14-Day Uganda Big Five Tour and Primates Tracking Safari (Gorillas and Chimpanzee Trekking) Safari starting from Entebbe

Embark on a 14-day Uganda Big Five Tour and Primates Tracking Safari, beginning in Entebbe and traversing through the country’s most captivating destinations. The journey starts with a visit to Sipi Falls, where you will marvel at the cascading waterfalls and enjoy hikes through the lush scenery. Next, head to Moroto for an immersive Karamojong cultural experience, gaining insights into the traditional ways of this indigenous community. Continue to Kidepo Valley National Park, renowned for its striking landscapes and diverse wildlife, including lions, elephants, and leopards, making for thrilling game drives.

14-Day Uganda Big Five Tour

Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

Proceed to Murchison Falls National Park, where you will witness the majestic Murchison Falls and partake in game drives and boat cruises along the Nile River, offering close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. The adventure continues at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where you will track the endangered white rhinos on foot, a rare and exhilarating experience. From there, journey to Hoima for a restful night before heading to Kibale Forest, famous for its Chimpanzee tracking and the enchanting Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary Walk, home to diverse primates and birdlife. Explore the serene Twin Lakes of Bunyaruguru and then venture into Queen Elizabeth National Park for game drives and a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, observing elephants, buffaloes, and numerous bird species.

In the Ishasha sector, you will search for the unique tree-climbing lions. Your Uganda safari then leads to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where you will embark on the unforgettable experience of gorilla trekking, encountering these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Relax with a boat cruise on the picturesque Lake Bunyonyi, before heading to Lake Mburo National Park for nature walks and game drives, spotting zebras, impalas, and other wildlife. The tour concludes with a visit to the Uganda Equator crossing for memorable photos before returning to Entebbe Airport, completing a comprehensive and enriching exploration of Uganda’s diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.

Quotation Based on Two Persons Sharing

Category 1 Person 2 Persons
Budget Trip $4,738pp $9,476
Mid-Range Trip $5,249 $10,498
14-Day Uganda Big Five Tour

Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest

14-Day Uganda Big Five Tour & Primates Tracking Safari Highlights

 

Detailed 14-Day Uganda Big Five Tour & Primates Tracking Safari

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Sipi Falls, Have Coffee Tour Experience and Rest


Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by your 14-Day Uganda Big Five Tour & Primates Tracking Safari guide and transferred to the scenic Sipi Falls region. Nestled on the foothills of Mount Elgon, Sipi Falls offers a breathtaking introduction to Uganda’s natural beauty. After a picturesque drive through the lush countryside, you will arrive at your accommodation, where you can relax and refresh.

In the afternoon, embark on a captivating coffee tour experience. Learn about the entire coffee production process from bean to cup, engage with local farmers, and even try your hand at roasting and grinding your own coffee beans. Savor the rich, aromatic flavors of freshly brewed coffee as you take in the stunning views of the cascading Sipi Falls. The day concludes with a peaceful evening at your lodge, allowing you to unwind and prepare for the exciting adventures ahead.

  • Main Destination: Sipi Falls (Highlight)
  • Accommodation: Rafiki Lodge Sipi – Mid-range lodge located at Sipi Falls (Highlight)
  • Meals & Drinks: All meals included, drinking water (Other drinks not included)

 

Day 2: Early Morning Hike to Sipi Falls Hike and Transfer to Kidepo Valley National Park Via Moroto Karamojong Experience


Begin your second day with an invigorating early morning hike to the majestic Sipi Falls, a trio of stunning waterfalls that cascade down the slopes of Mount Elgon. The hike takes you through verdant landscapes, terraced hills, and local villages, offering breathtaking views and ample photo opportunities. Along the way, your 14-Day Uganda Big Five Tour & Primates Tracking Safari guide will share fascinating insights into the local flora, fauna, and culture. After the hike, embark on a scenic drive to Kidepo Valley National Park, one of Uganda’s most remote and pristine wildlife reserves. En route, stop in Moroto for an immersive Karamojong cultural experience.

Engage with the Karamojong people, known for their distinctive customs and traditional way of life. Visit their manyattas (homesteads), learn about their cattle-herding practices, and witness traditional dances and ceremonies. This enriching cultural encounter provides a deep understanding of the region’s heritage. Continue your journey to Kidepo Valley National Park, arriving in the late afternoon. Settle into your lodge and enjoy a restful evening, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the park, as you anticipate the wildlife adventures awaiting you.

