Introduction

This 5-day Uganda safari blends the unforgettable experience of trekking endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest with thrilling savannah wildlife encounters in Queen Elizabeth National Park. It’s a perfect itinerary for travelers seeking both the raw intimacy of the rainforest and the wide-open plains of the African bush. From up-close primate experiences to classic game drives and boat safaris, this trip delivers a diverse and exciting adventure through some of Uganda’s most iconic landscapes.

Day 1: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Your adventure begins with an early pick-up from Kampala or Entebbe. You’ll set out on a scenic drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, located in western Uganda. The journey takes approximately 6–7 hours and includes stunning views of rolling hills, rural villages, and lush countryside. On arrival, enjoy a short game drive as you enter the park and check into your lodge. Relax and prepare for the wildlife experiences ahead.

Accommodation: Safari lodge in or near Queen Elizabeth NP
Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: Game Drive & Boat Safari on the Kazinga Channel

Begin your day with an early morning game drive in the Kasenyi plains, where you’ll have a chance to spot lions, elephants, buffaloes, warthogs, and antelopes. The early hours offer the best opportunity to see predators on the move. After lunch, take a boat safari on the Kazinga Channel, one of the park’s top highlights. The channel is home to one of Africa’s largest concentrations of hippos, as well as crocodiles, elephants, and a wide variety of birds including African fish eagles and kingfishers.

Accommodation: Same lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (via Ishasha)

After breakfast, you’ll head south to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This drive takes you through the remote and wild Ishasha sector, famous for its rare tree-climbing lions—a unique sight in Africa. With luck, you’ll catch these big cats lounging in fig trees. You’ll continue your scenic drive through misty hills and terraced slopes until you reach your lodge near Bwindi by late afternoon. Rest and prepare for the next day’s gorilla trek.

Accommodation: Lodge near Bwindi (Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga or Nkuringo sector)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking Experience in Bwindi

Rise early and transfer to the Bwindi park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking rules and group assignments. Accompanied by experienced rangers, you’ll hike through thick forest terrain in search of a habituated gorilla family. The trek can take 2 to 6 hours depending on where the gorillas are located. Once found, you’ll spend one magical hour observing them as they feed, play, and interact—a deeply moving and humbling experience. After the trek, return to the lodge for some well-earned rest, or opt for a short cultural walk to visit the Batwa pygmy community.

Accommodation: Same lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Packed Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Return to Kampala or Entebbe – Departure

After breakfast, begin your return journey to Kampala or Entebbe, a drive of about 8–9 hours through beautiful countryside. Enjoy lunch en route and make a stop at the Uganda Equator line for photos and souvenir shopping. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel or Entebbe International Airport in time for your evening flight, marking the end of your unforgettable Ugandan safari.

Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch

Safari Inclusions:

• Gorilla trekking permit ($800 USD per person)

• Park entry fees for both Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth NP

• All transportation in 4×4 safari vehicle with fuel

• English-speaking driver/guide

• Accommodation and meals as per itinerary

• Boat safari on Kazinga Channel

• Bottled drinking water during drives

Safari Exclusions:

• International flights and visa fees

• Travel insurance

• Tips and personal expenses

• Optional activities not mentioned

What to Bring:

• Waterproof hiking boots and jacket

• Long-sleeved shirts and trousers for forest walks

• Insect repellent and sunscreen

• Gloves for trekking

• Camera (no flash allowed for gorillas)