8 Days Uganda Primates and Wildlife Safari
Safari Overview:
Welcome to the ultimate wildlife circuit in the Pearl of Africa. Our 8 Days Uganda Primates and Wildlife Safari is the most sought-after journey, offering a perfect blend of high-energy primate encounters with the classic Savannah game viewing experience. This is not just a holiday; it’s an immersive, life-changing expedition that takes you deep into the jungles of the Albertine Rift Valley, home to half of the world’s remaining Mountain Gorillas and a thriving population of Chimpanzees. Over eight unforgettable days, you will tick off Uganda’s “Big Three” experiences: the awe-inspiring Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi, the exhilarating Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale, and the unique sighting of Tree-Climbing Lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park (QENP). This comprehensive package is meticulously designed to maximize your time, ensure seamless logistics, and deliver exceptional value, making it the best 8-day Uganda safari price currently available.
Quick Tip: Gorilla permits are the limiting factor! Securing your spot with the critically endangered Mountain Gorillas requires booking your permits well in advance. Don’t miss out on this bucket-list adventure.
Safari Highlights:
This carefully crafted Uganda gorilla and chimpanzee trekking safari connects the three most iconic parks of Western Uganda with efficiency and luxury (or budget, depending on your choice). Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: The unforgettable moment of standing just a few meters from a magnificent Mountain Gorilla silverback. Kibale Forest National Park: The world’s primate capital, offering the highest chance of encountering wild chimpanzees and up to 12 other primate species. Queen Elizabeth National Park (QENP): The Ishasha sector, home to the rare Tree-Climbing Lions, and the spectacular Kazinga Channel boat cruise, which offers one of the densest concentrations of hippos and birds in the world. Seamless Logistics: Our 4×4 safari vehicles are custom-fitted for comfort and game viewing, managed by expert local guides who ensure swift and safe travel between destinations. All-Inclusive Pricing: We offer complete transparency. Our packages clearly break down the cost of all required, non-refundable permits, ensuring you have no hidden costs on arrival.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe & Scenic Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
Your journey begins at Entebbe International Airport (EBB). Upon arrival, you will be met by your dedicated Whispers Safaris guide. The drive immediately takes you west through captivating Ugandan villages and lush tea plantations. The Journey: The drive from Kampala/Entebbe to the Kibale area takes approximately 6 to 7 hours. We follow the northern route via Mubende and Fort Portal. This is a journey through Uganda’s heartland, offering picturesque views and a glimpse into daily life. Fort Portal: You will pass through the charming, pristine city of Fort Portal, the tourism capital of Uganda, before heading to your accommodation near Kibale. Activity: Settle into your lodge, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the exhilarating primate trek tomorrow.
Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale & Bigodi Swamp Walk
Today is dedicated to the energetic and vocal chimpanzees of Kibale National Park, the world’s highest density of primates. Morning: Chimpanzee Trekking. After an early breakfast, you will head to the Kanyanchu Visitor Centre for a briefing. The trek often lasts between 2 to 4 hours, and once the chimpanzee community is located, you are permitted one incredible hour observing them feeding, grooming, and playing high up in the forest canopy
Afternoon: Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary Walk. This guided walk through the community-run swamp, adjacent to the park, is perfect for bird watchers and nature lovers. It’s an excellent chance to spot more primates like the Red Colobus Monkey, Grey-Cheeked Mangabey, and the beautiful L’Hoest’s Monkey. Overnight: Kibale Area.
Day 3: Journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park (Ishasha Sector) & Tree-Climbing Lions Game Drive
A shorter travel day allows for an immediate safari experience in the famous southern sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. The Journey: The drive from Kibale to QENP’s Ishasha sector takes approximately 2 to 3 hours. Afternoon: Ishasha Game Drive. The Ishasha sector is famed for a unique phenomenon, its Tree-Climbing Lions. Unlike most lion populations, the cats here have adapted to resting high up in the branches of the
gigantic fig and acacia trees, believed to be an adaptation to escape biting tsetse flies or the intense midday heat. Your expert guide will spend the afternoon tracking these iconic cats. Overnight: Ishasha/Southern QENP.
