12 Days Uganda Safari-Primates,Culture & Wildlife All-Inclusive

12 Days Uganda Safari Holiday of all Inclusive Adventure with Gorillas, Chimpanzees, Wildlife, and Culture”

Embark on a comprehensive 12-days Uganda safari, all-inclusive featuring diverse experiences such as wildlife encounters in Queen Elizabeth National Park, gorilla tracking in Bwindi or Mgahinga Impenetrable National Park, chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest, breathtaking scenery, and cultural interactions. Ensure to verify permit availability for activities like gorilla and chimpanzee tracking and secure advance reservations.

Tour Highlights on Uganda Safari Holiday:

• Chimpanzee tracking of over 12 different primates in Kibale Forest National Park 
• Wildlife game drive and boat safari in Queen Elizabeth National park
• Tree climbing lions at the Ishasha Sector in Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Natural Forest.
• Golden Monkeys Tracking  Mgahinga National park 
•  Boat ride on Lake Bunyonyi.

Detailed Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe Airport, Uganda – Start Your 12-Days Uganda Safari Adventure All-Inclusive 

Arrive at Entebbe airport where you will be received at the Airport by G S Uganda travel staff. Check in at your hotel and after refreshing we travel to Entebbe zoo, to take a glance at the beauty of Lake Victoria, on our way back to the hotel we pass via Entebbe town to exchange some money. Depending on your arrival time and overnight

Luxury: 2 Friends beach hotel Entebbe/ Imperial Resort Beach Hotel/ Protea Hotel Entebbe, 

Midrange: Imperial heights Hotel/Best Western Premier garden,/Entebbe botanical beach hotel

Day 2: Explore Amabere Caves, Waterfalls, and Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary en route from Entebbe to Kibale National Park.

Start your day with an early breakfast before heading to Kibale National Park in Fort Portal, Uganda. Along the way, explore the Amabere Caves(in Kabarole near Nyakasura school) and Waterfalls, visit the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, take a cultural village tour, see the Royal Palace, hike in the crater lakes region, go bird watching, tour a tea plantation, visit local markets, and enjoy local cuisines. Additionally, engage in nature walks and hikes in the surrounding areas. Plan your activities based on your interests and available time.

Retire to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Luxury: Kyaninga Lodge or Ndali Lodge / primate lodge kibale/ Kibale safari lodge/Craters Lodge.

Mid-range: Tsunga Lodge/Chimpanzee Forest cottages/ Kibale forest Camp.

Day 3: Chimpanzee Tracking & Primate Safari in Kibale Forest, Evening Swamp Walk in Bigodi.

Embark on an early morning chimpanzee tracking adventure in Kibale Forest, Western Uganda. Key details:

• Permits: Book in advance through UWA or a tour operator.
• Timing: Morning and afternoon tracking; specific permit times.
• Briefing: Attend a pre-tracking briefing at park headquarters.
• Experience: Physically demanding; may take hours to locate chimpanzee groups.
• Wildlife: Spot diverse species; bring binoculars and a camera.
• Guides/Trackers: Experienced guides ensure safety and locate groups.
• Viewing Rules: Limited time; maintain safe distance as per guide’s instructions.
• Dress Code: Wear suitable attire; bring rain gear for changing weather.
• Photography: Allowed but avoid flash to minimize disturbance.
• Respect Nature: Follow “Leave No Trace” principles; no littering or feeding wildlife.
• Health Precautions: Follow guidelines, especially if unwell; maintain a safe distance.
• Perseverance: Be patient; no guarantees, but the experience is worth the effort.

Cap off your day with a swamp walk in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary before returning to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Luxury: Kyaninga Lodge or Ndali Lodge / primate lodge kibale/ Kibale safari lodge/Craters Lodge.

Mid-range: Tsunga Lodge/Chimpanzee Forest cottages/ Kibale forest Camp.

Day 4: Drive to Queen Elizabeth National park Uganda, for wildlife game drive and boat safari.

Have breakfast early in the morning before embarking on a safari trip in Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda. This trip promises an incredible and diverse wildlife experience to you. 

Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge / Katara Lodge or Jacana Lodge / Enganzilodge.

Midrange: The Bush Lodge, Engiri safari Logde/Queen Elizabeth safari lodge.

Day 5: Explore Salt Mining in Lakes Katwe and Kasenyi, Plus a Nature Walk in Kyambura Gorge.

