds gathering along the riverbanks. The cruise provides a different perspective of the park’s remarkable wildlife and contributes to the Big Five wildlife viewing opportunities available during your Uganda safari. As you approach the waterfalls, admire the breathtaking force of the River Nile before returning to your lodge for dinner and relaxation.
Accommodation: Nile Safari Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.



Day 4: Extended Murchison Falls Game Drive and Optional Nile Delta Exploration
Enjoy another exciting day exploring the remarkable wilderness of Murchison Falls National Park. After an early breakfast, head out for an extended wildlife game drive through the park’s beautiful northern plains, searching for lions, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, antelopes and other savannah species. The additional time allows your guide to explore different wildlife habitats and spend longer observing interesting animal behaviour, including grazing herds, predator movements and birdlife.
This additional day makes the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour particularly rewarding for wildlife photographers and travellers who prefer a more relaxed safari pace. Depending on your interests, the afternoon may include an optional Nile Delta boat excursion, which offers excellent birdwatching opportunities and the possibility of encountering the elusive shoebill. Alternatively, spend more time exploring the national park or return to Nile Safari Lodge for a relaxing afternoon surrounded by the beautiful wilderness of the River Nile.
Accommodation: Nile Safari Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Optional: Nile Delta boat excursion.
Day 5: Transfer from Murchison Falls to Kibale Forest National Park
After breakfast, depart Murchison Falls and begin your scenic journey toward Kibale Forest National Park, one of Africa’s most celebrated destinations for chimpanzee tracking. This full-day road transfer passes through beautiful western Uganda countryside, offering views of traditional villages, rolling hills, agricultural landscapes and local communities. Along the way, enjoy opportunities to appreciate Uganda’s changing scenery as the northern savannah gradually gives way to the greener landscapes of the western highlands.
The journey continues through the picturesque Fort Portal region, renowned for its tea plantations, crater lakes and distant views of the Rwenzori Mountains. This section of the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour provides a beautiful transition from traditional savannah wildlife viewing to rainforest primate encounters. Enjoy lunch along the way before proceeding to your accommodation near Kibale Forest. Upon arrival, check in, relax and prepare for the following day’s extraordinary chimpanzee tracking experience.
Accommodation: Tabebuia Resort.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Day 6: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest and Bigodi Wetland Walk
Today is another major highlight of the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour. After an early breakfast, transfer to the designated chimpanzee tracking briefing point in Kibale National Park, where experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers will introduce the forest regulations and tracking procedures. Enter the tropical rainforest in search of habituated chimpanzee communities, walking beneath towering forest trees while listening for chimpanzee calls echoing through the canopy.
The unforgettable Kibale chimpanzee tracking experience provides an opportunity to observe these intelligent primates feeding, grooming, climbing trees and interacting naturally within their communities. Kibale also supports other primates, including colobus monkeys and red-tailed monkeys. After lunch, enjoy a guided Bigodi Wetland Walk, exploring beautiful wetland vegetation while searching for colourful birds and monkeys. This community-managed conservation experience offers insights into local conservation efforts before returning to your lodge.
Accommodation: Tabebuia Resort.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.



Day 7: Transfer from Kibale Forest to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Following breakfast, depart Kibale Forest and travel south toward Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most diverse and rewarding wildlife destinations. The scenic journey takes you through beautiful countryside surrounding Fort Portal and the Albertine Rift Valley, with opportunities to admire crater lakes, tea plantations, rolling hills and distant views of the Rwenzori Mountains when weather conditions permit.
Queen Elizabeth National Park introduces another spectacular destination on the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour. The park supports elephants, buffaloes, lions, leopards, Uganda kobs, waterbucks and numerous bird species across its diverse savannah and wetland habitats. Upon arrival, check in at Elephant Plains Lodge and enjoy the beautiful surrounding landscapes. Depending on arrival time, take a short introductory game drive before returning to your lodge for dinner and relaxation.
