5
The Perfect Uganda Gorilla and Wildlife Safari
A 5 Days Gorilla Trekking & Queen Elizabeth Safari from Kigali or Kampala combines two of Uganda’s most iconic safari experiences—encountering endangered mountain gorillas in the rainforest and exploring the wildlife-rich savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
This safari is ideal for travelers seeking the perfect blend of primates, wildlife, scenic landscapes, and cultural experiences. Whether you start from Kigali or Kampala, this adventure promises unforgettable encounters with Africa’s incredible wildlife.
With Openbill Safaris Uganda, every detail is carefully arranged to ensure a seamless and memorable safari experience.
Safari Highlights
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Wildlife game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Kazinga Channel boat cruise
- Opportunity to see tree-climbing lions
- Scenic drives through Uganda’s countryside
- Equator crossing experience (for Kampala departures)
- Cultural interactions
- Luxury, midrange, or budget accommodation options
Detailed Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Transfer from Kigali or Kampala to Bwindi
Option 1: From Kigali
Meet your guide in:
- Kigali
Enjoy a scenic drive through Rwanda’s rolling hills before crossing into Uganda and continuing to Bwindi.
Option 2: From Kampala
Depart from:
- Kampala
Travel through southwestern Uganda with an optional stop at the Equator and scenic viewpoints.
Arrive at Bwindi in the evening.
Accommodation Options
Budget
- Rushaga Gorilla Camp
- Broadbill Forest Camp
Midrange
- Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
- Bakiga Lodge
Luxury
- Four Gorillas Lodge
- Mahogany Springs Lodge
- Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp
Dinner and overnight stay.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
6
After breakfast, report to the park headquarters for a briefing by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers.
Begin your trek through the rainforest in search of a habituated gorilla family.
Gorilla Trekking Experience
- Guided by experienced trackers
- Small trekking groups
- One hour with the gorillas
- Incredible photography opportunities
- Close observation of gorilla behavior
This unforgettable encounter is often considered one of the best wildlife experiences in the world.
Return to the lodge for relaxation and overnight stay.
Day 3: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After breakfast, depart for:
- Queen Elizabeth National Park
Enjoy a scenic drive through the Ishasha sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions.
Wildlife Sightings Along the Way
- Elephants
- Buffaloes
- Antelopes
- Tree-climbing lions (seasonal sightings)
Check into your lodge and relax.
Accommodation Options
Budget
- Pumba Safari Cottages
- The Bush Lodge
Midrange
- Twin Lakes Safari Lodge
- Elephant Hab Lodge
Luxury
- Mweya Safari Lodge
- Kyambura Gorge Lodge
Dinner and overnight stay.
Day 4: Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
7
Begin the day with an early morning game drive.
Wildlife You May See
- Lions
- Leopards
- Elephants
- Buffaloes
- Hyenas
- Uganda kobs
- Warthogs
In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise on the famous Kazinga Channel.
Boat Cruise Highlights
- Hippos
- Nile crocodiles
- Buffaloes
- Elephants along the shoreline
- Numerous bird species
The Kazinga Channel is considered one of the best wildlife viewing locations in East Africa.
Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 5: Return to Kigali or Kampala
After breakfast, begin your return journey.
Option 1: Return to Kigali
Cross back into Rwanda and transfer to:
- Kigali
Option 2: Return to Kampala
Travel through western Uganda back to:
- Kampala
Arrive in the evening.
End of Safari
Wildlife Highlights
During this safari, you may encounter:
Primates
- Mountain gorillas
Mammals
- Lions
- Leopards
- Elephants
- Buffaloes
- Hippos
- Hyenas
- Uganda kobs
- Warthogs
Birdlife
Uganda hosts more than 1,000 bird species, making it one of Africa’s top birding destinations.
Best Time to Travel
June – September
Ideal for:
- Gorilla trekking
- Wildlife viewing
- Photography
December – February
Excellent for:
- Dry trekking trails
- Comfortable weather
- Scenic game drives
This safari can be enjoyed throughout the year.
Why Choose This Safari?
This itinerary offers the perfect combination of:
- Gorilla trekking
- Wildlife safaris
- Boat cruises
- Scenic landscapes
- Cultural experiences
It is one of the most popular safari packages for travelers visiting Uganda.
Why Book with Openbill Safaris Uganda?
Openbill Safaris Uganda specializes in:
- Gorilla trekking safaris
- Uganda wildlife adventures
- Kigali and Kampala departure safaris
- Luxury, midrange, and budget tours
- Customized East African itineraries
We provide:
- Gorilla permit booking assistance
- Professional safari guides
- Comfortable transportation
- Carefully selected accommodations
- Personalized customer service
Through Openvision Foundation Uganda, we also support conservation and community empowerment through sustainable tourism initiatives.
Book Your Uganda Gorilla & Wildlife Safari Today
A 5 Days Gorilla Trekking & Queen Elizabeth Safari from Kigali or Kampala offers the perfect opportunity to experience Uganda’s incredible biodiversity—from the misty forests of Bwindi to the wildlife-filled plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Whether you start in Kigali or Kampala, this safari delivers unforgettable wildlife encounters, breathtaking scenery, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Let Openbill Safaris Uganda help you plan your dream Uganda safari adventure.
