8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari
The 8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari is a signature wildlife journey through some of Uganda’s most biodiverse and breathtaking national parks. This adventure is perfect for primate lovers, nature photographers, and first-time visitors eager to witness mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, tree-climbing lions, and stunning landscapes all in one trip.
This carefully designed itinerary takes you from Entebbe to Kibale Forest, home to the highest concentration of primates in Africa, before heading to the savannah plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park, the thick jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and the peaceful islands of Lake Bunyonyi. You’ll end your journey in Lake Mburo National Park with a walking safari experience.
Whether you’re tracking wild chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge or sharing eye contact with a mountain gorilla in Bwindi, this 8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari offers unmatched opportunities for wildlife encounters, cultural discovery, and scenic relaxation all expertly guided by Nextgen Safaris.
Safari Highlights: 8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari
The 8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the best of Uganda’s primates, wildlife, and landscapes in one well-curated journey.
Below are the key highlights that make this safari unforgettable
- Track chimpanzees in the lush Kibale Forest and Kyambura Gorge
- Go gorilla trekking in the world-renowned Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Spot tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Cruise the Kazinga Channel with close-up views of hippos, elephants, and aquatic birds
- Game drives across Uganda’s premier savannah parks: Queen Elizabeth and Lake Mburo
- Enjoy a guided walk in the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary – a birdwatcher’s paradise
- Cultural encounters with local communities and traditional performances in Bwindi
- Relax at Lake Bunyonyi, one of Africa’s most scenic and tranquil lakes
- Experience a walking safari in Lake Mburo National Park with close-up wildlife views
- Led by a professional English-speaking guide throughout the entire 8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari
Each destination has been handpicked to offer a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and conservation-based travel ensuring that every day of your 8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari is immersive, meaningful, and uniquely African.
Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Kibale Forest – The Primate Capital of East Africa
Your 8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari begins the moment you arrive in Uganda. Whether you’re landing at Entebbe International Airport or being picked up from a hotel in Kampala or Entebbe, your assigned professional English-speaking tour driver-guide from Nextgen Safaris will warmly welcome you and brief you on the journey ahead.
We’ll then begin a scenic road transfer to Kibale Forest National Park, often referred to as the primate capital of East Africa. This region boasts the highest density of primates in all of Africa and is home to more than 13 species, including the endangered chimpanzees, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and red colobus monkeys.
As you travel west, you’ll pass through rolling hills, rural markets, tea plantations, and villages that give you a glimpse into the authentic Ugandan countryside. You’ll arrive at the Rweteera Safari Park, a serene eco-lodge nestled just outside Kibale Forest, where you’ll check in and unwind.
Optional Activity (at extra cost – $15):
If time allows, take a late afternoon crater lakes excursion, which offers panoramic views of extinct volcanic craters, serene lakes, and traditional homesteads. It’s the perfect way to ease into the nature-rich surroundings that define this 8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari.
Accommodation: Rweteera Safari Park – Cabin (Budget Level)
Meals: Lunch and Dinner (Breakfast not included on arrival day)
Transfer Time: Approx. 5–6 hours
Main Destination: Kibale Forest National Park
Day 2: Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After an early breakfast at your lodge near Kibale Forest, your 8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari continues with a guided walk through the renowned Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary. This lush wetland ecosystem lies just outside Kibale Forest and is one of Uganda’s richest biodiversity hotspots.
During the nature walk, you’ll have the chance to see a variety of primates, including black-and-white colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, vervet monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys. The Bigodi area is also a birder’s paradise look out for the Great Blue Turaco, papyrus gonolek, and over 200 other bird species.
After this immersive experience, we begin our scenic transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most popular and diverse savannah park. The journey takes approximately 2 to 3 hours and offers stunning views of the Rwenzori Mountains and crater lakes en route.
Arriving at Tembo Safari Lodge, located near the park’s entrance, you’ll check in and enjoy lunch. Later in the afternoon, head out for your first game drive in Queen Elizabeth. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, warthogs, Uganda kobs, buffaloes, and if lucky lions and leopards lurking in the savannah grass.
After sunset, return to the lodge for dinner and relaxation, soaking in the wilderness atmosphere that defines this portion of your 8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari.
