5 Days Gorillas and White Water Rafting safari, Source of the Nile

4.9/5

Based on 450+ reviews

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4.9/5

Based on 45+ reviews

5 Days Gorillas and White Water Rafting safari, Source of the Nile

FROM $2385 USD

Gorillas and White Water Rafting Safari

5 Days 4 Nights From $2385, per person

Our 5 Days Gorillas and White Water Rafting Safari combines gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Uganda with the magnificent white water rafting experience on the River Nile in the Eastern district of Jinja, Uganda. Jinja is popularly known for being the source of the River Nile – the longest river on planet Earth.

The Safari then takes you to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park where you will have a chance to trek one of the habituated families of mountain gorilla. This trip can as well start from Bwindi and end in Jinja.

Highlights

Day One: Pickup from your Hotel and drive to Jinja to start your 5 Days Gorillas and White Water Rafting Safari.
Day Two: White water rafting experience on the Nile River and drive back to Kampala.
Day three: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
Day Four: Gorilla trekking
Day Five: Drive back to Kampala/Entebbe International Airport marking the end of your 5 Days Gorillas and White Water Rafting Safari.

Things To Consider

Accommodation is Inclusive
Small Group Safari: Max 6 People per group
Tour Can Depart any day
Tour can be customized
Solo travelers can join this tour
Age Limit: 15 years and above

Arrival

You’ll be picked up from the airport (or hotel)
Accommodation before the tour departs can be arranged for extra cost

DAY 1: Arrival and Transfer to Kampala for overnight

Upon arrival, you will be met by your guide at Entebbe Airport depending on your flight time and transfer you to Kampala for your overnight stay. Depending on the traffic situation of the day, you may pass through the city center for a brief city tour (not included in the cost and optional) before proceeding to your overnight accommodation property.

Drive time: Approximately 1 hour

Lodge: Kampala Forest Cottages or Fairway Hotel Kampala

Meal Plan: Bed and Breakfast

DAY 2: Transfer to Jinja

Morning/Transfer

After breakfast, you will drive to the Eastern town of Jinja for your magnificent Uganda adventure experience. This journey will take you through Mabira forest, a tropical rain forest in central Uganda. You will also see lush tea and sugarcane plantations plus several roadside markets

White water Rafting

Upon arrival at Kalagala Falls, you will start your white water rafting on the Nile river experiencing the thrill of navigating through rapids and enjoying the scenic views

Evening

You will embark on your vehicle and transfer to Kampala for relaxation followed by dinner and overnight

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

Lodge: Kampala Forest Cottages or Fairway Hotel Kampala

Drive time: 2 hours one way.

DAY 3: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Morning/Transfer

You will depart from your hotel in Kampala and drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park located in Southwestern Uganda with a stopover at the Equator crossing at Kayabwe for some informative talk, photography and some experiments and later proceed with the journey to Bwindi

Afternoon

You will have a stop in Mbarara town for Lunch. After lunch, you will then drive through the rolling Green hills marked with beautiful Banana and Tea plantations passing through towns of Ntungamo and Kabale.

Evening

You will arrive at the lodge in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and welcomed, check-in at the lodge for relaxation dinner and overnight

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

Lodge:

Basic: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge/Bakiga Lodge.

Mid range: 4 Gorillas Lodge/Gorilla Leisure Lodge

Luxury: Buhoma Lodge/Gorilla Heights Lodge/Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge

Drive time: 8-9 hours.

DAY 4: Gorilla Trekking

Morning/Briefing

After breakfast, with your packed lunch, you will transfer to the Park Headquarters for registration at 7: 45 am. You will then join other trackers for briefing about the Dos and the Don’ts during your Gorilla Tracking.

Trek and Observation

You will be driven to the starting point of your allocated gorilla family to start your trek into the beautiful Impenetrable Bwindi Forest. You will trek through thick creepers and undergrowth with your guides to find the Gorillas. This trek may take between 30 minutes to three quarters of the day, depending on where the Mountain Gorillas will be found. The steeply forested landscape, is incredibly dense but crisscrossed by numerous animal trails allowing access to tourists. It is an extraordinary feeling being with these beautiful yet Endangered Creatures. Please noted that gorilla trekking can be strenuous and as such a certain level of fitness is required. Once you find the gorillas, you will be allowed to spend one hour to observe them and take photographs. Although this time may seem too short, the experience you get will be worth it.

