15-day Gorilla and Chimpanzee Habituation in Uganda
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 15-day Gorilla and Chimpanzee Habituation in Uganda, experiencing the thrill of gorilla and chimpanzee habituation. This journey will take you through Uganda’s most pristine national parks, offering you a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with these magnificent primates. You will also explore the rich biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and vibrant cultures of Uganda.

Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe
Upon your arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your guide who will assist with the transfer to Protea Hotel by Marriott Entebbe. This tranquil lakeside hotel offers a relaxing start to your journey. Depending on your arrival time, you can take in views of Lake Victoria or explore nearby attractions such as the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at the hotel, featuring a blend of local and international cuisines.
- Accommodation: Protea Hotel by Marriott Entebbe.
- Meals: Dinner.
Day 2: Entebbe to Kibale Forest National Park
After an early breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Kibale Forest National Park, renowned for its dense tropical rainforest and diverse primate population. The journey takes you through rural Uganda, passing by villages and lush countryside landscapes. Arriving at Primate Lodge Kibale, settle into your charming accommodation nestled within the forest. Lunch is served upon arrival, followed by leisure time to relax or explore the lodge surroundings. In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner before retiring for the night, serenaded by the sounds of the forest.
- Accommodation: Primate Lodge Kibale.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Driving: Approximately 6-hour drive.
Day 3: Chimpanzee Habituation Experience
Today is dedicated to the exhilarating Chimpanzee Habituation Experience. After an early breakfast, head into Kibale Forest with researchers and trackers to locate chimpanzee families undergoing habituation. Spend the entire day observing these intelligent primates as they forage, play, and interact in their natural habitat. Your expert guide will provide insights into chimpanzee behavior, ecology, and conservation efforts. Return to Primate Lodge Kibale in the late afternoon for a well-deserved rest, recounting the day’s memorable encounters over dinner.
- Accommodation: Primate Lodge Kibale.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 4: Kibale to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Depart Kibale Forest after breakfast for Queen Elizabeth National Park, known for its diverse wildlife and scenic beauty. The drive offers opportunities to spot Uganda’s rural life and stunning landscapes. Upon arrival at Mweya Safari Lodge, situated on a peninsula overlooking the Kazinga Channel and the Rwenzori Mountains, enjoy a delicious lunch with panoramic views. In the afternoon, embark on a game drive through the Kasenyi Plains, known for their abundant wildlife including lions, elephants, and buffaloes. Return to the lodge for a relaxing evening and dinner under the African sky.
- Accommodation: Mweya Safari Lodge.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Driving: Approximately 3-hour drive.
Day 5: Game Drive and Boat Cruise
Start the day early with a thrilling morning game drive through Queen Elizabeth National Park, exploring different ecosystems and encountering diverse wildlife species. After a hearty breakfast back at Mweya Safari Lodge, embark on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel. This two-hour cruise offers exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, including hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. Lunch is served at the lodge, followed by leisure time to relax or take optional activities such as a nature walk or visit to the local communities. Dinner is served overlooking the picturesque landscapes.
- Accommodation: Mweya Safari Lodge.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 6: Kyambura Gorge Chimpanzee Trekking
After breakfast, head to Kyambura Gorge for an unforgettable chimpanzee trekking experience. Known as the “Valley of the Apes,” Kyambura Gorge is home to a habituated chimpanzee community amidst a stunning landscape of tropical forest and savannah plains. Enjoy a guided trek through this dramatic gorge, tracking and observing these lively primates in their natural habitat. Return to Mweya Safari Lodge for lunch and spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps opting for a guided nature walk or relaxing at the lodge. Dinner is served with views of the park’s wilderness.
- Accommodation: Mweya Safari Lodge.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 7: Queen Elizabeth to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Today, depart Queen Elizabeth National Park for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to endangered mountain gorillas. The journey takes you through picturesque landscapes, passing traditional homesteads and terraced hillsides. Arrive at Buhoma Lodge, nestled on the edge of the forest with breathtaking views of the towering trees. Lunch is served upon arrival, followed by leisure time to relax or explore the lodge’s surroundings. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner and prepare for the upcoming gorilla habituation experience.
- Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Driving: Approximately 5-hour drive.
