Uganda Chimpanzee Trekking and Birding Safari

Quick Facts

Days

9

Takes you to

Kibale Forest, Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, Semuliki National Park, and Queen Elizabeth National Park.

SAFARI OVERVIEW OF

Uganda Chimpanzee Trekking and Birding Safari

This 9-day Uganda Chimpanzee Trekking and Birding Safari offers intimate encounters with playful chimpanzees in the lush Kibale Forest and amazing bird-watching experiences in Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, and Semuliki National Parks.

Immerse yourself in nature as you spot rare and colorful bird species, trek through dense tropical forests, and witness Uganda’s breathtaking landscapes.

SAFARI HIGHLIGHTS

Chimp Trekking in Kibale Forest: Track playful chimpanzees in their lush natural habitat.
Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary: Discover a rich ecosystem teeming with birdlife and wildlife.
Visit Semuliki National Park: Discover diverse birdlife at the Kirumia River Trail.
Explore Queen Elizabeth National Park: Incredible birding opportunities at the Kazinga Channel.
Coffee Processing Tour in Kichwamba Community.
Bird Watching Expeditions in Maramagambo Forest and Kyambura Gorge.
Comfortable Midrange Lodges: Stay in handpicked lodges that blend comfort with sustainability.

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe Airport

Upon your arrival in Entebbe, a company representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel for an overnight stay at the start of your Uganda Chimpanzee Trekking and Birding Safari.

Meal Plan: Dinner | Accommodation: Papyrus Guest House | Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 2: Entebbe to Kibale National Park

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before setting off on a scenic westward drive to Fort Portal. Along the way, enjoy a delicious lunch stop as you take in the changing landscapes. Nestled in the foothills of the legendary "Mountains of the Moon," Fort Portal welcomes you with its lush surroundings and picturesque tea plantations. From here, continue southwest to Kibale National Park, where breathtaking views of the western arm of the Great Rift Valley.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Turaco Treetops Lodge | Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking and Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary

Today, start your day with breakfast followed by a pre-tracking briefing at 7:30 a.m. Then, journey to the trailhead for an unforgettable guided primate walk through the lush tropical rainforest. Encounter the wild chimpanzee, red-tailed monkey, black-and-white colobus monkey, and more as you delve into the heart of nature.

With treks typically lasting 3-4 hours, prepare for remarkable chimp sightings in their natural habitat. Join a small group of up to 6, led by a seasoned forest ranger, on an exhilarating chimpanzee tracking experience. Spend an awe-inspiring hour observing these fascinating creatures in their daily routines.

Afterward, return to the lodge for a delicious lunch before venturing to the Bigodi Swamp Walk. Managed by the local community, this initiative boasts a remarkable array of birdlife and primates. Bird watchers will be thrilled by the presence of over 200 species, including the magnificent Great Blue Turaco.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner |Accommodation: Turaco Treetops | Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 4: Kibale Forest - Semuliki National Park

Head to Semuliki Park for a 3 hrs drive and begin your day amidst the enchanting lowland rainforest. Your journey will lead you towards the hot springs region, nestled within a lush patch of forest where a diverse array of bird species thrive. Look out for bird species such as the White-crested Hornbill, White-spotted Flufftails, Black-casqued Hornbills, African Green Pigeons, Ayres’s Hawk-Eagle, Orange-cheeked Waxbill, and the elegant White-napped Pigeon, among others.

Within this protected area, a staggering 441 bird species have been documented, showcasing a rich tapestry of avian life, including numerous West African forest species and an impressive nine hornbill species. Explore deeper into the forest's depths, and be on the lookout for endemic treasures like the Red Rumped Tinkerbird and Palm Greenbul. Additionally, keep an eye out for captivating species like the Yellow-throated Cuckoo and the vibrant Yellow-footed Flycatcher.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Turaco Treetops | Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 5: Kirumia River Trail

Head out on a scenic 13 km walk along the Kirumia River, a renowned spot for birdwatching. The trail offers exceptional opportunities to spot a wide range of bird species, including the White-bellied Kingfisher, Red-rumped Tinkerbird, Lyre-tailed Honeyguide, Congo Serpent Eagle, and Grey-throated Rail. Other highlights include sightings of the Nkulengu Rail, Long-tailed Hawk, Spot-breasted Ibis, Yellow-throated Nicator, Northern Red-chested Owlet, and Western Bronze-napped Pigeon.

