8-Day Uganda Gorillas, Golden Monkeys & Hiking Adventure

• You'll be collected from the airport.
• Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.

Arrival in Entebbe (Shoebill Tracking)

Welcome to Uganda! After you breeze through immigration at Entebbe International Airport, our team will whisk you away to your hotel.

If you have an early arrival and wanderlust sets in, there's a plethora of exciting activities to kickstart your Uganda adventure (additional costs apply). Immerse yourself in the vibrant birdlife of the lush Botanical Gardens. Delve into the lively atmosphere of local markets, hunting for unique souvenirs. Learn about Uganda's diverse wildlife at the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre. Witness rescued chimpanzees thriving in their natural island habitat at the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary. Or, embark on an unforgettable shoebill tracking adventure in the papyrus marshes of Lake Victoria, searching for this elusive and prehistoric-looking bird.

For those who prefer a more relaxed start, feel free to shop, visit banks, or exchange currency at your leisure.

Main Destination:

Entebbe (City)

Accommodation:

Papyrus Guest House

• Mid-range guest house located in Entebbe (City)

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Meals & Drinks:

• Meals at own expense
• Drinks not included

Drive Entebbe to Kisoro

Embark on a scenic drive through the heart of western Uganda, covering approximately 500 kilometers over roughly 10 hours. Witness the landscape transform, from rolling hills to the breathtaking Kigezi Highlands, known as the "Switzerland of Africa." As you wind through lush valleys and climb towards Kisoro, imagine yourself following in the footsteps of renowned conservationists.

Arrive and check into the historic Travelers Rest Hotel. This iconic establishment, where legends like Dian Fossey and George Schaller once stayed, exudes a unique charm amidst the stunning backdrop of the Virunga Volcanoes.

Main Destination:

Kisoro (Town)

Accommodation:

Travellers Rest Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located in Kisoro (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Golden Monkey Trekking

Get ready for another exciting wildlife encounter! Your driver will take you to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, about an hour's drive from the hotel. Attend a pre-trek briefing, where rangers will share important information and safety guidelines.

Then, venture into the vibrant rainforest in search of the vibrant golden monkeys. Hike along forest trails, listening for their calls and rustling in the bamboo thickets. Experience the thrill of encountering these playful primates in their natural habitat and spend an unforgettable hour observing their fascinating behaviors.

Afterward, return to your hotel, heart-filled with memories of this unique experience.

Main Destination:

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Gorillas)

Best Time To Visit June to August and December to January

High Season June to September (Gorilla permits are scarce)

Best Weather Jun to Aug and Dec to Jan (Less rainfall)

Wildlife in Mgahinga Gorilla NP

GorillaCommon

ChimpanzeeNone

ElephantOccasional

BuffaloOccasional

LeopardRare

White RhinoNone

Show more

GiraffeNone

Black RhinoNone

LionNone

CheetahNone

ZebraNone

WildebeestNone

HippoNone

Accommodation:

Travellers Rest Hotel

• Mid-range hotel located 1-2hr drive from Mgahinga Gorilla NP (Gorillas)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Hiking Mount Sabinyo (3669m)

Fuel up with breakfast, adventure awaits! Your driver will take you to the park's visitor center for your Mount Sabinyo challenge. Choose between two thrilling options: reach the summit (3669m) and return on one exhilarating day, or explore a shorter, equally scenic route.

If you choose the summit trek, prepare for a roughly 8-hour journey, conquering steep ridges across 14 kilometers. Traverse diverse landscapes, from lush forests to rugged alpine zones. Push your limits on challenging inclines, aided by eucalyptus ladders leading to the peak. Exhilaration and breathtaking views will be your reward!

Main Destination:

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Gorillas)

Accommodation:

Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

• Mid-range lodge located just outside Bwindi NP (Gorillas)

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Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest

After breakfast, excitement builds as rangers explain procedures, assign you to a gorilla family, and provide armed escorts for your safety.

Gear up for adventure! Wear your waterproof boots and jacket, and pack – rainforest showers are always possible. Slip on gloves to protect from the lush undergrowth. The hike begins, following trails that wind through a dense, vibrant jungle. Anticipation grows with each step, knowing you could encounter the gorillas at any moment. It might take 30 minutes or several hours, but the thrill of discovery is worth the wait.

Finally, the moment arrives – you've found a gorilla family! For an awe-inspiring hour, observe them at a respectful distance, your mask in place. Watch them play, groom, and forage – a humbling reminder of our connection to the natural world. Remember, this experience is unpredictable; embrace the unknown and allow the gorillas to set the pace of your extraordinary encounter.

Main Destination:

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Gorillas)

Best Time To Visit June to August and December to February

High Season June to September (Gorilla permits are scarce)

Best Weather June to July and December to February (Less rainfall)

Wildlife in Bwindi NP

GorillaCommon

ChimpanzeeRare

ElephantRare

White RhinoNone

Black RhinoNone

LionNone

Show more

GiraffeNone

LeopardNone

CheetahNone

BuffaloNone

ZebraNone

WildebeestNone

HippoNone

Accommodation:

Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

• Mid-range lodge located just outside Bwindi NP (Gorillas)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Birdwatching & Batwa Trail Adventure

After a relaxed breakfast, embark on a birdwatcher's paradise – a guided expedition through the vibrant Nombe pocket forest. This isolated gem teems with rare bird species endemic to the Albertine region and promises thrilling discoveries for enthusiasts.

Return to the lodge for a delicious lunch, then delve into a different side of Bwindi's story on the Batwa Trail. Immerse yourself in the ancient ways of the forest people, learning how they lived in harmony with the mountains before the area became a national park. Your local Batwa guides will share their unique knowledge and heritage on this enriching 2-4 hour experience.

If time allows, extend your explorations! Wander through the community, perhaps visiting a traditional herbalist or the local blacksmith for a glimpse into their daily lives.

Main Destination:

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Gorillas)

Accommodation:

Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

• Mid-range lodge located just outside Bwindi NP (Gorillas)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Nature Walk Through Bwindi Forest

Trade gorilla trekking for a different kind of adventure! Today, you'll explore the legendary Bwindi Impenetrable Forest on foot, following an ancient trail beloved by our travelers. Leave the lodge and wind through vibrant villages before stepping into the misty depths of the jungle. Your knowledgeable local guide will reveal the forest's secrets, sharing tales of its rich history and biodiversity.

Hike 15 kilometers along the Kashasha River valley, disappearing into the lush greenery for 4-6 hours. The forest comes alive around you – towering trees, vibrant undergrowth, and sounds of hidden creatures. Perhaps you'll glimpse elusive chimpanzees, elephants, or even a forest buffalo.

Emerging near the DRC border, your driver will be waiting to return you to the lodge. This immersive walk through Bwindi's heart will leave you with a profound appreciation for its timeless beauty.

Main Destination:

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Gorillas)

Accommodation:

Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

• Mid-range lodge located just outside Bwindi NP (Gorillas)

Meals & Drinks:

• All meals included
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Drive From Bwindi to Entebbe

Bid farewell to the lush landscapes of Kisoro as you begin your drive back to Entebbe. The scenic route offers a chance to reflect on your incredible Ugandan adventure. Recall the thrill of encountering mountain gorillas, the warmth of local communities, and the awe-inspiring beauty of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

If time allows, consider making a stop along the way to stretch your legs, enjoy a local meal, or pick up some last-minute souvenirs. As you reach Entebbe, carry with you unforgettable memories of Uganda's wonders.

Main Destination:

No major destination visited

Accommodation:

No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:

• Breakfast & lunch (Dinner not included)
• Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

• Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
• You'll be dropped off at the airport.