9 Days Primates of Uganda and the Masai Mara

The 9-day Primate Adventure in Uganda and the Masai Mara in Kenya showcases thrilling experiences such as gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest, and an exhilarating game safari in the renowned Masai Mara, often referred to simply as “the Mara.”

Safari Highlights

• An Encounter with the Chimpanzees in Kibale Forest 
• A guided nature walk in Bigodi Sanctuary for primate and birding 
• An encounter with the gentle giants of Bwindi Forest- Mountain Gorillas. 
• The Mara game safari in search of the ‘Big Five’

 Itinerary for 9 day Primate of Uganda and the Masai Mara

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe

Upon your arrival in Entebbe, you will be picked up by a company representative and transferred to your hotel.  Accommodation at The Hotel No.5

Day 2:  Transfer to Kibale National Park

Following breakfast, you’ll embark on the 9-day Primates of Uganda and Masai Mara safari. Departing from Kampala, your journey heads westward to Fort Portal. Keep your eyes peeled for black-and-white colobus monkeys, baboons, and various primates nestled among the trees along the route.

In Fort Portal Town, you’ll pause for lunch in an area renowned for its mythical Mountains of the Moon and sprawling tea plantations. Continuing from this picturesque town, the adventure proceeds to Kibale National Park, where you’ll lodge amidst the lush tropical forest at Chimpundu Lodge, with meals provided.

Day 3:  Chimpanzee Trekking and Bigodi Swamp

Start your day with breakfast at 6:00 am, followed by a leisurely stroll to the park headquarters, conveniently located just a 10-minute walk from the lodge. At 7:30 am, participate in a briefing session before embarking on an exhilarating guided nature walk through the lush tropical rainforest.

Look out for the enchanting chimpanzees, along with other fascinating creatures like the red-tailed monkey and black-and-white colobus monkey.

Once you’ve spotted the chimpanzees, prepare for an hour of pure wonder as you observe them in their natural habitat, witnessing their daily rituals up close.

After indulging in a delicious lunch at the primate lodge, it’s time for another adventure. Head to the Bigodi Swamp for a captivating two-hour nature walk. This swamp is a sanctuary for over 200 bird species, including the majestic Papyrus Gonolek and the striking Great Blue Turaco. Managed by the local community, this walk is renowned for its diverse array of birdlife and primates.

End your day with a satisfying dinner and settle in for the night at the cozy Primate Lodge Kibale Cottages.

As an alternative option, if you’re feeling adventurous, consider the Chimpanzee Habituation Experience. This unique opportunity allows you to join ranger guides in their research efforts, spending an entire day with these fascinating creatures. Witness the chimpanzees as they emerge from their nests and go about their daily routines, gaining insights into their behavior and habits while gradually acclimating them to human presence.

Day 4:  Kibale Forest – Bwindi National Park

Embark on a delightful journey southward after breakfast, immersing yourself in Uganda’s captivating scenery, marked by charming traditional homesteads. Pause for a tranquil picnic lunch amidst this picturesque backdrop.

Your expedition proceeds towards Bwindi, the cherished haven of the rare mountain gorillas, reaching your destination by evening. Unwind and savor the comfort of Mahogany Springs, where you’ll be treated to sumptuous meals and cozy accommodations.

Day 5:  Gorilla Trekking

Following breakfast, you’ll head to the national park offices where you’ll receive your gorilla family allocation in groups of 8, along with a knowledgeable gorilla tracking guide. Before embarking on the tracking adventure, your guide will provide a comprehensive briefing covering general information about gorillas, details about your assigned gorilla family, and essential safety precautions.

Drive to the trailhead to commence the thrilling adventure. Be prepared for long walks over steep and sometimes muddy terrain, often accompanied by rain, which can pose challenges.  The duration of the trek can vary significantly, ranging from 2 to 8 hours or even longer.

During the hike, you’ll enjoy a packed lunch provided by the lodge. Once you’ve sighted the gorillas, you’ll have the privilege of spending an hour observing them in their natural habitat, engaging in activities such as feeding, playing, and grooming. It’s an unparalleled and unforgettable experience.

Afterwards, you’ll hike back to the base, where you’ll be transferred back to the lodge. There, you can indulge in a well-deserved shower, relax, and enjoy a delicious dinner.

Your accommodation and meals will be provided at Mahogany Springs.

Day  6: Flight from Bwindi to Entebbe to Nairobi

Following breakfast, we bid farewell to the dense wilderness of Bwindi and make our way to Kihihi airfield. From there, we catch a flight back to Entebbe, where you’ll then board your onward flight to Nairobi.

Upon arrival in Nairobi, you’ll be greeted by representatives from the company. You’ll be provided with accommodation and meals at Emara Ole Sereni.

Day 7: Nairobi to  Masai Mara

Breakfast and head to the western escarpment to Masai Mara National Reserve arriving in time for lunch. The mara is known for its density of animals including the ‘Big Five’ and 453 species of birds. It is one of the most visited reserves in Africa. This National Reserve’s plains are predominantly open savannah, interspersed with patches of acacia woodland, and along the Mara River, riparian forest. Evening game drive in the park.  Accommodation and Meals at Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp

Day 8: Masai Mara

Today, immerse yourself in a day dedicated to game drives within the reserve, offering ample opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes of Masai Mara and witness the iconic “Big Five”: lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos. Beyond these renowned species, Masai Mara boasts a rich tapestry of wildlife including giraffes, zebras, hippos, baboons, wildebeests, warthogs, gazelles, crocodiles, and an array of bird species.

A highlight not to be overlooked is the annual migration of millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles from July to October. This natural phenomenon sees the wildebeests traversing over 900 kilometers from the Serengeti plains to the Maasai Mara, culminating in a dramatic crossing of the Mara River, where they confront their final hurdle, often with lurking crocodiles awaiting.

The Mara River, a prominent feature of the Masai Mara, serves as a vital lifeline for the ecosystem. The spectacle of the Mara River crossing, particularly amidst the presence of hungry crocodiles, is a captivating and unforgettable experience.

After a day filled with absorbing natural wonders, retire to the comfort of Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp for accommodation and meals.

Day 9: Masai Mara – Nairobi – Departure

After breakfast and checkout on your last day of the 9-day adventure exploring Gorillas, Chimpanzees in Uganda, and the Masai Mara, you’ll return to Nairobi. Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll enjoy lunch before making your way to the airport for your onward journey back home.

Included in the 9 Days Primates of Uganda and the Masai Mara 

Ground transportation in a safari customized 4WD Toyota Landcruiser with gasoline/fuel, Mineral water in the vehicle, services of an English-Speaking Driver/guide, Accommodation mentioned in the itinerary, Meals as shown (B-breakfast, L-lunch, D-dinner), all Park Entrance Fees and a Gorilla Permit.

Excluded in the 9 Days Primates of Uganda and the Masai Mara 

International Airfares; Excess baggage charges; Ugandan Entry Visa Fees; Items of personal nature such as Room service, Beverages, Laundry, Tips and Gratuities for your Driver/guide and Hotels staff, Shopping charges for Curios and Crafts, International Airport Departure Taxes, and Optional activities.