Gorillas & Chimps Safari 7D/6N

A Warm Welcome in EntebbeArrival at Entebbe International AirportUpon landing at Entebbe International Airport, your Ugandan adventure officially begins! You’ll be warmly greeted by your driver-guide who will welcome you with a friendly smile and provide any assistance you may need.Relax and take in your first glimpses of vibrant Uganda as you make your way comfortably from the airport to your overnight accommodation, Airport Guesthouse Entebbe. Offering simple yet comfortable budget accommodation, it’s a peaceful spot to unwind after your journey.Tour Briefing and Relaxation (Evening)Once settled, your knowledgeable guide will provide a reassuring introduction about the thrilling days ahead. Gain insights into your upcoming itinerary, receive important timing details for tomorrow’s adventure, and ask all the questions you have. After the briefing, spend the remainder of the evening relaxing and getting ready for an exciting trip ahead. ...more ...less

Journey to Kibale's Enchanting WildernessEarly Morning Departure Begin your remarkable journey soon after breakfast as your friendly guide picks you up from your accommodation in Entebbe or Kampala. Venture westward, leaving bustling city life behind for the serenity that lies ahead.Scenic Drive Through Uganda’s CountrysideTraveling through Mubende, admire charming swamps covered in lush papyrus beds and beautiful open woodlands dotted with graceful Acacia trees. Your guide will offer valuable insights into this region’s captivating landscape and culture along the way.Delicious Local Lunch Break in MubendeAround midday, pause in Mubende town—the halfway point between Kampala and Fort Portal. This town is a favorite stop for travelers eager to indulge in Uganda's signature roadside snacks. Sample delicious barbecued chicken skewers, known locally as "nyama choma," or settle in for a flavorsome hot African Dish for lunch, immersing yourself in authentic Ugandan cuisine and hospitality.Arrival at Fort Portal, the Scenic Royal TownContinuing onwards, arrive in picturesque Fort Portal, a delightful town resting against an impressive backdrop of the mist-shrouded Rwenzori Mountains. This royal town is renowned for its youthful monarch and tranquil atmosphere.Optional Cave Exploration at Amabere Ga NyinamwiruEmbrace the opportunity for an optional afternoon excursion, exploring the fascinating Amabere Ga Nyinamwiru caves. Your local guide will lead you along scenic walking trails, revealing captivating tales and legends surrounding these mystical caves and the area's rich cultural heritage.Check-in and Relax at Kibale Forest Camp (Arrival late Afternoon or Early Evening)After today's thrilling journey, unwind at Kibale Forest Camp, beautifully nestled within lush tropical rainforest surroundings. Settle into your cozy tent, soaking in the melody of rainforest wildlife, creating a magical atmosphere that gently guides you towards restful sleep.

Enchanting Chimps and Bigodi Swamp WalkMorning Adventure Chimp Trekking at Kibale Forest Kick-start your day at 8:00 AM after breakfast, delving deep into Kibale Forest, East Africa’s primate paradise. Join trained local guides for an unforgettable four-hour chimpanzee tracking experience. This lush sanctuary south of Fort Portal houses the highest concentration of primate species in East Africa. Encounter fascinating groups of chimpanzees, black and white colobus monkeys, lively red monkeys, blue monkeys, and curious baboons. The trek through lush canopy surroundings will provide insights about the captivating life of chimpanzees and the forest’s hidden flora and fauna. Stay alert—grey-cheeked mangabeys and over 250 species of brilliantly colored butterflies and nearly 375 unique bird species also await your curious gaze!Afternoon Exploration Bigodi Swamp Walk In the afternoon, venture through the lush, community-managed ecosystem of Bigodi Swamp. Renowned as a paradise for bird enthusiasts, this pristine wetland hosts over 138 stunning bird species, including striking Turacos. Keep your eyes peeled for elusive animals such as the gentle sitatungas and shy bushbucks quietly inhabiting this stunning sanctuary. Engage with the remarkable local community efforts aimed at a sustainable future while protecting the swamp's incredible biodiversity.

