7-Day Uganda Safari Adventure

From

$2687

7 Days Gorillas, Chimps and Wildlife Safari Uganda

From

$ 2687

Contact a Safari Expert

+256 (704) 324 972

Tour Overview

Uganda is a truly special destination, known for its incredible diversity of primates—especially the iconic mountain gorillas and endangered chimpanzees. These great apes are at the heart of this 7-day Uganda safari adventure. Along the way, you’ll also enjoy classic wildlife safaris and the ever-changing, breathtaking landscapes of southern Uganda. Add in the warmth of the Ugandan people, and you have all the ingredients for an unforgettable journey.

Throughout this 7-Day Uganda safari tour, you will stay in handpicked accommodations selected for their charm, intimate atmosphere, and stunning locations. One highlight is the Turaco Treetops lodge, perched on the edge of Kibale Forest National Park. From your private veranda, you can gaze out over the ancient rainforest—a magical experience in itself. Most of the activities mentioned in this 7 Day Uganda itinerary are already included in the tour price, ensuring a seamless experience. At Greenway Nature Tours, we are always on the lookout for new and enriching experiences to make your trip even more special. For those looking to add an extra touch of adventure, our safari experts can recommend unique optional activities like GPS tracking lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park, canoeing on the peaceful waters of Lake Mutanda, or mountain biking alongside zebras in Lake Mburo National Park.

Trip Highlights

Trek wild chimpanzees in the lush Kibale Forest.
Get up close with mountain gorillas in Bwindi’s mystical rainforest.
Cruise the Kazinga Channel and spot hippos, crocs, and elephants.
Safari by jeep at dawn in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Relax by Lake Mutanda with stunning volcano views and fun water sports.
Track playful golden monkeys in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Bike or walk among zebras and giraffes in Lake Mburo.
Join a thrilling night safari and spot elusive nocturnal animals.
Connect with local communities and meet the indigenous Batwa pygmies.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Journey to Kibale Forest National Park

Today, you will meet your guide for a warm welcome and a detailed briefing about the exciting journey ahead. Your destination for the day is the lush and wildlife-rich Kibale Forest National Park, one of Africa’s top primate destinations.

As you travel, the Ugandan countryside comes to life around you—rolling hills dotted with villages, endless tea plantations, dense rainforests, and shimmering crater lakes. On clear days, you may catch a glimpse of the majestic Rwenzori Mountains, their snow-capped peaks towering in the distance. The journey is not just a transfer—it’s a scenic immersion into the soul of western Uganda. Upon arrival in Kibale Forest, you’ll feel like you’ve entered an entirely different world—a world ruled by monkeys! This is the “Primate Capital of the World”, where the forest echoes with the calls of countless species.

About Kibale Forest National Park
Kibale Forest is one of the richest rainforests in Africa in terms of primate diversity. This tropical wonderland is home to 13 different primate species, including red-tailed monkeys, black-and-white colobus, red colobus, mangabeys, diademed monkeys, and the elusive bush babies (galagos). The forest sits at an average elevation of 1,300 meters and is surrounded by lush tea plantations in the north and papyrus-lined swamps to the south. Bird lovers will also be thrilled here, as both the forest and the nearby Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary are teeming with unique and colorful birdlife.

Accommodation Options (Half or Full Board):
Budget: Kibale Forest Camp
Midrange: Turaco Treetops – Standard Cottage
Semi-Luxury: Turaco Treetops – Luxury Cottage
Luxury: Crater Safari Lodge (Full Board)

Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking & Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Today is all about primates and dramatic changes in scenery. In the early morning, you’ll set off on an unforgettable chimpanzee trekking adventure in Kibale Forest. Led by an experienced ranger, you’ll follow fresh signs—broken branches, scattered fruit remains, and distant hoots—to track one of our closest relatives in the wild.

Whether you find them high in the canopy or foraging on the forest floor, coming face to face with a chimpanzee is a deeply moving and memorable experience. After the trek, your journey continues towards Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most iconic and biodiverse wildlife reserves. The route takes you through a picturesque mosaic of tea plantations, crater lakes, and charming rural villages. You’ll stop at the Equator Monument for a fun photo opportunity—stand with one foot in the northern hemisphere and the other in the southern!