Day 4: Transfer to QENP Mweya Sector & Kazinga Channel Boat Safari
We head north to the Mweya Peninsula, the heart of Queen Elizabeth National Park, for one of Africa’s premier game-viewing boat safaris. The Journey: Drive from Ishasha to the Mweya Peninsula (QENP North), approximately 3 hours. Morning Game Drive: Enjoy an early game drive in Ishasha for a final chance to spot the tree-climbing lions and other resident wildlife, including the Uganda Kob, Topi, and herds of Buffalo. Afternoon: Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
This 2-hour launch trip on the channel that connects Lake George and Lake Edward is the undisputed highlight of QENP. You will witness elephants, buffalo, waterbuck, and monitor lizards on the banks, with the world’s highest concentration of hippos basking in the water and over 600 species of birds soaring above. Overnight: Mweya/Central QENP.
Day 5: QENP Game Drive & Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
The day begins with a classic Savannah game drive before the transition into the misty highlands of Bwindi. Morning: Kasenyi Plains Game Drive. The Kasenyi Sector is the main mating ground for the Uganda Kob, which attracts
predators. This is your best chance to spot the resident lion prides, leopards, and large elephant herds. The Journey: Transfer to Bwindi. The drive from QENP to the Buhoma sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park takes approximately 5 to 6 hours. This is a spectacular, though sometimes bumpy, drive ascending into the mountain rainforest. Overnight: Bwindi (Buhoma/Ruhija/Rushaga Sector, depending on permit availability).
Day 6: The Ultimate Experience: Mountain Gorilla Trekking
The most challenging, yet most rewarding day of your safari. Today, you will come face-to-face with the magnificent Mountain Gorillas.
Activity: Mountain Gorilla Trekking. After a briefing on trekking guidelines, you will be assigned a gorilla family. Accompanied by experienced UWA guides and armed rangers, you will trek through dense forest, which can last anywhere from 1 to 8 hours. Once located, you are allowed one powerful, unforgettable hour with the gorillas. Witnessing a silverback, a mother nursing her infant, or playful juveniles is a moment of profound connection that defines the term “bucket list.” Afternoon: Relax at the lodge or take a guided community walk to meet the local Batwa (Pygmy) people, learning about their ancient forest culture (optional). Overnight: Bwindi Area.
Day 7: Relaxed Morning & Scenic Drive to Lake Mburo National Park
We bid farewell to the primates and head east, breaking the journey with a stay at a hidden gem Lake Mburo National Park. The Journey: Drive from Bwindi to Lake Mburo National Park, approximately 5 to 6 hours. Afternoon: Evening Game Drive/Optional Horseback Safari
Lake Mburo is Uganda’s smallest Savannah park and the only one where you can see Impala and Eland, alongside Burchell’s Zebra. As the sun sets, embark on an evening game drive or, uniquely, an optional horseback safari (extra cost) to get up close with the wildlife. Overnight: Lake Mburo Area.
Day 8: Morning Game Activity & Transfer Back to Entebbe/Kampala
Your last day concludes the incredible journey with a final game drive or a boat trip before the journey home. Morning Activity: Choose either a final game drive or a refreshing boat trip on Lake Mburo, known for its Crocodiles, Hippos, and rich birdlife.The Journey: Drive from Lake Mburo to Entebbe/Kampala (EBB), approximately 4 to 5
hours. Stopover: We include a compulsory stop at the Equator Line crossing point for lunch, souvenir shopping, and iconic photo opportunities, marking your completion of the Uganda circuit.Activity: Drop-off at Entebbe International Airport (EBB) for your scheduled departure flight.
Uganda Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permit Costs
Understanding the true cost of your safari starts with the non-negotiable permit fees. The permits are the most important component of your Uganda safari price, 8 days, as they fund the critical conservation work required to protect these species
| Permit Type | Location | Cost per Person (Foreign Non-Resident, 2026) | What it Includes |
| Gorilla Trekking Permit | Bwindi Impenetrable NP | $800 USD | 1 hour with a gorilla family, park entrance, services of a guide and armed ranger security. |
| Chimpanzee Trekking Permit | Kibale Forest NP | $250 USD | 1 hour with a chimpanzee community, park entrance, and guide services. |
| Total Permit Cost | $1,050 USD | This fee is included in our all-inclusive price. |
Crucial Tip: These permits are non-refundable and are in extremely high demand. We strongly recommend booking and paying for your permits at least 6 months in advance to guarantee your trekking dates. As a registered tour operator, we handle the entire process, minimizing your risk and administrative hassle.
