6 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari – Ultimate Primate & Wildlife Adventure
The 6 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari is an extraordinary African wildlife adventure combining two of the continent’s most remarkable primate encounters with the spectacular savannah landscapes of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Carefully designed for travellers who want to observe endangered mountain gorillas and wild chimpanzees within one memorable holiday, this private Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari takes you through the magnificent tropical rainforests of Kibale and Bwindi, with exciting wildlife experiences along the way.
Your journey begins in Entebbe, Uganda, where your professional Boots in the Jungle Safaris driver-guide welcomes you before travelling west towards Kibale National Park. Known for its remarkable primate diversity, Kibale offers one of East Africa’s most rewarding chimpanzee tracking experiences. Accompanied by experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers, you will explore the rainforest in search of a habituated chimpanzee community, observing fascinating behaviours such as feeding, grooming, climbing, and communicating.
Following your chimpanzee encounter, the Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari continues south to Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you will discover beautiful savannah grasslands, volcanic crater scenery, and remarkable wildlife habitats. During your stay, enjoy a scheduled Kazinga Channel boat safari and a guided game drive, offering opportunities to observe elephants, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, lions, and numerous bird species.
The most anticipated experience of your six-day journey takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to endangered mountain gorillas. During your guided trek through the ancient rainforest, you will accompany experienced rangers and trackers in search of an allocated habituated mountain gorilla family. Once the gorillas are located, you may enjoy up to one unforgettable hour observing their natural behaviour, family relationships, and extraordinary interactions.
Unlike longer Uganda safari itineraries that travel across the entire country, this six-day journey concentrates on western and southwestern Uganda’s exceptional primate and wildlife destinations. Beginning in Entebbe and finishing in Kigali allows you to follow a practical route without returning across Uganda after your gorilla trek. Alternative starting and ending arrangements can be discussed when planning your personalised holiday.
With Boots in the Jungle Safaris, your 6 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari is privately organised, giving you the comfort of a dedicated 4×4 safari Land Cruiser, an experienced English-speaking driver-guide, carefully selected accommodation, and professional coordination of your gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits. Whether travelling as a couple, solo adventurer, family with eligible children, or private group, this safari can be tailored to your accommodation preferences, interests, and travel dates.
6 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari – Quick Facts
| Safari Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 6 days / 5 nights |
| Starting Location | Entebbe International Airport or Entebbe hotel |
| Ending Location | Kigali International Airport or Kigali hotel |
| Main Destinations | Kibale, Queen Elizabeth and Bwindi |
| Gorilla Trekking | One standard mountain gorilla trek |
| Chimpanzee Tracking | One standard Kibale chimpanzee trek |
| Game Viewing | Queen Elizabeth National Park |
| Boat Safari | Kazinga Channel |
| Accommodation | Budget, mid-range or luxury |
| Safari Transport | Private 4×4 safari Land Cruiser |
| Gorilla Observation | Up to one hour |
| Chimpanzee Observation | Up to one hour |
| Gorilla and Chimpanzee Permits | Included in confirmed package |
| Safari Style | Private, customisable |
| Availability | Year-round, subject to permits and lodge availability |
Why Choose the 6 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari?
The greatest advantage of choosing a 6 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari is the opportunity to experience Uganda’s two most remarkable great ape encounters during one carefully planned wildlife journey. Mountain gorillas and chimpanzees share important biological characteristics, yet their habitats, behaviour, and social interactions offer fascinating differences. Observing both species creates a rewarding opportunity to appreciate Uganda’s exceptional primate diversity and the conservation work protecting its rainforest ecosystems.
Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale introduces you to an energetic forest environment where chimpanzees may move rapidly through trees, vocalise loudly, forage for food, and interact with members of their communities. Mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi provides a different encounter, where you may observe powerful silverbacks, family groups, and young gorillas in the dense vegetation of the mountainous rainforest. Each experience is unique and conducted under strict conservation guidelines.
Another advantage of this Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari is the inclusion of Queen Elizabeth National Park. By combining two rainforest destinations with a beautiful savannah park, you enjoy greater wildlife variety without substantially extending the holiday. The Kazinga Channel offers opportunities to observe aquatic wildlife, while game drives through the park introduce you to elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and predators.