Evening

You will return to the park headquarters where you will be awarded a certificate in recognition of your effort in contributing to the conservation of these endangered mountain gorillas and then drive back to the lodge for relaxation and overnight

Note: Even if you are unfit, arrangements can be made for the locals to use a 'helicopter' to get you to the point where the gorillas are. This cost is not included. So, you can let us know in advance then arrangements can be made.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

Lodge:

Basic: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge/Bakiga Lodge.

Mid range: 4 Gorillas Lodge/Gorilla Leisure Lodge

Luxury: Buhoma Lodge/Gorilla Heights Lodge/Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge

DAY 5: Transfer back to Kampala/Entebbe to end the tour

Morning/Transfer

After your morning breakfast, you will receive packed lunch and embark on your vehicle for your return journey to Entebbe or Kampala

Afternoon:

You will have a stop in Kayabwe at the equator for lunch and photography and then proceed your journey to Entebbe or Kampala

Evening

You will be transfered to Entebbe International Airport for a- late departure out of Uganda or your booked hotel in Entebbe or Kampala to end the tour

Drive Time: 8-9 hours

Get in touch to book this safari.

DETAILED COST PER PERSON SHARING

Persons	Date	Price per person
1 Person	Any date	USD3155.00
2 Persons	Any date	USD2385.00
3 Persons	Any date	USD2180.00
4 Persons	Any date	USD2080.00
5 Persons	Any date	USD2020.00
6 Persons	Any date	USD1980.00

Cost Includes

Airport transfers on first and last day,
Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
One gorilla permit for Bwindi NP of USD800 per person per trek
Services of an English-speaking driver guide
Fuel for the whole trip
White water rafting on the Nile
Accommodation and meal plan as per the itinerary
All park entrance fees
Drinking water while in the vehicle
Hand Sanitizer

Cost Excludes

Pre and post tour accommodation in Entebbe or Kampala
International airfares
Uganda Visa (USD50.00, which can be paid on arrival at the Airport
Items of a personal nature, such as tips, drinks, and laundry
Face Mask N95

DETAILED COST PER PERSON SHARING

STANDARD: 4X4 SAFARI VAN

Our standard mode of transport is by road and we use 4×4 Safari Vans customized for game viewing and photography. Each safari van comes with a professionally trained driver guide and fuel for the whole safari. Our Safari vans have viewing hatches and each client is entitled to a window seat. Our Vans can take up to eight people. We also have 4×4 Super Customs very comfortable and stable on the road. These carry up to 5 people with their luggage. We also have 4×4 RAV 4 for a group of two people

UPGRADE: 4X4 LUXURY SAFARI LANDCRUISER

We have luxury latest Land Cruisers each driven by professionally trained driver guides and fuel. They have pop-up roofs for proper game viewing and photography. They come with a small fridge for cooling your drinking water while on safari (which is always included while IN THE VEHICLE). They have inverters for charging small gadgets such as your smartphones and cameras. They can seat five to a maximum of seven people and each client is guaranteed of a window seat.

