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12 Days, Golden Monkey, Gorilla Tracking & Wildlife Safaris

12 Days Uganda Chimpanzee

A 12-day Uganda safari from Entebbe with golden monkey trekking in Mgahinga, three days of gorilla trekking in Bwindi, game drives and a Kazinga Channel boat safari in Queen Elizabeth, and time back in Entebbe.

Why this safari works

This 12-day trip suits travellers who want several primate experiences and a proper savannah safari without rushing. It starts in Mgahinga for the golden monkeys of the Virunga bamboo forest, then spends three days in Bwindi with gorilla families in different parts of the forest. Three days in Queen Elizabeth National Park cover game drives, the Kazinga Channel and the Ishasha sector, and two quiet days in Entebbe at the end leave room for optional visits before the flight home.

Highlights

  • Golden monkey trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
  • Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
  • Morning and afternoon game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park
  • Boat safari on the Kazinga Channel
  • Ishasha sector, known for its tree-climbing lions
  • Nature walks, birdwatching or a Batwa community visit in Mgahinga

Your route

  1. Entebbe Uganda · 1 night
  2. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park Uganda · 2 nights
  3. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Uganda · 3 nights
  4. Queen Elizabeth National Park Uganda · 3 nights
  5. Entebbe Uganda · 2 nights
  6. Entebbe International Airport Uganda · Departure

Day-by-day itinerary

  1. Day1
    Swimming pool with sun loungers and umbrellas in palm garden, Entebbe, Uganda

    Arrival at Entebbe

    Upon your arrival at Entebbe International Airport our representative will warmly greet you and provide assistance with immigration procedures. They will then transfer you to your accommodation in either Entebbe or Kampala. Take some time to relax and get accustomed to the environment. Overnight at a hotel.

    • Airport pick-up
    • Hotel in Entebbe or Kampala
  2. Day2
    Stone lodge cottages with Virunga volcano behind, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda

    Journey to Mgahinga National Park

    After breakfast begin the drive towards Mgahinga National Park, located in the southwestern part of Uganda. This renowned park is famous for its population of endangered golden monkeys. Along the way soak in the landscapes and pass through charming rural villages.

    Upon reaching the park settle in and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon take a stroll around the park to adjust to the altitude while relishing views of the Virunga Mountains. Overnight at a hotel.

    • Drive to Mgahinga
    • Hotel near Mgahinga
    • Breakfast, lunch
  3. Day3

    Golden Monkey Trekking

    Rise early and savour breakfast before setting out on a golden monkey trekking experience. The golden monkeys are a species exclusively found within the Virunga Mountains, making Mgahinga National Park an exceptional location for observing and engaging with these remarkable primates. Accompanied by a guide venture into the bamboo forests in search of these creatures, listening attentively for their calls and keeping a keen eye out for their vibrant golden fur.

    After locating a group take some time to observe their behaviour and unique characteristics. You will also learn about the conservation efforts in place to protect these monkeys. Once the golden monkey trek is complete make the most of your day by exploring the park through nature walks, birdwatching or visiting the Batwa Pygmy community for an insight into their culture. Overnight at a hotel.

    • Golden monkey trekking
    • Hotel near Mgahinga
    • Breakfast
  4. Days4–6

    Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

    Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is home to half of the world’s remaining Mountain Gorillas. Upon arrival near the park settle in and get ready for an extraordinary experience. Over three days, with a guide leading the way, venture into different regions of Bwindi Forest for thrilling encounters with specific gorilla families. Trek through dense vegetation and immerse yourself in their natural habitat. Witness their strength, intelligence and social interactions firsthand while capturing moments through photographs that will last a lifetime.

    The duration of each gorilla trekking experience may vary from a few hours to a full day depending on where the gorilla family is located. Once you have finished your trek head back to unwind and reflect on the encounters. Overnight at a hotel.

  5. Days7–9

    Queen Elizabeth National Park Wildlife Adventure

    After breakfast make your way to Queen Elizabeth National Park, renowned for its wildlife and breathtaking scenery. Over three days immerse yourself in the wonders of the park with morning and afternoon game drives to spot elephants, lions, buffaloes, leopards and an assortment of bird species. Take in the captivating sights of the savannah, crater lakes and the majestic Rwenzori Mountains.

    Do not miss a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel connecting Lake Edward with Lake George, where you will witness hippos, crocodiles and a chorus of bird species including African fish eagles, pelicans and kingfishers. Venture into the Ishasha Sector, renowned for its famous tree-climbing lions. Overnight at a hotel.

  6. Days10–11

    Return to Entebbe with Optional Activities

    Following breakfast drive back to Entebbe relishing landscapes dotted with communities along your route. Once you arrive settle in and enjoy some leisure time to unwind or explore the surrounding area.

    Optional activities during your stay include visiting the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, exploring the Entebbe Botanical Gardens or paying a visit to the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre. Overnight at a hotel.