The itinerary also follows an efficient geographical route. Starting from Entebbe gives you access to Kibale, while continuing through Queen Elizabeth and Bwindi before finishing in Kigali helps reduce unnecessary backtracking. The journey still involves several substantial road transfers, but the arrangement is practical for travellers seeking three different national park experiences within six days.
Your safari is privately organised, allowing suitable flexibility for photography stops, accommodation selection, and travel preferences. Standard primate tracking takes place in authorised ranger-led groups, but your road transfers and safari vehicle remain dedicated to you and your travelling companions.
Highlights of the Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari
- Track wild chimpanzees in Kibale National Park.
- Trek endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
- Enjoy wildlife viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
- Experience a scenic Kazinga Channel boat safari.
- Search for elephants, lions, buffaloes, Uganda kob, hippos, and crocodiles.
- Travel through Uganda’s beautiful western highlands and the Virunga region.
- Enjoy five nights at selected safari lodges.
- Travel privately with a professional Boots in the Jungle Safaris driver-guide.
- Begin the safari in Entebbe and finish conveniently in Kigali.
6 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari – Day-by-Day Trip Outline
- Day 1 – Entebbe pickup and scenic transfer to Kibale National Park.
- Day 2 – Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale and transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
- Day 3 – Queen Elizabeth morning game drive and afternoon Kazinga Channel boat safari.
- Day 4 – Scenic transfer from Queen Elizabeth National Park to Bwindi via Ishasha.
- Day 5 – Mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
- Day 6 – Transfer from Bwindi to Kigali and departure.
Detailed 6 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari Itinerary
Day 1 – Entebbe Pickup and Scenic Transfer to Kibale National Park
Your 6 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Entebbe or a suitably timed arrival at Entebbe International Airport. Your professional Boots in the Jungle Safaris driver-guide will welcome you, introduce the safari programme, and begin the scenic journey west towards Kibale National Park.
As you leave the Entebbe and Kampala region, the landscape gradually changes into beautiful agricultural countryside, rural communities, forested hills, and the picturesque surroundings of western Uganda. Your guide will explain the areas you pass through and arrange suitable stops for refreshments, photography, and relaxation. Travelling towards Fort Portal, you may enjoy views of tea plantations, cultivated valleys, and the distant Rwenzori Mountains when weather conditions are favourable.
The road journey generally requires approximately five to seven hours or longer, depending on traffic, road conditions, stops, and your lodge’s location. An early departure is recommended to ensure you reach Kibale with sufficient time to settle into your accommodation and prepare for the following morning’s chimpanzee tracking activity.
Upon arrival in the Kibale region, proceed to your selected safari lodge and check in. Enjoy lunch or afternoon refreshments according to your arrival schedule before spending the remainder of the day appreciating the peaceful surroundings. Kibale’s lush vegetation and beautiful countryside provide an attractive introduction to the rainforest adventure ahead.
In the evening, your driver-guide will explain the chimpanzee tracking briefing arrangements, suitable clothing, footwear requirements, and essential items to carry. Enjoy dinner and a comfortable overnight stay near Kibale National Park.
Accommodation: Kibale Forest Camp, Turaco Treetops, or Chimpundu Lodge, according to your selected category.
Meal plan: Lunch and dinner, subject to pickup time.
Estimated driving time: Approximately 5–7 hours or longer.
Day 2 – Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale National Park and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Wake up early and enjoy breakfast before transferring to the designated Kibale chimpanzee tracking briefing point. Kibale National Park is one of East Africa’s most important tropical rainforest habitats and is especially renowned for its wild chimpanzees. Upon arrival, experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers will introduce the conservation regulations, provide essential safety instructions, and explain what to expect during your guided forest experience.
Following the briefing, enter the rainforest in search of an allocated habituated chimpanzee community. Walking through Kibale is an extraordinary experience, with tall trees, dense vegetation, beautiful forest trails, and the distinctive sounds of birds and other wildlife creating a remarkable natural atmosphere. Your ranger will explain the behaviour of chimpanzees and share information about the conservation efforts protecting their forest habitat.
Chimpanzees are highly intelligent and social primates, and encounters can be energetic and fascinating. As you move through the forest, you may hear their vocalisations echoing through the trees before locating individuals feeding, grooming, climbing, resting, or communicating with their companions. Their movements can be unpredictable, and tracking duration varies depending on the group’s location.