Gorilla permits: We encourage you to book gorilla permits in advance so that we secure your trekking spot. Gorilla permits are served on first come first serve at Uganda wildlife Authority. Please contact us so that we book them for you.
Cost of the gorilla permit: The gorilla permits in Uganda cost USD800 for Non-Foreign residents, USD700 for East African Foreign Residents, USD500 for Rest of Africa Residents and UGX300,000 for East African Citizens, cost applies for trekking in Both Bwindi impentrable National Park and Mgahinga National Park
Gorilla trekking Regions: Bwindi has 4 gorilla trekking sectors namely Buhoma, Ruhaga, Nkuringo and Ruhija. We shall book for you accommodation in respect to the permits location.
Physical Fitness: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi can be physically demanding, a certain level of fitness will be required, please ensure you are in good health and have a certain level of fitness before you leave your country.
Packing List: Please ensure you have comfortable walking/ hiking shoes that can handle the terrain in Bwindi, a rain Jacket, gloves, Camera, Binoculars,
Age Limit: The Minimum age for gorilla trekking in Uganda is 15 years and above, please ensure all travelers are aged 15years and above.
Accommodation Options: Please choose the accommodation that suits your budget, Bwindi has all options of Budget, Midrange and Luxury.
Means of Transport: You can opt to fly or drive to Bwindi, Flights take 1-2 hours, and driving takes 8-9 hours drive to Bwindi. For budget clients, we recommend use of safari vans, then others can opt for Safari Landcruisers. All vehicles are comfortable with enough leg room, AC and are driven by our professional driver guides.
Best time to visit: Bwindi can be visited all year round for gorilla trekking, The most preffered time is June to September, December to February because they are the drier months of the year.
Gorilla trekking Regulations: Uganda Wildlife Authority has rules and regulations to adhere while on your gorilla trek, See regulations here.
Chances of Seeing the Gorillas: The chances of seeing gorillas are 98% because there are trackers who follow the movement of gorillas on a daily basis, they communicate to the Park guides and you walk in the direction they are.
Choose a gorilla family: You can choose your preferred gorilla family of the day of the trek, if you prefer a close/ easy trek due to your fitness level, please request it and communicate to your guide.
Gorilla Habituation experience: Bwindi has an option of spending 4 hours with the gorillas called gorillas habituation, the is only possible when you book a gorilla permit that costs USD1500 for Non- foreign residents, USD1000 for East African Residents, and UGX750,000 for East African Citizens
Other activities: There are several activities you can do in Bwindi namely Birding, Batwa cutural experience, Nature walks, Community visits. All these can suppliment your gorilla trek in Bwindi.
Trip cost estimate: The cost of the 3day gorilla tour ranges from USD1300 to USD2860 per person, based on your travel style which is Budget to Luxury. The cost Includes gorilla permit, accommodation, Meals, transport, and all services.
About Bwindi: Bwindi impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO world heritage site, with half of the worlds gorilla population, it has more than 20 Habituated gorilla famillies in regions of Buhoma, Rushaga, Ruhija and Nkuringo.

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GOOGLE REVIEWS (Over 40+ Reviews)

     
   Gorilla Safaris: Encounter Africa Safaris Ltd
   44 Google reviews 
 
  
        
   Gorilla Safaris: Encounter Africa Safaris Ltd
   4.744 Google reviews 
 
 
 
        Posted on Google  
   
   Laura Gooch 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  We had the most amazing trip with Encounter safaris. Dennis helped plan our itinerary to match some specific requests and Patrick our driver was kind, knowledgeable and fun! Our trip included visiting the Gorillas, chimpanzees and Murchison Falls - an unforgettable trip. Thank you!
  
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Daniel C 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  We recently completed a memorable trip organized by Encounter Africa, traveling from Kigali, Rwanda to Entebbe, Uganda, and overall, the experience was overall excellent.

Right from the start, everything was well-organized, and the itinerary was thoughtfully planned. The lodges selected for our stay were generally of a high standard, offering comfort, great service, and beautiful surroundings. There was one exception during the trip where a lodge didn’t meet expectations, but we were very impressed with how quickly and professionally Encounter Africa responded. They changed the accommodation immediately without fuss, showing a strong commitment to guest satisfaction.

A major highlight of the trip was our guide, Richard (Instagram: @richardmrtravels). Richard was nothing short of fantasti....knowledgeable, friendly, and always ready to help. Whether we had questions about the places we visited, needed assistance with logistics, or just wanted to learn more about the region, Richard was our go-to person. He’s highly recommended if you want a top-notch guide who truly cares about your experience.

The gorilla and chimpanzee tracking excursions were absolutely unforgettable—well coordinated, with expert local trackers, and truly one-of-a-kind wildlife encounters.

The only downside of the trip was the standard of transport provided. The vehicle’s air conditioning was not functioning properly, which made some of the longer drives uncomfortable, especially during the hotter parts of the day
  
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Anthony Maestri 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  Patrick was our tour guide and he was nothing short of amazing. He helped to make my wife and my honeymoon unforgettable. He made us feel totally comfortable and and was a pleasure to get to talk with and learn more about Uganda. Without hesitation I recommend his service. Uganda will hold a special place in our heart, in my ways because of Patrick’s level of service and caring nature. The chimp trekking and gorilla hiking were a once in a lifetime experience. Don’t hesitate to use this company and make sure to ask for Patrick!
  