Accommodation: Elephant Plains Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.



Day 8: Kasenyi Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
Rise early for an exciting morning game drive across the famous Kasenyi Plains, one of the most rewarding wildlife viewing areas in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Your professional safari guide will search for lions, African elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, waterbucks, warthogs and potentially leopards. The open savannah grasslands, beautiful crater landscapes and distant mountain views provide excellent photographic opportunities, making this another memorable day of the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour.
In the afternoon, embark on the spectacular Kazinga Channel boat cruise, exploring the natural waterway connecting Lake Edward and Lake George. This remarkable channel attracts large concentrations of hippopotamuses, crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes and numerous waterbirds throughout the year. Wildlife viewing from the boat provides a different perspective from traditional game drives, allowing visitors to appreciate the park’s remarkable aquatic ecosystems. Return to Elephant Plains Lodge for dinner and relaxation.
Accommodation: Elephant Plains Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.


Day 9: Extended Queen Elizabeth Game Drive and Optional Lion Tracking
Spend another rewarding day exploring the remarkable wildlife habitats of Queen Elizabeth National Park. After an early breakfast, enjoy an extended game drive through the park’s beautiful savannah plains and woodland areas. Your experienced driver-guide will search for elephants, buffaloes, lions, antelopes, warthogs and abundant birdlife. The additional wildlife viewing time provides excellent opportunities to observe animal behaviour and photograph Uganda’s spectacular landscapes.
The extra day allocated to Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the advantages of the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour. Travellers particularly interested in predators may request an optional guided lion tracking experience in the Kasenyi area, subject to availability and additional arrangements. Alternatively, enjoy further wildlife exploration, birdwatching or relaxation at Elephant Plains Lodge while appreciating the peaceful surroundings of the African wilderness.
Accommodation: Elephant Plains Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Optional: Guided lion tracking experience.
Day 10: Queen Elizabeth to Bwindi via Ishasha – Tree-Climbing Lions
After breakfast, depart Queen Elizabeth National Park and travel south through the famous Ishasha Sector, renowned for its remarkable tree-climbing lions. During the journey, your professional safari guide will search the branches of large fig trees where lions are sometimes observed resting above the ground. The Ishasha region also supports elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs and various bird species, providing additional wildlife viewing opportunities before leaving the savannah.
The possibility of encountering tree-climbing lions adds another memorable highlight to the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour. After enjoying the tree-climbing lion safari experience, continue toward Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The scenery changes dramatically from open grasslands to beautiful highland farms, mist-covered mountains and dense tropical rainforest. Arrive at Four Gorillas Lodge, enjoy dinner and receive your final briefing ahead of the following day’s mountain gorilla trekking adventure.
Accommodation: Four Gorillas Lodge,
subject to the confirmed gorilla trekking sector.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 11: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Today marks the most anticipated highlight of the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour: an extraordinary encounter with endangered mountain gorillas. After an early breakfast, transfer to the designated briefing point for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers will explain the trekking regulations and safety guidelines before leading your group into the ancient rainforest in search of a habituated mountain gorilla family.
The trek passes through dense forest vegetation, steep mountain slopes and beautiful rainforest landscapes, with walking time depending on the gorillas’ location. Once your group encounters the gorillas, enjoy up to one unforgettable hour observing their natural behaviour, including feeding, grooming, playing and interactions between adults and young gorillas. This intimate wildlife experience is a defining moment of the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour. Afterward, return to Four Gorillas Lodge for relaxation and dinner.
Accommodation: Four Gorillas Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch and dinner.



Day 12: Bwindi to Lake Mburo National Park – Afternoon Game Drive
After breakfast, depart Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and begin your scenic journey toward Lake Mburo National Park, a beautiful protected area known for its rolling grasslands, acacia woodlands, wetlands and diverse savannah wildlife. The drive passes through southwestern Uganda’s scenic countryside, offering beautiful views of cultivated hills, traditional communities and changing landscapes before arriving in the Lake Mburo region.
