Uganda's Primate Kingdom Safari - 7 Days

Arrival & Refresh:

Your adventure begins the moment you arrive at Entebbe International Airport. Upon arrival, your Elior Safaris driver-guide will warmly welcome you and escort you to your hotel or lodge to refresh and settle in, depending on your arrival time.

Flexible Dining Options:

• If you arrive in the morning, we can take you for a hearty breakfast or mid-morning snack at a local café.

• Arriving around midday? Enjoy a fresh, delicious lunch featuring Ugandan specialties.

• Late arrivals can dine with a relaxed dinner, easing into the day.

Lake Victoria & Entebbe Tour (If Early Arrival):

If time allows, experience the serenity of Lake Victoria - stroll along its sandy beaches, watch fishermen at work, or simply soak in the calm waters.

• Savor freshly grilled fish at a lakeside restaurant, giving your taste buds a true Ugandan welcome.

• Optional short walk through Entebbe town or botanical gardens to stretch your legs and catch the first glimpses of Ugandan life.

Evening Relaxation:

Return to your lodge to rest and prepare for tomorrow's adventure, letting the soft African breeze and tranquil surroundings help you unwind.

Tonight, you start feeling the pulse of Uganda, ready for a week of wildlife, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.

Vibe: Today is about ease, flexibility, and gentle immersion. Whether you arrive early or late, you get to refresh, taste Uganda, and feel the beauty of Lake Victoria, setting the perfect tone for the journey ahead - Arise & Shine!

Early Morning – Rise & Breakfast:

Wake up early to the sounds of Entebbe morning life. Enjoy a fresh breakfast at your hotel, fueling up for a day of adventure and scenic travel.

Morning – Journey Begins:

Depart for Kibale National Park, the lush forest known as the home of chimpanzees and over 12 other primate species.

• The drive is an adventure in itself - rolling hills, verdant countryside, small villages, and roadside markets full of vibrant colors and friendly faces.

• Along the way, take photo stops at scenic viewpoints or bubbling streams to capture the natural beauty of Uganda.

Midday – Lunch Break & Refresh:

Pause en route for a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Enjoy traditional Ugandan dishes while soaking in the surrounding countryside.

• Stretch your legs, breathe the fresh air, and savor the peaceful rural scenery.

Afternoon – Arrival & Lodge Check-in:

Arrive at your lodge near Kibale Forest, where you'll be welcomed by the tranquil sounds of nature.

• Check in, refresh, and take a moment to relax. Sip a cup of tea or coffee and let the anticipation build for tomorrow's chimpanzee trekking adventure.

Evening – Dinner & Wildlife Vibes:

Enjoy a delicious dinner at the lodge, often featuring local specialties and fresh ingredients.

As night falls, listen to the forest's nocturnal symphony - birds, insects, and distant calls of wildlife - reminding you that you are on the edge of a primate paradise.

Vibe: Today is about enjoying the journey as much as the destination. The road trip immerses you in Uganda's landscapes and villages, giving a sense of life beyond the cities. The evening at the lodge sets the stage for chimpanzee trekking tomorrow, building excitement for the first close encounter with our primate cousins.

Early Morning – Sunrise in the Forest:

Rise early to the sounds of the forest waking up - birds calling, leaves rustling, and distant monkey chatter.

• Step outside your lodge to watch the sunrise over Kibale National Park, casting golden light over the dense rainforest.

• This is nature's gentle wake-up call, a perfect prelude to your primate adventure.

Introduction to Kibale National Park:

Kibale is often called the "Primate Capital of the World", home to over 13 species of primates, including chimpanzees, red-tailed monkeys, L'Hoest's monkeys, and the elusive black-and-white colobus.

• Your expert guide will give an introduction about the park's ecosystem, wildlife, and the unique behaviors of chimpanzees, helping you appreciate every sound, rustle, and movement during your trek.

Morning – Chimpanzee Trekking:

After a quick breakfast at the lodge or packed snack, set out into the forest trails.

• Trek through lush greenery, following your guide's expertise to track playful chimpanzees swinging through the trees.

• Spot other primates along the way, hear birdsong, and enjoy the forest's intoxicating scents and sounds.

• Your guide will help you observe, photograph, and quietly marvel at the chimpanzees' behavior - feeding, grooming, and communicating - creating a connection with the wild that you'll never forget.

Midday – Return & Relaxation:

Trekking usually lasts 2–4 hours, depending on how deep the chimpanzees are in the forest.

• Return to the lodge for lunch and a chance to rest, recounting your morning encounters and sharing photos.

Afternoon – Nature Walk / Photography:

If energy allows, take an afternoon walk through the lodge surroundings or a guided Bigodi Wetland walk, spotting birds, butterflies, and smaller wildlife.

• Enjoy the tranquil forest environment, listening to the echoes of your morning adventure.

Evening – Dinner & Reflection:

Gather for a delicious dinner at the lodge, reflecting on your first full day of primate encounters.

As night falls, hear the forest's nocturnal life stirring - a gentle reminder of the vibrant ecosystem surrounding you.

Vibe: Today is about immersion, wonder, and discovery. From watching the sunrise over Kibale to tracking playful chimpanzees, every moment deepens your connection with the forest. By the end of the day, you'll feel a true part of this primates' kingdom, ready for tomorrow's journey deeper into Uganda's wild heart - Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Early Morning – Sunrise & Breakfast:

Wake up early to the gentle sounds of the forest and birdsong, and step outside to witness the sunrise over Kibale's lush landscape. The forest glows in soft gold and green hues, a peaceful and inspiring start to the day.