Have breakfast and then explore the salt mines in the crater lakes of Katwe and Kasenyi. Have lunch and later take a nature walk in the Kyambura Gorge within Queen Elizabeth National Park,

Here’s what you can expect to see and do in each of these areas:

Lake Katwe and Lake Kasenyi Salt Mining:

At Lake Katwe, you’ll encounter a network of salt pans, where workers extract salt using traditional methods passed down through generations. These salt pans are essentially shallow pools of brine.

You can observe local salt miners, often women, as they laboriously collect the salt crystals and pile them into pyramids to dry.

Salt Processing Huts, In the vicinity of the salt pans, there are small huts where the salt is processed and packaged for sale. You can see the various stages of salt processing, from extraction to the final product.

Local Community Interaction, The salt mining industry is integral to the livelihoods of the local community. You can interact with the workers and learn about their daily routines and the challenges they face in this demanding profession.

Scenic Views, The salt mining area offers picturesque views of Lake Katwe and the surrounding landscape. You’ll have the opportunity to capture stunning photographs of the salt pans against the backdrop of the lake and Rwenzori Mountains.

Kyambura Gorge Nature Walk, Scenic Beauty, The Kyambura Gorge is a dramatic natural feature with lush vegetation, steep cliffs, and a river flowing at the bottom. The scenery alone makes the hike worthwhile.

Chimpanzee Tracking, One of the main attractions in the Kyambura Gorge is the opportunity to track habituated chimpanzee groups. During the hike, you may encounter these primates in their natural habitat and observe their behaviours.

Primate and Birdlife, Besides chimpanzees, the gorge is home to other primate species, including red-tailed monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and baboons. Birdwatchers will appreciate the diverse avian species found in the area.

Educational Experience, Knowledgeable guides will lead you through the gorge, providing insights into the local ecology, geology, and the conservation efforts taking place in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Vegetation and Flora, The Kyambura Gorge hosts a variety of plant species, and your guide may point out unique flora along the way.

River Crossing, Depending on the route and conditions, you may need to cross the river within the gorge. This adds to the adventure and provides an opportunity to cool off.

Photography, The gorge’s unique landscapes, wildlife, and vibrant flora make it an excellent spot for nature photography.

Both the salt mining sites at Lake Katwe and Lake Kasenyi and the Kyambura Gorge nature walk offer distinct and memorable experiences that showcase the natural and cultural diversity of Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda.

Retire to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge / Katara Lodge or Jacana Lodge / Enganzilodge.

Midrange: The Bush Lodge, Engiri safari Logde/Queen Elizabeth safari lodge.

DAY 6: Witness Tree-Climbing Lions in Ishasha Sector, then Transfer to Bwindi for Mountain Gorilla Trekking

Have breakfast early in the morning and then transfer to the Ishasha sector in the northern part of Queen Elizabeth National Park, this sector is famous for its unique population of tree-climbing lions. When visiting this particular area of the park, there are several things one can expect to see and experience,

Tree-Climbing Lions, The primary attraction of the Ishasha Sector is the opportunity to spot tree-climbing lions. These lions have a distinctive behaviour of resting in the branches of fig trees. It’s a remarkable and rare sight, as this behaviour is not common among lions in other parts of Africa.

Lion Viewing, While the tree-climbing lions are the stars of the show, you can also observe other lion prides in the Ishasha Sector. Game drives in the area give you a chance to get up close and personal with these majestic big cats.

Game Drives, The Ishasha Sector also offers excellent game drives, allowing you to explore the diverse landscapes and wildlife of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Besides lions, you may encounter other animals such as elephants, buffaloes, topis, Uganda kob, and more.

Scenic Landscapes, The Ishasha Sector is known for its scenic beauty, with rolling plains, acacia woodlands, and the Ishasha River meandering through the landscape. The backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains adds to the picturesque setting.

Birdwatching, Bird enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse avian species in the area. The sector is home to numerous bird species, making it an excellent location for birdwatching.

Photography, The tree-climbing lions and the scenic landscapes provide fantastic photographic opportunities. Be sure to have your camera or smartphone ready to capture the stunning moments.

Relaxation, Ishasha offers a more relaxed and off-the-beaten-path experience compared to other areas of Queen Elizabeth National Park. It’s an ideal spot to unwind and appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the wilderness.

Camping and Lodging, There are campsites and lodges within the Ishasha Sector where you can stay overnight. Falling asleep to the sounds of the wild and waking up to the sunrise over the savannah is an unforgettable experience.

