6 Days Uganda Gorilla, Golden Monkey and Wildlife Safari

This 6-day Uganda gorilla, golden monkey and wildlife safari combines three rewarding experiences in one itinerary, classic wildlife viewing in Lake Mburo National Park, gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, and golden monkey tracking in the Virunga landscape. The safari is ideal for travellers who want a shorter Uganda trip that still delivers primates, scenic mountain landscapes, and a wildlife stop before gorilla trekking. Depending on your interests and fitness level, the trip can also include an optional hike on Mount Muhabura or Mount Sabyinyo, adding an active element to the safari.

Safari highlights

• Scenic road transfer to Lake Mburo National Park
• Wildlife viewing in one of Uganda’s most accessible savannah parks
• Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
• Golden monkey tracking in the Virunga landscape
• Optional Mount Muhabura or Mount Sabyinyo hike
• Scenic return through south-western Uganda

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1, Transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

After breakfast, depart Kampala and begin the journey to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in south-western Uganda. The drive follows the Kabale to Kisoro route and offers scenic views of rolling hills, terraced countryside, and rural landscapes. Stop for lunch along the way, then continue to the park area and check in at your lodge for dinner and overnight. Luxury Mount Gahinga Lodge, Mid-range Mucha Hotel Kisoro, Budget Kisoro Tourist Hotel

Day 2, Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga, Batwa cultural experience

Start the day with an early breakfast, then transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing before your gorilla trekking experience in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Once you locate the gorillas, you will spend 1 hour observing them as they feed, move, and interact in their natural habitat. Return to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, visit the Batwa community for a cultural experience that introduces you to the history and traditional lifestyle of the Batwa people. The guided Batwa trail includes demonstrations of hunting, honey gathering, fire making, and ends with a cultural performance at Garama Cave. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight. Accommodation: Same lodge as Day 1.

Day 3, Golden monkey trekking in Mgahinga, boat ride on Lake Mutanda

After breakfast, head into Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for golden monkey trekking. The trek takes you through the bamboo forest and lower slopes of the Virunga landscape in search of these rare and lively primates. Along the way, enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery and unique vegetation. Return for lunch or relaxation, then in the afternoon go for a boat ride on Lake Mutanda, known for its scenic islands and views of the surrounding volcanoes. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight. Accommodation: Same lodge as Day 1.

Day 4, Volcano hike in Mgahinga, Mount Gahinga, Mount Muhabura, or Mount Sabyinyo

Leave early for a full-day volcano hike in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Depending on your fitness level and preference, you may hike Mount Gahinga, Mount Muhabura, or Mount Sabyinyo. These volcanic peaks form part of the Virunga range and offer striking scenery, montane vegetation, and panoramic views across Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo on a clear day. After the hike, return to your lodge for dinner and overnight. Accommodation: Same lodge as Day 1.

Day 5, Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park, afternoon game drive

After breakfast, depart Mgahinga and drive to Lake Mburo National Park. The journey takes you from the Kigezi Highlands into lower savannah landscapes, giving the day a strong scenic contrast. On arrival, check in at the lodge and have lunch. In the afternoon, go for a game drive in the park, where you may see giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, impalas, waterbucks, and Uganda kob. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight. Luxury Mihingo Lodge, Mantana Tented Camp, Mid-range Mburo Safari Lodge, Budget Rwonyo Rest Camp.

Day 6, Return to Kampala or Kigali

After breakfast, check out of the lodge and begin the return journey to Kampala or Kigali, depending on your onward travel plans. This marks the end of your safari. If needed, the itinerary can be arranged to start in Kampala and end in Kigali, or start in Kigali and end in Kampala.

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
• Park entry fees
• Game drive in Lake Mburo National Park
• Boat ride on Lake Mburo
• Gorilla trekking permit
• Golden monkey permit
• 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 Mount Muhabura or Mount Sabyinyo hike