5 Days Gorillas & Queen Elizabeth Safari

Day 1: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park via Ishasha Sector

Your safari begins with a scenic drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s second largest park nestled at the foot of the majestic Rwenzori Mountains and bordered by Lake Edward and Lake George. The Ishasha sector, famous for its rare tree-climbing lions, awaits you. These lions climb fig trees to escape the midday heat, often found lounging lazily among the branches—a truly unique sight you won’t want to miss.

Besides the lions, keep an eye out for abundant wildlife including gazelles, Uganda kobs, warthogs, waterbucks, and large herds of hippos and elephants along the way. Buffalo and topi roam this beautiful, remote southern extension of the park. After your game drive through Ishasha, continue to Mweya Peninsula, the heart of Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you will settle in for the night.

Day 2: Kasenyi Plains Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Trip

Begin your day early with a thrilling pre-dawn game drive across the Kasenyi Plains. This is the best time to catch elusive predators like lions, leopards, hyenas, and jackals, as well as the more visible elephants, buffaloes, warthogs, and Uganda kobs returning from their nocturnal activities.

After a relaxing lunch, embark on a boat trip along the Kazinga Channel, one of the park’s highlights. Here, you’ll witness an astonishing concentration of hippos basking in the water, alongside crocodiles, bathing elephants, and a dazzling variety of birds. The peaceful boat ride offers a spectacular perspective on the park’s abundant wildlife and lush scenery.

Day 3: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park

Today, journey to Kibale Forest National Park, home to the highest number of primate species in Africa. This lush rainforest teems with chimpanzees, grey-cheeked mangabeys, red-tailed monkeys, and red colobus monkeys, among others.

In the evening, enjoy a Bigodi Swamp walk through grasslands and local villages. This 2-3 hour stroll offers beautiful scenery and heartwarming encounters with welcoming local communities. The swamp is also a great spot to spot multiple primate species, making for an enchanting introduction to Kibale’s biodiversity.

Day 4: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest

Spend the day tracking chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Kibale Forest is home to at least 12 primate species, including the playful chimpanzees, red-tailed monkeys, olive baboons, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and blue monkeys. Bird watchers will also delight in spotting the gorgeous Great Blue Turaco among many other forest birds.

This immersive experience lets you witness primates up close amid the verdant rainforest, deepening your connection with Uganda’s wild heart.

Day 5: Transfer to Entebbe

After your unforgettable wildlife encounters, make your way back to Entebbe. Reflect on the diverse landscapes and incredible animals you've experienced—from the tree-dwelling lions of Ishasha to the lively chimpanzees of Kibale. This marks the end of a rich and rewarding Ugandan safari adventure.

Travel Tips

• Bring binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens to capture distant wildlife moments.

• Wear lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing and comfortable walking shoes for game drives and forest walks.

• Carry insect repellent and sun protection, especially for midday safaris.

• Respect local customs and communities encountered during village walks.

• Stay hydrated and enjoy local Ugandan cuisine whenever possible to enhance your cultural experience.

This itinerary balances thrilling wildlife viewing with cultural immersion and natural beauty, offering an unforgettable safari through Uganda’s iconic parks.