Cultural Encounters, Some lodges in the Ishasha Sector offer cultural visits to nearby communities, allowing you to learn about the traditions and way of life of the local people.

Guided Tours, Consider taking a guided tour in the Ishasha Sector to maximize your chances of spotting tree-climbing lions and other wildlife. Knowledgeable guides are familiar with the lions’ habits and can enhance your experience.

Visiting the Ishasha Sector is a unique opportunity to witness the incredible behavior of tree-climbing lions in a beautiful and remote part of Queen Elizabeth National Park. It’s a must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers seeking a one-of-a-kind safari experience in Uganda. Lunch will be hard enroute.

Retire to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Luxury: Buhoma Lodge/ Mahogany Springs Lodge/ Sanctuary gorilla lodge,

Midrange: Silverback Lodge/Havens Lodge/Ride for the woman.

DAY 7: Experience Bwindi’s Mountain Gorilla Trekking safari.

Have breakfast early in the morning, then go to the park headquarters to be briefed by the park rangers on what to be observed before starting on the trekking tour. Mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers the opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Here’s what you can hope to see and the activities you can look forward to during a gorilla trekking adventure:

1. Mountain Gorillas, The highlight of gorilla trekking is, of course, the chance to see mountain gorillas up close. Bwindi is home to approximately half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. You’ll have the opportunity to observe these incredible primates in their family groups, witnessing their behavior, interactions, and daily routines.

2. Scenic Beauty, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its lush and dense vegetation. The trek itself is a journey through a pristine and stunning rainforest, with breathtaking landscapes and unique plant and animal species.

3. Gorilla Families, Bwindi has several habituated gorilla families that can be visited by tourists. Each family has its own dynamics, personalities, and stories. Your trekking group may be assigned to a specific family, and you’ll get to know the gorillas by name and characteristics.

4. Experienced Guides, You’ll be accompanied by knowledgeable guides and trackers who are experts at finding the gorilla families. They’ll provide information about the gorillas, the forest, and the conservation efforts in the park.

5. Hiking and Trekking, Gorilla trekking involves hiking through the forest to locate the gorilla groups. The terrain can be challenging, and the trek’s duration varies, but it’s an adventure that offers a sense of accomplishment.

6. Gorilla Habituation Experience, In addition to standard gorilla trekking, Bwindi offers the Gorilla Habituation Experience in a select area of the park. This allows visitors to spend more time with a gorilla family and researchers, providing a deeper understanding of gorilla behaviour.

7. Birdwatching, Bwindi is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 350 bird species, including numerous endemics. While trekking, you’ll have the opportunity to spot various colourful and unique birds.

8. Primate Encounters, Bwindi is also home to other primate species, such as chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and red-tailed monkeys. While trekking for gorillas, you might encounter these primates as well.

9. Photography, Photographers will have a field day capturing the gorillas and the stunning surroundings. Remember to follow the guidelines for responsible wildlife photography.

10. Supporting Conservation: – Your permit fees contribute to the conservation efforts in Bwindi, helping protect gorillas and their habitat. You’ll learn about the important work being done to safeguard these endangered species.

11. Cultural Experiences: – Bwindi is surrounded by local communities, and some lodges offer cultural visits. You can learn about the traditions and customs of the Batwa and Bakiga people.

12. Relaxation and Reflection: – After your gorilla trek, take time to relax and reflect on this incredible wildlife encounter. Many lodges offer comfortable accommodations with beautiful views, perfect for unwinding.

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a profound and emotional experience that connects you with nature in a profound way. It’s essential to follow the rules and guidelines to minimize disturbance to the gorillas and ensure their protection for future generations to enjoy. Lunch will be hard en-route. and Accommodation at:

Luxury: Buhoma Lodge/ Mahogany Springs Lodge/ Sanctuary gorilla lodge,

Midrange: Silverback Lodge/Havens Lodge/Ride for the woman.

DAY 8: Transfer later to Mgahinga National Park for Golden Monkeys Tracking.

The journey to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in southwestern Uganda offers travelers the opportunity to explore and experience various attractions and sights along the way. Here’s what you can expect to see and explore on your way to Mgahinga National Park:

Kisoro Town, Kisoro is the nearest major town to Mgahinga National Park and serves as a gateway for visitors. You can explore the town, visit local markets, and interact with the friendly local community.

