8 Days Uganda Safari – Gorilla Trekking, Chimpanzees & Big Five Wildlife Safari

The Ultimate 8 Days Uganda Safari Experience

Uganda, famously known as the Pearl of Africa, is one of the most rewarding safari destinations on the continent. Blessed with extraordinary biodiversity, breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and the world’s largest population of mountain gorillas, Uganda offers a safari experience unlike any other. This carefully crafted 8 Days Uganda Safari – Gorilla Trekking, Chimpanzees and Big Five Wildlife Adventure by Africa Fly-in Safaris combines the country’s most iconic attractions into one unforgettable journey.

From the powerful Murchison Falls and the wildlife-rich savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park to the primate paradise of Kibale Forest and the misty mountains of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, this safari showcases the very best of Uganda. Travelers will enjoy thrilling game drives, exciting boat cruises, chimpanzee tracking, gorilla trekking, tree-climbing lion encounters, and relaxation at the scenic Lake Bunyonyi.

Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, photographer, honeymooner, family traveler, or adventure seeker, this Uganda safari offers a perfect balance of wildlife, culture, nature, and relaxation.

Why Choose This 8 Days Uganda Safari?

This safari is designed to maximize your wildlife encounters while allowing you to explore Uganda’s most famous national parks in just over a week.

Safari Highlights

  • Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
  • Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest National Park
  • Big Five wildlife viewing
  • Rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
  • Murchison Falls boat cruise
  • Visit to the Top of Murchison Falls
  • Game drives in Murchison Falls National Park
  • Kazinga Channel boat safari
  • Tree-climbing lions in Ishasha Sector
  • Lake Bunyonyi relaxation experience
  • Equator crossing experience
  • Spectacular photography opportunities
  • Professional safari guide throughout the trip

Popular Tanzania Safari Tours

Many travelers combine Uganda gorilla safaris with Tanzania wildlife adventures. Below are some of the most popular Tanzania safari packages:

Tanzania Safari TourDurationHighlights
Northern Circuit Safari5 DaysSerengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire
Great Migration Safari6 DaysSerengeti Migration Experience
Tanzania Wildlife & Culture Safari7 DaysSerengeti, Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara & Cultural Tours

Detailed 8 Days Uganda Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park

Your incredible Uganda safari begins with pickup from Entebbe International Airport or your hotel in Entebbe or Kampala.

After meeting your Africa Fly-in Safaris guide, embark on a scenic journey toward Murchison Falls National Park. Along the way, enjoy a memorable stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for an exciting guided rhino tracking experience.

Walking through the sanctuary alongside expert rangers offers a unique opportunity to observe Uganda’s only wild rhinos on foot.

After lunch, continue to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and most spectacular wildlife reserve.

Activities

  • Rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
  • Scenic countryside drive
  • Photography opportunities

Accommodation

Pakuba Safari Lodge

Meals

Lunch and Dinner

Day 2: Morning Game Drive and Victoria Nile Boat Cruise

Wake up early for an unforgettable morning game drive across the northern sector of Murchison Falls National Park.

This area is famous for its abundant wildlife and stunning savannah landscapes.

Wildlife You May Encounter

  • Lions
  • Elephants
  • Rothschild’s giraffes
  • Buffaloes
  • Jackson’s hartebeests
  • Uganda kobs
  • Oribis
  • Hyenas
  • Leopards (occasionally)

Bird lovers can also spot numerous species including:

  • Shoebill stork
  • Abyssinian ground hornbill
  • Goliath heron
  • Saddle-billed stork

After lunch, enjoy a boat cruise along the Victoria Nile toward the base of the mighty Murchison Falls.

Large pods of hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and countless bird species can be seen along the riverbanks.

Later, hike to the Top of the Falls for breathtaking panoramic views.

Accommodation

Pakuba Safari Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 3: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park

Following breakfast, depart Murchison Falls and travel south toward Kibale Forest National Park.

The journey offers incredible views of tea plantations, crater lakes, rolling hills, and traditional Ugandan villages.

Kibale Forest is widely recognized as East Africa’s primate capital and is home to over 13 primate species.

Accommodation

Chimpanzee Forest Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Today begins with one of Uganda’s most exciting primate experiences.

After a briefing from Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers, enter Kibale Forest in search of wild chimpanzees.

Besides chimpanzees, you may also encounter:

  • Black-and-white colobus monkeys
  • Red-tailed monkeys
  • L’Hoest’s monkeys
  • Olive baboons
  • Grey-cheeked mangabeys

Once the chimpanzees are located, spend one magical hour observing their behavior, feeding habits, and social interactions.