Once the chimpanzees are located and observation is authorised, standard tracking generally permits up to one hour of observation. During this period, you may appreciate their complex social relationships and natural behaviour while following the conservation guidelines provided by your ranger.
After completing the trek, return to the briefing point and reunite with your professional Boots in the Jungle Safaris driver-guide. Enjoy lunch before beginning the journey south towards Queen Elizabeth National Park.
The scenic transfer takes you through beautiful countryside, agricultural communities, crater lake landscapes, and the Kasese region. When weather conditions are favourable, you may appreciate impressive views of the Rwenzori Mountains.
Upon arrival at Queen Elizabeth National Park, continue to your selected accommodation and check in. Spend the evening relaxing after your forest experience and scenic journey, preparing for the following day’s wildlife activities.
Accommodation: Pumba Safari Cottages, Enganzi Game Lodge, or Elephant Plains Lodge.
Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Main activity: Guided chimpanzee tracking in Kibale.
Estimated afternoon transfer: Approximately 3–5 hours.
Day 3 – Queen Elizabeth National Park Morning Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Safari
Today is dedicated to discovering the remarkable wildlife habitats of Queen Elizabeth National Park. After an early breakfast, depart in your private 4×4 safari Land Cruiser for a morning game drive through the Kasenyi plains and surrounding savannah landscapes. The park is known for its beautiful grasslands, woodland, wetlands, and crater lake environments, supporting a remarkable variety of wildlife.
During the game drive, you may encounter elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kob, warthogs, lions, and numerous bird species. Your experienced driver-guide will explore designated wildlife-viewing tracks, using knowledge of the park to identify promising areas for animal observation. Early morning is often an attractive period for photography because of the cooler temperatures and beautiful natural lighting across the savannah.
Because your Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari includes private transportation, you can enjoy suitable photography stops and spend time observing wildlife whenever the schedule and park regulations permit. Every game drive is different, and sightings depend on the natural movements of animals within the protected landscape.
Following the morning game drive, return to your lodge for lunch and relaxation before proceeding to the Kazinga Channel for your scheduled afternoon boat safari. The Kazinga Channel is a beautiful natural waterway connecting Lake George and Lake Edward, and its waters attract a wide variety of aquatic and terrestrial wildlife.
During the cruise, you may observe large groups of hippos resting in the water, Nile crocodiles basking along the shoreline, elephants approaching the banks, and buffaloes grazing near the channel. Birdwatchers may enjoy opportunities to observe African fish eagles, kingfishers, pelicans, and numerous other waterbird species.
The boat excursion provides a remarkable contrast to your morning game drive, allowing you to appreciate the park’s wildlife from the water. The changing perspectives and beautiful scenery make this one of the most rewarding experiences included in the six-day itinerary.
After completing the cruise, return to your lodge for dinner and a relaxing second overnight stay in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Accommodation: Your confirmed Queen Elizabeth lodge.
Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Main activities: Morning game drive and afternoon Kazinga Channel boat safari.
Day 4 – Scenic Transfer from Queen Elizabeth National Park to Bwindi via Ishasha
After breakfast, check out of your accommodation and begin the journey south towards the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. This scenic region is famous for its unusual tree-climbing lions, which are sometimes found resting on the branches of large fig trees. Ishasha also offers beautiful open grasslands, scattered woodland, and opportunities to observe buffaloes, elephants, antelopes, and other savannah wildlife.
Your professional Boots in the Jungle Safaris driver-guide will explore suitable game-viewing tracks in search of wildlife before continuing towards Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Although the tree-climbing lions are one of the area’s best-known attractions, sightings cannot be guaranteed because the animals move freely within their natural habitat. Your guide will balance the available game-viewing time with the journey to your Bwindi lodge.
As you leave the savannah landscapes behind, the scenery gradually changes into cultivated hillsides, green valleys, mountainous countryside, and dense rainforest. The beautiful environment surrounding Bwindi creates a memorable introduction to the destination where you will experience one of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife encounters.
For this particular Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari, the southern Bwindi sectors of Rushaga or Nkuringo are practical choices because they provide convenient access to the return route towards Kigali. However, travelling from Ishasha to southern Bwindi involves a longer road transfer than reaching Buhoma. The final route and accommodation must therefore be planned around your confirmed trekking permit and reasonable driving conditions.
