5-Day primate and wildlife safari

Safari Overview

This exceptional 5-day primate and wildlife safari combines Rwanda and Uganda’s most iconic experiences. Begin with Golden Monkey trekking in Rwanda’s Virunga Mountains, then journey into Uganda for Mountain Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Continue to the wildlife-rich savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park for classic game viewing and a scenic boat cruise, before concluding with Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest—Africa’s primate capital.

This safari offers a perfect blend of adventure, biodiversity, culture, and breathtaking landscapes.

Safari Highlights

  • Golden Monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park
  • Mountain Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
  • Tree-climbing lions in Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park
  • Kazinga Channel boat cruise
  • Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest National Park
  • Bigodi Swamp nature and community walk

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Kigali – Golden Monkey Trek – Transfer to Bwindi (Uganda)

Early morning pick-up from Kigali (around 6:00am) and drive to Volcanoes National Park headquarters in Kinigi. After a briefing, trek through the bamboo forests of the Virunga Volcanoes in search of Golden Monkeys. These playful and colorful primates are usually found in relatively easy terrain, making this an enjoyable and rewarding trek.

After spending one hour observing the Golden Monkeys, return for lunch and proceed to the Rwanda–Uganda border. After immigration formalities, continue to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Dinner & Overnight:

  • Budget: Broadbill Forest Camp / Gorilla Hills Eco Lodge
  • Mid-range: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge / Gorilla Mist Camp

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi – Transfer to Ishasha

After an early breakfast, report to the park headquarters for a briefing before beginning your gorilla trek in the dense rainforest. Bwindi is home to more than half of the world’s remaining Mountain Gorillas, and tracking them is a deeply moving wildlife encounter.

The trek duration varies depending on gorilla movements, but once found, you will spend a magical hour observing them at close range as they feed, interact, and rest.

After lunch, transfer to the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions.

Dinner & Overnight:

  • Budget: Topi Game Lodge
  • Mid-range: Ishasha Pride Lodge

Day 3: Ishasha Game Drive – Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

Enjoy a morning game drive in Ishasha, offering a chance to spot the rare tree-climbing lions resting in fig trees, along with elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and other wildlife.

In the afternoon, take a leisurely boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway linking Lake Edward and Lake George. This cruise offers outstanding wildlife viewing, including hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and a rich variety of birdlife.

Dinner & Overnight:

  • Budget: Tembo Safari Lodge / Engiri Game Lodge
  • Mid-range: Bush Lodge / Twin Lakes Safari Lodge

Day 4: Queen Elizabeth – Crater Lakes – Transfer to Kibale Forest

After breakfast, enjoy a short morning game drive before traveling through the scenic explosion crater lakes—one of western Uganda’s most beautiful landscapes.
After lunch, transfer to Kibale Forest National Park. In the afternoon, visit Bigodi Swamp for a guided nature walk, renowned for birdlife, primates, butterflies, and community cultural encounters.

Dinner & Overnight:

  • Budget: Kibale Forest Lodge / Kibale Chimps Villas
  • Mid-range: Chimpanzee Forest Lodge / Kibale Forest Camp

Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking – Transfer to Entebbe

After breakfast, proceed to Kibale Forest for a briefing before starting your chimpanzee trekking experience at around 8:00am. Kibale boasts the highest concentration of primates in Africa, including approximately 5,000 wild chimpanzees.

During the trek, you may also encounter red colobus monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and other forest wildlife.
After the trek, begin your return journey to Entebbe via Kampala, marking the end of your safari.

Safari Inclusions

  • All ground transportation in a safari vehicle
  • Golden Monkey trekking permit
  • Gorilla trekking permit (USD 800 per person)
  • Chimpanzee trekking permit
  • Game drives and Kazinga Channel boat cruise
  • Park entrance fees
  • Full-board accommodation as per itinerary
  • English-speaking professional driver/guide
  • All meals during the safari

Safari Exclusions

  • International and domestic flights
  • Additional accommodation before or after the safari
  • Personal expenses (souvenirs, travel insurance, visas, tips)