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6 Day Wildlife Queen Elizabeth & Gorilla Trekking Safari

Overview

Discover Uganda’s incredible wildlife on this 6-day safari adventure. Start your journey in Entebbe before flying to Queen Elizabeth National Park for thrilling game drives and a scenic boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel. Explore Kyambura Gorge to track chimpanzees and marvel at the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha. The adventure culminates with an unforgettable gorilla trek through Bwindi’s ancient rainforest, followed by a cultural experience with the Batwa people.

Enjoy stays at luxury lodges such as Mweya Safari Lodge and Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp. Benefit from seamless transfers, expert guides, and all-inclusive comfort throughout your safari. From exceptional wildlife viewing to intimate primate encounters, this itinerary offers some of Africa’s most spectacular experiences.

Itinerary

Day 1: No.5 Boutique Hotel, Entebbe

Entebbe
Nestled on a peninsula along Lake Victoria, Entebbe was once the seat of Uganda’s government and is now a charming town just a short drive from the capital. Known for its tree-lined streets, Entebbe offers visitors a delightful blend of natural beauty and activities. It serves as a perfect base to explore the surrounding area, whether you're relaxing on the pristine beaches of Lake Victoria, wandering through the lush Botanical Gardens, or visiting Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, a safe haven for Uganda's orphaned chimpanzees.

Day Itinerary
  • TBA: Arrive at Entebbe International Airport.
  • TBA: Complete immigration procedures.
  • TBA: Meet our company representative for transfer to your hotel.
  • TBA: Check in at your hotel upon arrival.
  • TBA: Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at your hotel.

Overnight: No.5 Boutique Hotel
Tucked away in the peaceful suburbs of Entebbe, No.5 Boutique Hotel offers a stylish and intimate retreat. From the moment you arrive, you'll experience a warm welcome and exceptional service. The luxurious rooms open to serene garden views and the inviting swimming pool, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a tranquil escape.

Unwind by the pool, indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment, or get active in the hotel gym. For a truly memorable dining experience, the hotel offers thoughtfully curated menus complemented by an extensive international wine list, served with pride.

With its meticulous attention to detail and focus on providing a personalized guest experience, Hotel No.5 is the perfect place to relax and recharge in Entebbe.

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Alternate: Protea Hotel by Marriott Entebbe

Protea Hotel by Marriott Entebbe, with its 73 rooms, is perfectly situated on the sparkling shores of Lake Victoria, just 1km from the airport. The hotel features a restaurant offering an enticing à la carte menu available seven days a week. Guests can enjoy delicious specialties like Tilapia and Nile Perch, or unwind on the terrace while savoring drinks at the bar.

Designed to suit every traveler’s needs, this hotel boasts elegant furnishings and a welcoming atmosphere. Its décor and rooms exude luxury and comfort. The outdoor terrace, with its unique ambiance and breathtaking views of the lake, provides the perfect setting to relax and take in the beauty of your surroundings.

Basis: Bed and Breakfast
Day 2: Ndali Lodge, Ndali Kasenda Crater Lakes

Northern Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda's most popular parks, is located in the western region of the country. The northern section of the park offers a thrilling boating experience along the Kazinga Channel, home to the world’s largest population of hippos and an abundance of Nile crocodiles. The riverbanks are teeming with wildlife and a diverse array of bird species. At Kyambura Gorge, known as the ‘Valley of the Apes’, chimpanzees roam through lush tropical rainforests. The three salty crater lakes in the area are also home to large flocks of vibrant pink flamingos. On the western shores of Lake George, the expansive Kasenyi Plains are inhabited by lions and various bird species, making it a must-see destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Day Itinerary
  • 0600: Begin the day with breakfast.
  • 0630: Transfer to Entebbe International Airport.
  • 0700: Flight to Kasese Airstrip.
  • 1005: Estimated time of arrival at Kasese Airstrip.
  • 1035: Transfer to your lodge.
  • 1230: Lunch at the Lodge.
  • 1600: Evening game drive along Kasenyi Plains.
  • 1800: Dinner and overnight stay at your lodge.

Overnight: Mweya Safari Lodge
Mweya Safari Lodge, situated on a scenic peninsula in the heart of Queen Elizabeth National Park, offers a remarkable escape. Surrounded by the captivating Rwenzori Mountains, aptly named the 'Mountains of the Moon,' and overlooking the Kazinga Channel linking Lake George and Lake Edward, the lodge provides unparalleled views. With rooms offering stunning perspectives of the channel, guests are treated to a luxurious experience in the midst of wilderness. The lodge extends a range of activities and attractions, including game drives, boat trips, and wildlife viewing, ensuring an unforgettable safari adventure.

