2 Days Budongo Chimpanzee Trek and Murchison Falls Safari

This 2 days Budongo chimpanzee trek and Murchison Falls safari is a short Uganda primate trip designed for travellers who want chimpanzee tracking without committing to a longer itinerary. The safari takes you to Budongo Forest, one of Uganda’s best-known chimpanzee tracking areas, and also includes time around Murchison Falls, giving the trip a mix of forest experience and classic safari scenery. It is a strong option for travellers looking for a short, accessible chimpanzee safari with road transfer from Kampala.

Safari highlights

• Road transfer from Kampala to Budongo Forest
• Scenic drive through central and western Uganda
• Stop in Masindi for lunch
• Visit to Murchison Falls area
• Optional nature walk near Budongo Eco Lodge
• Chimpanzee tracking at Kaniyo Pabidi
• Chance to see other primates during the forest walk
• Return drive to Kampala

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1, Transfer to Budongo Forest with Masindi stop 

After breakfast, your driver guide will pick you up early in the morning from your hotel in Kampala and begin the journey towards Budongo Forest Reserve, located within the greater Murchison Falls National Park area. The drive takes you through the countryside via Nakasongola, with views of rural Uganda along the way. Continue to Masindi, where you will stop for lunch before proceeding to the Budongo forest area. Depending on arrival time, you may visit the top of Murchison Falls to see the Nile forced through a narrow gorge, or take a short guided nature walk around the forest lodge to spot birds and smaller primates. Check in at your lodge, relax, and enjoy dinner and overnight at Budongo Eco Lodge.

Day 2, Chimpanzee tracking in Kaniyo Pabidi, return to Kampala

After an early breakfast, transfer to Kaniyo Pabidi for a briefing before entering the forest for chimpanzee tracking. Budongo Forest is one of Uganda’s best-known chimpanzee tracking destinations, and the guided walk takes you through dense tropical forest in search of a habituated chimpanzee group. During the experience, you will observe chimpanzees feeding, moving through the forest, grooming, and interacting within their social groups. Other primates that may be seen during the walk include red-tailed monkeys, olive baboons, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and blue monkeys. After the tracking experience, return to the lodge, check out, and drive to Masindi for lunch. Later, continue the journey back to Kampala, arriving in the evening. This marks the end of your 2-day Budongo chimpanzee safari.

Inclusions and exclusions

Inclusions

• Road transfers from Kampala and back
• Private safari vehicle with driver guide
• Accommodation at Budongo Eco Lodge
• Meals as stated in the itinerary
• Chimpanzee tracking permit
• Nature walk
• Park entry fees
• Bottled drinking water during the safari

Exclusions

• International flights
• Uganda visa fees
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses such as drinks, laundry, and souvenirs
• Tips and gratuities
• Optional activities not clearly listed in the itinerary