9-Day Classic Uganda Safari Itinerary: Chimps, Wildlife, and Gorillas
Explore Uganda’s iconic parks on a 9-day safari packed with primate encounters and classic savanna wildlife.
Overview
Experience three of Uganda’s most rewarding wildlife regions on one carefully planned journey. Begin with chimpanzee trekking in the forests of Kibale, continue into Queen Elizabeth National Park for classic savannah game drives and a Kazinga Channel boat cruise, then finish in Bwindi with the unforgettable experience of gorilla trekking.
From primates and big wildlife to crater landscapes, rainforest and the shores of Lake Victoria, this journey gives you a varied introduction to Uganda’s landscapes and wildlife.
Trip at a glance 9 days
Route: Bwindi National Park → Kibale National Park → Queen Elizabeth NP
- Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe | Welcome to Uganda
- Day 2: Entebbe to Kibale National Park | Scenic Journey into the Primate Region
- Day 3: Kibale Forest | Chimpanzee Trekking & Bigodi Wetland
- Day 4: Kibale to Queen Elizabeth National Park | Crater Landscapes & Game Drive
- Day 5: Queen Elizabeth National Park | Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Cruise
- Day 6: Queen Elizabeth to Bwindi | Scenic Journey Through Ishasha
- Day 7: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest | Gorilla Trekking
- Day 8: Bwindi to Entebbe | Journey Back to Lake Victoria
- Day 9: Entebbe | Departure
Full Itinerary
Arrival in Entebbe | Welcome to Uganda
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport, where your safari guide will meet you and introduce you to Uganda. Depending on your arrival time, settle into your hotel or explore some of Entebbe’s nearby attractions. You could visit the Botanical Gardens or enjoy a relaxing Lake Victoria boat ride before your safari briefing.
Entebbe to Kibale National Park | Scenic Journey into the Primate Region
After breakfast, begin the journey west towards Kibale National Park. The drive takes you through Uganda’s countryside, with rolling hills, tea plantations and rural communities along the way. Arrive in Kibale in the afternoon and settle into your lodge, with the rest of the day to relax before tomorrow’s chimpanzee trek.
Kibale Forest | Chimpanzee Trekking & Bigodi Wetland
Head into Kibale Forest for a morning chimpanzee trek, following your guide through the forest in search of a habituated chimpanzee family. Once located, spend time observing their behaviour and interactions. Later, visit Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, known for its birdlife and other primates.
Kibale to Queen Elizabeth National Park | Crater Landscapes & Game Drive
Travel from Kibale to Queen Elizabeth National Park through Uganda’s scenic crater lake region. Arrive in time for an afternoon game drive across the Kasenyi plains, where you may encounter lions, elephants, buffaloes and antelope. Settle into your lodge after the drive and enjoy the evening.
Queen Elizabeth National Park | Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Cruise
Start with an early morning game drive through Queen Elizabeth National Park, looking for wildlife across the Kasenyi plains. Later, take to the water on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, where hippos, crocodiles and abundant birdlife gather along the banks.
Queen Elizabeth to Bwindi | Scenic Journey Through Ishasha
Leave Queen Elizabeth National Park and travel towards Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The route passes through the Ishasha sector, known for its tree-climbing lions, before continuing into the greener landscapes around Bwindi. Arrive in the afternoon, settle into your lodge and prepare for the following day’s gorilla trek.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest | Gorilla Trekking
Today is the defining experience of the journey: gorilla trekking in Bwindi. After an early breakfast and trek briefing, enter the forest with your guide in search of a habituated gorilla family. The trek can take several hours depending on their location, followed by time observing the gorillas in their natural forest habitat. A community walk with the Batwa people is also available in the afternoon.
Bwindi to Entebbe | Journey Back to Lake Victoria
After breakfast, begin the long journey back to Entebbe. Along the way, stop at the equator for photographs and an opportunity to browse locally made crafts and souvenirs. Arrive in Entebbe in the evening and settle into your hotel for your final night in Uganda.
Entebbe | Departure
Enjoy your final morning in Uganda according to your flight schedule. You may have time for a lakeside breakfast or a visit to the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre before your guide transfers you to Entebbe International Airport for your departure.
What's Included
Included & not included 5 included · 8 not included
Included
- Accommodation in double occupancy, with an upgrade option
- Private customized safari vehicle for local transportation
- Experienced local tour manager
- 8 breakfasts, 8 lunches and 8 dinners
- All activities described in the itinerary
Not Included
- International flights
- Uganda visa
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Alcoholic and premium beverages
- Tips and gratuities
- Activities not specifically listed as included
- Accommodation before or after the safari
Destinations
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this itinerary be customised?
Yes, every trip can be tailored to your dates, budget and interests.
How do I book, and what deposit is needed?
Reserve a departure on the website or send us an inquiry for a customized engagment and payment link.
Do I need a visa and vaccinations?
Most visitors need an East African Tourist Visa and a yellow fever certificate.