As you enter the savannah landscapes of Queen Elizabeth National Park, you’ll immediately notice the change in environment. This vast reserve, covering nearly 2,000 square kilometers, lies within the Albertine Rift Valley, bordered by the majestic Rwenzori Mountains to the north and Lake Edward to the west. At the heart of the park is the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway that links Lake George and Lake Edward. This is one of the best spots in East Africa for boat safaris, offering incredible views of hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and an astonishing variety of birds.

To the west of the channel, you’ll see a dramatic landscape of volcanic craters, while the Kyambura Gorge, a lush rainforest-filled chasm in the middle of the savannah, is home to another group of chimpanzees. Wildlife here is abundant. Expect to see elephants, buffaloes, warthogs, lions, leopards, hippos, crocodiles, and possibly the elusive giant forest hog. The park also boasts over 600 bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers.

Accommodation Options (Full Board):
Budget: Bush Lodge – Banda
Midrange: Enganzi Game Lodge
Semi-Luxury: Katara Lodge
Exclusive: Kyambura Gorge Lodge (Full board with drinks)

Day 3: Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari Activities

Today is all about immersing yourself in the wild beauty of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Your day begins with an early morning game drive, followed by a relaxing lunch at your lodge, and ends with a spectacular boat safari along the Kazinga Channel—one of the absolute highlights of any safari in Uganda.

As the sun rises, you’ll set off into the open savannah on a thrilling jeep safari. The soft light of dawn filters through the morning mist, casting a golden glow over the plains. This is the best time to observe wildlife as many animals are still active from the night. The peaceful silence of the wilderness is broken only by bird calls, distant roars, and the crunch of tires on dry earth. Expect to see elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and if you’re lucky, lions or leopards lounging in the early sunlight. This drive is an ideal way to start your day connected with nature.

After returning to your lodge, you’ll enjoy a freshly prepared lunch and have time to relax. The midday hours offer a chance to unwind, reflect on the morning’s sightings, and recharge for your afternoon activity. In the afternoon, you’ll embark on one of the most iconic experiences in all of East Africa—a boat safari on the Kazinga Channel. This natural waterway connects Lake Edward and Lake George and supports one of the highest concentrations of hippos in the world. As your boat glides along the channel, you’ll be treated to an incredible display of wildlife. Hippos grunt and jostle in the water, giant crocodiles sun themselves on the banks, and large herds of buffaloes wade in for a drink. Birds are everywhere—kingfishers, herons, cormorants, and majestic African fish eagles swoop and call overhead. And just when you think it can’t get any better, a family of elephants may appear at the water’s edge, playfully splashing each other in the river.

For those craving even more adventure, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers some optional activities that can enhance your experience. You might choose to replace your morning game drive with a predator tracking experience, joining a researcher to locate lions or leopards using radio GPS collars—a rare and educational insight into conservation in action. In the afternoon, you can upgrade your boat trip to a private safari boat. This allows you to get closer to the animals, set your own pace, and enjoy the moment in the exclusive company of your guide and companions.

Another unforgettable option is a trek through the Kyambura Gorge. This dramatic 11-kilometer crack in the savannah hides a lush rainforest, home to birds, monkeys, and a group of wild chimpanzees. Although chimp sightings are not guaranteed, the gorge walk is an adventure in itself—filled with climbing, scrambling, and the magic of being in one of Uganda’s most beautiful hidden landscapes. As evening falls, you’ll return to your lodge for dinner and another peaceful night surrounded by the sounds of nature. This day offers a perfect blend of excitement and tranquility in one of Uganda’s most treasured national parks.

Accommodation:
Budget: Bush Lodge – Banda (Full Board)
Midrange: Enganzi Game Lodge (Full Board)
Semi-Luxury: Katara Lodge (Full Board)
Exclusive: Kyambura Gorge Lodge (Full board with drinks)

Day 4: On to the fairytale lake of Mutanda

This morning, you’ll leave behind the open savannahs of Queen and begin your scenic journey toward the majestic volcanoes of southern Uganda. The drive is a perfect example of Uganda’s scenic beauty. As you travel through the countryside, you’ll pass dense rainforests, sparkling crater lakes, vibrant coffee plantations, and rolling hills that seem to stretch endlessly into the distance. Gradually, the landscape begins to change, and towering volcanic peaks come into view. Eventually, you’ll reach the shores of Lake Mutanda, nestled at the foot of the Virunga Volcanoes—what a breathtaking view to arrive to.

