Primates Plains and Peaks
9 Days Uganda Wildlife Odyssey
From $3,700 per person
Discover the magic of Uganda on this incredible 9-day Primates & Wildlife Safari. From the lush Kibale Forest to the misty mountains of Bwindi and the serene waters of Lake Bunyonyi, this itinerary is an enchanting journey through some of Uganda’s top natural attractions. Witness playful chimpanzees, trek into the thick jungle for an encounter with the majestic mountain gorillas, and cruise along the wildlife-rich Kazinga Channel. Culminating in a relaxing stay by Lake Mburo, this adventure offers a perfect mix of primate tracking, game viewing, cultural encounters, and awe-inspiring scenery.
safari Pax
This Safari allows pax starting from 2 to a group of 18
Transport
All ground transfers are done in a 4*4 safari vehicle
Accomodation
All hotels and lodges are well curated to meet your expectations
Meals
This Safari allows both local and international cuisines
Payments
This Safari is paid only in Dollars through bank transfer or Mastercard
24/7 Support
Our team of experts will be around from the start of your safari till end
Do not hesitate giving us a call. We are an expert team and we are happy to talk to you.

- +256 778 495 443
- info@upcountrysafarisug.com
- Overview
- Safari Itinerary
- Inclusion/Exclusion
- Safari Map
Embark on a breathtaking 9-day expedition across Uganda’s most iconic wildlife destinations. This immersive Primates, Plains & Peaks Safari blends the thrill of jungle adventures with the serenity of savannah landscapes and cultural charm. From the tangled canopy of Kibale Forest, where chimpanzees swing through ancient fig trees, to the remote mist-cloaked heights of Bwindi, home of the majestic mountain gorilla – every day unveils a new facet of Uganda’s natural wonders. Encounter tree-climbing lions in Ishasha, cruise through hippo-lined waters in Queen Elizabeth, paddle a dugout canoe on Lake Bunyonyi, and wrap it all up with a wildlife-studded finale in Lake Mburo. Ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers alike, this safari is your window into the untamed heart of the Pearl of Africa.
SAFARI HIGHLIGHTS
Guided chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest National Park
Nature walk through Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary teeming with birds and primates
Scenic drive through crater lakes region
Sunset boat safari on Kazinga Channel with sightings of hippos, elephants, and crocodiles
Search for the elusive tree-climbing lions in Ishasha sector
Scenic walking safari to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Gorilla trekking experience with certified trackers
Cultural immersion with the Batwa community at Lake Bunyonyi
Canoe excursion across Uganda’s most beautiful lake
Game drive or walking safari in Lake Mburo National Park
Day 1: Arrival & Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
Your adventure begins! Meet your Upcountry Safaris driver-guide in Entebbe and embark on a scenic drive west to Kibale Forest, passing through tea plantations, rural villages, and stunning landscapes. Arrive in time for an evening sundowner overlooking the forest canopy.
Overnight: Chimpanzee Forest Lodge or Kyanginga Lodge
Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking & Bigodi Wetland Walk
After breakfast, join expert rangers for a thrilling trek into the forest to track our closest relatives – the chimpanzees. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Bigodi Wetland, known for its diversity of birdlife including the Great Blue Turaco and various monkey species.
Overnight: Chimpanzee Forest Lodge or Kyanginga Lodge
Day 3: Crater Lakes & Queen Elizabeth NP – Kazinga Boat Cruise
Travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park via the scenic crater lakes drive. After lunch, embark on an unforgettable afternoon boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, one of the best wildlife viewing experiences in Uganda.
Overnight: The Baboon Safari Resort
Day 4: Transfer to Ishasha – Sundowner Game Drive
Drive to the remote Ishasha sector, renowned for its unique population of tree-climbing lions. Enjoy a relaxing game drive through the open savannah, catching golden hour views of elephants, topis, and maybe even lions in fig trees.
Overnight: Enjojo Lodge or Ishasha Wilderness Camp
Day 5: Scenic Transfer to Bwindi (Nkuringo Sector) with Walking Safari
Experience a guided walking safari from Ishasha to Bwindi, traversing through local communities, rolling hills, and terraced farms. Arrive in the misty highlands of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Overnight: Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge, Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge or Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
Day 6: Gorilla Trekking – A Life-Changing Encounter
Today is the crown jewel of your safari. Venture into the dense forest to track a family of mountain gorillas. Once located, spend a magical hour observing their behaviors and interactions – a truly humbling and unforgettable experience.
Overnight: Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge, Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge or Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
Day 7: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi – Dugout Canoe & Batwa Cultural Tour
Descend to the idyllic Lake Bunyonyi, framed by rolling hills and dotted with 29 islands. Glide across the lake in a traditional dugout canoe and visit a local Batwa community to learn about their history and culture.
Overnight: Arcadia Cottages or Birdnest Lodge
Day 8: Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park – Optional Safari Walk
Depart Lake Bunyonyi and head to Lake Mburo NP, Uganda’s smallest savannah park. Upon arrival, choose between an evening game drive or a guided walking safari to spot zebra, impala, eland, and more in close proximity.
Overnight: Rwakobo Rock or Mihingo Lodge
Day 9: Return to Entebbe – Departure
After a relaxed breakfast, enjoy your final drive back to Entebbe. Optional stops at the Equator for photos and souvenirs. Arrive in time for your international departure flight.
Safari Inclusions:
Accommodation in mid-range/luxury lodges and camps as per itinerary
Meals: Full board throughout the safari
Park entry fees to all mentioned national parks
Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits
Boat cruises and guided nature walks
Transportation in 4x4 safari vehicle with professional driver-guide
Bottled drinking water during transfers
Exclusions:
International flights
Visa fees
Personal travel insurance
Tips and gratuities
Optional activities not mentioned in itinerary
FAQs About Gorilla Trekking in Uganda
Gorilla trekking in Uganda happens in two main parks:
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (most popular, with several sectors)
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Yes! A gorilla trekking permit is mandatory.
The cost is $800 for foreign non-residents, $700 for foreign residents, and UGX 300,000 for East African citizens (as of 2024).
Permits are issued by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).
You can get one through:
The Uganda Wildlife Authority directly
A licensed tour operator or travel agency (usually more convenient and comes as a package)
It depends! Gorilla trekking ranges from easy to strenuous, depending on the location of the gorilla family and terrain.
Some treks last 1–2 hours, others can go up to 6+ hours.
A moderate fitness level is recommended.
Essentials include:
Hiking boots (good grip)
Long pants & long-sleeved shirt (protection from thorns/insects)
Rain jacket (rain is common)
Gloves (for grabbing vegetation)
Insect repellent, sunscreen, hat, snacks, and water
Only those 15 years and older are allowed to trek.
Once a gorilla family is located, visitors are allowed one hour with them to observe and take photos.
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