Lake Mutanda, This scenic lake is often considered one of the most beautiful in Uganda. The lake is surrounded by lush green hills and offers opportunities for boat rides, kayaking, and photography.

Virunga Volcanoes, As you approach the park, you’ll have stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes, including Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabyinyo. These volcanoes provide a dramatic backdrop to the landscape.

Breathtaking Scenery, The road to Mgahinga National Park takes you through picturesque landscapes, including terraced fields, rolling hills, and dense forests. It’s a great opportunity for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Local Communities, Along the route, you’ll pass through several small villages and communities. Take the time to engage with locals, learn about their culture, and maybe even stop at a roadside market to sample fresh produce.

Cultural Experiences, Depending on your interests and schedule, you can arrange visits to cultural attractions, such as the Batwa pygmy communities, to learn about their traditions and way of life.

Birdwatching, The journey may provide opportunities for birdwatching, as Uganda is home to a wide variety of bird species. Keep an eye out for colourful birds along the way.

Wildlife Sightings, While traveling through rural areas, you may come across wildlife like baboons, vervet monkeys, and various bird species. Keep your camera ready for wildlife photography.

Scenic Overlooks, The route often features scenic viewpoints and overlooks where you can stop to take in the breathtaking vistas and capture memorable photographs.

Cultural Markets, Depending on the day of the week, you might come across local markets selling fresh produce, crafts, and souvenirs. It’s an opportunity to interact with locals and purchase unique items.

Gorilla Tracking Briefing, If you’re planning to trek for mountain gorillas in Mgahinga, you’ll attend a briefing at the park headquarters before your trek. This provides valuable information about the gorilla trekking experience and guidelines to follow.

Local Cuisine, Along the way, you can savour Ugandan cuisine at local restaurants and eateries, trying dishes like matoke (cooked bananas), grilled meat, and delicious starchy staples.

As you make your way to Mgahinga National Park, take your time to soak in the beauty of the landscape, engage with the local culture, and appreciate the natural and cultural diversity of southwestern Uganda. It’s not just a journey to a destination; it’s an enriching and memorable experience in itself.

Check-in to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Luxury: Volcanoes gorilla Lodge/Chameleon’s hill

Day 9: Early in the morning go for Golden Monkeys tracking in Mgahinga National Park

Have early morning breakfast and go to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for primates trekking, located in southwestern Uganda, the national park is a small but incredibly diverse and known for its stunning landscapes and unique wildlife. Here’s what you can expect to find and see when visiting Mgahinga National Park:

Mountain Gorillas, One of the primary attractions of Mgahinga National Park is its population of mountain gorillas. These gentle giants inhabit the park’s lush forests, and visitors have the opportunity to go gorilla trekking to observe them in their natural habitat. Golden Monkeys,

In addition to mountain gorillas, the park is home to a population of endangered golden monkeys. Visitors can take guided hikes to see these colorful and playful primates.

Majestic Volcanoes:

The park is set against a backdrop of stunning volcanic peaks, including Mount Muhabura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Sabyinyo. These towering volcanoes offer excellent trekking and hiking opportunities.

Scenic Hiking Trails: Mgahinga National Park offers a network of scenic hiking trails that lead you through bamboo forests, montane vegetation, and swamps. These trails provide a chance to explore the park’s unique landscapes and encounter various wildlife and bird species.

Birdwatching, The park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 180 bird species recorded. You can spot various colorful birds, including the Rwenzori turaco, Rwenzori batis, and several sunbird species.

Cultural Encounters, Mgahinga is home to the indigenous Batwa pygmy community. Visitors have the opportunity to engage in cultural experiences, such as guided village walks and performances, to learn about the Batwa’s traditional way of life.

Botanical Diversity, The park’s varied elevations and ecosystems support a rich diversity of plant life, including several endemic species. The lush montane vegetation and bamboo forests are particularly noteworthy.

Primate Sightings, Aside from mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, the park is inhabited by other primates, including colobus monkeys and various monkey species. Keep an eye out for these animals during your hikes.

Volcano Climbing, Adventurous travelers can embark on volcano climbing expeditions, such as hiking to the summit of Mount Muhabura. These treks provide panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Conservation Education, While visiting, you’ll have opportunities to learn about the conservation efforts in Mgahinga National Park and the broader efforts to protect the region’s biodiversity.

