Is it possible to do gorilla and chimpanzee trekking in Uganda on a weekend.

Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking safari is possible to be done in Uganda on a weekend, although this requires careful planning and time management. Gorilla trekking safari in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park can be done on a Saturday, while chimpanzee trekking safari can be done in Kibale Forest National Park or Budongo Forest in Murchison Falls National Park can be done on a Sunday. However, considering the travel time between these locations, it’s essential to book flights or plan for a long drive on Friday and Sunday evenings. Additionally trekking permits and accommodations should be booked in advance to avoid last-minute hassles. With a well-organized itinerary, you can experience both the thrilling two safari destinations over a weekend.

Most Popular Safaris

8 day Uganda safari via Kigali

5 days gorillas and chimp safari

8 days gorilla tracking tour

19 day best of Uganda safari

15 days Uganda Rwanda safari

18 day Uganda Ultimate Safari

16 day primate game and culture

11 days gorilla tracking safari

5 days gorilla and Nile River source

17 day Uganda birding and wildlife

Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking safari in Uganda can be done on a weekend by flying into Kihihi on Friday evening, trekking the gorillas can be done on a Saturday in both Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Forest National Park on Saturday and after gorilla trekking safari you will immediately drive to Kibale Forest National Park which is 5 to 6 hours for chimpanzee trekking on Sunday. Alternatively take a morning flight from Entebbe to Kihihi and trek the gorillas in the afternoon, and then drive to Kibale Forest National Park for an overnight stay before chimpanzee trekking the next day. This tight itinerary requires careful planning, booking flights and permits in advance, and preparing for the long drives or flights, but offers an exhilarating weekend adventure to see Uganda’s iconic primates.

Combining gorilla and chimpanzee trekking safari in Uganda on a weekend offers a unique opportunity to experience the country’s incredible primate diversity in a short amount of time. By visiting both Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking and Kibale Forest National Park for chimpanzee trekking you can see two of Africa’s most iconic primates in their natural habitats, making for an unforgettable safari. This combination also allows for a more comprehensive understanding of Uganda’s ecosystems and conservation efforts, while making the most of your weekend wonderful. Additionally combining both treks can be more effective and time-efficient than visiting each safari destination separately.

Where to do gorilla trekking safari in Uganda on a weekend.

In Uganda gorilla trekking safari can be done in two national parks that is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park both located in the southern region. Bwindi is home to over 468 mountain gorillas divided into four trekking sectors that are Ruhija, Rushaga, Buhoma and Nkuringo. Mgahinga although smaller also it offers gorilla trekking safari in the Virunga mountains. Both parks provide an intriguing opportunity to see these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is located in southwestern Uganda, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a home to the approximately 468 endangered mountain gorillas, divided into several habituated groups. The park’s 331 square kilometers of dense, misty forest are characterized by steep hills, valleys and sparkling streams, with a diverse ecosystem supporting over 1200 plant species and 200 butterflies. With the four main sectors that is Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga and Nkuringo. Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park offers tourists different safari activities like gorilla trekking, gorilla habituation, bird watching, and cultural experiences among others this allows the tourists to immerse themselves in the park’s natural beauty and the rich cultural heritage.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is located in southwestern Uganda, the park is 33.7 square kilometers and forms part of the Virunga Mountains sharing borders with Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park is home to approximately 40 endangered mountain gorillas, divided into two habituated groups as well the park is a home to diverse numbers of wildlife is the park hosts golden monkeys, buffaloes, elephants and among others over 180 bird species. Mgahinga Forest National Park offers different safari activities to the tourists like gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, volcano climbing, and cultural experiences, including visits to the indigenous Batwa community, providing a unique opportunity to explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna and experience the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Where to do chimpanzee trekking safari in Uganda on a weekend.

In Uganda chimpanzee trekking safari can be done in several safari destinations, including Kibale Forest National Park, Budongo Forest Reserve in Murchison Falls National Park, Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kalinzu Forest Reserve, Toro-Semuliki Wildlife Reserve, Ngamba island sanctuary, bigodi wetland sanctuary, and among many others. These locations offer guided treks to see chimpanzees in their natural habitats. Kibale Forest National Park being the most popular safari destination for chimpanzee trekking. Kibale Forest National Park as the ‘’primate capital’’ is home to over 1500 chimpanzees and offers guided treks to see these intelligent creatures.

Kibale Forest National Park.

Kibale Forest National Park is located in western Uganda, the park is 795-square kilometer protected area renowned for its exceptional primate diversity, with over 1500 chimpanzees, 13 species of primates, and numerous other wildlife. The park’s lush, tropical forest is characterized by towering trees, sparkling streams, and vibrant flora, creating a habitat for over 350 bird species, 140 butterfly species and 70 mammal species. Visitors can enjoy guided chimpanzee trekking, chimpanzee habituation, bird watching, cultural experiences, tea plantation tours making Kibale a premier safari destination for nature lovers and adventurers.

Gorilla trekking experience in Uganda on a weekend.