Lake Mburo provides the final national park experience of the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour. Upon arrival, enjoy an afternoon wildlife game drive, searching for zebras, impalas, elands, buffaloes, topis, warthogs and other savannah animals. The park’s relatively compact landscape and peaceful atmosphere provide an excellent opportunity for wildlife photography and relaxation after your gorilla trekking adventure. Continue to Mihingo Lodge for dinner and a comfortable overnight stay.
Accommodation: Mihingo Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.



Day 13: Morning Lake Mburo Nature Walk and Return to Entebbe
Enjoy the final morning of your 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour with a guided nature walk through Lake Mburo National Park, depending on your international departure schedule. Accompanied by an experienced park ranger, explore the beautiful savannah landscapes on foot while searching for zebras, impalas, elands, antelopes and numerous bird species. This peaceful experience provides an excellent opportunity to appreciate Uganda’s wildlife and natural beauty from a different perspective.
After the morning activity and breakfast, begin your return journey toward Entebbe. Along the way, enjoy an optional stop at the Uganda Equator for photographs, refreshments and souvenir shopping before continuing to Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight. Your safari concludes with unforgettable memories of mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, Big Five wildlife encounters, spectacular waterfalls and Uganda’s extraordinary natural landscapes. Explore our Uganda safari itineraries for additional travel inspiration.
Accommodation: End of safari.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch,
depending on departure arrangements.


What Is Included and Excluded in the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour?
Safari Package Inclusions
- One Uganda mountain gorilla trekking permit per eligible traveller.
- One Kibale Forest chimpanzee tracking permit per eligible traveller.
- Guided rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
- 12 nights of accommodation at the specified safari lodges.
- Full-board meals during the safari, with arrival and departure meals according to the confirmed itinerary.
- Private 4×4 safari Land Cruiser with a professional English-speaking driver-guide.
- Airport pickup and departure transfers at Entebbe International Airport.
- National park entrance fees for all scheduled park visits.
- Scheduled wildlife game drives in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth and Lake Mburo National Parks.
- Boat cruise to the bottom of Murchison Falls along the Victoria Nile.
- Kazinga Channel boat cruise in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
- Guided Bigodi Wetland nature walk.
- Guided nature walk in Lake Mburo National Park, subject to the departure schedule.
- All scheduled ground transfers between national parks and safari lodges.
- Drinking water during safari transfers and game drives.
Safari Package Exclusions
- International flights to and from Uganda.
- Tips and gratuities for safari guides, lodge staff and other service providers.
- Uganda visa fees.
- International travel and medical insurance.
Why Choose the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour?
The 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to discover Uganda’s most remarkable wildlife destinations in one carefully planned journey. Unlike shorter safaris, this itinerary provides additional time to explore the country’s diverse national parks, enjoy rewarding wildlife encounters and experience Uganda’s beautiful landscapes without rushing between destinations.
Exceptional Gorilla and Chimpanzee Encounters
One of the greatest highlights of the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour is the opportunity to encounter endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and track wild chimpanzees in Kibale Forest. These remarkable primate experiences allow travellers to observe fascinating animal behaviour while learning about wildlife conservation.
Complete Big Five Wildlife Experience
This safari combines guided rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary with exciting game drives in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Parks. Travellers have opportunities to search for lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes and rhinoceroses, alongside giraffes, zebras, antelopes and numerous bird species. Wildlife sightings remain dependent on natural conditions.
More Time for Wildlife Exploration
With three nights at Murchison Falls and three nights in Queen Elizabeth National Park, the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour provides additional opportunities for game drives, wildlife photography and relaxation. Travellers can explore different habitats and enjoy a more comfortable safari pace.
