5 Days Bwindi Gorilla and Queen Elizabeth Safari

This 5-day Bwindi gorilla and Queen Elizabeth safari combines two of Uganda’s most sought-after safari experiences in one itinerary. The trip begins with gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, followed by wildlife viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park, including a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge, and a game drive in the Ishasha sector, known for its tree-climbing lions. It is a strong option for travellers who want primates and classic savannah wildlife in a shorter Uganda safari.

Safari highlights

• Scenic transfer from Kampala to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
• Gorilla trekking in Bwindi
• Batwa community walk
• Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel
• Morning game drive in the Kasenyi Plains
• Chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge
• Game drive in Ishasha, famous for tree-climbing lions
• Return drive to Kampala

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1, Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After breakfast, depart Kampala and drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in south-western Uganda. Stop in Mbarara for lunch, then continue through Kabale, often called the Switzerland of Africa, before arriving at the park. Check in at your lodge, relax, and enjoy dinner and overnight. Luxury Gorilla Safari Lodge, Buhoma Lodge, Mid-range Nkuringo Gorilla Camp, Budget Nshongi Gorilla Resort.

Day 2, Gorilla trekking in Bwindi, Batwa community walk

After an early breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing by rangers before beginning your gorilla trek in Bwindi. Trekking can take between 2 and 6 hours depending on the location of the gorilla family. Once found, you will spend 1 hour observing them in their natural habitat. Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. In the late afternoon, visit the nearby Batwa community to learn about traditional dances, beliefs, and aspects of Batwa culture. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight. Accommodation Same lodge as Day 1

Day 3, Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kazinga Channel boat cruise

After breakfast, depart Bwindi and drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, passing through the Ishasha sector on the way. Arrive at the lodge in time for lunch. In the afternoon, go for a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake Edward and Lake George. During the cruise, you may see hippos, crocodiles, buffalo, elephants, and a wide variety of birds along the shoreline. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight. Luxury Kyambura Gorge Lodge, Mweya Safari Lodge, Mid-range Enganzi Game Lodge, Budget Pumba Safari Cottages.

Day 4, Morning game drive, chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge

Start early with a morning game drive along the Kasenyi Plains in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Look out for elephants, buffalo, leopards, and other wildlife in one of the park’s best game viewing areas. Return to the lodge for lunch and a short rest. In the afternoon, head to Kyambura Gorge for chimpanzee tracking. Along the way, you may also encounter other primates such as baboons, vervet monkeys, and colobus monkeys. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight. Accommodation: Same lodge as Day 3.

Day 5, Ishasha tree-climbing lions, return to Kampala

After breakfast, set off for the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park for a morning game drive. This area is best known for its tree-climbing lions, and you may also see elephants, Uganda kob, buffaloes, and topi. Return to the lodge for lunch, then begin the journey back to Kampala with stopovers for photography along the way. Arrive in the evening, marking the end of your safari.

Inclusions and exclusions

Inclusions

• Airport or hotel pick-up and drop-off
• Private 4×4 safari vehicle with driver guide
• Accommodation and meals as per itinerary
• Gorilla trekking permit
• Park entry fees for listed activities
• Boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel
• Chimpanzee tracking permit
• Game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Bottled drinking water during the safari

Exclusions

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