7-Day Uganda Wildlife and Primate Safari: An Unforgettable Adventure

Uganda, often dubbed the “Pearl of Africa,” is a vibrant country teeming with breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. This 7-Day Uganda Wildlife and Primate Safari offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the best of Uganda’s wildlife, focusing on its magnificent primates, including the famous mountain gorillas and playful chimpanzees.

The itinerary combines thrilling game drives in renowned national parks, immersive primate tracking experiences, and serene moments by stunning lakes, making it an unforgettable journey for any adventure enthusiast. Guided by expert local drivers, this safari ensures that you witness the majestic beauty of Uganda’s flora and fauna while receiving insights into the ecological significance of each region you visit.

Join us on a detailed exploration of the 7-Day Uganda Wildlife and Primate Safari, filled with extraordinary highlights, essential inclusions, and a captivating introduction to BLS Safaris Ltd, your trusted companion in the heart of East Africa.

 

Detailed 7-Day Uganda Wildlife and Primate Safari

Day 1: Arrive and Drive to Kibale National Park

Welcome to Uganda!

Upon your arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be greeted by your professional driver-guide from BLS Safaris Ltd. After a warm welcome, you will embark on a scenic drive to Kibale National Park, renowned for its lush tropical rainforests and diverse primate population. The journey to Kibale takes approximately seven hours, allowing you to absorb the picturesque landscapes of rural Uganda, characterized by rolling hills, vibrant villages, and coffee plantations.

Kibale National Park: The Primate Capital of the World

Kibale National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to over 13 species of primates, including the famous chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and red-tailed monkeys. As you arrive in the late afternoon or evening, you will check in at your accommodation, the Chimpanzee Forest Lodge, where you can unwind in the tranquil surroundings of the forest.

Optional Activities

If you arrive early, consider taking part in some optional activities to kickstart your adventure. Explore the Bigodi Swamps, famous for their rich birdlife and primate sightings, or visit the Amabere Ga Nyina Mwiru Caves for a glimpse into Uganda’s cultural heritage. For those interested in geology, a short hike to the Sempaya hot springs in Semuliki National Park is also an option.

Journey Time: 7 Hours
Destination: Kibale Forest National Park
Accommodation: Chimpanzee Forest Lodge – Mid-range Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (en route), & Dinner

Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

A Day of Chimpanzee Tracking

Today, you will immerse yourself in the wild with a morning chimpanzee trekking experience. After breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters for a briefing on what to expect during the trek. The experience of observing chimpanzees in their natural habitat is truly extraordinary, as these intelligent creatures exhibit social behavior similar to humans.

The trek will take you through the dense forest, where you might encounter other primates and a variety of bird species. The experience lasts between two to five hours, depending on the location of the chimpanzees.

Journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park

After a fulfilling morning, you will return to your lodge for lunch before continuing your journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s oldest national park. The drive takes approximately two hours, during which you’ll begin to notice the change in landscape as you enter the park’s savannah ecosystem.

Journey Time: 2 Hours
Destination: Queen Elizabeth National Park
Accommodation: Twin Lakes Safari Lodge – Mid-range Lodge
Meals: Bottled Drinking Water, Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner

 

Day 3: Game Drive and Boat Ride on Kazinga Channel

Early Morning Game Drive

Wake up early for a thrilling game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, home to over 100 mammal species, including elephants, buffaloes, lions, and leopards. Your guide will help you spot these majestic animals and share fascinating insights into their behaviors and habitats. As you drive through the park, keep an eye out for the famous tree-climbing lions, which are unique to this region.

Afternoon Boat Ride

After an exhilarating morning, you will return to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, embark on a boat ride along the Kazinga Channel, a waterway that connects Lake George and Lake Edward. This leisurely cruise allows you to get up close to hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birds, including the stunning African fish eagle. The view from the water is a photographer’s dream, offering countless opportunities for unforgettable wildlife photography.

Destination: Queen Elizabeth National Park
Accommodation: Twin Lakes Safari Lodge – Mid-range Lodge
Meals: Bottled Drinking Water, Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner

Day 4: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park via Ishasha Sector

Exploring the Ishasha Sector

After breakfast, you will embark on a journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. On your way, stop by the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions. A brief game drive in this area may reward you with sightings of these incredible felines lounging in the branches of fig trees.