Accommodation and Pricing Tiers
We offer three distinct pricing tiers for our 8 Days Uganda Primates and Wildlife Safari to accommodate every budget, ensuring the quality of the guiding and the integrity of the itinerary remain exceptional across all levels
| Tier | Accommodation Style | Example Lodges/Type | Safari Vehicle Standard |
| Budget | Clean, secure rooms/tents within or just outside the park boundary. Shared facilities (sometimes). | Basic guest houses, permanent dome tents. | Standard 4×4 Safari Van (Pop-up roof) |
| Mid-Range | Comfortable, en-suite cottages or permanent tented camps. High standards of service and excellent food. | Upmarket safari lodges, tented camps with private facilities. | Customised 4×4 Land Cruiser (Pop-up roof) |
| Luxury | Exclusive, spacious suites/villas in premium locations with stunning views. Gourmet dining, private decks, and personalized service. | 5-star lodges, exclusive tented camps, premium amenities. | Customised 4×4 Land Cruiser (Pop-up roof, Wi-Fi, Mini-fridge) |
Want to know the exact price for your dates? Our free consultation allows us to calculate the specific price based on your chosen accommodation tier and the number of travelers.
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FAQ
Q: What is the age limit for Gorilla and Chimpanzee trekking?
A: The minimum age requirement for both Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi and Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale is 15 years old. This is strictly enforced by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) for safety and conservation purposes.
Q: When is the best time to visit Uganda for gorillas and chimps?
A: The best time is during the two dry seasons: June to August and December to February. During these periods, trails are drier, and hiking is generally easier. However, Uganda is a year-round destination; the wet seasons (March to May and September to November) offer lush scenery and often lower accommodation rates, making it ideal for budget travelers.
Q: Are flights included in the safari package price?
A: International flights to and from Entebbe International Airport (EBB) are excluded. The package price covers all ground transportation (4×4 safari vehicle), park fees, activities as specified, accommodation, and meals, as well as the essential Gorilla and Chimpanzee permits.
Q: Can I do the Chimpanzee Habituation Experience (CHEX) instead of trekking?
A: Yes, you can! The Chimpanzee Habituation Experience(CHEX) allows you to spend up to 4 hours with the chimpanzees, compared to the 1 hour during standard trekking. The permit cost for CHEX is $300 USD (Foreign Non-Resident, 2025 to 2026). We can easily substitute the standard trekking for CHEX, though this requires an adjusted itinerary and package price.
Gear & Packing List
Q: What to wear for gorilla trekking?
A: Your packing list should prioritize comfort, protection, and layering for the unpredictable rainforest weather. Essentials include: Waterproof Hiking Boots: Essential for ankle support and wading through mud. Long-Sleeved Shirt and Trousers (Khaki/Natural Colors): Protects against stinging insects, thorns, and scratches. Avoid camouflage or bright colors. Sturdy Gardening Gloves: Critical for grasping thorny vines and branches while hiking. Rain Jacket or Poncho: Bwindi is a rainforest; expect rain at any time. Gaiters: Recommended to prevent mud, insects, and pebbles from entering your boots. Hat/Cap: For sun protection or keeping rain off your face. Insect Repellent: A high-quality insect repellent is a must.
Q: What is the currency in Uganda, and what should I budget for tips/extras?
A: The local currency is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). U.S. dollars are widely accepted for tourism payments. We recommend carrying smaller USD notes for tipping.
Q: Should I hire a porter for the Gorilla Trek?
A: Absolutely yes. Hiring a local porter is highly recommended. Porters carry your daypack, help you navigate slippery or difficult sections of the trail, and, most importantly, provide direct, meaningful income to the local communities surrounding the park, encouraging them to support conservation efforts
Finalize Your Ultimate Uganda Primate & Wildlife Adventure
This is the perfect package for the traveler who wants the very best of Uganda, the magic of the Mountain Gorillas, the energy of the Chimpanzees, and the grandeur of the African savannah, all connected by expertly planned logistics. The complexity of securing permits, managing multi-park transfers, and ensuring high-quality accommodation is why booking with a specialist is essential. Let us handle the details so you can focus entirely on the unforgettable moments.
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