Overview
This 5-day safari offers an incredible mix of Uganda’s rich wildlife and primate experiences. You’ll explore Queen Elizabeth National Park, known for its diverse wildlife, before heading to the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to trek with mountain gorillas. Marv Safaris provides expert guides and comfortable accommodations to ensure a seamless and memorable safari.
Highlights
- Arrival and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Game Drive and Boat Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Return to Kampala or Entebbe
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, our team will pick you up and begin the journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park. The drive offers scenic views of Uganda’s lush countryside and, depending on your arrival time, you may reach the park by late afternoon. After checking in to your lodge, you can unwind and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Start the day with an early morning game drive through the park’s Kasenyi Plains, where you’ll have a chance to spot wildlife such as elephants, lions, buffaloes, and antelopes. The open savannah and acacia trees offer excellent opportunities for photography.
In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, home to one of the largest concentrations of hippos and crocodiles in Africa. You’ll also see various bird species, making it a perfect experience for bird lovers.
After breakfast, you’ll leave Queen Elizabeth National Park and travel to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to the famous mountain gorillas. The drive offers breathtaking views of terraced hills, local farms, and Uganda’s iconic landscape. You will arrive at your lodge by late afternoon, with the evening free to rest.
This is the highlight of the safari—gorilla trekking! After a briefing by park rangers, you’ll embark on a trek through the dense forest in search of a mountain gorilla family. The trek can take from 1 to 6 hours, depending on the gorilla’s location, but the experience of observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is truly rewarding.
Once you locate the gorilla family, you’ll have one hour to observe and take photos. After the trek, you will return to your lodge to relax and reflect on the incredible experience.
After breakfast, you’ll begin the journey back to Kampala or Entebbe. On the way, you’ll pass through picturesque landscapes and have time to enjoy lunch before arriving in the city. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your departure flight or to your hotel, marking the end of your unforgettable safari.
Cost
The Cost Includes
- Gorilla trekking permit
- Park entrance fees
- Game drives and boat cruise
- 4 nights of accommodation
- All meals
- Ground transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle
- Professional guide
- Airport transfers
The Cost Excludes
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Personal expenses (e.g., drinks, souvenirs)
- Optional activities (e.g., nature walks)
- Tips for guides and rangers
FAQs
Uganda is a year-round destination, but the best time for gorilla trekking and wildlife viewing is during the dry seasons, which occur from June to August and December to February. During these periods, the weather is more favorable for trekking, and wildlife is easier to spot due to the thinning vegetation.
Once you locate the gorilla family, you will have one hour to observe and photograph them. This is to minimize human impact on their natural habitat.
Yes, a gorilla trekking permit is required for this experience. The cost of the permit is included in the safari package, and Marv Safaris handles all the arrangements to secure your permit in advance.
During the trek, you must maintain a distance of at least 7 meters (21 feet) from the gorillas to avoid disturbing them. Rangers will guide you on how to observe the gorillas without infringing on their space.