You’ll also have the chance to see the Black-collared Lovebird, Zenker’s Honeyguide, White-throated Blue Swallow, Bate’s Nightjar, Yellow-throated Cuckoo, and Orange-tufted Sunbird. After this birding adventure, proceed back to the lodge for relaxation.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Turaco Treetops | Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 6: To Queen Elizabeth National Park – Boat cruise Kazinga Channel – Coffee Tour

Start your day with a symphony of birdsong at the lodge, followed by a delightful breakfast as the sun rises. Then, head out for an adventure to Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you’ll encounter iconic wildlife such as hippos, buffalo, elephants, kobs, and a myriad of bird species.

After your lunch break, head for a scenic boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway teeming with diverse birdlife, majestic elephants, and herds of buffalo. This 40-kilometer-long natural waterway connects Lake George and Lake Edward, offering an excellent location for waterbird watching. Common sightings include African Skimmers, Pied Kingfishers, and Yellow-billed Storks.

Cap off your day with a captivating coffee tour, immersing yourself in the art of coffee processing. During the tour, you will get to learn how the whole process of growing coffee seeds, production stages, and the final stage of consumption, or market stage. Have a tangible experience by yourself and feel the taste of African coffee while supporting the lives of orphans and other vulnerable children and the elderly in the community.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: The Bush Lodge | Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 7: Maramagambo Forest & Kyambura Gorge

Today, head to The Maramagambo Forest, a lush rainforest within the park, this forest is home to unique species like the White-napped Pigeon, Hair-breasted Barbet, and the African Green Broadbill. Have lunch and thereafter head to Kyambura Gorge.

The gorge's rich forested landscape is home to a variety of fascinating bird species, like the elusive Blue-headed Coucal, the vibrant White-cheeked Turaco, and the Chestnut-winged Starling. Other notable species include the Grey-throated Barbet, African Blue Flycatcher, Brown-capped Weaver, and Red-chested Cuckoo.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: The Bush Lodge | Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 8: Back to Entebbe

After a delightful breakfast, begin your journey back to Entebbe with a scenic lunch stop along the way. Take a memorable pause at the Equator, where you can stand on the world’s prime meridian and take photos before continuing your drive. Arrive back in Entebbe by evening, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences and wildlife encounters from your safari.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Papyrus Guest House | Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 9: Departure

Depart the park on this day after a relaxed breakfast. You will have lunch en route and arrive in the early evening in Entebbe. A day room option is available if your flight is late in the evening.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch

Included in the Uganda Chimpanzee Trekking and Birding Safari

Ground transportation in a safari customized 4WD Toyota Land Cruiser with gasoline/fuel.
Accommodation and Meals
All Park Entrance Fees.
All Nature walks
All Boat Cruises
All Game Drives
Chimpanzee trekking permit USD 250PP
Drinking water / refillable water bottle
English-speaking Birding Guide.

Excluded from the Uganda Chimpanzee Trekking and Birding Safari

International Airfares;
Visa Fees USD 50.
Drinks and Beverages
Tips and Gratuities for your Driver/guide and hotel staff.
Optional activities unless specified as included.
Any other services not expressly shown in the itinerary or indicated as included.

Uganda – The Pearl of Africa’s Untamed Beauty

Uganda, aptly named the Pearl of Africa, is a land gifted by Nature. It is located in the Great Lakes Region with breathtaking landscapes, extraordinary biodiversity, and unforgettable adventures. This remarkably diverse country is where the East African savannah meets the lush West African jungle, creating an ecological paradise unlike any other.

Towering over Uganda’s landscapes are the majestic Rwenzori Mountains, Africa’s third-highest range, and the dramatic Virunga Volcanoes, while the shimmering waters of Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake, cradle its southern border. Lying in a basin between the eastern and western branches of the Rift Valley, Uganda’s elevated position gives it a more temperate climate than its equatorial location might suggest. Most of the country sits over 1,000 meters above sea level, with a landscape that is largely flat apart from the forested mountain ranges that often define its borders.

One of Africa’s most water-rich nations, Uganda’s lakes, rivers, and wetlands cover 25% of its surface, keeping the landscape lush and green for most of the year, though the northern region gradually transitions into semi-desert.