Majestic Drive to Gorilla HavenDiscover the Heart of Gorilla CountryEnchanting Journey to Bwindi or Kisoro: Start your adventurous day early with a delightful breakfast, then commence a picturesque 5-hour drive towards Rushaga or Kisoro. Traverse the famously scenic Kabale region, aptly called the "Switzerland of Africa," known for its rolling green hills, dramatic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and cultivated terraces beautifully cascading into valleys.Idyllic Lunch Stop in Kabale Around midday, pause for a relaxing lunch break in Kabale, where you’ll soak in the refreshing atmosphere and local delicacies, restoring your energy during the scenic voyage.Spectacular Scenic Views As afternoon approaches, journey through a magical landscape of tropical rainforest and dense bamboo groves. Upon reaching the final hilltop, witness an awe-inspiring panoramic vista as beautiful Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo unfold below, dominated by the imposing Virunga Volcanoes.Arrival at Kisoro or Rushaga Late afternoon, arrive at the renowned Travellers Rest Hotel in Kisoro, a charming haven steeped in gorilla conservation history, dating back to 1955. Deeply admired by gorilla expert Dian Fossey, this colonial-style retreat offers a welcoming atmosphere, rich in fascinating history and cozy charm. Alternatively, settle in at Gorilla Valley Lodge near Bwindi’s edge, founded by gorilla enthusiasts in 2013. The lodge beautifully merges wilderness comfort with modern-retro touches in its 12 cozy rooms, each featuring spacious private bathrooms. Enjoy inspiring sunset views of lush forests and distant volcanic peaks.An Evening Surrounded by NatureSpend your evening unwinding on your private veranda at Gorilla Valley Lodge, nestled at the edge of Bwindi National Park, where gentlest giants—mountain gorillas—occasionally wander out of the dense rainforest, curiously exploring and playing in the lodge gardens. There's hardly a more intimate way to experience these incredible creatures and their majestic habitat.

Magical Gorilla Encounter AdventureEarly Morning Start Begin your thrilling day early as you journey from your lodge toward the mystic jungles housing the Nkuringo or Rushaga Gorillas in southern Bwindi, or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. From Travellers Rest Hotel in Kisoro, the scenic drive is approximately 20 minutes to 1 hour, while from Gorilla Valley Lodge it’s only about 15 minutes to reach the Rushaga ranger offices.Briefing and Preparation (7:45 AM)Upon your arrival at the ranger base, you'll receive an insightful orientation from park rangers about the area, the gorilla groups, and important trekking guidelines. This ensures both your safety and the protection of the gorillas during your visit.Into the ForestGorilla Trekking Begins (8:30 AM) With local guides and ranger escorts leading the way, trek into the lush, tranquil rainforests, rich with biodiversity and echoing with exotic birdcalls. Anticipation builds with each step as you search for families of endangered mountain gorillas, including the captivating groups like Nshongi, Mishaya, Kahungye, or Bweza.Encounter of a Lifetime The Gorillas After a thrilling trek of between 3 to 9 hours depending on the gorillas’ location, your patience and effort are rewarded when you finally meet these gentle giants face-to-face. Spend up to one unforgettable hour in their presenceObserve their fascinating behaviors, watch infants at play, and witness the powerful yet gentle nature of silverbacks.Return by Evening After absorbing these profound momentsTrek back at a leisurely pace, taking in the picturesque scenery, vivid wildlife, and diverse flora of this vibrant ecosystem. All visitors are expected to return by approximately 7:00 PM.Accommodation RelaxAfter your incredible experience in your selected comfortable or budget lodging, either at the Travellers Rest Hotel Kisoro or the Gorilla Valley Lodge, each featuring welcoming and comfortable self-contained rooms to refresh and recharge.Note: This trek is physically challenging—moderate to good fitness is strongly recommended. Be prepared for uneven trails and varying weather conditions to fully enjoy this remarkable adventure.

Scenic Landscapes & Equator AdventuresBreakfast and Departure Begin your day with a relaxed breakfast amidst the fresh morning air before embarking on an unforgettable scenic journey back to Kampala.Scenic Drive & Nature WondersTravel along one of the most captivating routes in Western Uganda, moving through an extensive bamboo forest, lush greenery, and panoramic vistas. Take in awe-inspiring sights at the famous "Kanaba Gap", offering spectacular views of Uganda's majestic volcanoes rising dramatically in the distance.Views of Lake Bunyonyi Marvel at stunning sights of Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda's deepest lake, known for tranquil crystal waters and an intriguing, rich historical background. This scenic route attracts travelers from around the world, providing continuous views to cherish.Lunch Stop in Mbarara Pause briefly in the bustling town of Mbarara, enjoying a delicious lunch, replenishing your energy for the remaining adventure ahead.Equator Stop & SouvenirsAfter passing Masaka town, a memorable stop at the Equator awaits. Savor a relaxing tea or coffee break and browse vibrant local craft shops, selecting unique souvenirs and capturing iconic photographs along this symbolic geographical landmark.Return to Entebbe Arrive at Airport Guesthouse Entebbe where comfortable and self-contained rooms await you, ensuring a restful overnight stay after completing this amazing journey.

Explore Kampala or Entebbe AdventureAfter your incredible journey, today is your final opportunity to soak up Uganda’s charm before heading home.Morning DepartureFor guests departing in the morning the hotel has a  shuttle that will bring you to the airport.Evening Departure (Optional Activities not included)If your flight is later in the day, immerse yourself in some of the exciting experiences available around Kampala and Entebbe.Whether you prefer city energy or peaceful nature and wildlife encounters, your final moments in Uganda will be beautifully memorable.