After lunch, continue to Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Accommodation

Twin Lakes Safari Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 5: Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most biodiverse protected area and offers some of the country’s best wildlife viewing opportunities.

Begin the day with an early morning game drive across the Kasenyi Plains.

Wildlife Highlights

  • Lions
  • Elephants
  • Buffaloes
  • Leopards
  • Hyenas
  • Warthogs
  • Uganda kobs

After lunch, embark on an afternoon boat safari along the famous Kazinga Channel.

The channel connects Lake Edward and Lake George and supports one of Africa’s highest concentrations of hippos.

Accommodation

Twin Lakes Safari Lodge

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 6: Ishasha Tree-Climbing Lions and Transfer to Bwindi

After breakfast, travel through the famous Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park.

This region is internationally renowned for its unique population of tree-climbing lions.

Watching lions resting on giant fig tree branches is one of Uganda’s most iconic wildlife experiences.

Other animals commonly seen include:

  • Elephants
  • Buffaloes
  • Topis
  • Uganda kobs

Continue to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.

Accommodation

Gorilla Mist Camp

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 7: Gorilla Trekking and Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi

This is the highlight of your Uganda safari.

Following an early morning briefing, begin your gorilla trekking adventure deep within the ancient rainforest of Bwindi.

The trek may last between 2 and 8 hours depending on the location of the gorilla family.

Upon finding the gorillas, you will spend one unforgettable hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

Witnessing a silverback lead his family, watching playful juveniles, and observing mothers caring for infants is a life-changing experience.

After the trek, transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, one of Africa’s most beautiful lakes.

Accommodation

Bunyonyi Safaris Resort

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 8: Return to Entebbe

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast overlooking Lake Bunyonyi before beginning your return journey to Entebbe.

Along the way, stop at the Equator Monument for photography and souvenir shopping.

Arrive in Entebbe later in the day for your departure flight or hotel drop-off.

Meals

Breakfast and Lunch

Safari Inclusions

  • Gorilla trekking permit
  • Chimpanzee tracking permit
  • Rhino tracking permit
  • All park entrance fees
  • Boat cruises
  • Professional English-speaking safari guide
  • Ground transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
  • Accommodation throughout safari
  • Meals as indicated
  • Bottled drinking water
  • Game drives
  • Equator experience

Safari Exclusions

  • International flights
  • Uganda visa fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Optional activities

Best Time to Visit Uganda for Gorilla Trekking and Wildlife Safaris

Uganda is a year-round safari destination, but the best months are:

Dry Seasons

  • June to September
  • December to February

These months offer easier trekking conditions and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

Green Seasons

  • March to May
  • October to November

These months offer fewer crowds, lush scenery, and exceptional photography opportunities.

Why Book with Africa Fly-in Safaris?

Africa Fly-in Safaris specializes in tailor-made Uganda safaris, luxury gorilla trekking tours, wildlife safaris, chimpanzee tracking adventures, birdwatching tours, and East African safari holidays.

Our experienced safari consultants and professional guides ensure exceptional service, personalized itineraries, and unforgettable wildlife experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much does an 8 Days Uganda Safari cost?

Prices typically range between USD 3,500 and USD 6,500 per person depending on accommodation level, travel season, and group size.

Is gorilla trekking safe in Uganda?

Yes. Gorilla trekking is highly regulated and conducted under the supervision of trained Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers.

What is the minimum age for gorilla trekking?

The minimum age is 15 years.

How difficult is chimpanzee trekking?

Chimpanzee trekking is generally easier than gorilla trekking but still requires moderate fitness.

What should I pack for this safari?

  • Hiking boots
  • Waterproof jacket
  • Long-sleeved shirts
  • Insect repellent
  • Camera
  • Binoculars
  • Sunscreen
  • Day backpack

Can I customize this itinerary?

Absolutely. Africa Fly-in Safaris can tailor the safari to match your travel dates, interests, accommodation preferences, and budget.

Final Thoughts

The 8 Days Uganda Safari – Gorilla Trekking, Chimpanzees and Big Five Wildlife Adventure offers the perfect combination of primates, wildlife, scenery, and culture. From tracking endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi and chimpanzees in Kibale to exploring Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Park, this journey delivers the very best of Uganda in one unforgettable safari.

With expert planning by Africa Fly-in Safaris, travelers can experience the Pearl of Africa in comfort, safety, and style while creating memories that last a lifetime.