9-Days Uganda Primate, Wildlife & Cultural Exploration

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your guide who will transfer you to Mabamba Wetland. This wetland is a birdwatcher’s paradise and one of the best places to spot the elusive shoebill stork. Glide quietly through papyrus-lined waterways on a traditional canoe, observing the vibrant birdlife including kingfishers, herons, and fish eagles. Your guide will explain the importance of wetland ecosystems and community conservation efforts helping protect this fragile habitat. Spend the night at a nearby eco-lodge surrounded by natural beauty, setting the tone for your eco-adventure.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic 5-hour drive to the verdant highlands of Fort Portal, known as the ‘Land of Waterfalls.’ Along the way, stop to visit the Amabere Caves, a cultural site rich with legends and striking limestone formations. Continue to Kibale Forest National Park, home to one of the largest concentrations of primates in Africa. Check into your eco-lodge nestled within the forest’s embrace, where sustainable practices like solar power and water conservation are emphasized.

Rise early for a once-in-a-lifetime chimpanzee trekking experience. Led by expert guides committed to responsible tourism, trek through dense forest trails to observe these fascinating primates in their natural environment. Enjoy watching their playful behaviors and social interactions for up to an hour. In the afternoon, visit the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-managed reserve that protects a wealth of bird species and rare plants. Join a guided walk through swamp and forest trails, learning how local communities balance livelihood with conservation. Return to your eco-lodge to relax and reflect.

Travel approximately 3 hours to Queen Elizabeth National Park, a biodiversity hotspot famous for its scenic crater lakes and sprawling savannah. En route, stop at a local community project promoting sustainable farming and traditional crafts, gaining insight into how eco-tourism benefits local livelihoods. Arrive at your eco-friendly lodge inside or near the park, where efforts to minimize environmental impact are practiced. If time permits, enjoy an optional evening game drive to spot nocturnal wildlife or simply unwind surrounded by nature.

Start the day with an early morning game drive, exploring the park’s rich habitats. Look out for large herds of elephants, lions lounging in the shade, buffalo, and various antelope species grazing. Bird enthusiasts will delight in spotting species like the African fish eagle and shoebill. In the afternoon, embark on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, one of Africa’s most wildlife-dense waterways. Witness pods of hippos lazing in the water, crocodiles basking on the banks, and a kaleidoscope of bird species. Your guide will share insights into the park’s delicate ecosystem and ongoing conservation initiatives.

After breakfast, drive 3 to 4 hours to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the last refuges of the endangered mountain gorilla. The drive takes you through stunning landscapes of rolling hills and terraced farms. Check into your eco-lodge situated on the forest edge, offering rustic comfort and panoramic views. Prepare for the highlight of your trip: gorilla trekking.

Experience the unforgettable gorilla trekking expedition. After a morning briefing, trek through dense forest trails to find a family of mountain gorillas. Spend up to one hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat — a humbling and emotional experience. Return to your lodge for well-deserved rest, perhaps enjoying some local cuisine or reflecting on the day with fellow travelers.

Depart Bwindi and drive 2 hours to Lake Bunyonyi, known as the ‘Place of Many Little Birds.’ This serene freshwater lake, dotted with islands, offers breathtaking scenery and a tranquil atmosphere. Spend the afternoon canoeing on the calm waters, spotting birdlife and taking in spectacular views of the surrounding hills. Overnight at a lakeside eco-lodge that promotes environmental sustainability and supports local communities.

After breakfast, embark on your return journey to Entebbe or Kampala, approximately a 7-8 hour drive. Along the way, stop for refreshments and stretch your legs. Reflect on your eco-adventure through Uganda’s rich wildlife and vibrant communities. Arrive in time for your flight or overnight stay.