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Juma Taremwa 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  Calm and organized
  
 
 
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   Ghazal 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  Well organized and reliable company.
Everything was planned to our fullest satisfaction. I can recommend this company anytime🦍❤️
  
 
 
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   Nick Presser 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  Incredible safari company that I will happily use again. If I could give 6 stars I would. Monica is a true standout in the office, and I appreciate her and her work so much. Obed is a wonderful guide and feel so lucky to have been paired with him.
  
 
 
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   Nelson Mugisha 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.  Staff are friendly  and helpful

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TRIP ADVISOR (Over 450+ Reviews)

      Excellent rating  
 Based on 473 reviews 
    
  
 
 
      Verified Cannot think of the words. Awe inspiring and empowering
All I can say is wow, but I will say a lot more. From the first contact with Denis at HQ at the numerous enquires and changes along the way this group at Encounter Africa Safaris have been fantastic. Then touching base with Godwin Amanya at Kisoro to do the Gorilla experience was awesome. What a great guy and host and I will never forget his suggestion to go and visit the local village and the Batwa community. Truly inspiring❤️❤️❤️
     
   Stephen Davis 
 4 November 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified Gorilla/chimpanzee trekking
We took a 14-day tour of Uganda – with gorilla and chimpanzee trekking – and are absolutely thrilled! The whole organization was perfect from start to finish. Everything went smoothly: Transfers, accommodation, meals and activities were excellently coordinated.The highlight was of course the encounters with the gorillas in Bwindi National Park and the chimpanzees in Kibale Forest – an unforgettable experience we will never forget.Our guide deserves special praise. He was not only extremely competent and experienced, but also incredibly friendly, helpful and flexible. Thanks to his warm nature we felt safe and well looked after throughout the trip. He told us a lot about nature, wildlife and life in Uganda and made the trip very special.We can fully recommend this tour – it was a perfectly organized, varied and unforgettable trip through a beautiful country with warm people.
     
   Patrick F 
 25 October 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified The trip of a lifetime.
This was the adventure of a lifetime. Being able to be so close to these majestic animals in their natural habitat was breathtaking. Our trip was only two days in duration and in hindsight I would have loved to have done a two day trip. Our trek into the forest was a relatively short one and with only eight people in the group was just the perfect number.Our driver/ guide Jason was the perfect host being so knowledgeable about the gorillas and the local communities surrounding the forest. Our consultant Denis whom we communicated with from the very start of of this experience was nothing short of excellent!! The communication at all times was professional, informative and quick. At times during our hour spent with the gorilla family I had to pinch myself to remind me that this was actually for real and not some excellent wildlife documentary. Words and pictures don’t really convey the remarkable experience that this was. If you are reading this then I would encourage you to have this experience for yourself. Encounter Africa Safaris we’re 5 star from begin to end.
     
   Donald A 
 23 October 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified Solo Female Traveler in Uganda - Exceptional experience while feeling safe
Being a solo female traveler, I felt incredibly cared for in both the planning and the actual vacation. Denis and the Encounter Africa Safari Team helped me decide on how to book my trip within my budget and with hotels that don't penalize you for staying alone. Beyond that, they provided last-minute changes (about a week before) to what I wanted to see. When my driver arrived, it was a VERY early transfer from a different tour group in the high Bwindi Mountains. Huge shout out to Patrick (my driver), he was very knowledgeable, and has such PASSION for what he does. Not as someone who just bogs you down with all the information in his head (which he was able to answer all my many, many, many many questions) but truly wants to know what would make your vacation the BEST one, what you care about seeing, and provides a view of Uganda through a local's eyes and why it is beautiful to them. He helped me see beyond just the incredible experiences of the Safaris, Nile, Kazinga Channel, and White Water Rafting - but also the people, locations that are off the beaten path, and what truly makes Uganda special and unique in so many ways. I hope to return soon! Thank you for making this investment in memories worth every penny, and for helping me feel safe and respected by both the company staff and every person in the hotels and those we met along the way.
     
