5 Days Gorilla Trekking and Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda | Combine Both Gorillas and Chimps

Route: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Gorillas) & Kibale Forest National Park (Chimpanzees)
Start/End: Kigali or Entebbe
Travel Style: Private Safari | 4×4 Land Cruiser | Mid-range or Semi-Luxury Lodges

5 Days Gorilla Trekking and Chimpanzee Trekking Safari Overview

This 5 Days Gorilla Trekking and Chimpanzee Trekking Safari combines the thrill of gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with the excitement of chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest National Park — home to the highest primate density in East Africa.

Starting and ending in either Kigali (Rwanda) or Entebbe (Uganda), this flexible itinerary is ideal for travelers who want to experience both mountain and rainforest primates without rushing. Expect intimate wildlife moments, scenic drives, and comfortable lodges surrounded by nature.

Key Distances & Practical Notes

• Kigali ▶ Bwindi: ~5–6 hrs via Cyanika/Chanika • Entebbe ▶ Kibale: ~5–6 hrs • Kibale ▶ Bwindi: ~6–7 hrs • Bwindi ▶ Kigali: ~5–6 hrs • Bwindi ▶ Entebbe: ~8–9 hrs (Equator stop).
• Best time: Jun–Sep & Dec–Feb (peak) • Apr/May & Oct/Nov offer lush scenery & fewer crowds.
• Fitness: Moderate hikes (forest, slopes). Porters available—highly recommended.
• What to pack: Sturdy boots, long sleeves/trousers, light rain jacket, gaiters/gloves, 2L water, snacks, camera (no flash).

5 Days Gorilla Trekking and Chimpanzee Trekking Highlights

• Track mountain gorillas in Bwindi – Uganda’s most famous UNESCO World Heritage rainforest.

• Trek wild chimpanzees in Kibale Forest, often called the Primate Capital of Africa.

• Flexible start or end points – Kigali for shorter drives, Entebbe for the scenic Equator route.

• Stay in handpicked lodges with views, ensuite rooms, and excellent service.

• Enjoy private transfers in a 4×4 Land Cruiser with an expert safari guide.

5 Days Gorilla Trekking and Chimpanzee Trekking Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Kigali or Entebbe

Arrive at Kigali or Entebbe International Airport where our driver-guide will meet you for a warm welcome and briefing.
If starting from Kigali, cross into Uganda through the Cyanika or Chanika border and head to the lush southwestern highlands.
If starting from Entebbe, drive west through tea plantations toward Fort Portal and Kibale.

Overnight: Turaco Treetops (Kibale)
Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner

Day 2 – Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest

After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters at Kanyanchu for your chimpanzee trekking briefing.
Enjoy an incredible forest walk tracking a wild chimpanzee community — a thrilling and noisy encounter as they swing and call from the canopy.
In the afternoon, take a guided Bigodi Wetland Community Walk, famous for birds and local life.

Overnight: Turaco Treetops Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 – Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Travel south through the crater lake region and rolling Kigezi hills to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home of the world’s largest population of mountain gorillas.
Arrive in the late afternoon and relax at your forest lodge with panoramic views of the mist-covered hills.

Overnight: Bweza Gorilla Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 – Gorilla Trekking Experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

After an early breakfast, report to the park offices for your gorilla trekking briefing.
Set off with UWA rangers to track a gorilla family through dense rainforest.
Once you find them, spend a magical hour observing these gentle giants — an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Return to your lodge for a well-earned rest and a leisurely afternoon.

Overnight: Bweza Gorilla Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 – Return to Kigali or Entebbe

Enjoy breakfast and a relaxed departure.
If ending in Kigali, drive 5–6 hours back across the border with scenic stops for views and crafts.
If ending in Entebbe, travel via Mbarara and stop at the Equator line in Kayabwe for photos before reaching Entebbe.
Drop-off at your hotel or airport for your onward flight marking the end of this 5 Days Gorilla Trekking and Chimpanzee Trekking Safari in Uganda

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch

5 Days Gorilla Trekking and Chimpanzee Trekking Route Options

Not included: International flights, visas, travel insurance, drinks, tips, optional activities.

Why Book with NextGen Safaris

• Licensed, trusted Uganda operator with real-time Gorilla Trekking Permit Availability.
• Expert driver-guides, reliable 4×4 Land Cruisers, and handpicked lodges close to trek start points.
• Flexible start/end in Kigali or Entebbe to minimize driving and maximize wildlife time.

Prefer to check dates first? Check Gorilla Permit Availability in Uganda →