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4.9/5

Based on 45+ reviews

5 Day Luxury Gorilla Habituation and Chimp trekking Safari

FROM $4,630 USD

5 Day Luxury Gorilla Habituation and Chimp Trekking Safari

5 Days 4 Nights From $4630, Per person

Rates are per person and based on 2 people sharing 1 room
Solo travellers can book this tour
Excluding international flights (from/to your home country)

This 5 Day Luxury Gorilla habituation and chimp trekking safari is good for those who want to spend more time with the world’s great primates in the names of mountain gorillas and chimpanzees. This trip takes you to the southern part of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in the Rushaga region for gorilla habituation experience and then to Kibale National Park for chimpanzee habituation experience. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is the only park in the whole world offering gorilla habituation experience and as such, you will have an opportunity to spend four hours with mountain gorillas compared to one work of gorilla trekking. From Bwindi National Park, you will drive to Kibale National Park to spend a whole day with chimpanzees in what is called chimpanzee habituation experience. Enjoy and compare these two experiences while in Uganda

Summary of our 5 Day Luxury Gorilla habituation and Chimp trekking safari

Day 01: Our 5 day gorilla habituation and chimp trekking safari starts from Entebbe to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Day 02: Spend 4 hours with gorillas during your gorilla habituation experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Day 03: Drive back to Kibale Forest National Park for overnight.
Day Four: Chimp trekking in Kibale National Park
Day Five: Drive back to Entebbe International Airport marking the end of your 5 Day Gorilla habituation and chimp trekking safari

Things To Consider

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

Tour Summary

You’ll go to Uganda
This tour starts and ends in Entebbe (Uganda)
You’ll visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kibale Forest National Park
Activities: gorilla habituation experience, chimpanzee tracking
Getting around: open-sided 4×4 vehicle & pop-up roof 4×4 vehicle
A transfer from and back to the airport (or hotel) is included
Additional accommodation before the tour departs and on the last day can be arranged for extra cost

Arrival

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

DAY 1: Pick up and transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Morning/Travel: At 7am, your driver guide will pick from your Hotel in Entebbe/Kampala you will drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Your guide will make stopovers at the Equator crossing in Kayabwe for photography, a brief talk and some experiments
Afternoon/Lunch: You will proceed to Mbarara town for lunch en-route at a local restaurant You will then drive past beautiful banana plantations, farms and the amazing Hills of Kigezi.
Evening: You will arrive in the evening and check-in at the lodge for relaxation and overnight

Drive time: 8-9 hours

Meal plan: Lunch and Dinner

Overnight Lodge: Nkuringo Gorilla Camp or Gorilla Safari Lodge

DAY 2: Gorilla habituation experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Morning/Briefing: You will wake up early in the morning and head to the park headquarters to join other clients for briefing about dos and don’ts while with mountain gorillas on your habituation experience. After briefing, you will start your trek into the forest guided by researchers and guides.
Trek and Observation: During your trek, you may encounter several birds, other animals and primates in the forest and once you have found the gorillas you will spend four hours with them and return back to the Lodge for overnight. You will have an opportunity to listen and observer researchers doing their work of habituating gorillas and if possible you will be called upon to participate by collecting samples, naming of group members, making calls and so much more.
Afternoon: You will later have your packed Lunch before returning back to the Pak Headquarters
Evening: You will spend the evening relaxing at the Hotel, Later have dinner and overnight

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Packed Lunch and Dinner

Overnight Lodge: Nkuringo Gorilla Camp or Gorilla Safari Lodge

DAY 3: Transfer to Kibale National Park

Morning/Transfer: After breakfast we will drive to Kibale National Park for overnight at Chimpanzee Forest Guest House. This journey will take you through Queen Elizabeth National Park where you will have chances of spotting some wild game as we drive through this Savannah dominated national park.
Afternoon/Lunch: You will also have another chance to cross the Equator at Kikolongo. You will also cross several Rivers that originate from Mountain Rwenzori as you go through Kasese district to Fort Portal. You will have a stop in Fort Portal town for lunch before proceeding.
Evening: Arrive at the Hotel in Kibale and check-in at your hotel, you will relax and Later have dinner and overnight.

Drivetime: Approximately 6-7 hours

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Overnight: Papaya Lodge or Kyaninga Lodge

DAY 4: Chimp trekking in Kibale National Park

Morning/Briefing: After breakfast, you will drive to Kibale National Park Headquarters for briefing on the Dos and Don’ts of Chimpanzee trekking. You will be divided into small groups of six people headed by one guide who will then move with you into the forest to find one of the Chimpanzee families. Chimpanzees live in communities of between 50-250 individuals but usually breakup into small parties during the day to reduce competition on food. They will then recollect in the evening to build their nests.
Trekking and Observation: Once you find the Chimps, you will be allowed to spend one hour with the Chimps before returning to the lodge for lunch.
Afternoon: After lunch, you head out for wetland walk in the nearby Bigodi Village. Kibale National Park is popular for 13 recorded primates species and several bird species.
Evening: You will then return to the Hotel, relax, have dinner and overnight to end your day.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Packed Lunch and Dinner

Overnight Lodge: Papaya Lodge or Kyaninga Lodge

DAY 5: End of your 5 day gorilla habituation and chimp trekking safari

Morning/Drive back: After breakfast, you will drive to Kampala/Entebbe. The drive is very scenic as you will be using a different route from the one that took you to Bwindi
Afternoon/Lunch En-route: You will proceed and have a lunch stopover in Mubende at a Local Restaurant.
Evening: You will arrive in Entebbe/Kampala in the evening and proceed to your post- tour accommodation (not included) or to Entebbe International Airport for your international departure flight to end the trip

DETAILED COST PER PERSON SHARING

COST PER PERSON SHARING

Persons	Date	Price per person
1 Person	Any date	USD5800.00
2 Persons	Any date	USD4630.00
3 Persons	Any date	USD4240.00
4 Persons	Any date	USD4045.00
5 Persons	Any date	USD3920.00
6 Persons	Any date	USD38500.00

Cost Includes

Airport transfers on first and last day,
Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
Services of an English speaking driver guide
Fuel for the whole trip
Accommodation and meal plan as per the itinerary
All park entrance fees
Drinking water while in the vehicle

Cost excludes

Gorilla Habituation permit at USD1500.00 per person per trek
Chimp permit at USD250.00 per person per trek or USD100.00 in April, May and November
Pre and post tour accommodation in Entebbe or Kampala
International airfares
Uganda Visa (USD50 which can be paid on arrival at the Airport
Items of personal nature such as tips, drinks, and laundry

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 peoplea

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
  
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   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🦍❤️
  
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   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.
  
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   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

5 Day Luxury Gorilla Habituation and Chimp Trekking Safari

5 Days 4 Nights From $4630, Per person

Summary of our 5 Day Luxury Gorilla habituation and Chimp trekking safari

Things To Consider

Tour Summary

Arrival

DAY 1: Pick up and transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

DAY 2: Gorilla habituation experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

DAY 3: Transfer to Kibale National Park

DAY 4: Chimp trekking in Kibale National Park

DAY 5: End of your 5 day gorilla habituation and chimp trekking safari

DETAILED COST PER PERSON SHARING

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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