Overview
This 5- Day Uganda Chimp & Gorilla Habituation Experience offers an extraordinary opportunity to immerse yourself in Uganda’s wildlife, with a particular focus on chimpanzee and gorilla habituation experiences. The journey will take you through the rich biodiversity of Kibale Forest National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Guided by expert trackers and researchers, you will have the unique chance to observe and participate in the daily lives of these fascinating primates, gaining an in-depth understanding of their behavior, social structures, and conservation challenges. This experience is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and anyone interested in primate behavior and conservation.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our professional guide. After a brief orientation, you will embark on a scenic drive to Kibale Forest National Park, a journey of approximately 6-7 hours. The route offers picturesque views of Uganda’s lush landscapes, including rolling hills, tea plantations, and vibrant local villages. Along the way, enjoy lunch at a selected restaurant that serves local and international cuisine. Upon arrival in Kibale, check in at the Primate Lodge, a comfortable accommodation nestled within the forest. Spend the evening at leisure, taking in the serene surroundings before dinner is served at the lodge’s restaurant. Overnight stay at the Primate Lodge.
- Meals: Lunch (en route), Dinner
- Accommodation: Primate Lodge, Kibale
- Driving Plan: Entebbe to Kibale Forest National Park (~6-7 hours)
Day 2: Chimpanzee Habituation Experience
Rise early for a hearty breakfast at the lodge before heading into Kibale Forest for a full-day Chimpanzee Habituation Experience. Accompanied by experienced researchers and guides, you will track and observe chimpanzees as they go about their daily activities. This immersive experience allows you to follow the chimpanzees from their morning routines, watching them forage for food, interact with each other, and engage in playful behavior. A packed lunch will be provided in the forest, allowing you to maximize your time with these incredible primates. Return to the lodge in the late afternoon for some relaxation, followed by dinner. Spend the night at the Primate Lodge, reflecting on the day’s adventures.
- Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Primate Lodge, Kibale
Day 3: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After a delicious breakfast at the lodge, you will begin your journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to roughly half of the world’s mountain gorillas. The drive, which takes about 6-7 hours, offers stunning views of the Rwenzori Mountains and the Albertine Rift Valley. Along the way, you will stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Upon arrival in Bwindi, check in at the Buhoma Lodge, known for its eco-friendly practices and comfortable accommodations. Spend the evening at leisure, enjoying the breathtaking views and preparing for the following day’s gorilla habituation experience. Dinner will be served at the lodge, followed by an overnight stay.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (en route), Dinner
- Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi
- Driving Plan: Kibale to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (~6-7 hours)
Day 4: Gorilla Habituation Experience
Today is the highlight of your trip – the Gorilla Habituation Experience. After an early breakfast, you will head into the dense forest of Bwindi with a team of researchers and rangers. This immersive adventure allows you to spend up to four hours with a gorilla family, observing their behavior and contributing to their habituation process. You’ll witness these majestic creatures as they feed, play, and interact with each other in their natural habitat. A packed lunch will be provided in the forest. In the late afternoon, return to Buhoma Lodge to relax and reflect on this incredible experience. Enjoy a well-deserved dinner at the lodge and spend the night in comfort.
- Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi
Day 5: Return to Entebbe & Departure
After breakfast at the lodge, you will embark on the scenic drive back to Entebbe, which will take approximately 8-9 hours. Enjoy the changing landscapes as you travel, with a stop for lunch at a local restaurant en route. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some time for souvenir shopping or a brief city tour in Entebbe. Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, your guide will assist with check-in for your departure flight. Reflect on the memorable experiences of your journey as you head home.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (en route)
- Driving Plan: Bwindi to Entebbe (~8-9 hours)
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)
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
- Some meals(As specified in the day-by-day section)