Accommodation: Tembo Safari Lodge – Budget Level
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Transfer Time: Approx. 2–3 hours
Main Destination: Queen Elizabeth National Park
Day 3: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kyambura Gorge and Kazinga Channel Boat Safari
Your third day of the 8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari begins with an early breakfast before heading to the dramatic Kyambura Gorge, often called the “Valley of Apes.” This lush forested canyon within Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to a habituated community of wild chimpanzees, along with baboons, red-tailed monkeys, and numerous birds.
You’ll join a team of experienced rangers for a thrilling chimpanzee tracking expedition, where you’ll follow their calls and movements through the forest. This trek offers not only an intimate encounter with our closest relatives, but also scenic views of the gorge, unique flora, and sightings of other wildlife species.
After the tracking experience, return to the lodge for lunch and rest.
In the afternoon, you’ll head to the Kazinga Channel for a boat safari one of the most scenic highlights of the entire 8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari. This 32-kilometer waterway that connects Lake Edward and Lake George teems with hippos, elephants, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species like the African fish eagle and saddle-billed stork.
As the boat glides past herds of animals cooling off on the shores, you’ll have unparalleled photo opportunities and a chance to witness wildlife interactions up close.
Return to your lodge in time for dinner and relaxation under the stars.
Accommodation: Tembo Safari Lodge – Budget Level
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Main Destination: Queen Elizabeth National Park
Day 4: Sunrise Game Drive in Kasenyi and Transfer via Ishasha to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Day four of your 8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari starts early with a sunrise game drive in the Kasenyi Plains a prime location for spotting big cats such as lions and leopards, as well as herds of buffalo, elephants, and Uganda kobs during their early morning feeding routines.
After the drive, return to the lodge for breakfast and checkout, then begin your transfer to the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park famous for its rare tree-climbing lions. Unlike anywhere else in East Africa, Ishasha’s lions are often seen lounging in fig tree branches, offering photographers a truly iconic wildlife shot.
From Ishasha, continue your scenic drive to the Buhoma sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening. You’ll check in at your lodge and relax in preparation for the highly anticipated gorilla trekking experience the following day the true highlight of your 8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari.
Accommodation: Ride 4 a Woman – Budget Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Transfer Time: Approx. 4–5 hours
Main Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Buhoma Sector)
Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi and Afternoon Cultural Encounter
Today marks the most anticipated moment of your 8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari — gorilla trekking in the ancient jungle of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After an early breakfast, your driver-guide will escort you to the park headquarters for a mandatory briefing by the Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers.
You’ll be assigned to one of the gorilla families in the Buhoma sector, and a professional guide will lead you deep into the forest to track these endangered giants. The trek can take anywhere between 2 and 6 hours, depending on the movement of the gorillas. Once located, you’ll spend a magical one hour in their presence observing their behavior, interactions, and sometimes even playful gestures from the juveniles.
This emotional and awe-inspiring experience is often described as life-changing and is the crown jewel of every Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari.
After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch and a bit of rest.
Later in the afternoon, you’ll set out for a community and cultural experience. This includes storytelling with elders, traditional dance performances, craft demonstrations, and insights into the lives of the Batwa pygmies, the original forest dwellers of Bwindi.
Accommodation: Ride 4 a Woman – Budget Level
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Main Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Gorillas)
Day 6: Bwindi Waterfall Hike and Scenic Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
After breakfast, embark on a guided nature hike along the waterfall trail in Bwindi. This trail is a great way to explore the dense biodiversity of the park beyond gorillas. As you walk through tangled vines and giant ferns, you’ll pass pristine waterfalls and may spot forest species like the black-and-white colobus monkey, colorful butterflies, and rare birds. It’s a peaceful contrast to the adrenaline of gorilla trekking and a perfect addition to your Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari.
After the forest walk, return to the lodge to check out and begin your scenic transfer to Lake Bunyonyi often referred to as “The Switzerland of Africa.” The drive winds through terraced hills and panoramic viewpoints, descending into a basin filled with 29 emerald islands scattered across this serene lake.
Upon arrival at Itambira Island, check into your lodge and relax. Take in the tranquil surroundings, swim in the bilharzia-free lake, or simply enjoy the peaceful evening with views across the water. Lake Bunyonyi offers the perfect setting for reflection and rest after your forest adventure.
