7 Days Uganda Best of the West, Primates and Game Drive Safari

Embark on a captivating 7-day safari adventure through western Uganda, immersing yourself in the region's diverse ecosystems and extraordinary wildlife. Beginning with a leisurely stroll through the Bigodi Swamp in Kibale Forest National Park, where colorful birds and elusive primates await, the journey continues with exhilarating chimpanzee tracking in the forest's depths. Transitioning to Queen Elizabeth National Park, early morning game drives and a tranquil boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel offer unparalleled wildlife encounters, from majestic lions to graceful elephants. The safari reaches its pinnacle with gorilla tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, an awe-inspiring experience witnessing these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Rounded off with golden monkey tracking near Lake Mutanda and a visit to Lake Mburo National Park, this safari promises an unforgettable exploration of Uganda's best wildlife destinations.

DAY BY DAY 

Day 1: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park and Bigodi Swamp Walk

Depart from your accommodation in the morning and embark on a scenic drive to Kibale Forest National Park, known as the primate capital of East Africa.

Upon arrival at Kibale Forest, you'll check into your accommodation, which may include lodges or tented camps situated on the outskirts of the forest.

After settling in, you'll head out for a guided nature walk through the Bigodi Swamp, a community-managed wetland area adjacent to the park.

Led by experienced local guides, the swamp walk offers an excellent opportunity to spot a variety of bird species, including the iconic Shoebill Stork, as well as primates such as red colobus monkeys and L'Hoest's monkeys.

Learn about the importance of wetland conservation and the efforts of the local community to protect this valuable ecosystem.

After the walk, return to your accommodation for dinner and overnight stay, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the jungle.

Day 2: Chimpanzee Tracking and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Rise early for an exciting chimpanzee tracking experience in Kibale Forest. After breakfast, you'll head to the park headquarters to meet your experienced guide and fellow trekkers.

Following a brief orientation and safety briefing, you'll venture into the forest in search of habituated chimpanzee families.

Trekking through the dense vegetation, you'll listen for the distinctive calls and vocalizations of chimpanzees, which can often be heard from a distance.

Upon encountering a chimpanzee group, you'll have the opportunity to observe their behavior and interactions up close, with plenty of time for photography and observation.

After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch before departing for Queen Elizabeth National Park.

The journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park offers stunning views of the Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the Mountains of the Moon.

Upon arrival at Queen Elizabeth National Park, check into your accommodation, which may include safari lodges or tented camps situated within the park boundaries.

Dinner will be served at the lodge, followed by a relaxing evening spent around the campfire or enjoying stargazing.

Day 3: Early Morning Game Drive and Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel

Start the day with an early morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda's most diverse wildlife reserves.

Accompanied by experienced guides, you'll explore the park's varied landscapes, including savannah plains, acacia woodlands, and wetlands, in search of iconic African wildlife such as lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and more.

The early morning hours offer the best opportunities for wildlife sightings, as animals are typically more active during this time.

Return to the lodge for breakfast and some leisure time to relax and unwind.

In the afternoon, embark on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway that connects Lake Edward and Lake George.

The boat cruise offers close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species, including African fish eagles, kingfishers, and pelicans.

Enjoy the tranquil scenery and wildlife sightings as you cruise along the channel, with knowledgeable guides on hand to provide insights into the park's ecosystem and wildlife.

After the cruise, return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay, recounting the day's adventures around the campfire.

Day 4: Second Chimpanzee Tracking and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Rise early for another chimpanzee tracking adventure in Queen Elizabeth National Park. This second trek offers another chance to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat and perhaps witness different behaviors or interactions.

After the trek, return to the lodge for breakfast and check-out.

Depart for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most biodiverse areas in Africa.

The journey to Bwindi will take you through scenic countryside, with opportunities to see rural villages and local communities.

Upon reaching Bwindi, check into your accommodation, which may include cozy lodges or tented camps nestled amidst the forest.

Dinner will be served at the lodge, followed by a relaxing evening spent surrounded by the sights and sounds of the forest.

Day 5: Gorilla Tracking and Transfer to Lake Mutanda

Today is the highlight of the safari as you embark on a gorilla tracking expedition in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a pre-trek briefing, where you'll receive important information about gorilla behavior, safety guidelines, and conservation efforts.

With experienced guides leading the way, trek through the dense forest in search of a habituated gorilla family. The trek can vary in duration and intensity depending on the location of the gorillas, but the experience is always rewarding.

Spend an unforgettable hour in the presence of these magnificent creatures, observing their behavior and interactions in their natural habitat. Gorilla tracking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers a profound connection with nature and a deeper understanding of these critically endangered animals.

After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch and some relaxation before departing for Lake Mutanda.

Arrive at Lake Mutanda and check into your accommodation, which may include lakeside lodges or tented camps with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Dinner will be served at the lodge, followed by a peaceful evening by the lake.

Day 6: Golden Monkey Tracking and Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park

Begin the day with an exciting golden monkey tracking adventure near Lake Mutanda. Golden monkeys are a rare and endangered primate species found in the Virunga Mountains, and tracking them offers a unique wildlife experience.

Trek through the forest with experienced guides, listening for the sounds of the monkeys and watching for signs of their presence.

Upon encountering a golden monkey group, spend time observing their behavior and interactions, capturing unforgettable moments in the heart of the forest.

After the trek, return to the lodge for breakfast and check-out.

Depart for Lake Mburo National Park, the smallest of Uganda's savannah parks but teeming with wildlife and scenic beauty.

Check into your accommodation in Lake Mburo and spend the evening at leisure, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and reflecting on the day's adventures.

Day 7: Morning Game Drive and Departure

Start the day with a morning game drive in Lake Mburo National Park, offering opportunities to see a variety of wildlife species, including zebras, impalas, topis, buffaloes, and more.

Lake Mburo National Park is also home to a diversity of birdlife, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

Your experienced guide will navigate the park's network of game drive tracks, providing insights into the park's ecosystem and pointing out interesting wildlife sightings along the way.

After the game drive, return to the lodge for breakfast and check-out.

Depart for your onward journey, marking the end of your 7-day safari adventure in western Uganda.

Depending on your travel arrangements, you may transfer to the nearest airport for your departure flight or continue your journey to other destinations in Uganda or beyond.

Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and memories created during your time in Uganda, from thrilling primate encounters to scenic wildlife safaris and tranquil moments by the lake.

As you bid farewell to Uganda, carry with you the awe-inspiring beauty of its landscapes, the richness of its wildlife, and the warmth of its people, leaving you with lasting memories of an unforgettable safari adventure in the heart of Africa.

Included

Park fees

(For non-residents)

Gorilla permits

(One per person, non-resident)

Chimp permits

(One per person, non-resident)

All activities

(Unless labeled as optional)

All accommodation

(Unless listed as upgrade.)

A professional driver/guide

All transportation

(Unless labeled as optional)

All Taxes/VAT

Round-trip airport transfer

Meals

(As specified in the day-by-day section.)

Drinking water

(On all days)

Excluded

International flights

(From/to home)

Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour

Tips

(Tipping guideline: US$20.00 per person per day)

Personal items

(Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)

government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees

PRICE PER PERSON IN USD 

Group Size Price 

1 Person 5657           

2 People: 3954    

3 People 3954                 

4 People: 3485    

5 People 3485                 

6 People (3155)