Arrival at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

As you approach Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, prepare to be enchanted by its lush forests and rugged hills. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. After checking in at the Gorilla Mist Camp, take some time to relax and prepare for the thrilling gorilla trekking experience that awaits you.

Journey Time: 3 Hours
Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Accommodation: Gorilla Mist Camp – Mid-range Lodge
Meals: Bottled Drinking Water, Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner

 

Day 5: Gorilla Trekking and Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi

The Thrill of Gorilla Trekking

Today marks one of the highlights of your 7-Day Uganda Wildlife and Primate Safari: gorilla trekking! After an early breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters for a briefing and orientation. The trek can take anywhere from two to seven hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family you will be tracking. Guided by experienced rangers, you will learn about the flora and fauna of the forest while making your way to the gorillas.

Once you encounter a family of mountain gorillas, you will have the unique opportunity to observe them for an hour. Witnessing these gentle giants in their natural habitat is a moving experience that will stay with you forever.

Relaxing at Lake Bunyonyi

After an exhilarating trek, you will transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, often referred to as the “second deepest lake in Africa.” Here, you can unwind at the Bunyonyi Safaris Resort. After checking in, consider taking a canoe boat ride on the lake, where you can explore its many islands and enjoy the stunning landscapes.

Journey Time: 3 Hours
Destination: Lake Bunyonyi
Accommodation: Bunyonyi Safaris Resort – Mid-range Lodge
Meals: Bottled Drinking Water, Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner

Day 6: Game Drive in Lake Mburo National Park

Discovering Lake Mburo National Park

Today, you will drive to Lake Mburo National Park, which boasts a diverse range of habitats, including wetlands, savannahs, and forests. This small park is a haven for wildlife, offering sightings of various animals such as zebras, giraffes, impalas, and buffaloes.

Upon entering the park, you will embark on a game drive, where you can capture photographs of the park’s inhabitants and enjoy the captivating scenery. The park is also known for its rich birdlife, with over 300 species recorded.

Journey Time: 5 Hours
Destination: Lake Mburo National Park
Accommodation: Mpogo Safari Lodge – Mid-range Lodge
Meals: Bottled Drinking Water, Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner

 

Day 7: Morning Nature Walk and Transfer to Kampala

Morning Nature Walk

On your final day, rise early for a guided morning nature walk in Lake Mburo National Park. This is a unique opportunity to experience the park’s flora and fauna up close and personal, guided by knowledgeable rangers who will share their insights into the local ecosystem. Following the nature walk, return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast.

Return to Kampala

After breakfast, you will begin your 7-Day Uganda Wildlife and Primate Safari journey back to Kampala. On the way, you will cross the equator, where you can stop for photos and souvenirs. Upon reaching Kampala, you will be transferred to Entebbe International Airport for your onward journey.

Journey Time: 4 Hours
Main Destination: Entebbe
Accommodation: No accommodation (End of Safari)
Meals: Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)

7-Day Uganda Wildlife and Primate Safari Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions

• Park fees (for non-residents)
• Gorilla permits (one per person, non-resident)
• Chimp permits (one per person, non-resident)
• All activities (unless labeled as optional)
• All accommodations (unless listed as upgrade)
• A professional driver/guide
• All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
• All Taxes/VAT
• Roundtrip airport transfer
• Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
• Drinks (as specified in the day-by-day section)

Exclusions

• International flights (from/to home)
• Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
• Tips (tipping guideline: US$10.00 pp per day)
• Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, etc.)
• Any activities not mentioned in the itinerary

 

Why Choose BLS Safaris Ltd?

BLS Safaris Ltd is dedicated to providing exceptional safari experiences in Uganda. With a focus on sustainable tourism, we ensure that our 7-Day Uganda Wildlife and Primate Safari are both environmentally responsible and culturally respectful. Our knowledgeable guides are passionate about sharing their expertise and providing you with a memorable adventure.

Choose BLS Safaris Ltd for your next adventure in Uganda, and immerse yourself in the wonders of the “Pearl of Africa.”

This 7-day Uganda Wildlife and Primate Safari combines the thrill of gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, and diverse wildlife experiences, promising an unforgettable journey through some of East Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes. Book your safari today!