• Enjoy a wholesome breakfast at the lodge, fueling up for the adventure ahead - today's journey takes you deeper into Uganda's wilderness, toward the legendary Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Morning – Scenic Road Trip Begins:

Depart on a scenic road trip to Bwindi. The drive is an adventure in itself: rolling hills, patchwork farmland, dense forests, and charming villages that seem untouched by time.

• Along the way, take snack breaks and stretch your legs, breathing in the fresh air and snapping photos of Uganda's breathtaking landscapes.

Midday – Lunch Stop:

Pause for lunch at a local roadside restaurant or lodge, enjoying fresh Ugandan cuisine and the warm hospitality of the locals.

• This is the perfect time to chat with your guide, learn more about the region, and hear stories of Bwindi's gorillas and forest communities.

Afternoon – Arrival at Bwindi Lodge:

Continue the journey into the misty hills surrounding Bwindi, where the air is crisp and the scenery is spectacular.

• Arrive at your lodge near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and check in. Take time to refresh, relax, and absorb the forest's tranquil beauty.

Evening – Dinner & Preparation:

Enjoy a delicious dinner at the lodge, featuring locally sourced ingredients.

Tonight, reflect on the day's scenic journey and prepare mentally for tomorrow's gorilla trekking adventure, a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with Uganda's gentle giants.

Vibe: Today is about the journey as much as the destination - rolling hills, misty forests, and scenic villages. Every mile brings you closer to the heart of the gorillas' kingdom, building excitement and anticipation. By evening, you'll feel a deep connection with Uganda's wild landscapes, ready for the highlight of your safari tomorrow - meeting the mountain gorillas.

Early Morning – Sunrise & Breakfast:

Wake up before dawn to the misty hills of Bwindi. Step outside to witness the sunrise painting the forest in golden light, with morning mist curling between ancient trees - a magical start to the day.

• Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your lodge, fueling up for the adventure ahead. Your guide provides a briefing on gorilla trekking, including safety rules and tips for observing the gorillas respectfully.

Morning – Gorilla Trekking Adventure:

Begin your guided trek into Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, walking through lush rainforest, over roots, and across small streams.

• Spot other wildlife along the way, from colorful birds to playful monkeys.

• Finally, arrive at the gorilla family and spend up to one hour observing them up close - watching silverbacks, mothers with infants, and the playful interactions of the group.

• Celebrate this encounter with a gorilla trekking certificate, marking a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Afternoon – Lunch, Batwa Cultural Tour & Nature Walk:

After returning from your gorilla trek, enjoy a hearty lunch at the lodge, savoring local dishes while reflecting on your morning adventure.

• Take some time to rest and refresh, letting the forest's calm ambiance rejuvenate you for the afternoon experience.

• Later, embark on the Batwa cultural tour. Meet the indigenous forest people, learn their traditional skills, music, and dances, and understand their deep connection to the forest.

• Continue with a nature walk in the surrounding forest or lodge trails, spotting birds, butterflies, and the smaller primates that inhabit Bwindi. This leisurely walk lets you soak in the forest ambiance, reflect on the gorilla encounter, and deepen your connection with nature.

Evening – Dinner & Reflection:

Return to your lodge for a delicious dinner, sharing stories of the gorillas and the Batwa experience.

Listen to the forest's nocturnal symphony, feeling completely immersed in the magic of Bwindi.

Vibe: Today blends thrill and cultural connection - from the awe of gorilla trekking in the morning to the soulful immersion in Batwa traditions and the serene forest nature walk in the afternoon. Every moment connects you to Uganda's wild heart, leaving memories to cherish forever - truly the Arise & Shine experience.

Wake up early to catch the beautiful sunrise over Bwindi as you enjoy a hearty breakfast. Afterward, depart for a scenic road trip to Lake Bunyonyi, one of Africa's most stunning and deepest lakes - famous for its rolling hills, lush islands, and abundant birdlife.

Upon arrival, check in at your lakeside lodge and relax as you enjoy lunch with spectacular views.

In the afternoon, choose how you want to explore:

Cultural & Nature Experience:

• Visit a nearby Bakiga community for an immersive cultural tour

• Enjoy a guided hill hike with panoramic views of the lake

• Learn about local traditions, dances, and daily life

Sunset Canoe Adventure:

• Glide across the calm lake on a traditional dugout canoe

• Visit the nearby historical islands

• Watch the sunset paint the lake golden as you float peacefully

Evening at leisure - enjoy dinner and unwind by the lakeside. The cool breeze and serene atmosphere make Lake Bunyonyi a perfect place to relax and recharge before the next adventure.

Wake up early to enjoy one last peaceful sunrise over Lake Bunyonyi followed by a delicious breakfast at the lodge. After checking out, begin your scenic road trip back to Kampala.

Along the way, enjoy exciting stops:

• Mbarara - delicious lunch break

• Lukaya - taste Uganda's famous roadside barbecue

• Equator Monument - fun photo stop and souvenir shopping opportunity

Continue the journey as you enjoy the beautiful countryside views and arrive in Kampala later in the day. You'll be dropped off at your hotel to relax and prepare for your flight home or onward adventure.