Epic 8-Day Uganda Primate & Wildlife Safari: Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, and Bwindi
Location
Full Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Uganda
Upon your arrival at Entebbe International Airport, our friendly representative will greet you and transfer you to your comfortable accommodation in either Kampala or Entebbe. Depending on your arrival time, you may choose to unwind at the hotel or explore the local area. Prepare for the adventure that lies ahead while enjoying the amenities and warm Ugandan hospitality.
Accommodation Options:
BUDGET: Airport Guest House
MID-RANGE: Cassia Lodge
SEMI-LUXURY: Kampala Serena Hotel
LUXURY: Protea Hotel by Marriott
Day 2: Kibale Forest National Park
Today, we embark on a scenic drive to Kibale Forest National Park, the primate capital of the world. As you settle into your lodge nestled in the forest's serenity, the anticipation builds for the next day's chimp trekking adventure. The drive itself offers picturesque views of Uganda's countryside, providing a glimpse into the everyday life of local communities.
Accommodation Options:
BUDGET: Kibale Forest Camp
MID-RANGE: Crater Safari Lodge
SEMI-LUXURY: Turaco Treetops
LUXURY: Primate Lodge
Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking and Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary
Your quest to meet the chimpanzees begins as you head into the heart of Kibale Forest. Accompanied by experienced rangers, you'll track these intelligent primates, observing their behavior in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, the journey continues with a guided nature walk to Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a birder's paradise known for its rich biodiversity and community-run conservation efforts.
Following an exciting day of Chimpanzee trekking, return to your accommodation for another restful night (see above).
Day 4: Queen Elizabeth National Park
A morning drive takes you to the renowned Queen Elizabeth National Park, famed for its wildlife and stunning landscapes. After checking in at your lodge, you'll set out on an evening game drive across the savanna. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, buffalos, antelopes, and perhaps even a glimpse of the elusive leopard as the African sun sets on the horizon.
Accommodation Options:
BUDGET: Bush Lodge
MID-RANGE: Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge
SEMI-LUXURY: Mweya Safari Lodge
LUXURY: Kyambura Gorge Lodge
Day 5: Kasenyi Plains Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Ride
At dawn, venture into the Kasenyi Plains for a game drive where lions, hyenas, and a multitude of other species roam. The afternoon promises a tranquil boat ride on the Kazinga Channel, where hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birds congregate, offering an unparalleled wildlife viewing experience.
Following an exciting day of game drive, return to your accommodation for another restful night (see above).
Day 6: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park via Ishasha Sector
Journey through the Ishasha sector en route to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where you have the unique opportunity to spot the famed tree-climbing lions lounging in the branches. The drive is a wildlife spectacle in itself, as Ishasha is also home to buffalos, elephants, and various antelope species. Arriving in Bwindi, you'll be welcomed by the cool mountain air and the enchanting sounds of the forest, setting the stage for your gorilla trekking experience.
Accommodation Options:
BUDGET: Buhoma Community Rest Camp
MID-RANGE: Engagi Lodge
SEMI-LUXURY: Mahogany Springs Lodge
LUXURY: Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge
Day 7: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
An early start leads you into the depths of Bwindi's ancient rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Trekking alongside experienced guides, you'll navigate through the dense foliage on the trail of the mountain gorillas. The trek can be challenging but witnessing these gentle giants in their natural environment is a profoundly moving and once-in-a-lifetime experience. Spend an hour with the gorillas, watching them interact, play, and go about their daily lives before returning to the lodge.
Following an exciting day of gorilla trekking, return to your accommodation for another restful night (see above).
Day 8: Departure
As your safari concludes, you'll depart Bwindi and travel through the Kigezi Highlands, often referred to as the "Switzerland of Africa" due to its terraced hillsides and serene beauty. Upon arrival in Kampala, you will be transferred to Entebbe International Airport, allowing you to reflect on the incredible memories made as you prepare for your flight back home.
Inclusions:
- All accommodation as detailed in a double occupancy room, with private facilities.
- All meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, prepared by expert chefs.
- Park fees and conservation charges for all national parks and reserves visited.
- Expert safari drivers/guides who will accompany you throughout your journey.
- Game drives in 4x4 safari vehicles, offering optimal wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Bottled water during game drives
- Airport transfers upon arrival and departure.
- All government taxes and levies
Exclusions:
- International flights and visas.
- Travel Insurance (highly recommended).
- Optional activities or experiences not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti with a bush breakfast experience.
- Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, laundry, items of a personal nature.
- Tips and gratuities for safari guide and camp/lodge staff.
Important to Know:
- Children 13 years and above are recognized as adults
Passenger Information:
- Passengers should bring soft-sided bags on safaris as our vehicles have limited luggage space.
- All the passengers must have an Identification Card/Passport for any internal flights.
- Baggage on internal flights is strictly limited to 15kgs per person (including hand luggage). Any excess baggage will be charged by the airline at check-in.
- Passengers arriving in UGANDA will be asked to present a valid Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate.
Disclaimer:
- This tour is offered by Pita Safaris.
- In the event of non-availability, we might have to change the itinerary, put you in a similar camp or lodge, or upgrade you for an additional fee.
- Prices may be changed without prior notice. This is beyond our control and any increase levied will be passed to you for park fees and government taxes.
- This tour is subject to the terms and conditions of Pita Safaris.
Payment Methods:
We accept payment either by credit card or by direct wire transfer.
1. Payment by Credit Card Online
We accept Visa, Master Card, and American Express. This is the fastest and easiest method of payment as it avoids the necessity of complying with numerous banking procedures. You will need to allow for 3.9% on top of the trip cost, this being bank charges for the use of the credit card. This 3.9% charge stays with the bank, not Pita Safaris.
2. Payment by Direct Wire Transfer
If paying by this method, any bank charges incurred will be at your cost. Beneficiary bank charges are approximately $45 and they will be added by us to your invoice. It usually takes a minimum of 3 to 5 working days for the funds to arrive in our account. At that point, we can issue your booking confirmation.