Depending on your travel style, you will overnight in different locations. Those on the luxury version of the safari will stay in Buhoma, on the northern edge of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, just three hours from Queen Elizabeth National Park. Travelers on the budget version will continue farther south to the town of Kisoro, a six-hour drive. The midrange and semi-luxury versions bring you to the beautifully situated Mutanda Lake Resort, located directly on the lakeshore—a longer but incredibly scenic journey of about six and a half hours.

Lake Mutanda is one of Uganda’s hidden treasures. Tucked away in the far southwest corner of the country, this fairytale-like lake lies at the base of the Virunga Mountains, a dramatic volcanic chain that stretches across Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The area surrounding the lake is home to ancient rainforests and a rich variety of wildlife, including the rare and endangered mountain gorillas. From this peaceful lakeside retreat, you are perfectly positioned for one of Uganda’s most extraordinary adventures: gorilla trekking in either Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

In this lush, green landscape, you’ll find no shortage of exciting optional activities. You can explore Lake Mutanda by traditional dugout canoe, stand-up paddleboard, kayak, or enjoy a relaxing sundowner cruise with drinks as the sun dips below the volcanic peaks. In Mgahinga National Park, you can climb one of the Virunga volcanoes or track the playful golden monkeys that live in the bamboo forests. Bwindi also offers more than just gorilla trekking—you can take peaceful nature walks through the rainforest, visit a nearby village, or meet the Batwa pygmies, the indigenous forest dwellers who once lived in harmony with the gorillas. Whether you’re into adventure, culture, or simply enjoying nature, this region has something magical for everyone.

If you have specific interests or dreams for your time here, don’t hesitate to share them with your travel specialist. Some activities can be arranged in advance, while others are best planned on site based on your mood and the weather. Either way, you’ll be spoilt for choice in one of the most beautiful corners of East Africa.

Accommodation:
Budget: Travellers Rest (Breakfast)
Midrange: Mutanda Lake Resort – Standard Cottage (Half Board)
Semi-Luxury: Mutanda Lake Resort – Luxury Cottage (Half Board)
Exclusive: Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp (Full board with drinks)

Day 5: The great gorilla trek!

This day is often described as the emotional and spiritual highlight of any Ugandan safari—the day you come face to face with a mountain gorilla in the wild. In the morning, you’ll travel to Bwindi ImpenetrableNational Park, a mystical rainforest sanctuary where nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas live.

For those embarking on the gorilla trekking experience, the adventure begins with an early briefing and continues with a hike deep into the jungle, guided by expert rangers who read the forest like a book. Following trails of broken bamboo, fresh dung, and recently used nests, your group will track a specific gorilla family. And then, in a moment of quiet awe, you’ll find them—a silverback sitting protectively among his family, casually observing your presence with wise and thoughtful eyes. It’s an experience that stirs something deep inside you, one you will carry for the rest of your life.

If you’re looking for an even more immersive encounter, you may choose the gorilla habituation experience instead of the standard trek. This rare opportunity allows you to accompany researchers as they gradually introduce wild gorilla families to human presence. You’ll spend up to four hours with the gorillas—twice the time of a regular trek—and see behaviors that most visitors never witness. With only four participants allowed per habituation experience, it’s an intimate, once-in-a-lifetime encounter.

For travelers who aren’t trekking gorillas today, there are plenty of ways to spend your time in this spectacular region. At Lake Mutanda, you can enjoy the simple pleasure of swimming in its clear, bilharzia-free waters, where playful otters often surface beside you. For those seeking something more active, paddleboarding, kayaking, or sailing across the lake offers a perfect way to absorb the scenery and spot birds. You can also take a motorboat trip around the lake—an especially peaceful experience when enjoyed at sunset with a glass of wine in hand.

If you’d like to stretch your legs, consider a scenic walk through the hills or challenge yourself with a hike up one of the Virunga volcanoes in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. This park is also home to golden monkeys, which can be tracked on foot through the high-altitude bamboo forests. These vibrant, curious primates are full of energy and fun to observe.

In case you’re doing your gorilla trek today and still want to enjoy the lake and its surroundings at a more relaxed pace, we recommend adding an extra night here. It’s a beautiful place to rest, recover, and reflect on the powerful experience of meeting the mountain gorillas. At the end of the day, whether you trekked through the jungle, explored the lake by boat, or connected with the local community, you’ll return to your accommodation with a heart full of memories and the sounds of nature lulling you to rest.

