Day 1: Kampala to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Your adventure begins early in the morning with a warm welcome from our company representative at your hotel in Kampala. After ensuring all preparations are in order, you embark on the journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dense forests and diverse wildlife, including the rare Mountain Gorillas.
The drive to Bwindi is long but filled with scenic views and interesting stops. One of the first major stops is at the Equator. Here, you can stretch your legs, enjoy some refreshments, and witness the unique phenomenon of standing on the line that divides the northern and southern hemispheres. The Equator stop also offers an opportunity to observe and purchase traditional Ugandan crafts and drums, which make for unique souvenirs.
Continuing the journey, the landscape gradually transforms from bustling urban areas to tranquil countryside, with lush greenery and rolling hills. As you approach Bwindi, the forest becomes denser, signaling the proximity to your destination. This region is renowned for its incredible biodiversity, not just the Mountain Gorillas, but also a variety of other primates, mammals, and an astonishing 348 bird species, making it a haven for bird watchers.
Upon arrival in Bwindi, you’ll check into your accommodation, chosen based on your preference for budget, mid-range, or luxury options. Some popular choices include Broadbill Camp, Trekkers Tavern Cottages, and Rushaga Haven Lodges for budget travelers; Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge, Gorilla Mist Camp, and Buhoma Haven Lodge for mid-range options; and Chameleon Hill Lodge, Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, or Bwindi Lodge for a more luxurious stay.
After settling in, you’ll enjoy a hearty dinner, preparing yourself for the thrilling adventures that await in the coming days.
Day 2: Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Rise early and enjoy a filling breakfast before gearing up for the highlight of your tour: gorilla tracking. Equipped with a packed lunch and plenty of drinking water, you’ll be transferred to the gorilla tracking information office by 8 a.m. for a pre-tracking briefing. During this briefing, experienced rangers will provide essential information and safety guidelines for your trek.
Following the briefing, the rangers will lead you into the dense forest in search of the Mountain Gorillas. The trek can be challenging, often taking several hours, but the experience of encountering these gentle giants in their natural habitat is truly unforgettable. You’ll spend up to one hour observing the gorillas, watching their interactions and behavior, a rare and privileged experience.
If time permits, after the trek you may opt for a community walk to explore the local culture and interact with the indigenous people of the area. This offers a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage and traditions. Return to your lodge for dinner and a well-deserved rest.
Day 3: Transfer from Bwindi to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After an early breakfast, you set off for Queen Elizabeth National Park, another gem in Uganda’s crown of natural wonders. The drive to the park is picturesque, taking you through varying landscapes of lakes, forests, savannah grasslands, and wetlands.
Entering the park through the Ishasha sector, you’ll be on the lookout for its famous tree-climbing lions, a rare and fascinating sight. Continuing to the northern part of the park, you’ll reach your accommodation for the night. Depending on your preference, options include the luxurious Mweya Safari Lodge or Engazi Lodge, the mid-range Marafiki Safari Lodge, or the budget-friendly Bush Lodge.
Enjoy dinner at your lodge and relax in anticipation of the next day’s explorations.
Day 4: Explore Queen Elizabeth National Park
Start the day with a warm cup of coffee before heading out for an early morning game drive along the Kasenyi tracks. Here, you’ll have the chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including lions, Cape buffalos, elephants, warthogs, waterbucks, spotted hyenas, mongooses, and, if you’re lucky, the elusive leopard. The park is also a bird watcher’s paradise, home to over 606 bird species.
Return to your lodge for lunch and some relaxation. In the afternoon, prepare for a two-hour boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel. This unique experience offers close-up views of animals and birds as they gather along the water’s edge, providing excellent photo opportunities. After the cruise, return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 5: Queen Elizabeth National Park to Kampala
On your final day, wake up to the serene sights and sounds of the wild as you enjoy breakfast. After checking out of your lodge, you’ll begin the journey back to Kampala, with a stop for lunch along the way. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and breathtaking landscapes of the past five days as you travel back to the bustling city, where your safari concludes.