   Culture Trekking 
 21 October 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified Fantastic tour
We had the most amazing experience with Encounter Safaris. Denis understood all our requirements and planned the perfect trip for us. Patrick was the best guide (I wish we could bottle his laugh and take it back to England). He was super knowledgeable, answered all our questions and made us feel really comfortable and relaxed.I would definitely recommend Encounter safaris to friends and family and we REALLY hope to be back.
     
   Laura22015 
 11 October 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified Best trip ever
Best tour of my life!!! Very organized and my transportation Godwin was amazing. I learned so much about Rwanda and Uganda before the trip even started. When we did the hike, I felt very safe due to the guides and rangers and they were all very knowledgeable. Worth every penny
     
   Jordan Spriggs 
 26 September 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified An Amazing Safari Experience in Uganda
This was my very first safari in Uganda and it was truly unforgettable. Uganda’s wildlife and landscapes are simply breathtaking, and every day felt like a new adventure.A special thank you to our guide Patrick, who was absolutely outstanding – knowledgeable, attentive, and genuinely passionate. He made the whole experience smooth, safe, and incredibly enjoyable.I couldn’t have asked for a better trip. Highly recommended!
     
   Tristan L 
 17 September 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified An unforgettable immersion in the heart of Ugandan nature 🌿
An unforgettable stay in Uganda! The observation of gorillas and chimpanzees will remain in my memory. The Jeep rhino tour with a private guide was amazing. Everything was perfectly organized, respectful of nature and animals. A magical experience that I recommend 100%!A thought also for our guide Patrick who was simply perfect
     
   Alexandre R 
 17 September 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified Professional, Responsive, and Reliable – Excellent Experience with Encounter Africa Safaris
We had a fantastic experience with Encounter Africa Safaris in Uganda. From the very beginning, their communication was fast, clear, and professional. Monica, in particular, was incredibly responsive and helpful — she answered every question promptly and with genuine care, which gave us great peace of mind while planning our trip.We chose the two-day, one-night itinerary starting and ending in Kigali, with a border crossing into Uganda for gorilla trekking in Bwindi. Everything ran smoothly from pickup to drop-off at Kigali Airport.Our driver, Edgar, was outstanding — calm, friendly, and extremely skilled behind the wheel. Navigating the rough, winding gravel roads to Bwindi is no small task, but Edgar handled it with ease and confidence. We always felt safe and well taken care of, even in the most remote areas.The logistics were smooth, the planning thoughtful, and the overall experience was exactly what we hoped for — efficient, well-organized, and stress-free.If you're considering a safari or gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda, I can highly recommend Encounter Africa Safaris for their professionalism, personal touch, and great team.
     
   Yalie'00 
 16 September 2025
 
 
 
 
    Verified Amazing experience
I did the 3 day gorilla experience from Kigali and the whole trip was fantastic. From the initial planning with Denis who answered ALL my questions and queries. I was a little nervous about booking directly and online however the company was really professional. I was picked up in Kigali by Godwin and then taken to the Genocide museum then we had a beautiful dive through the Rwandan and Ugandan countryside. I stayed at the Rushaga Gorilla Haven Lodge where the staff were really friendly and with beautiful views of the forest from my bungalow. The gorilla trekking was such a great experience, we got to spent an hour with a family of about 15, I still cannot believe how close we were. On the trip back to Rwanda I had time to drop in at Bunyonyi Lake and did a 2 hour boat trip before being dropped back at Kigali Airport. I enjoyed the whole trip, Godwin took great care of me. I will return again in the future and definitely recommend. Thank you to the Encounter Africa team.
     
   lillypilli 
 12 September 2025

Gorillas and White Water Rafting Safari

5 Days 4 Nights From $2385, per person

Highlights

Things To Consider

Arrival

DAY 1: Arrival and Transfer to Kampala for overnight

DAY 2: Transfer to Jinja

DAY 3: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

DAY 4: Gorilla Trekking

DAY 5: Transfer back to Kampala/Entebbe to end the tour

DETAILED COST PER PERSON SHARING

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

DETAILED COST PER PERSON SHARING

STANDARD: 4X4 SAFARI VAN

UPGRADE: 4X4 LUXURY SAFARI LANDCRUISER

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