Alternate: Buffalo Safari Lodge
Buffalo Safari Lodge is located at the magical Kazinga Channel 1km off Kasese Mbarara road with spectacular views of the Kazinga Channel and the savannah plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park. The resort boasts of a serene environment comprising spectacular flora and fauna like elephants, buffalos, hippos, warthogs, and a variety of bird species all at a glance. The resort is known for its experienced staff, a fully stocked bar, and a restaurant with a lounge offering a spectacular view of Lake Rubirizi and Kazinga Channel.

Activities: Game Drive in Queen Elizabeth
The Game Drive in Queen Elizabeth takes place in the open grasslands of Kasenyi in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The park is a primary game viewing area due to the variety of wildlife, including antelopes, elephants, buffalos, and lions. Visitors will be accompanied by an experienced guide able to track down these animals.

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Basis:Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
Day 3: Mweya Safari Lodge, Northern Queen Elizabeth National Park
Day Itinerary
  • 0600: Start the day with a morning breakfast.
  • 0700: Transfer to Kyambura Gorge for Chimpanzee trekking.
  • 0800: Kyambura Chimpanzee trekking starts.
  • 1200: Return from the jungle to your lodge.
  • 1300: Lunch at your hotel.
  • 1600: Afternoon Boat Trip on Kazinga Channel.
  • 1900: Dinner and overnight stay.

Kyambura Gorge Chimpanzee Trekking
Kyambura Gorge is often referred to as the Valley of the Apes and is located on the edge of the Queen Elizabeth National Park in South Western Uganda. Over the past two years a small group of Chimpanzees have been habituated to tolerate the presence of humans however sightings are not guaranteed and as such permits here are offered at considerably reduced rates compared to the more well-known Kibale Forest. This is however an opportunity to track the Chimpanzees in a remote and lesser known location.

Overnight: Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp
Once-in-a-lifetime encounters with Uganda’s endangered gorillas await when you stay in one of these ten private luxury tents in the heart of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Kyambura is well known for stunning scenery and vast biodiversity. Should you miss the chimps, your guide will still point out the Black & White Colobus, Red Tailed Monkey, Grey Cheeked Mangabey, as well as Pittas and different bird species. The guide will also provide details of the traditions and plant species within the forest.

Chimpanzee walks embark in the morning and afternoon and usually last 2 to 3 hours, with approximately 4-6 people in a group, each led by a Ugandan Wildlife Authority specialist guide.

Wild Frontiers Kazinga Channel Kingfisher Boat
Wild Frontiers Kazinga Channel Kingfisher Boat is a leisurely boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Passengers may encounter herds of elephants, buffalo, and antelope, families of warthogs, large groups of hippos, and crocodiles basking on the shore. Kazinga's shores are a haven for numerous birds, including many migratory species as they make their way south to warmer climates. The cruise also provides a spectacular view of the beautiful Mweya Peninsula and life in local fishing villages set along the banks.

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Basis: Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
Day 4: Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
Nestled in the southwest of Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is considered Africa’s oldest rainforest. It’s internationally acclaimed for offering one of the best gorilla-sighting experiences in the world—housing nearly half of the planet’s remaining mountain gorillas. The experience unfolds in a dramatic landscape featuring dense forests, thundering waterfalls, crystal-clear mountain streams, deep valleys, and towering ridges. The pristine forest is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for both its breathtaking beauty and ecological importance. In addition to the unforgettable gorilla encounters, the park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 340 species to discover, as well as a stunning variety of vibrant butterflies. Don’t miss the chance to explore the awe-inspiring Virunga Volcanoes, three of which remain active.

Day Itinerary
  • 0800: Begin the day with a hearty breakfast.
  • 0900: Depart for Ishasha, located in the southern part of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
  • 1030: Enjoy a mid-morning game drive in Ishasha, famous for its tree-climbing lions.
  • 1300: Relish lunch at Ishasha Jungle Lodge.
  • 1530: Continue the journey to Bwindi Forest.
  • 1830: Delight in dinner at the lodge.

Overnight: Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp
A unique opportunity to encounter Uganda’s endangered gorillas awaits when you stay in one of the ten exclusive luxury tents nestled in the heart of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Respectful of its surroundings, yet contemporary in style, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp harmonizes seamlessly with the dramatic African mountain landscape. Ideally located within the national park, you're just minutes away from the start of your gorilla trekking adventure.