Nowhere else on the continent can travelers witness such a rich variety of primates with such ease. From great apes—mountain gorillas and chimpanzees—to over a dozen monkey species, Uganda is a primate lover’s paradise. But it’s not just primates that thrive here. With over 1,000 bird species, Uganda is a birder’s wonderland, home to rare rainforest specialists and some of Africa’s most sought-after birds.

We invite you to explore Uganda, a diverse landscape with abundant wildlife, plenty to discover, and unique experiences. When recounting your time in this jewel of a country, you’ll struggle to find the words that do justice to it.

Entry Requirements:

Your passport must have a minimum of at least two full, clear pages for visas and stamps, and be valid for more than 6 months from the date of entry into Uganda.

Please check visa requirements prior to travel with your booking agent or Bush Wander, as requirements are regularly changed with little notice.

Most passports require a single-entry visa (US$50). Visas cannot be obtained on arrival. You must apply and pay for them online at least two weeks before your arrival. You must upload clear copies of your current passport, a yellow fever certificate, and a passport photo.

Only Visa and Mastercard cards are accepted for visa payments. Once payment is made, the system will process your application and send you a barcoded email. Print out this email and bring it with you to Uganda. Upon arrival, you should present the barcoded email to the immigration officer, who will scan the barcode, take your fingerprints and photo, and place a visa in your passport.

Alternatively, the Ugandan High Commission may issue visas where such commissions are located.

Visa Exempt Countries:

The following nationalities do not require a visa to enter Uganda: all nationalities from East African countries (Tanzania, Rwanda, Kenya, Burundi), all nationalities from COMESA countries (Angola, Eritrea, Malawi, Madagascar, Seychelles, Swaziland, Zambia, Comoros, Kenya, Mauritius, Zimbabwe), and passport holders from OTHERS (Antigua, Barbados, Fiji, Grenada, Lesotho, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, The Grenadines, Vanuatu, Cyprus, Bahamas, Belize, Gambia, Jamaica, Malta, Singapore, St. Vincent-Tonga and Ireland).

East Africa Tourist Visa:

If you are planning an East Africa trip to Uganda, Rwanda, and/or Kenya, it may be better to apply for a multiple-entry visa, valid for 90 days, for USD 100 per visa. For more information, go through the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration if you are entering Uganda first, or the Government visa site for the East African country you will be first entering.

Money and Currency:

Before you travel, call your credit card companies to let them know you will be traveling. This will help to ensure the credit card company won’t flag any of your vacation expenses. ATMs are available in major towns or cities, though at times may not be reliable due to a limited amount of money to be withdrawn.

Credit cards are widely accepted in Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda. Major hotels and restaurants accept VISA and MasterCard. AMEX and others are not recommended as establishments usually don’t support them. Note that a surcharge of 5% is attached to their usage.
Local Currencies are recommended to use while on safari. There are many forex bureaus and banks in the capital cities and the main towns. Smaller denominations than US$100 may attract a less favorable rate of exchange. Notes older than 2010 may not be accepted in the country.
Forex Bureaus are located in major towns or cities and have regular banking hours Monday to Friday from 08:30hrs to 16:00hrs. Saturdays are open from 09:00hrs to 12:00hrs. Traveler’s Cheques may be changed in major towns/cities. American Express cheques are accepted but they do attract a low rate. If you can, forego this option. Note: A purchase receipt and a passport are often asked for by the bank and forex bureaus as proof of ownership.

Health and Medical Information

Travelers require a Yellow Fever inoculation more than 10 days before your departure, otherwise you won’t obtain a visa. The certificate will be checked on arrival in Uganda. On top of that, it is also advised that you get vaccinations for DTP, Hepatitis A, and malaria. Some organizations may advise you to take Typhoid, Cholera, Hepatitis B, and Rabies as well. Please consult your pharmacist/doctor.

Travel Insurance on tour.

It’s highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, lost luggage, and other unforeseen circumstances. Ensure that your insurance policy provides adequate coverage for your entire trip duration and the activities you plan to undertake, such as wildlife viewing and adventure sports.

Flights & Getting Around

If you need assistance with flight bookings, Travelers Link Africa offers an in-flight service—simply share your travel dates, and we’ll take care of the rest!

What to pack

• Comfortable hiking boots and lightweight clothing.

• Rain jacket and a warm sweater for cooler evenings.

• Insect repellent and sunscreen.

• Reusable water bottle.

• Binoculars and a good camera.

• Personal medications and a small first-aid kit.

• Nature-blending clothes.