The journey may take approximately five to eight hours or longer, including wildlife viewing and stops, depending on the selected sector, road conditions, and your lodge’s location. Upon arrival, check in and enjoy the peaceful rainforest surroundings.
Your driver-guide will explain the following morning’s gorilla trekking arrangements, including the required briefing time, recommended clothing, essential supplies, and physical preparation.
Enjoy dinner and a comfortable overnight stay near the forest.
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge, Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge, Four Gorillas Lodge, or another suitable lodge near your confirmed trekking sector.
Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Main activities: Ishasha wildlife viewing and scenic transfer to Bwindi.
Day 5 – Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Today is the most anticipated day of your 6 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari. Wake up early and enjoy breakfast before transferring to the designated Uganda Wildlife Authority gorilla trekking briefing point. Here, experienced rangers and trackers will introduce the conservation regulations, explain the trekking procedures, and organise participants into authorised groups before entering the rainforest.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of Africa’s most important mountain gorilla conservation destinations. Its ancient forest features towering trees, dense undergrowth, steep mountain slopes, streams, and remarkable biodiversity. The park protects endangered mountain gorillas within an extraordinary natural environment that offers visitors an opportunity to appreciate both the primates and their essential rainforest habitat.
Following the briefing, begin your guided forest trek in search of an allocated habituated mountain gorilla family. The walk may involve steep trails, muddy sections, dense vegetation, and several hours of hiking. The time required to locate the gorillas depends on their movements, weather conditions, and the surrounding terrain.
As you follow the authorised ranger team through the forest, you will learn about gorilla conservation, family behaviour, and the challenges involved in protecting these magnificent primates. The anticipation of encountering a mountain gorilla family creates an extraordinary atmosphere as you move deeper into the rainforest.
Once the family is located and the ranger permits observation, you may spend up to one unforgettable hour watching the gorillas in their natural habitat. During this remarkable encounter, you might witness a powerful silverback resting or interacting with his family, young gorillas playing among the vegetation, and mothers carefully tending to their infants.
The experience offers a fascinating contrast to your earlier chimpanzee tracking adventure in Kibale. While chimpanzees are often energetic and move quickly through the forest canopy, mountain gorillas may be observed feeding, resting, grooming, or interacting within their family group. Both encounters reveal different aspects of great ape behaviour and Uganda’s remarkable primate diversity.
Throughout the observation period, you must follow ranger instructions, maintain the required viewing distance, avoid flash photography, and refrain from touching or feeding the animals. The welfare of the gorillas always takes priority over photography or other visitor interests.
After completing your trek, return through the rainforest towards the designated starting point, where your private Boots in the Jungle Safaris driver-guide will meet you. Enjoy your packed lunch and transfer back to your accommodation.
The remainder of the afternoon is reserved for relaxation, allowing you to recover from the trek, review your photographs, and appreciate the beautiful rainforest surroundings. An optional community experience may be requested if the trek finishes early enough.
Enjoy dinner and your final overnight stay near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Accommodation: Your confirmed Bwindi lodge.
Meal plan: Breakfast, packed lunch and dinner.
Main activity: Standard mountain gorilla trekking, including up to one hour of authorised observation.
Day 6 – Scenic Transfer from Bwindi to Kigali and Departure
After breakfast, check out of your Bwindi accommodation and begin the return journey towards Kigali, Rwanda. Your professional Boots in the Jungle Safaris driver-guide will collect you from the lodge and travel through the beautiful mountainous landscapes of southwestern Uganda towards Kisoro and the Cyanika border crossing.
The journey offers attractive views of agricultural terraces, forested hills, rural communities, picturesque valleys, and the impressive Virunga volcanic region. Depending on weather conditions and your departure schedule, your guide may coordinate suitable stops for refreshments and photography.
At the Cyanika border crossing, complete the necessary Uganda exit and Rwanda entry procedures before continuing through Rwanda’s beautiful countryside towards Kigali. Travellers must ensure that their immigration arrangements permit entry or re-entry into Rwanda, as applicable.
The journey from southern Bwindi to Kigali generally takes approximately four to six hours, although border processing, traffic, weather, road conditions, and stops can increase the duration.
Upon arrival in Kigali, your driver-guide transfers you to Kigali International Airport or your preferred hotel. International departures on the same day should allow sufficient time for unforeseen road delays and airport check-in.
