6 Days Chimp Tracking, Hiking and Cultural Safari

This 6-day chimp-tracking, hiking, and cultural safari is designed for travellers who want a more active and immersive experience in western Uganda. Centered around Queen Elizabeth National Park, the itinerary combines chimpanzee tracking with mountain hiking and community encounters, giving you a wider view of the region beyond standard game drives. It is a good fit for travellers who want primates, scenery, culture, and a more varied Uganda safari experience in one trip

Safari highlights

• Scenic transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Chimpanzee tracking experience
• Mountain hiking in the park region
• Community and cultural visits
• Scenic western Uganda landscapes
• Balanced mix of activity, nature, and local experience

Detailed itinerary

Day 1, Transfer to Kasese, Rwenzori Mountains, Ruboni community walk

After breakfast, depart Kampala and drive west to Kasese at the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains National Park. The journey offers scenic views of western Uganda’s landscapes before arrival in the afternoon. After check-in and a short rest, go for an evening community walk in Ruboni village. During the visit, you will interact with residents and listen to storytelling sessions that highlight the history of the Rwenzori region, traditional beliefs, and local folklore. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight. Luxury Equator Snow Lodge, Mid-range Ihamba Safari Lodge, Budget Ruboni Community Camp.

Day 2, Rwenzori foothills hike, guided mountain experience

After breakfast, go for a guided hike along the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains. The hike takes about 3 to 5 hours depending on your fitness level and chosen trail. This experience offers views of forest vegetation, small wildlife, and the surrounding highland landscape. You will carry a packed lunch and take breaks along the trail. After the hike, return to your lodge for relaxation, dinner, and overnight. Accommodation Same lodge as Day 1.

Day 3, Kikorongo cultural visit, transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park 

After breakfast, depart for Queen Elizabeth National Park. On the way, stop at Kikorongo Cultural Centre for a cultural performance and interaction with the local community. Continue to the park and have lunch on arrival. In the afternoon, transfer to Kalinzu Forest Reserve for chimpanzee tracking. During the trek, you will observe chimpanzees as they feed, move through the trees, and interact in their natural habitat. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight. Luxury Mweya Safari Lodge, Mid-range Kyambura Game Lodge, Budget Simba Safari Camp

Day 4, Lion tracking, Kazinga Channel boat cruise, crater lakes drive

After breakfast, meet the lion research team for a lion tracking experience in Queen Elizabeth National Park. This activity allows you to monitor lions and learn about conservation efforts in the park. Return for lunch, then go for a 2-hour boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, where you may see hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and birdlife along the shores. If time allows, take an optional crater lakes drive to the Baboon Cliffs for panoramic views and sunset photography. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight. Accommodation: Same lodge as Day 3.

Day 5, Guided nature walk, Katwe Salt Lake, evening game drive

After breakfast, go for a guided nature walk around Lake Kikorongo, where you may see bird species and enjoy the surrounding scenery. After lunch, visit Katwe Salt Lake to learn about traditional salt mining methods used by local communities. Continue to Lake Munyenyange for birdwatching, where lesser flamingos may be seen seasonally between August and November. Later, go for an evening game drive along the Channel Track before returning to your lodge for dinner and overnight. Accommodation: Same lodge as Day 3.

Day 6, Morning game drive in Kasenyi Plains, return to Kampala

After breakfast, go for a morning game drive in the Kasenyi Plains, one of the best wildlife viewing areas in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Look out for elephants, buffalo, Uganda kob, hyenas, and other wildlife. Return to the lodge for lunch, then check out and begin the journey back to Kampala. This marks the end of your safari.

Inclusions and exclusions

Inclusions

• Private safari vehicle and driver guide
• Accommodation and meals as per itinerary
• Park entry fees
• Chimpanzee tracking permit
• Guided hiking activity
• Cultural or community visits
• 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 listed in the itinerary