  • Main Destination: Kidepo Valley National Park
  • Accommodation: Kidepo Savannah Lodge (Safari Tent) – Mid-range tented camp bordering Kidepo Valley NP without fences
  • Meals & Drinks: All meals included, drinking water (Other drinks not included)

 

Day 3: Full Day Exploring Kidepo Valley National Park


Day three of 14-Day Uganda Big Five Tour & Primates Tracking Safari is dedicated to a full-day exploration of Kidepo Valley National Park, renowned for its raw, untamed beauty and diverse wildlife. Begin the day with an early morning game drive through the Narus Valley, where the park’s wildlife congregates. Spot herds of elephants, buffaloes, and graceful giraffes grazing alongside zebras and antelopes, while lions and leopards lurk nearby. The park’s varied landscape of savannah, hills, and river valleys offers spectacular vistas and abundant photo opportunities.

After a picnic lunch, continue your 14-Day Uganda Big Five Tour & Primates Tracking Safari exploration with a visit to the Kidepo Valley, where the dry river bed of the Kidepo River is a haven for ostriches and other bird species. As the sun sets, embark on another game drive, this time to spot nocturnal animals such as hyenas and jackals. The day concludes with a visit to a local Karamojong village within the park, where you will experience traditional dances and learn about their unique way of life. Return to your lodge in the evening, reflecting on the day’s incredible wildlife encounters and cultural experiences.

  • Main Destination: Kidepo Valley National Park
  • Accommodation: Kidepo Savannah Lodge (Safari Tent) – Mid-range tented camp bordering Kidepo Valley NP without fences
  • Meals & Drinks: All meals included, drinking water (Other drinks not included)

 

Day 4: Morning Game Drive and Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park (Have Evening Game Drive)


Day four begins with a final morning game drive in Kidepo Valley National Park, offering one last chance to encounter the park’s abundant wildlife as the animals are most active in the early hours. Traverse the rugged landscapes, spotting elephants, buffaloes, and various antelope species, while the elusive predators such as lions and leopards might make a final appearance. After the game drive, embark on a scenic transfer to Murchison Falls National Park, passing through the picturesque Ugandan countryside. Upon arrival at Murchison Falls, settle into your accommodation before heading out for an evening game drive.

Explore the park’s diverse habitats, from dense woodlands to open savannahs, and witness a stunning array of wildlife including giraffes, hartebeests, and the park’s iconic Nile crocodiles along the riverbanks. As the sun sets, the landscape is bathed in a golden glow, providing perfect conditions for photography. Return to your lodge for a relaxing evening, surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness, and prepare for the adventures that await in Murchison Falls National Park.

  • Main Destination: Murchison Falls National Park
  • Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge – Mid-range lodge located just outside Murchison Falls NP
  • Meals & Drinks: All meals included, drinking water (Other drinks not included)

 

Day 5: Murchison Falls National Park and Game Drives and Boat Cruises


Day five offers a full 14-Day Uganda Big Five Tour & Primates Tracking Safari exploration of Murchison Falls National Park, starting with an early morning game drive across the park’s vast savannahs. As the sun rises, witness the park come alive with wildlife: towering giraffes nibbling on acacia trees, herds of elephants roaming the plains, and pride of lions basking in the morning sun. Keep an eye out for the elusive leopards and a variety of antelope species. After the game drive, return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast before embarking on a thrilling boat cruise on the Nile River. As you glide along the river, encounter pods of hippos wallowing in the water and enormous Nile crocodiles sunbathing on the riverbanks.

The cruise takes you to the base of the mighty Murchison Falls, where the Nile’s powerful surge through a narrow gorge creates a dramatic spectacle. Disembark and take a short hike to the top of the falls for breathtaking panoramic views and the chance to feel the mist from the thundering water. In the afternoon, enjoy another game drive, exploring different parts of the park and spotting more wildlife in the cooler evening hours. The day concludes with a return to your lodge, where you can unwind and reminisce about the day’s extraordinary experiences amidst the natural splendor of Murchison Falls National Park.

  • Main Destination: Murchison Falls National Park
  • Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge – Mid-range lodge located just outside Murchison Falls NP
  • Meals & Drinks: All meals included, drinking water (Other drinks not included)

 

Day 6: Hike to the Top of Murchison Falls and Transfer to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for White Rhino Tracking, then Transfer to Hoima


On day six, start your morning with a memorable hike to the top of Murchison Falls. This trek offers close-up views of the powerful Nile River as it funnels through a narrow gorge, creating one of the world’s most spectacular waterfalls. The vantage point at the top provides breathtaking panoramas and a profound sense of nature’s raw power. After the hike, depart for the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, dedicated to the conservation of Uganda’s endangered white rhinos.

Upon arrival, embark on an exhilarating tracking experience on foot, 14-Day Uganda Big Five Tour & Primates Tracking Safari guided by experienced rangers who share insights into the rhinos’ behavior and habitat. Walking through the savannah, you’ll have the rare opportunity to observe these majestic creatures up close in their natural environment. Following the rhino tracking adventure, continue your journey to Hoima, a charming town where you will spend the night. The day ends with a peaceful evening in Hoima, reflecting on the awe-inspiring wildlife encounters and natural beauty witnessed so far on your Ugandan safari.

  • Main Destination: Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch
  • Accommodation: Kontiki Hotel – Mid-range hotel located in Hoima (Town)
  • Meals & Drinks: All meals included, drinking water (Other drinks not included)

 

Day 7: Drive from Hoima to Kibale Forest National Park and Afternoon Bigodi Swamp Walk


On day seven, embark on a scenic drive from Hoima to Kibale Forest National Park, renowned for its rich biodiversity and primate population. The 14-Day Uganda Big Five Tour & Primates Tracking Safari journey takes you through Uganda’s picturesque countryside, dotted with rolling hills, tea plantations, and rural villages. Upon arrival at Kibale, settle into your lodge and enjoy a leisurely lunch amidst the tranquil forest setting. In the afternoon, set out on the Bigodi Swamp Walk, a community-run ecotourism project that highlights the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Guided by a local expert, explore the lush wetlands of Bigodi, home to a remarkable variety of bird species, colorful butterflies, and diverse primates, including the red colobus monkey and grey-cheeked mangabey. The walk also offers insights into the traditional uses of indigenous plants and the local community’s conservation efforts. As you traverse the boardwalks and forest trails, soak in the serene atmosphere and keep an eye out for the elusive great blue turaco, a birdwatcher’s delight. The day concludes with a return to your lodge, where you can relax and prepare for the chimpanzee trekking adventure awaiting you the next day.

  • Main Destination: Kibale National Park (Chimps)
  • Accommodation: Kibale Forest Lodge – Mid-range lodge located inside Kibale NP (Chimps)
  • Meals & Drinks: All meals included, drinking water (Other drinks not included)

 

Day 8: Kibale Forest Chimpanzee Trekking Safari in Uganda and Community Visits


Day eight is dedicated to the exhilarating experience of chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest National Park, home to one of the largest populations of chimpanzees in Uganda. Early in the morning, after a briefing from experienced rangers, set out into the dense rainforest, following trails that lead to the chimpanzees’ habitat. As you trek through the verdant forest, your 14-Day Uganda Big Five Tour & Primates Tracking Safari guide will share fascinating information about the flora, fauna, and the complex social structures of these primates. The moment you encounter a troop of chimpanzees in their natural environment is truly unforgettable, as you observe their playful interactions, grooming habits, and listen to their distinctive calls echoing through the trees.

After spending a magical hour with the chimps, return to your lodge for a well-deserved rest and lunch. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local culture with a visit to nearby communities. Engage with the residents, learn about their traditional lifestyles, crafts, and agricultural practices. Visit local schools, meet with artisans, and participate in cultural dances and music performances, gaining a deeper understanding of the community’s heritage and the impact of tourism on their livelihoods. The day concludes with a return to your lodge, reflecting on the profound wildlife and cultural experiences that have enriched your Ugandan safari.

  • Main Destination: Kibale National Park (Chimps)
  • Accommodation: Kibale Forest Lodge – Mid-range lodge located inside Kibale NP (Chimps)
  • Meals & Drinks: All meals included, drinking water (Other drinks not included)

 

Day 9: Visit the Amabere Ga Nyina Mwiru in Fort Portal, Visit the Twin Lakes, and Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Have Afternoon Game Drive


On day nine, begin with a visit to the Amabere Ga Nyina Mwiru caves near Fort Portal, a site steeped in local legend and natural beauty. Explore the limestone caves, adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, and listen to the folklore surrounding this fascinating geological formation. Next, take a short drive to the scenic Twin Lakes, Lake Nyinambuga and Lake Kyema, which offer picturesque views and serene surroundings. Stroll along the shores, capturing the tranquil beauty and perhaps spotting some of the resident bird species. After a relaxing morning, embark on a journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park, passing through lush landscapes and vibrant communities.

Upon arrival and after a brief rest, set out on an afternoon game drive in the park, renowned for its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. Traverse the Kasenyi plains, where you can spot elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and warthogs, as well as predators like lions and leopards. The drive offers spectacular views of the Rwenzori Mountains and the expansive savannah. As the sun sets, return to your lodge for a restful evening, surrounded by the natural splendor of one of Uganda’s premier wildlife reserves.

  • Main Destination: Queen Elizabeth National Park
  • Accommodation: Twin Lakes Safari Lodge – Mid-range lodge located just outside Queen Elizabeth NP
  • Meals & Drinks: All meals included, drinking water (Other drinks not included)

 

Day 10: Game Drive and Boat Cruise in Queen Elizabeth National Park (Full Day Adventure)


Day ten unfolds with a full-day of 14-Day Uganda Big Five Tour & Primates Tracking Safari adventure in Queen Elizabeth National Park, starting with an early morning game drive through the Kasenyi plains and Ishasha sector. Explore the park’s diverse habitats, from open savannahs to acacia woodlands, encountering a wealth of wildlife including elephants, Uganda kob, buffaloes, and elusive predators such as lions and leopards. The morning drive offers prime opportunities for wildlife photography and birdwatching amidst the backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains. After a hearty bush breakfast, embark on a leisurely boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway that connects Lake George and Lake Edward.

Glide past pods of hippos wallowing in the water, crocodiles basking on the shores, and numerous bird species congregating along the banks, including African fish eagles and pied kingfishers. The cruise provides an up-close view of the park’s aquatic life and offers a refreshing perspective on the surrounding landscapes. After the cruise, enjoy a picnic lunch along the shores before proceeding with an afternoon game drive or returning to your lodge to relax and reflect on the day’s extraordinary wildlife encounters in the heart of Queen Elizabeth National Park.

  • Main Destination: Queen Elizabeth National Park
  • Accommodation: Twin Lakes Safari Lodge – Mid-range lodge located just outside Queen Elizabeth NP
  • Meals & Drinks: All meals included, drinking water (Other drinks not included)

 

Day 11: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park through Ishasha Sector for the Tree-Climbing Lions


Day eleven begins with a scenic transfer from Queen Elizabeth National Park to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, passing through the renowned Ishasha Sector. This sector is famed for its unique tree-climbing lions, offering a rare opportunity to witness these majestic predators lounging on ancient fig trees. As you traverse the savannah plains, keep a keen eye out for these elusive lions amidst the acacia trees. The 14-Day Uganda Big Five Tour & Primates Tracking Safari journey through Ishasha provides additional chances to spot other wildlife such as elephants, buffaloes, and various antelope species.

After a thrilling wildlife encounter, continue your drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and home to nearly half of the world’s endangered mountain gorillas. Upon arrival, settle into your lodge nestled amidst the lush rainforest. Spend the remainder of the day relaxing and preparing for the highly anticipated gorilla trekking experience scheduled for the following day, immersing yourself in the serene beauty of Bwindi’s ancient forests.

  • Main Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Gorillas)
  • Accommodation: Gorilla Mist Camp – Mid-range lodge bordering Bwindi NP (Gorillas) without fences
  • Meals & Drinks: All meals included, drinking water (Other drinks not included)

 

Day 12: Mountain Gorilla Trekking Safari in Uganda and Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, have a Sun Set Boat Cruise


Day twelve brings the highlight of your 14-Day Uganda Big Five Tour & Primates Tracking Safari journey with a memorable mountain gorilla trekking safari in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. After an early morning briefing by experienced 14-Day Uganda Big Five Tour & Primates Tracking Safari guides, embark on a thrilling trek into the dense rainforest. The trek duration can vary based on the gorillas’ location, but once you encounter these gentle giants, you will spend a magical hour observing their behavior in their natural habitat. Witness intimate moments of grooming, playing, and feeding, all while learning about their conservation and the challenges they face.

After the trek, return to the lodge for a well-deserved rest and lunch before departing for Lake Bunyonyi, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Africa” due to its scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere. Upon arrival, unwind and enjoy a relaxing sunset boat cruise on the lake, surrounded by lush green hills and numerous islands. As the sun sets over the horizon, reflecting off the calm waters, soak in the peaceful ambiance and reflect on the incredible wildlife encounter earlier in the day. The evening concludes with dinner at your lodge, offering stunning views of Lake Bunyonyi, preparing you for further exploration of Uganda’s natural wonders.

  • Main Destination: Lake Bunyonyi
  • Accommodation: Itambira Island – Mid-range hotel located at Lake Bunyonyi
  • Meals & Drinks: All meals included, drinking water (Other drinks not included)

 

Day 13: Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park- The Zebra Magnet (Have Evening Game Drive and Nature Walk)


Day thirteen of 14-Day Uganda Big Five Tour & Primates Tracking Safari begins with a picturesque drive from Lake Bunyonyi to Lake Mburo National Park, celebrated for its unique landscape and rich biodiversity, especially its abundant zebra population. As you journey through the rolling hills and scenic countryside, enjoy sightings of zebras grazing alongside other wildlife such as impalas, buffaloes, and various antelope species. Upon arrival at Lake Mburo National Park, settle into your accommodation and savor a delicious lunch amidst the serene surroundings. In the late afternoon, embark on an exciting evening game drive through the park’s diverse habitats, including savannah, acacia woodlands, and wetlands.

Keep a lookout for the park’s residents, from zebras and elands to hyenas and leopards, as they emerge for their nocturnal activities. Following the game drive, enjoy a guided nature walk, offering a more intimate exploration of the park’s flora and fauna, guided by knowledgeable rangers who share insights into the park’s ecosystems and conservation efforts. The day concludes with a tranquil evening at your lodge, recounting the day’s wildlife encounters and preparing for the final leg of your Ugandan safari adventure.

  • Main Destination: Lake Mburo National Park
  • Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock Lodge – Mid-range lodge located just outside Lake Mburo NP
  • Meals & Drinks: All meals included, drinking water (Other drinks not included)

 

Day 14: Morning Walking Safari and Transfer to Entebbe via the Uganda Equator Crossing Line


On day fourteen, begin with a serene morning walking safari in Lake Mburo National Park, offering a closer encounter with the park’s diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. Led by experienced 14-Day Uganda Big Five Tour & Primates Tracking Safari guides, explore the savannah plains and acacia woodlands on foot, observing zebras, giraffes, and various antelope species in their natural habitat. The walking safari also provides opportunities for birdwatching, with over 300 bird species recorded in the park, including the rare shoebill stork. After the safari, return to your lodge for breakfast and a brief rest before starting your journey back to Entebbe.

En route, stop at the Uganda Equator crossing line for a memorable photo opportunity and to learn about the geographical significance of this landmark. Continue your drive through Uganda’s scenic countryside, arriving in Entebbe in the afternoon. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some time to explore Entebbe town or visit local markets for last-minute souvenirs. Finally, transfer to Entebbe International Airport for your onward journey, concluding your 14-day Uganda Big Fuve safari with unforgettable memories of its wildlife, landscapes, and cultural diversity.

  • Main Destination: Entebbe Airport
  • Accommodation: No Accommodation
  • Meals & Drinks: Breakfast, Lunch, drinking water (Other drinks not included)

 

End of 14 Days Uganda Big Five Tour and Primates Tracking Safari

14-Day Uganda Big Five Tour & Primates Tracking Safari Inclusions and Exclusions

Included

  • Park fees (For non-residents)
  • Gorilla permits (One per person, non-resident)
  • Chimp permits (One per person, non-resident)
  • All activities (Unless labeled as optional)
  • All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)
  • A professional driver/guide
  • All transportation (Unless labeled as optional)
  • All Taxes/VAT
  • Roundtrip airport transfer
  • Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
  • Drinking water (On all days)

Excluded

  • International flights (From/to home)
  • Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
  • Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
  • Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
  • Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees

 

Quotation Based on Two Persons Sharing

Category 1 Person 2 Persons
Budget Trip $4,738pp $9,476
Mid-Range Trip $5,249 $10,498

 

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