Your 6 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari concludes with unforgettable memories of wild chimpanzees in Kibale, savannah wildlife in Queen Elizabeth National Park, mountain gorillas in Bwindi, and the beautiful landscapes of Uganda and Rwanda.
Meal plan: Breakfast.
Estimated transfer: Approximately 4–6 hours or longer.
End of safari: Kigali International Airport or Kigali hotel.
How Much Does the 6 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari Cost?
The cost of the 6 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari depends on your preferred travel dates, accommodation category, number of participants, and private transportation arrangements. The package includes two regulated primate experiences, five nights’ accommodation, professional guiding, private road transportation, and the specified Queen Elizabeth National Park activities.
The standard foreign non-resident Uganda mountain gorilla trekking permit costs US$800. Standard chimpanzee tracking in Kibale is US$250 under the 2026 tariff, with a revised US$300 rate from 1 January 2027. Applicable rates should be verified for the actual travel dates, especially when a special low-season tariff is available.
Gorilla and Chimpanzee Permit Cost Breakdown
| Primate Activity | Standard 2026 Rate | Standard 2027 Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Mountain gorilla trekking | US$800 | US$800 |
| Kibale chimpanzee tracking | US$250 | US$300 |
| Combined permits per person | US$1,050 | US$1,100 |
| Combined permits for two people | US$2,100 | US$2,200 |
These are standard foreign non-resident permit costs only, not complete safari prices. Uganda Wildlife Authority introduced selected low-season discounts in 2026, subject to specific dates and conditions.
Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari Package Options
Boots in the Jungle Safaris provides a personalised quotation showing the price per person, the total cost for your group, and the included accommodation, permits, activities, meals, and transportation.
Accommodation for Your Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari
The 6 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari includes five nights’ accommodation across three destinations. Each lodge is selected according to its location, comfort, availability, and suitability for your activities.
| Destination | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury | Nights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kibale | Kibale Forest Camp | Turaco Treetops | Chimpundu Lodge | 1 |
| Queen Elizabeth | Pumba Safari Cottages | Enganzi Game Lodge | Elephant Plains Lodge | 2 |
| Bwindi | Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge | Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge | Four Gorillas Lodge | 2 |
| Total | 5 |
Budget Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari
The budget package is suitable for travellers who want to enjoy Uganda’s extraordinary primate encounters while keeping accommodation costs practical. Comfortable value-oriented lodges provide appropriate bases near Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, and Bwindi.
Mid-range Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari
The mid-range option offers an appealing balance between accommodation comfort and affordability. Lodges such as Turaco Treetops, Enganzi Game Lodge, and Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge can provide attractive settings for couples, friends, and small private groups.
Luxury Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari
Travellers seeking additional comfort can request properties such as Chimpundu Lodge, Elephant Plains Lodge, and Four Gorillas Lodge, subject to availability and route suitability. This category is particularly appealing for honeymooners, anniversary celebrations, and travellers who appreciate upgraded accommodation after their wildlife activities.
Important: The final Bwindi lodge must be matched to your confirmed gorilla trekking sector. If your permit is issued for Buhoma or Ruhija, a different lodge and potentially a revised final transfer may be necessary.
Gorilla Trekking vs Chimpanzee Tracking in Uganda
One of the main attractions of a Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari is the opportunity to observe both great ape species in their natural rainforest habitats.
| Feature | Gorilla Trekking | Chimpanzee Tracking |
|---|---|---|
| Main destination | Bwindi Impenetrable National Park | Kibale National Park |
| Main species | Mountain gorillas | Eastern chimpanzees |
| Observation period | Up to 1 hour | Up to 1 hour |
| Minimum age | 15 years | Generally 12 years |
| Forest environment | Mountainous tropical rainforest | Tropical rainforest |
| Typical experience | Family-group observation | Tracking a mobile chimpanzee community |
| Permit required | Yes | Yes |
Mountain gorilla trekking generally focuses on observing a family within a forest environment, while chimpanzee tracking can be more dynamic because chimpanzees frequently move between feeding areas and through the canopy.
Both activities can involve substantial walking, and the actual duration depends on animal movements, weather, and terrain. Neither experience guarantees particular behaviours or photographic opportunities.