Day 8: Gorilla Habituation Experience
Prepare for the highlight of your journey – the Gorilla Habituation Experience. After an early breakfast, embark on a trek into Bwindi’s dense forest with experienced trackers and researchers to locate a gorilla family undergoing habituation. Spend up to four hours observing and learning about these magnificent creatures as they feed, play, and interact with each other. This immersive experience allows you to gain a deeper understanding of gorilla behavior and conservation efforts. Return to Buhoma Lodge in the afternoon for relaxation, recounting your once-in-a-lifetime encounter over dinner.
- Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 9: Community Walk and Cultural Experience
Today offers a cultural immersion with a visit to a local Batwa community near Bwindi. Learn about their traditional lifestyle, cultural practices, and conservation efforts within the forest. Engage in interactive demonstrations such as fire making, weaving, and storytelling, gaining insights into their rich heritage. Lunch is served at Buhoma Lodge, followed by leisure time to explore the village or participate in optional activities such as bird watching or a forest nature walk. Enjoy dinner at the lodge, reflecting on the day’s cultural exchange.
- Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 10: Bwindi to Lake Bunyonyi
Depart Bwindi after breakfast for Lake Bunyonyi, often described as the “Switzerland of Africa” due to its scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere. The journey offers breathtaking views of terraced hills and the Virunga Mountains in the distance. Arrive at Birdnest @ Bunyonyi Resort, situated on a private island overlooking the lake’s picturesque islands. Lunch is served upon arrival, followed by leisure time to unwind or explore the resort’s amenities. In the afternoon, take a boat ride to explore the lake’s islands or simply relax by the lakeside. Dinner is served with stunning sunset views.
- Accommodation: Birdnest @ Bunyonyi Resort.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Driving: Approximately 3-hour drive.
Day 11: Relax at Lake Bunyonyi
Today is yours to enjoy the serene surroundings of Lake Bunyonyi at your own pace. Wake up to a leisurely breakfast overlooking the tranquil waters, followed by optional activities such as bird watching, hiking to local viewpoints, or visiting a nearby village. Alternatively, spend the day unwinding at the resort, taking advantage of amenities such as swimming, kayaking, or simply lounging by the lakeshore with a good book. Lunch and dinner are served at Birdnest @ Bunyonyi Resort, offering delicious meals with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding hills.
- Accommodation: Birdnest @ Bunyonyi Resort.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 12: Lake Bunyonyi to Lake Mburo National Park
After breakfast, depart Lake Bunyonyi for Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda’s smallest savannah park known for its rich biodiversity and scenic landscapes. The drive takes you through rolling hills and rural communities, with a stop en route for lunch. Arrive at Mihingo Lodge, an eco-friendly retreat perched on a rocky outcrop with sweeping views of the park and its wildlife-rich plains. Enjoy a late afternoon game drive through the park, encountering zebras, impalas, and buffaloes against a backdrop of acacia-dotted savannah. Return to the lodge for dinner under the starlit sky.
- Accommodation: Mihingo Lodge.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Driving: Approximately 4-hour drive.
Day 13: Game Drive and Walking Safari
Start the day with an early morning game drive through Lake Mburo National Park, exploring its diverse habitats and encountering wildlife such as elands, topis, and warthogs. Return to Mihingo Lodge for a hearty breakfast overlooking the park’s expansive vistas. In the afternoon, embark on a guided walking safari with a ranger, offering a unique perspective on the park’s flora and fauna. Learn about animal tracks, bird calls, and medicinal plants used by local communities. Lunch and dinner are served at the lodge, providing a relaxing end to an active day.
- Accommodation: Mihingo Lodge.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 14: Lake Mburo to Entebbe
Bid farewell to Lake Mburo National Park after breakfast and embark on the journey back to Entebbe. The scenic drive takes you through rural landscapes and bustling towns, with a stop en route for lunch. Arrive at Protea Hotel by Marriott Entebbe in the afternoon, where you can relax and reminisce about your wildlife adventures over a leisurely afternoon. Dinner is served at the hotel, offering a variety of international and local dishes.
- Accommodation: Protea Hotel by Marriott Entebbe.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Driving: Approximately 5-hour drive.
Day 15: Departure
After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, you’ll be transferred to Entebbe International Airport for your onward journey. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and cherished memories from your Gorilla & Chimpanzee Habituation Adventure in Uganda as you bid farewell to this captivating country.
- Activity: Transfer to Entebbe International Airport for departure.
- Meals: Breakfast.
Inclusions
- Park fees (For non-residents)
- Gorilla and Chimpanzee Habituation 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
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
- Drinking water (On all days)
Exclusions
- International flights(From/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips(Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
- Personal items(Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
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