Set in one of the most remote parts of Africa, these comfortable canvas tents are adorned with indigenous prints and furniture crafted from natural materials. The beds, draped in neutral-toned linens, are complemented by local artifacts that create a distinctive atmosphere, ensuring that every moment inside and outside your accommodation is memorable. Each tent is equipped with a spacious, stone-walled bathroom featuring private sections and a free-standing bath, perfect for unwinding after a day of trekking. As the sun rises, the surrounding trees glow, and thanks to the camp’s small size, the experience is intimate and exclusive. Enjoy the magic of Africa with minimal impact, yet with all the modern amenities you need.

Alternate: Mahogany Springs Lodge
Mahogany Springs offers one of the most secluded, picturesque, and naturally beautiful settings in the world, located just 2 minutes from the start point of the gorilla tracking.

Each room at Mahogany Springs is a luxury suite, available as twin, double, or triple rooms. The lodge offers 24/7 power in all rooms, and each suite features a spacious, en-suite bathroom with a stunning open terracotta shower.

All 12 luxurious suites include private terraces, offering sweeping panoramic views of the grounds, river, and surrounding landscapes.

The main dining area is elegantly furnished, providing magnificent views over the lodge’s gardens. Here, you can enjoy dining in a peaceful, unparalleled setting. The food and service are both an art form, with staff trained to the highest standards. The lodge also features a stunning bar, perfect for enjoying cocktails or a bottle of fine wine at any time of the day. Much of the produce used in Mahogany Springs’ cuisine is grown on-site, ensuring the freshest ingredients for your meals.

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Basis: Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
Day 5: Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
Day Itinerary
  • 0800: Enjoy a hearty breakfast to kickstart your day.
  • 0900: Depart for Ishasha, located in the southern part of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
  • 1030: Embark on a thrilling game drive in Ishasha to spot the famous tree-climbing lions.
  • 1300: Indulge in a delicious lunch at Ishasha Jungle Lodge.
  • 1530: Head towards Bwindi Forest for your next adventure.
  • 1830: Relish a delightful dinner at the Lodge to end the day.

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Rise early and enjoy a fulfilling breakfast to fuel up for your gorilla trekking adventure. By 8:00 am, head to the ranger station for registration and an informative briefing from one of the expert rangers. Afterward, your guide will lead you through the lush jungle, maneuvering through thick vegetation, to track the elusive gorillas. (Please be aware that the trek can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 5-6 hours). A moderate level of fitness is recommended, along with sturdy walking shoes. Once in the forest, you'll sit among the gorillas, listening to their vocalizations, and be in awe of the mighty Silverback's immense presence. The experience is nothing short of surreal, as you share space with some of the last remaining mountain gorillas. With only about 650 of these magnificent creatures left, it’s an unforgettable moment.

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Basis: Full Board - Dinner, Bed, Breakfast and Lunch
Day 6: End of Itinerary
Day Itinerary
  • 0700: Start the day with a morning breakfast.
  • 0800: Batwa Cultural Experience.
  • 1200: Return to your lodge for lunch.
  • 1300: Drive to Kihihi Airstrip.
  • 1445: Departure time out of Bwindi - Kihihi to Entebbe.
  • 1615: Arrival time at Entebbe and be picked up at your hotel.
  • 1700: Onward flight connection to Cairo.
  • End of service.

Batwa Cultural Village
The Batwa Cultural village is where the Batwa (Pigmies) still live in the same way they used to years ago in tree houses. The Batwa only began leaving their forest homes around 15 years ago and they have been able to remain on this land thanks to the support of a generous American benefactor who donated the land back to them and created a cultural program. The fees from visiting tourists and are given to the Batwa project and they delight in welcoming visitors to their village and demonstrating how they make weapons, dance, make fires using sticks and cook.

Basis: Breakfast and Lunch

What's Included & Excluded

Included

  • All airport transfers.
  • Pre-safari night in Entebbe.
  • Ground transfers by 4WD Safari Land Cruiser on safari in Bwindi.
  • Return flight fare Entebbe - Bwindi - Queen Elizabeth - Entebbe.
  • Community visit/Batwa Village Visit.
  • One Gorilla permit for trekking per person.
  • Services of an English-speaking guide per vehicle.
  • Fuel expenses.
  • All accommodations and meals while on the entire safari stay in Uganda.
  • Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner) while on safari.
  • 1 soft drink per meal (soda or mineral water) during lunch and dinner.
  • Park entrance fees.
  • Game drives in Ishasha for tree-climbing lions.
  • Chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge.
  • Boat safari along Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth.
  • Bottled drinking water.
  • Ranger fees.
  • All government taxes.
  • Our assistance.

Excluded

  • International flights.
  • Personal travel insurance.
  • Visa fees.
  • Premium drinks.
  • Cigarettes.
  • Tips, souvenirs, and any other items of personal nature.

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