  7. Day12

    End of Safari

    After breakfast you will be transferred to Entebbe International Airport for your departure. Take all those wonderful memories of your golden monkey trekking, gorilla trekking and wildlife safari adventure in Uganda with you as you head home.

    • Airport transfer
    • Breakfast

Price Includes

Gorilla Permits, Golden Monkey Permits, bottled water, English speaking guide, park entrance fees, boat rides, cultural tours, all activities mentioned.

Price Excludes

International flight fare, entry visas, laundry services, tips, alcoholic drinks.

Where you will stay

Entebbe Uganda — Day 1
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Mgahinga Gorilla NP Uganda — Days 2–3
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Bwindi Impenetrable NP Uganda — Days 4–6
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Gorilla Forest Lodge
★★★★★ 5 Star
◆ Exclusive

Gorilla Forest Lodge

Silverback Lodge
★★★★★ 5 Star
◆ Exclusive

Silverback Lodge

Bwindi Volcano Lodge
★★★★★ 5 Star
◆ Exclusive

Bwindi Volcano Lodge

Buhoma Lodge
★★★★★ 5 Star
Luxury

Buhoma Lodge

Mahogany Springs Lodge
★★★★★ 5 Star
Luxury

Mahogany Springs Lodge

Buhoma Haven Lodge
★★★★★ 5 Star
Mid-range

Buhoma Haven Lodge

Ride 4 A Woman
★★★★★ 5 Star
Budget

Ride 4 A Woman

Gorilla Bluff Lodge
★★★★★ 5 Star
Budget

Gorilla Bluff Lodge

Gorilla Conservation Camp
★★★★★ 5 Star
Budget

Gorilla Conservation Camp

Kiho Gorilla Lodge
★★★★★ 5 Star
Luxury

Kiho Gorilla Lodge

Ruzogo Lodge
★★★★★ 5 Star
Mid-range

Ruzogo Lodge

Bakiga Lodge
★★★★★ 5 Star
Mid-range

Bakiga Lodge

Gorilla Mist Camp
★★★★★ 5 Star
Mid-range

Gorilla Mist Camp

Ruhija Community Rest Camp
★★★★★ 5 Star
Budget

Ruhija Community Rest Camp

Bwindi Panorama Nature Resort
★★★★★ 5 Star
Budget

Bwindi Panorama Nature Resort

Rushaga Gorilla Safari Lodge
★★★★★ 5 Star
◆ Exclusive

Rushaga Gorilla Safari Lodge

Four Gorillas Lodge
★★★★★ 5 Star
◆ Exclusive

Four Gorillas Lodge

Chameleon Hill Lodge
★★★★★ 5 Star
◆ Exclusive

Chameleon Hill Lodge

Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
★★★★★ 5 Star
Mid-range

Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

Rushaga Gorilla Camp
★★★★★ 5 Star
Mid-range

Rushaga Gorilla Camp

Gorilla Leisure Lodge
★★★★★ 5 Star
Mid-range

Gorilla Leisure Lodge

Rushaga Gorilla Haven Lodge
★★★★★ 5 Star
Budget

Rushaga Gorilla Haven Lodge

Gorilla Hills Eco Lodge
★★★★★ 5 Star
Budget

Gorilla Hills Eco Lodge

Wagtail Eco Safari Camp
★★★★★ 5 Star
Budget

Wagtail Eco Safari Camp

Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
★★★★★ 5 Star
◆ Exclusive

Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge

Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge
★★★★★ 5 Star
Luxury

Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge

Gorilla Heights Lodge
★★★★★ 5 Star
Luxury

Gorilla Heights Lodge

Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge
★★★★★ 5 Star
Mid-range

Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge

Bwindi — Buhoma Uganda — Option A
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Bwindi — Ruhija Uganda — Option B
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Bwindi — Rushaga Uganda — Option C
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Bwindi — Nkuringo Uganda — Option D
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Entebbe Uganda — Days 10–12
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What's included

Optional add-ons

  • Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary
  • Entebbe Botanical Gardens
  • Uganda Wildlife Education Centre

Frequently asked questions

Where does this safari start and end?

It starts and ends at Entebbe International Airport. The first night is in Entebbe or Kampala, and the last two nights are in Entebbe.

Where are the golden monkeys tracked?

In the bamboo forests of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park on Day 3. The text notes that golden monkeys are found only in the Virunga Mountains.

How long does a gorilla trek take?

It varies from a few hours to a full day, depending on where the gorilla family is that day.

What is included in the Queen Elizabeth section?

Three days with morning and afternoon game drives, a boat safari on the Kazinga Channel and a visit to the Ishasha sector.

What can I do on the last days in Entebbe?

Days 10 and 11 are free after the drive back. Options include Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, the Entebbe Botanical Gardens and the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre.