8 Days and 7 Nights Uganda Gorilla Tour

An 8 Day 7 Nights gorilla tour in Uganda typically includes a mountain gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, with additional wildlife in Queen Elizabeth National Park and chimpanzee tracking activity in Kibale National Park.

Sample 8-day tour itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe, transfer to Kibale National Park

After arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be driven to Kibale Forest National Park, known as the "primate capital of the world" for its chimpanzees and other primates. This journey takes about 6-7 hours drive but there is also an option of flying

Day 2: Chimpanzee tracking and Bigodi wetlands

After a delicious breakfast, you will drive to Kibale National Park for a morning chimpanzee trekking session. You will be briefed at Kanyanchu visitor center and later depart for chimpanzee trekking, once you find these gorillas, you will spend one full hour taking pictures and later return back to the lodge

In the afternoon, take a guided walk through the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary to see various bird species and primate species such as Black and white colobus monkeys, red tailed monkeys, vervet monkeys among others.

Day 3: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park, with a possible stop at the Kikorongo Equator for photography and proceed to the lodge for lunch and sunset game drive in the Kaseny Plains and return to the lodge for dinner and overnight

Day 4: Game drive and Kazinga Channel boat safari.

Take an early morning game drive through the park's savannah to spot elephants, lions, buffalo, and Uganda kob. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, known for its large concentrations of hippos.

Day 5: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After breakfast, you will embark on your vehicle and drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park 

You will have several stops before arriving at the lodge

Day 6: Gorilla trekking.

Wake up for the main event: mountain gorilla trekking. After breakfast, you will depart to the park headquarters for briefing about the dos and donts about gorilla trekking, you will later start your trek with a guide into the dense forest to spend up to an hour observing a gorilla family. In the evening, you may visit a nearby community for a cultural experience.

Day 7: Relax at Lake Bunyonyi

You will Drive to the scenic Lake Bunyonyi, framed by green terraced hills. Enjoy a relaxing boat cruise on the lake to explore its many islands.

Day 8: Departure to Entebbe/Kampala to end the tour

After breakfast, you will drive back to Entebbe or Kampala, marking the end of your tour.

Tour costs

The cost of an 8-day gorilla tour varies based on the included activities, the level of accommodation, and the group size. A mid-range tour may cost around $2,500 to $3,000 per person, while more luxurious options can exceed $4,000 per person.

The gorilla trekking permit is a major factor in the total cost.

• A permit costs $800 per person for foreign non-residents and must be secured in advance.
• The tour price usually includes permits, accommodations, park fees, meals, and a 4x4 vehicle with a driver-guide, drinking water in the vehicle.

What to pack

Given the rainforest environment and physical nature of the trek, proper gear is essential:

• Clothing: Pack long-sleeved shirts and trousers in neutral tones to protect against insects and vegetation. A lightweight waterproof jacket is crucial for rain. Avoid bright colors.
• Footwear: Sturdy waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support and grip are necessary. Gaiters, which cover the top of your boots and lower legs, are also recommended.
• Gear: A daypack, binoculars, a camera with extra batteries, gardening gloves, insect repellent with DEET, and a reusable water bottle are useful.
• Health: Carry your yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Best time to go

The dry seasons, from Mid May to August and December to February, are generally considered the best time for a gorilla tour.

• Pros: Drier trails make hiking easier, and there is less dense vegetation for better wildlife viewing.
• Cons: These are peak seasons, so permits and accommodations book up quickly. It is recommended to book 6 to 12 months in advance.
• Rainy season (March to May and October to November): Treks are more challenging due to muddy trails. However, there are fewer crowds, accommodation prices may be lower, and the scenery is lush and green.

For  more information, please get in touch with us.