Photography, The park’s stunning scenery, wildlife, and unique flora offer fantastic photographic opportunities. Capture the beauty of the volcanoes, primates, and lush landscapes.

Picnicking and Relaxation, Some areas within the park are ideal for picnics and relaxation. Have lunch and take your  time to appreciate the natural beauty of the park and peaceful moment in the wilderness.

Mgahinga National Park may be small in size, but it offers a diverse range of experiences, from gorilla trekking to volcano climbing, cultural encounters, and breathtaking scenery. It’s a must-visit destination for those looking to connect with nature, experience unique wildlife encounters, and explore Uganda’s rich biodiversity.

Retire to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Luxury: Volcanoes gorilla Lodge/Chameleon’s hill

Day 10: Go for hiking, birding or relax by Lake Bunyonyi, Africa’s second deep Crater Lake.

Have breakfast in the morning and then explore lake Bunyonyi, africa’s second deepest crater lake located in southwestern Uganda, the lake offers a range of activities and experiences for travellers, including hiking, birdwatching, and scenic tours. Here’s what you can expect when you visit lake Bunyonyi:

1. Hiking Opportunities, The hills and ridges around Lake Bunyonyi offer excellent hiking opportunities. You can embark on guided hikes to viewpoints that provide panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding landscape. The hike to the top of Punishment Island is a popular choice.

2. Birdwatching, Lake Bunyonyi and its surroundings are a paradise for bird enthusiasts. The area is home to a wide variety of bird species, including kingfishers, weavers, herons, and the African Harrier Hawk. You can spot these birds while relaxing by the lake or on guided birdwatching tours.

3. Island Hopping, Lake Bunyonyi is dotted with several islands, each with its own charm. Some islands are inhabited, while others are nature reserves. You can hop from island to island, exploring their different features and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.

4. Camping and Lodging, There are various accommodation options around Lake Bunyonyi, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites. Many of these offer stunning lake views and provide a tranquil retreat.

5. Scenic Drives: – The drive to Lake Bunyonyi itself is picturesque, with winding roads through rural landscapes. Be prepared for scenic stops along the way to capture the natural beauty of the region.

6. Photography: – Lake Bunyonyi’s landscapes, sunsets, and birdlife offer fantastic photographic opportunities. Don’t forget to bring your camera or smartphone to capture the moments.

A visit to Lake Bunyonyi is a chance to connect with nature, enjoy serene surroundings, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a birdwatcher, or someone looking for a tranquil getaway, Lake Bunyonyi has something to offer every traveller.

Retire to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Luxury: Lake Bunyonyi Bird Nest Resort

Day 11: Take a Boat ride on Lake Bunyonyi

Have morning breakfast in the morning and go for further exploration mainly of Lake Bunyonyi, Africa’s second deepest crater lake. Here’s what you can expect when you visit Lake Bunyonyi on this day:

1. Scenic Beauty: Enjoy breathtaking views of lush hills, terraced fields, and small islands, creating a serene setting.

2. Boat Tours and Canoeing: Explore the lake by boat or traditional canoe, visiting inhabited islands with unique stories and cultural significance.

3. Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in Bakiga traditions by visiting local villages, tasting traditional dishes, and participating in cultural activities.

4. Relaxation and Serenity: Unwind by the calm, clean waters, whether lounging by the lakeshore, reading a book, or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance.

5. Water Sports: Engage in swimming, canoeing, and kayaking, with lodges offering equipment rentals and water-based adventures.

6. Photography on Punishment Island: Capture fantastic moments on Punishment Island (Akampene), known for its landscapes, sunsets, and birdlife. Don’t forget your camera or smartphone!

Retire to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Lake Bunyonyi Bird Nest Resort

DAY 12: We drive from lake Bunyonyi back to Entebbe Airport for your next destination.

Today is the last day of the tour, wake up and have your breakfast then we drive from lake Bunyonyi, have as brief stopover at the equator and depending on your departure time, you can go for equator experiment, take pictures or buy some souvenirs and have your lunch before continuing on with your journey to Kampala or Entebbe Airport for your next destination and end of 12 days best of Uganda safari holiday

Our Other safari Itineraries Apart from the of Uganda Safari holiday

• 3 Day Gorilla Tour: Fly-in
• 3 Day Uganda Gorilla Safari: Drive
• 3 Day Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari
• 3 Day Murchison Falls Safari
• 3 Day Queen Elizabeth Safari
• 6 Day Gorillas & Wildlife Safari