Best Time for a Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari in Uganda
The 6 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari can be arranged throughout the year, although June to September and December to February are generally popular months for combining rainforest trekking and traditional wildlife viewing.
During relatively dry periods, the forest trails in Kibale and Bwindi may be easier to navigate, while wildlife viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park can be rewarding. However, Uganda’s tropical rainforests receive rainfall throughout the year, making waterproof clothing essential in every season.
March to May and October to November are often wetter periods, offering beautiful green scenery and sometimes quieter accommodation conditions. Forest paths may be muddier, and road transfers can take longer in heavy rain.
For more seasonal information, explore our Best Time to Visit Uganda guide.
Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking Requirements
Both great ape experiences require visitors to follow conservation regulations and ranger instructions.
The minimum age for standard mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda is 15 years, while Kibale chimpanzee tracking generally has a minimum age of 12 years. Travellers should confirm age eligibility and current permit conditions when making a booking.
A reasonable level of fitness is recommended because both experiences may involve walking through uneven forest terrain. Waterproof hiking boots, long trousers, a lightweight rain jacket, sufficient drinking water, and suitable personal supplies can make the activities more comfortable.
Visitors with communicable illnesses may be restricted from joining primate activities to protect the health of the animals. Conservation rules also regulate observation distances, photography, and visitor behaviour.
For preparation advice, read our Gorilla Trekking Requirements and Gorilla Trekking Packing List.
Is This Safari Suitable for Families, Couples and Solo Travellers?
The Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari is particularly suitable for couples, solo adventurers, honeymooners, and small private groups seeking a varied six-day wildlife holiday.
Couples can enjoy beautiful forest accommodation and scenic wildlife experiences together, while photographers may appreciate the opportunity to encounter two great ape species and traditional savannah wildlife during one itinerary.
Families can also book the safari, but the gorilla trekking minimum age must be considered. Younger children cannot participate in mountain gorilla trekking, and alternative activities or suitable supervision arrangements would need to be agreed in advance.
Solo travellers can request a private quotation, although private transportation and single-room accommodation can affect the per-person price.
Starting in Entebbe and Ending in Kigali
The featured itinerary begins in Entebbe and finishes in Kigali because this route follows Uganda’s western national parks in a generally southward direction.
After visiting Kibale and Queen Elizabeth, you continue to Bwindi before crossing into Rwanda, avoiding a return drive from Bwindi across the length of Uganda to Entebbe.
Travellers must check the immigration requirements for Uganda and Rwanda, including passport validity, entry authorisation, and any relevant multiple-entry conditions.
If you prefer your Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari to start and finish in Entebbe, Boots in the Jungle Safaris can prepare an alternative itinerary. A domestic flight from the Bwindi region may be advisable to reduce the final travel time, subject to flight schedules and availability.
Safari Inclusions
- Five nights’ accommodation at the confirmed safari lodges.
- Meals according to the agreed safari meal plan.
- Private transport in a suitable 4×4 safari Land Cruiser.
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide.
- One standard mountain gorilla trekking permit per eligible traveller.
- One standard Kibale chimpanzee tracking permit per eligible traveller.
- Applicable park entrance fees for the included activities.
- Scheduled Queen Elizabeth game drives.
- Scheduled Kazinga Channel boat safari.
- Entebbe pickup and Kigali drop-off.
Safari Exclusions
- International flights.
- Visa fees.
- Personal travel insurance.
- Tips and gratuities.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari in Uganda
1. What is included in the 6 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari?
The 6 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari includes five nights’ accommodation, mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale, wildlife game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and a scheduled Kazinga Channel boat safari. The package also includes private transportation, a professional English-speaking driver-guide, relevant park fees, and the agreed meals. Boots in the Jungle Safaris provides a detailed quotation confirming your exact accommodation, activities, permits, and travel arrangements.
2. How much does a Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari in Uganda cost?
The cost of a Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari depends on your travel dates, accommodation category, number of participants, and transportation arrangements. For 2027, the standard foreign non-resident gorilla trekking permit costs US$800, while the Kibale chimpanzee tracking permit costs US$300. These are permit costs only, and Boots in the Jungle Safaris prepares a personalised quotation covering accommodation, private transport, meals, wildlife activities, and professional guiding.
