The 5-day Bwindi and Kibale Forest Safari is another fascinating experience you should not miss while visiting Uganda – the Pearl of Africa. This safari takes you to Kibale National Park, also known as the primate capital of the world, where you will undertake chimpanzee trekking and explore the crater lakes within the Kasenda-Ndali crater region.
After this adventure, proceed to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to 50% of the endangered mountain gorillas, for gorilla trekking tours and cultural experiences with the Batwa. Finally, return to Entebbe Airport for your departure flight.
Detailed Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Kibale National Park
Upon arrival at the airport, your driver guide will pick you up and provide a brief about the tour. The briefing will cover the rules and regulations for the safari. Drive to Kibale, known for its diverse primate population including chimpanzees, a journey of approximately 6-7 hours. Check-in at your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking and Crater Lakes Exploration
Start your day with breakfast at the lodge before heading out for chimpanzee trekking, a highlight activity. Proceed to the park entry for permit payment and briefing by your ranger guide at Kanyanchu Visitors Center. The trek duration varies (2-6 hours) depending on chimpanzee movements. After encountering the chimpanzees, spend an hour observing and photographing them. Return to the lodge for lunch.
In the evening, a guide from the Isunga Cultural Community will brief you on crater lakes exploration, a 2-3 hour activity where you can observe fish and learn about local fishing methods. Return to your lodge for dinner and rest.
Day 3: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After breakfast, depart for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in the southwestern part of Uganda, a journey of 6-7 hours. Enjoy a lunch stopover en route, passing through Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park to Buhoma sector of Bwindi. Check-in at your lodge for meals.
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking and Batwa Cultural Tour
Today, experience the highly anticipated gorilla trekking. Start with breakfast at the lodge before heading to the park’s main office to pay for your permit. Meet your ranger guide for a briefing before beginning the trek, which can last 1-8 hours depending on gorilla location. Spend an additional hour in the presence of the gorillas, capturing photos and videos. Receive your trekking certificate at the office and return to the lodge for lunch.
In the evening, enjoy a cultural experience with the Batwa guided by a Twa cultural guide, learning about their traditional life through dance, music, and art. Taste local foods and browse their crafts. Return to the lodge for dinner.
Day 5: Return to Entebbe Airport
After breakfast, depart for Kampala with a stop at the equator for a photo opportunity at the southern and northern hemispheres. Continue to Kampala and then to Entebbe Airport for your flight home.