Accommodation: Itambira Island – Mid-range Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drive Time: Approx. 3 hours
Main Destination: Lake Bunyonyi
Day 7: Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park and Evening Game Drive
After a relaxed breakfast by the lake, your 8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari continues as you depart Lake Bunyonyi and travel northeast toward Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda’s smallest savannah park and one of the best spots for a walking safari.
En route, you’ll pass Mbarara City, a lively regional hub, and arrive at the park in time to check into your lodge. After lunch and a short rest, set out for an afternoon-to-evening game drive in Lake Mburo National Park. This park is unique for its acacia woodlands, open grasslands, and wetland habitats, which support a diversity of wildlife.
Keep your eyes open for zebras, eland antelopes, impalas, topis, waterbucks, buffaloes, and warthogs. Though there are no elephants or lions here, leopards are sometimes spotted during dusk. You’ll also have the chance to observe a variety of birdlife and panoramic views across the savannah.
Optional ($30 USD): Upgrade your experience with a night game drive to observe nocturnal creatures such as bush babies, porcupines, and hyenas — a rarely seen side of African wilderness.
Accommodation: Hyena Hill Lodge – Just outside Lake Mburo NP
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Transfer Time: Approx. 4–5 hours
Main Destination: Lake Mburo National Park
Day 8: Walking Safari and Return to Entebbe for Departure
Your final day of the 8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari begins early with a unique walking safari guided by an armed Uganda Wildlife Authority ranger. This up-close encounter in Lake Mburo National Park allows you to walk among zebras, giraffes, eland, impalas, and topis a rare opportunity to experience the bush without the barrier of a vehicle.
Hike to the nearby hilltops for spectacular views over Lake Mburo and its surrounding lakes a breathtaking finale to your Uganda adventure.
After the walking safari, return to the lodge for breakfast and check-out. You’ll then begin your drive back to Entebbe, with a stopover for lunch and a final opportunity to stretch and shop for souvenirs along the way. A brief photo stop at the Equator Line in Kayabwe allows for memorable pictures and a chance to purchase local crafts.
Expect to arrive at Entebbe International Airport in the late afternoon or early evening. Your driver will ensure you’re dropped off in time for your onward flight, marking the end of your unforgettable 8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari.
Accommodation: Not included (available on request)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Drive Time: Approx. 4–5 hours
Main Destination: Entebbe International Airport (End of 8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari)
What’s Included in the 8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari
Your 8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari includes:
- 1 Gorilla trekking permit (worth $800 per person)
- 1 Chimpanzee tracking permit (Kyambura or Kibale)
- All park entrance fees and conservation levies
- 7 nights’ accommodation in listed lodges (budget or mid-range)
- All meals as listed in the itinerary (B, L, D)
- Bottled drinking water during transfers
- Ground transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle with fuel and English-speaking driver/guide
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure
- Game drives, boat cruises, and walking safaris as described
- Ranger/guide fees during tracking and park activities
- Cultural and community experiences in Bwindi
What’s Not Included
- International airfare and visas
- Meals and drinks not specified in the itinerary
- Travel insurance and medical expenses
- Tips for guides, rangers, and lodge staff
- Optional or extra activities (e.g. crater lake visit, night game drive)
- Personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, and phone calls
- Accommodation before or after the safari (available on request)
Why Book This 8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari
This 8 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari is ideal for travelers who want to combine close primate encounters with scenic landscapes and diverse wildlife. From tracking wild chimpanzees and gorillas to relaxing on Lake Bunyonyi and walking among zebras in Lake Mburo, every day offers something extraordinary.
You’ll visit Uganda’s top wildlife parks and enjoy authentic local culture all with a flexible itinerary tailored for comfort, conservation, and value.
Why Book With Nextgen Safaris
Nextgen Safaris is a trusted, local Ugandan tour company known for curating personalized, ethical, and immersive African safaris. When you book with us, you get:
- Priority access to gorilla and chimpanzee permits
- Local guides with expert knowledge of Uganda’s parks and primates
- Flexible itineraries that can be customized on request
- 24/7 support throughout your safari
- Transparent pricing and no hidden fees
- Commitment to community tourism and responsible travel
We don’t just offer tours we create journeys that connect you with the heart of Africa.