Spectacular Boat Cruises and Scenic Landscapes
The itinerary includes a Nile boat cruise toward the bottom of Murchison Falls and a Kazinga Channel boat safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park. These excursions offer excellent opportunities to observe hippos, crocodiles, elephants and waterbirds while enjoying Uganda’s spectacular waterways and natural scenery.
Comfortable Accommodation and Private Safari Travel
Nextgen Safaris provides carefully selected accommodation, comfortable private 4×4 Land Cruisers and experienced English-speaking driver-guides. The itinerary can be customised with mid-range or luxury lodges, making it suitable for couples, families, honeymooners, photographers and travellers seeking a personalised African wildlife adventure.
An Unforgettable Uganda Safari from Start to Finish
From the first rhino encounter at Ziwa to the extraordinary gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi and the peaceful savannah landscapes of Lake Mburo, the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour combines adventure, relaxation and exceptional wildlife viewing into one memorable African journey.
Accommodation During the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour
Accommodation during the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour is carefully selected to provide comfort, relaxation and convenient access to Uganda’s remarkable wildlife destinations. Nextgen Safaris offers a combination of beautiful safari lodges, comfortable guest rooms and peaceful natural surroundings, allowing travellers to unwind after exciting game drives, boat cruises and primate tracking experiences.
The proposed luxury accommodation includes Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa in Entebbe, Nile Safari Lodge near Murchison Falls National Park, Tabebuia Resort in the Kibale Forest region, Elephant Plains Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Four Gorillas Lodge near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and Mihingo Lodge near Lake Mburo National Park.
Each lodge offers a distinctive safari atmosphere, from scenic riverfront settings and rainforest landscapes to beautiful savannah views. Accommodation for the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour can be customised to suit mid-range or luxury travel preferences, with final selections depending on availability, confirmed gorilla trekking sectors and individual requirements. Travellers can request a personalised safari quotation to explore suitable accommodation options.



Frequently Asked Questions About the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour
1. What is the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour?
The 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour is a comprehensive wildlife adventure combining mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale, rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, game drives in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Parks, and wildlife experiences in Lake Mburo National Park.
2. What destinations are visited during the 13-day Uganda safari?
The safari visits Entebbe, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale Forest National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, the Ishasha Sector, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Lake Mburo National Park.
3. How much does the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour cost?
The cost depends on the number of travellers, accommodation category, travel season and selected activities. Nextgen Safaris provides personalised quotations for private mid-range and luxury safari packages, including gorilla permits, chimpanzee permits, accommodation, transportation and scheduled activities.
4. Is gorilla trekking included in the 13-day Uganda safari?
Yes. The safari includes one mountain gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, with a gorilla trekking permit included in the confirmed package. Travellers normally spend up to one hour observing a habituated gorilla family after locating it.
5. Where does chimpanzee tracking take place?
Chimpanzee tracking takes place in Kibale National Park, one of Africa’s most renowned primate destinations. Visitors explore the rainforest with experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers in search of habituated chimpanzee communities.
6. Can I see all the Big Five animals during this Uganda safari?
The itinerary provides opportunities to search for lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes and rhinoceroses. Rhinos are tracked at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, while the other Big Five animals may be encountered during game drives. However, sightings of wild animals cannot be guaranteed.
7. What is the best time for the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour?
The safari operates throughout the year. June to September and December to February are particularly popular because relatively dry conditions can make gorilla trekking and wildlife viewing more comfortable. The wetter months offer lush scenery and excellent photographic opportunities.
8. How many gorilla trekking permits are included?
The standard itinerary includes one Uganda mountain gorilla trekking permit per eligible traveller. Guests interested in a second gorilla trek or gorilla habituation experience can request a customised itinerary, subject to permit availability.
9. Is the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour private?
Yes. Nextgen Safaris can organise the itinerary as a private safari with a dedicated 4×4 Land Cruiser and professional English-speaking driver-guide. This arrangement provides greater comfort, privacy and flexibility throughout the journey.