Day 6: On to Lake Mburo National Park

With deep emotions and lasting memories, you bid farewell to Lake Mutanda this morning. The magic of the past few days—the unforgettable encounter with the gentle mountain gorillas, the peaceful stillness of the lake, and the dramatic beauty of the Virunga volcanoes—will stay with you forever. This is the heart of Central Africa that Dian Fossey once described so passionately in Gorillas in the Mist—a land of profound natural beauty, strength, and serenity.

Today’s journey takes you across the rolling hills of southwestern Uganda as you make your way toward Lake Mburo National Park. You’ll follow the main road that links Rwanda with Kampala and Kenya, passing rural villages, banana plantations, terraced hills, and roadside markets along the way. The landscapes continue to shift and surprise you as Uganda reveals yet another facet of its diverse geography.

By the time you arrive at Lake Mburo National Park, you’ll find yourself in an entirely different world. This small but scenic park is rich in wildlife and offers a more intimate safari experience. Unlike the sprawling savannahs of Queen Elizabeth or Murchison Falls, Lake Mburo is a mosaic of acacia woodlands, open plains, rocky outcrops, and wetlands—all centered around the sparkling lake that gives the park its name. It’s the only place in Uganda where you can find both impalas and the large eland antelope, and it’s also home to zebras, giraffes, topis, warthogs, buffaloes, crocodiles, leopards, and hippos.

Tonight, you’ll settle into your beautiful lodge and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the park. For those still hungry for adventure, you can opt for an exciting night safari. Just after sunset, you’ll set off into the bush with a spotlight, guided by a skilled ranger. This after-dark exploration offers a whole new perspective on the African wilderness. With a bit of luck, you may spot galagos (bush babies) leaping through the trees, spotted hyenas prowling the roads, or even catch a glimpse of a leopard—one of Africa’s most elusive predators.

After a day of travel and discovery, you’ll end the evening surrounded by the quiet sounds of the wild—crickets, distant calls of nocturnal birds, and the occasional grunt of a hippo echoing across the lake.

Accommodation:
Budget: Eagles Nest (Breakfast)
Midrange: Rwakobo Rock (Full Board)
Luxury: Mihingo Lodge (Full Board)

Day 7: Walking or mountain bike safari in Lake Mburo

Your final morning in Uganda begins with one last adventure in the wild. Lake Mburo National Park offers a rare opportunity to explore on foot or by bicycle, as the absence of lions and elephants makes it safe to experience the bush up close. After waking to the sounds of nature and enjoying the fresh morning air, you’ll have the option of joining either a walking safari or a mountain bike safari, both of which are included in your stay.

If you choose the walking safari, you’ll head out with a knowledgeable ranger to track wildlife such as zebras, buffaloes, giraffes, topis, and the elegant eland antelope. This immersive experience allows you to observe animals quietly in their natural habitat and to appreciate the park’s smaller details—tracks, insects, birds, and plants—often missed from a vehicle. For bird enthusiasts, this is an especially rewarding activity, as Lake Mburo is home to over 310 bird species, including colorful bee-eaters, hornbills, and fish eagles.

Alternatively, the mountain bike safari takes you deeper into the acacia-dotted landscape on two wheels, offering a more active way to start the day. You’ll pedal along winding trails, past open plains and rocky hills, with opportunities to encounter zebras grazing by the roadside or impalas darting through the trees. The varied terrain and elevation make for a fun and energizing ride, paired with breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness.

For guests staying at Mihingo Lodge, there is an additional option to go on a horseback safari through the park. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a beginner, this unique activity gives you the chance to explore the park in complete silence—without the hum of engines—allowing you to get closer to the animals in a peaceful, natural way. It’s important to note that horseback safaris cannot be booked in advance, are subject to availability, and are only available to guests under 90 kilograms.

After your morning safari and a well-deserved breakfast, you’ll begin the return drive to Entebbe. Along the way, you’ll once again cross the equator—a great moment for a final photo and to reflect on all you’ve experienced in this incredible country. The scenery slowly transitions from wilderness to village life and, eventually, to the gentle bustle of the capital’s outskirts. By late afternoon or early evening, you’ll arrive in Entebbe, where your guide will drop you off at the airport in time for your international flight home. Safe Travels!