On the first day you will be transferred to the park headquarters for a short briefing about the rules, regulations and expectations during gorilla trekking by the local guides and rangers. After the briefing you will hike through the forest trails with the experienced guides and rangers as they lead you. Gorilla trekking can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 6 hours, and as you ascend to high altitudes, the forest becomes slippery, rough, and occasionally muddy. So gorilla trekking needs physical fitness, as you trek you spot the surrounding sceneries and view the beautiful wildlife in the park that will make your trek worthwhile.

When you find the gorillas, all the fatigue is all gone and forgotten the experience is unforgettable in your natural history of the world. You will be given one hour to be in the presence of the gorillas as you watch them feed, play, grooming, making nests and among others. During the one hour, you take the gorillas pictures and recording the amazing videos though with a less flash cameras, because the flash disrupts the gorillas. Thereafter you are provided with the picnic lunch and drinking water since the activity requires a lot of energy. You be finally transferred to the starting point where you will be awarded with the gorilla trekking certificate for participating in gorilla trekking experience.

Chimpanzee trekking experience in Uganda on a weekend.

Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest National Park starts at the Kanyanchu visitor center in the park's northern part. The chimpanzee trekking safari begins early in the morning, with the rules and regulations to follow. After the briefing you will be grouped of 6 people in each group and each group escorted by two guides who help you to track the chimpanzees. Chimpanzee trekking takes a period of 30 minutes to five hours depending on the location of the chimpanzees. While looking for the chimpanzees you will be impressed with the wonderful views of the different biodiversity in the park. When you find the chimpanzees you will be given a period of one hour to be in the presence of the chimpanzees, you will surprised with the social habitats such as communication, hunting habits, and how they use different tools to get what to eat. This is very much related to human ways of daily living, the chimpanzees also communicate using signs and gestures almost similar to the ones humans use. Being in the presence with the chimpanzees in the park will open for you a door to understanding and appreciating nature. After one hour you be transferred to the starting point where you will be awarded chimpanzee trekking certificates for taking part in chimpanzee trekking.

Best time to do gorilla and chimpanzee trekking in Uganda on a weekend.

The best time to do gorilla and chimpanzee trekking safari in Uganda on a weekend is during the dry seasons, from June to August and December to February when the weather is favorable and the trekking trails are less slippery. This allows for easier navigation and better viewing opportunities. Additionally, the dry seasons coincide with the school holidays and the summer vacations, making it an ideal time for the weekend gateways. However, it’s essential to book permits and accommodations in advance, as weekends are peak times for trekking. With the proper planning, a weekend gorilla and chimpanzee trekking adventure in Uganda can be a thrilling and unforgettable safari experience.

What to pack for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking in Uganda on a weekend.

For a weekend gorilla and chimpanzee trekking adventure in Uganda, pack essential items such as sturdy hiking boots and shoes, comfortable clothing, and layers for changing weather conditions. Bring a waterproof jacket, hat and gloves as well as a backpack with water, snacks and a lunch box. Do not forget binoculars, a camera, and a charger for capturing moments. Include insect repellent, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit for personal care. Additionally pack a lightweight rain poncho and warm clothing for cooler evenings. Lastly bring necessary documents like permits, passports and travel insurance and don’t forget to leave some space for souvenirs and local crafts among many other essentials.

How to get permits for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking safari in Uganda on a weekend.

To get permits for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking safari in Uganda on a weekend, book in advance through different two ways that is through a reputable tour operator like Encounter Africa Safaris or through the government body in charge of tourism in Uganda that is Uganda Wildlife Authority, booking through a reputable company like Encounter Africa Safaris saves you from the process of Uganda Wildlife Authority. Gorilla trekking in Uganda its 800 USD per person, while chimpanzee permits cost 250 USD per person. You are requested to provide required details, including travel dates, names and nationality and make payment through a designated bank or online platform. Permits are limited, so early booking (at least 3 to 6 months prior) is essential and once the payment is confirmed permits will be issued and you will receive a confirmation letter to present at the park entrance on your trekking tour.

For a weekend gorilla and chimpanzee trekking safari in Uganda, the age limit is 15 years and above for the gorilla trekking safari, and 12 years and above for the chimpanzee trekking safari. This is due to the Uganda Wildlife Authority's safety and conservation regulations. Children under the age 15 are permitted to trek gorillas, while children between 12-15 years must be accompanied by an adult to trek the chimpanzees. Additionally, visitors must be physically fit and healthy to undertake the treks, which can be strenuous and involve long hikes in challenging terrain.

Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking safari in Uganda on a weekend is an unforgettable adventure that offers a rare opportunity to encounter two of Africa’s most iconic primates in their natural habitats. With careful planning and booking of the permits in advance, visitors can explore the lush forests of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Kibale National Park, getting up close and personal with wonderful mountain gorillas and agile chimpanzees. This weekend experience promises an exhilarating safari experience, breathtaking scenery and a chance to support conservation efforts, making it ideal choice for all kinds of tourists like nature lovers, and adventurers and an enriching safari experience in the Pearl of Africa.

Contact us for more information