10. What accommodation is provided during the safari?
The proposed luxury accommodation includes Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa, Nile Safari Lodge, Tabebuia Resort, Elephant Plains Lodge, Four Gorillas Lodge and Mihingo Lodge. Accommodation can be adjusted according to availability and individual preferences.
11. Is the 13-day Uganda safari suitable for families?
Yes. Families can enjoy wildlife game drives, boat cruises, scenic landscapes and comfortable safari lodges. However, Uganda’s minimum age for mountain gorilla trekking is 15 years, so alternative activities must be arranged for younger children.
12. How physically demanding is gorilla trekking in Bwindi?
Gorilla trekking requires walking through mountainous rainforest terrain, sometimes on steep and muddy trails. Trekking duration varies depending on the gorillas’ location. Travellers should have reasonable mobility, although additional assistance may be arranged in advance where available.
13. What wildlife can I see in Murchison Falls National Park?
Murchison Falls supports elephants, lions, buffaloes, giraffes, Uganda kobs, hartebeests, hippos, crocodiles and numerous bird species. Leopards may also be encountered. The Nile boat cruise provides excellent opportunities to observe aquatic wildlife.
14. Are boat cruises included in the 13-day Uganda safari?
Yes. The proposed safari includes a boat cruise along the Victoria Nile toward the bottom of Murchison Falls and another along the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Both excursions provide exceptional wildlife viewing and photography opportunities.
15. Can I see tree-climbing lions during the safari?
Yes. The itinerary passes through the Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions. Your safari guide will search suitable habitats where these lions are sometimes observed resting in large trees, although sightings cannot be guaranteed.
16. What is included in the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour?
The package includes gorilla and chimpanzee tracking permits, rhino tracking, 12 nights of accommodation, scheduled meals, private 4×4 transportation, professional guiding, national park fees, scheduled game drives, boat cruises, the Bigodi Wetland Walk, airport transfers and drinking water during safari activities. The Lake Mburo guided nature walk is included subject to the confirmed departure arrangements.
17. What is excluded from the safari package?
The safari package excludes international flights, tips and gratuities, Uganda visa fees, and international travel and medical insurance.
18. Can senior travellers participate in the 13-day Uganda safari?
Yes. Senior travellers can enjoy the game drives, boat cruises and comfortable accommodation. Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking require walking through natural forest terrain, so travellers with mobility concerns should discuss suitable arrangements with Nextgen Safaris before booking.
19. Can I customise the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour?
Absolutely. Nextgen Safaris can personalise the itinerary by adjusting accommodation categories, adding gorilla trekking experiences, including cultural activities or extending the journey to destinations such as Lake Bunyonyi or Rwanda.
20. How far in advance should I book the 13-day Uganda safari?
Booking several months in advance is recommended, particularly for travel between June and September or during the December–February period. Mountain gorilla and chimpanzee tracking permits have limited availability, and popular safari lodges can fill quickly.
21. What should I pack for the 13-day Uganda safari?
Recommended items include comfortable hiking boots, lightweight long-sleeved clothing, a waterproof jacket, insect repellent, sunscreen, binoculars, a camera, a sun hat and a small daypack. Gardening gloves and long trousers are particularly useful during gorilla trekking.
22. Where does the 13-day Uganda safari start and end?
The safari begins and ends at Entebbe International Airport. Nextgen Safaris arranges airport pickup on arrival and a return transfer on the final day, according to your international flight schedule.
23. Is the safari suitable for honeymooners and couples?
Yes. The 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour is ideal for couples and honeymooners seeking wildlife adventure combined with romantic safari accommodation. Private transportation, beautiful wilderness lodges and personalised guiding create a memorable African holiday.
24. How do I book the 13 Days Uganda Gorillas, Chimps and Big 5 Safari Tour?
To book, contact Nextgen Safaris with your preferred travel dates, number of travellers and accommodation preferences. Our safari consultants will prepare a personalised quotation, check permit and lodge availability, and guide you through the reservation process.