Overview
5 Days Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee trekking from Kigali, offers you a great opportunity to explore the forest of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known for its rich biodiversity and dense, mist-covered forests, Bwindi is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas and then to Kibale forest national park also known as the primate capital of the world, famous destination for chimpanzee trekking. Then the last night in lake Bunyonyi one of the best safari destinations to unwind after along day trek.
Tour Highlights
- Day 1: pick up from Kigali and transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
- Day 2: Gorilla trekking and afternoon Batwa community tour
- Day 3: Transfer to Kibale forest National Park
- Day 4: Chimpanzee trekking and afternoon transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
- Day 5: Departure to Kigali
Day to Day Detailed Itinerary
Your journey begins in Kigali, Rwanda's capital city, where you'll be warmly welcomed by your tour guide. Kigali, a city renowned for its cleanliness and vibrant culture, offers a perfect start to your adventure. After a brief introduction and a cup of Rwandan coffee, you will embark on a scenic drive towards Uganda. As you leave the city behind, the landscape transforms into rolling hills and lush greenery, a prelude to the natural wonders that await.
Crossing the border into Uganda, you will make your way to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Arriving at your lodge in the late afternoon, you will have time to settle in and relax. In the evening, a briefing by the park rangers will prepare you for the gorilla trekking experience. Dinner will be served, featuring local and international cuisine, allowing you to enjoy a restful night surrounded by the sounds of the forest.
Accommodation options: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla lodge (Luxury), Ichumbi Gorilla lodge / Gorilla mist camp (Mid-range), Trekkers Tavern cottages/ Rushaga Gorilla Haven (Budget).
Meal plan: Lunch and dinner
The second day marks the highlight of your safari: gorilla trekking. After an early breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters for a briefing on the dos and don'ts of gorilla trekking. With excitement building, you'll be assigned a gorilla family and a group of fellow trekkers, then set off into the forest with an experienced guide and armed ranger.
The trek can range from a few hours to a full day, depending on the location of the gorilla family. As you navigate through the dense vegetation, the anticipation grows. Finally, the moment arrives when you come face to face with these majestic creatures. Observing a gorilla family in their natural habitat is a profound experience, as you watch them feed, play, and interact. The hour spent with the gorillas is unforgettable, providing numerous photo opportunities and lasting memories.
After the trek, you will return to the lodge for lunch and a well-deserved rest. The afternoon can be spent exploring the local community, visiting a Batwa pygmy village, or simply relaxing at the lodge. Dinner and overnight stay.
Accommodation options: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla lodge (Luxury), Ichumbi Gorilla lodge / Gorilla mist camp (Mid-range), Trekkers Tavern cottages/ Rushaga Gorilla Haven (Budget).
Meal plan: Lunch and dinner
On the third day, you will enjoy a leisurely breakfast before embarking on a journey to Kibale National Park, known as the primate capital of the world. The drive offers breathtaking views of the Ugandan countryside, passing through tea plantations, crater lakes, and rural villages. You will arrive at Kibale in the afternoon and check into your lodge.
Kibale National Park boasts one of the highest concentrations of primates in Africa, including the endangered chimpanzees. The park’s lush tropical forest is also home to a variety of other wildlife and bird species. You will spend the rest of the evening relaxing at the lodge. Dinner and overnight stay.
Accommodation options: Primate lodge (Luxury), Chimpanzee Forest Guest house (Mid-range), Turaco Tree tops(budget).
Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
The fourth day is dedicated to chimpanzee trekking. Following an early breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters for a briefing. Kibale’s chimpanzees are habituated, meaning they are accustomed to human presence, making it possible to observe their daily activities up close. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you will trek through the forest, listening for the distinctive calls of the chimps.
Upon locating a chimpanzee group, you will spend an hour watching these fascinating primates. Their playful behavior, complex social interactions, and striking similarities to humans make for an enthralling experience. In addition to chimpanzees, you may encounter other primates such as colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and grey-cheeked mangabeys.
After the trek, you will return to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, you will for Bigodi Nature walk
The afternoon transfer to lake Bunyonyi for relaxation and best environment to have night rest after along day trek. Bunyonyi is a deepest lake in Uganda and a popular safari destination for clients visiting Bwindi.
Accommodation options: Bird nest Bunyonyi (Luxury)/ Bunyonyi Rock Resort (Mid-range)/ Crater Bay Cottages, Bunyonyi overland Resort (Budget).
Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Your final day begins with breakfast at the lodge, followed by a return journey to Kigali. As you travel back through the picturesque landscapes, you will have time to reflect on the remarkable experiences of the past five days. Upon arrival in Kigali, you might have the opportunity for a short city tour, visiting the Kigali Genocide Memorial and other cultural sites, time permitting.
Your tour concludes with a transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight. As you bid farewell to East Africa, you leave with unforgettable memories of gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, enriched by the diverse beauty and cultural heritage of Uganda and Rwanda. This five-day adventure offers a profound connection with nature and wildlife, leaving you with a deep appreciation for the conservation efforts that protect these magnificent creatures.
Meal plan: Breakfast and lunch
End of Tour
Tour Includes & Excludes
The Tour Includes
- Package includes:
- Accommodation and meals
- Transportation in 4x4 safari vehicle
- Services of professional safari guide
- Gorilla trekking permit
- Chimpanzee trekking permit
- All activities included in the itinerary
The Tour Excludes
- Visas
- Travel insurance
- Personal Tickets
- All items of personal nature including laundry, alcoholic and soft drinks, Tips, emails among others.