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11 Day Tracking Gorillas Uganda

OVERVIEW

This 11-day gorilla tracking safari takes you through some of Uganda’s most remarkable protected areas, offering a diverse journey of wildlife, landscapes, and unforgettable primate encounters. The adventure explores the famous Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and the lush forests surrounding Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Kisoro. Along the way, you will discover rich wildlife habitats within the western arm of the Great East African Rift Valley.

The safari combines game drives, chimpanzee tracking, gorilla trekking, scenic boat cruises, and cultural exploration. Travelers will witness spectacular waterfalls, explore tropical forests, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Virunga Volcanoes and Uganda’s stunning crater lakes. The journey ends with relaxation at the beautiful Lake Bunyonyi before returning to Kampala.

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival & Jinja – Source of the Nile

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be welcomed by your guide and transferred to Kampala. From there, proceed to Jinja via Mukono and through Mabira Forest, one of the largest tropical forests in central Uganda. Visit the famous Source of the Nile and continue to Bujagali Falls before returning to Kampala in the late afternoon.
Accommodation: Hotel Africana

Day 2: Kampala – Masindi

After breakfast, meet your guide for a safari briefing before departing for the Murchison Falls Conservation Area. Travel through the Luwero region and continue toward Nakasongola, stopping for lunch along the way. Arrive in the evening at Masindi for dinner and overnight stay.
Accommodation: Kolping Masindi Hotel

Day 3: Murchison Falls National Park

Start early and enter Murchison Falls National Park for a morning game drive north of the Nile. Expect sightings of elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, antelopes, and a variety of birds. Later, enjoy a boat cruise to the base of the powerful Murchison Falls where the Nile squeezes through a narrow gorge. The cruise also offers views of crocodiles, hippos, and birdlife including the rare shoebill stork. Visit the top of the falls before returning to Masindi.
Accommodation: Kolping Masindi Hotel

Day 4: Budongo Forest – Hoima

Drive to Kaniyo-Pabidi in Budongo Forest for a guided nature walk to track chimpanzees. This forest is also known for its rich biodiversity and birdlife. After the walk, continue to Hoima via scenic views of Lake Albert and local fishing villages.
Accommodation: Kolping Hoima Hotel

Day 5: Hoima – Kibale Forest National Park

After breakfast, drive south to Kibale Forest National Park through Fort Portal, passing lush tea plantations and scenic landscapes. Arrive at your lodge in the afternoon and either relax or explore nearby crater lakes.
Accommodation: Chimpanzee Forest Guest House

Day 6: Kibale – Queen Elizabeth National Park

Visit the scenic crater lakes near Kibale before continuing to Fort Portal. After lunch, drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park with opportunities for wildlife viewing as you enter the park.
Accommodation: Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge

Day 7: Queen Elizabeth National Park

Begin the day with an early morning game drive across the savannah plains searching for lions, elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes. In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing boat cruise along the famous Kazinga Channel, known for its high concentration of hippos, crocodiles, and bird species.
Accommodation: Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge

Day 8: Queen Elizabeth – Kisoro

Travel to Kisoro, stopping at the scenic Kanaba Gap for panoramic views of the Virunga Volcanoes. Continue with visits to beautiful lakes around the region including Lake Mutanda. Arrive in the afternoon and prepare for the gorilla trekking experience.
Accommodation: Travelers Rest Hotel

Day 9: Gorilla Trekking

Today you will experience the highlight of the safari gorilla tracking in the forests of the Virunga region near Bwindi or across the border depending on permit availability. Trek through dense forest accompanied by experienced guides and porters until you locate a gorilla family. Spend up to one hour observing these magnificent primates in their natural habitat.
Accommodation: Travelers Rest Hotel

Day 10: Kisoro – Lake Bunyonyi

After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive to Lake Bunyonyi, one of the deepest and most beautiful lakes in East Africa. Relax by the lakeshore, explore nearby communities, or enjoy canoeing among the lake’s many islands.
Accommodation: Bunyonyi Overland Resort

Day 11: Return to Kampala

After breakfast, begin the return journey to Kampala via Masaka with lunch en route. Arrive in the late afternoon for drop-off at your hotel or transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS

Price includes

  • Airport transfers
  • Accommodation during the safari
  • Meals as specified in the itinerary (B, L, D)
  • Transportation in a safari vehicle with professional driver-guide
  • Park entry fees
  • Game drives and activities as mentioned
  • Boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel
  • Chimpanzee tracking in Budongo Forest
  • Gorilla trekking permit
  • Bottled drinking water during the safari

Price Excludes

  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Travel and medical insurance
  • Personal expenses (tips, drinks, laundry, souvenirs)
  • Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
  • Additional accommodation before or after the safari if required

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