3. Can I see both mountain gorillas and chimpanzees during six days?
Yes. The featured 6 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari includes one standard chimpanzee tracking experience in Kibale National Park and one standard mountain gorilla trek in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Both experiences are conducted under the guidance of authorised rangers. You can spend up to one hour observing each species once located, although wildlife behaviour, trekking duration, and viewing conditions cannot be guaranteed.
4. Are gorilla and chimpanzee permits included in the safari package?
Yes. The confirmed Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari package includes one standard Uganda gorilla trekking permit and one standard Kibale chimpanzee tracking permit for every eligible participant. These permits are essential for the authorised forest activities and must be booked for the correct travel dates. Because permit availability is limited, we recommend confirming both before finalising accommodation and other non-refundable arrangements.
5. Where does the 6 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari begin and end?
The featured itinerary begins in Entebbe and finishes in Kigali, Rwanda. This route allows you to visit Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, and Bwindi in a logical sequence without returning across western Uganda after your gorilla encounter. Travellers who prefer a return to Entebbe can request a customised itinerary, potentially including a domestic flight from Kisoro or Kihihi, depending on the confirmed trekking sector and airline availability.
6. Can I see lions, elephants, and hippos during this safari?
Yes. Queen Elizabeth National Park provides opportunities to encounter lions, elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kob, warthogs, and other savannah wildlife. The Kazinga Channel boat safari also offers opportunities to observe hippos, Nile crocodiles, waterbirds, and animals approaching the shoreline. Your safari includes wildlife-viewing activities in designated areas, although sightings of specific species cannot be guaranteed.
7. Is the Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari private?
Yes. Boots in the Jungle Safaris organises the road transportation, driver-guide, and accommodation arrangements privately for you and your travelling companions. This allows a personalised travel experience with suitable photography stops and flexibility during road transfers. However, standard gorilla and chimpanzee tracking activities are conducted in authorised ranger-led groups, which may include other visitors.
8. Can I choose luxury accommodation during the six-day safari?
Yes. The Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari can be arranged with luxury accommodation such as Chimpundu Lodge near Kibale, Elephant Plains Lodge near Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Four Gorillas Lodge in southern Bwindi. These properties offer upgraded comfort and attractive natural surroundings, subject to availability. Budget and mid-range accommodation are also available for travellers with different preferences.
9. How physically demanding are gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking?
Both experiences involve walking through natural rainforest environments, although the difficulty varies according to animal movements, weather, and terrain. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi can require several hours of hiking along steep or muddy trails, while chimpanzee tracking in Kibale may involve following active chimpanzees through forest vegetation. Visitors should bring suitable waterproof hiking boots, appropriate outdoor clothing, and sufficient drinking water. Porters may be available to assist during gorilla trekking.
10. What is the best time to book a Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari?
The Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari can be booked throughout the year, with June to September and December to February being popular periods for rainforest trekking and wildlife viewing. Travellers visiting during these months should request permits and accommodation well in advance because demand can be high. Wetter periods can still provide rewarding encounters, although forest trails may be more challenging.
11. Can the 6 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari be customised?
Yes. Boots in the Jungle Safaris can customise the itinerary according to your preferred travel dates, accommodation, wildlife interests, and transport requirements. You may request alternative lodges, domestic flight options, additional activities, or a different starting or ending location. Significant changes may require additional time to maintain a comfortable and practical route.
12. Can I book the Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari for 2027 or 2028?
Yes. Boots in the Jungle Safaris can prepare advance quotations for 2027, 2028, and other future departures. We recommend early planning because gorilla and chimpanzee tracking permits, suitable safari accommodation, and preferred travel dates may have limited availability. Your quotation will reflect the applicable permit tariff and confirmed services for your intended travel period.
Request a Safari Quote – 6 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari
Experience Uganda’s endangered mountain gorillas, fascinating wild chimpanzees, and exceptional savannah wildlife during one privately organised six-day adventure. Boots in the Jungle Safaris can prepare a personalised quotation covering your primate permits, comfortable safari lodges, private Land Cruiser transportation, professional guiding, and Queen Elizabeth National Park activities.
The 6 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari combines three of Uganda’s most rewarding national parks into a memorable journey featuring rainforest primates, classic savannah wildlife, and magnificent scenery.
Contact Boots in the Jungle Safaris today to request your personalised Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari quotation.