Nile boat cruise, chimpanzees in Kibale, tree-climbing lions in Ishasha
“Authentic Journeys. Ethical Adventures.”
10-Day / 9-Night Uganda Wildlife, Chimpanzee & Gorilla Trekking Safari | 2026/2027 Expert Guide
Safari Overview
Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey across Uganda’s most iconic national parks. From Kampala’s vibrant streets to Bwindi’s misty jungles, this safari blends adventure, wildlife, and relaxation. Expect gorillas, chimpanzees, tree-climbing lions, and serene lakes — all wrapped in eco-conscious travel that supports local communities.
This 10-day / 9-night itinerary is the ultimate Ugandan adventure, covering Murchison Falls, Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi, Lake Bunyonyi, and Lake Mburo — six of Uganda’s premier destinations in one seamless loop. Whether you’re a first-time Africa safari-goer or a seasoned primate enthusiast, this journey delivers the complete “Pearl of Africa” experience.
Safari Highlights
🏙️ Kampala city tour to kick off your adventure
🦁 Game drives in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Lake Mburo — classic African savannah wildlife
🐒 Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park — over 90% success rate, 13 primate species
🦍 Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest — a UNESCO World Heritage Site
🌊 Boat cruises on the Nile and Kazinga Channel — hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife
🏞️ Relaxation at Lake Bunyonyi — Uganda’s most scenic lake, safe for swimming
👣 Cultural encounters with local communities — Batwa pygmies and village visits
2026/2027 Updated Permit & Park Fee Prices (Uganda Wildlife Authority)
| Permit / Fee | Foreign Non-Residents | Foreign Residents | East African Citizens |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gorilla Trekking Permit (High Season) | $800 | $700 | UGX 300,000 |
| Gorilla Trekking Permit (Low Season — Apr, May, Nov 2026 & 2027) | $600 | $500 | — |
| Gorilla Habituation Experience (Rushaga) | $1,800 | $1,600 | UGX 750,000 |
| Chimpanzee Tracking (Kibale) — 2026 | $250 | $200 | UGX 180,000 |
| Chimpanzee Tracking (Kibale) — Low Season | $200 | $150 | — |
| Chimpanzee Tracking (Kibale) — 2027 | $300 | $250 | UGX 180,000 |
| Chimpanzee Habituation Experience (2027) | $400 | $300 | UGX 250,000 |
| Murchison Falls Park Entry (per day) | $45 | $35 | UGX 25,000 |
| Queen Elizabeth Park Entry (per day) | $40 | $30 | UGX 20,000 |
| Lake Mburo Park Entry (per day) | $40 | $30 | UGX 20,000 |
| Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise | $30 | $25 | UGX 30,000 |
| Murchison Falls Boat Cruise | $38 | $38 | UGX 30,000 |
Important 2026/2027 UWA Updates:
Low-season discount: Gorilla permits drop to $600 for foreign non-residents** and chimpanzee permits to **$200 during April, May, and November 2026 and 2027.
Full payment at booking: From March 1, 2026, UWA suspended the 7-day provisional holding window — all permits now require full payment at the time of booking.
2027 tariff confirmed: The standard gorilla permit remains at $800 for foreign non-residents** from January 1, 2027. However, Kibale chimpanzee permits will increase to **$300 for standard tracking and $400 for habituation experiences.
No rescheduling of low-season permits: Discounted permits cannot be rescheduled under any circumstances.
10 Days Uganda Safari Cost
| Category | Price Per Person | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | $3,600 – $3,950 | Basic lodges, transport, gorilla & chimp permits |
| Mid-range | $5,400 – $6,000 | Comfortable lodges, private 4×4 vehicle, permits |
| Luxury | $8,000 – $10,000+ | High-end lodges, gourmet dining, private transfers |
💡 Prices include: Gorilla permit ($800), chimpanzee permit ($250 in 2026 / $300 in 2027), park entrance fees, accommodation, meals, transport, game drives, and boat cruises.
❌ Excludes: International flights, visas, tips, drinks, and personal expenses.
Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Kampala City Tour
Welcome to Uganda. After immigration and baggage, you’ll be met and driven to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a Kampala city tour — explore Uganda’s vibrant capital with visits to monuments, markets, and cultural sites including the Uganda Museum, Kasubi Tombs, and the bustling Nakasero Market.
What to expect: A relaxed introduction to Uganda’s capital city before your safari begins.
Tip: Try a “Rolex” — Uganda’s famous street food made with chapati and eggs. It’s a must-try local delicacy.
Meal Plan: Dinner
Accommodation:
Budget: Forest Cottages / Airport Guest House
Mid-range: Boma Guest House / Hotel Africana
Luxury: Kampala Serena Hotel / Lake Victoria Serena
Day 2–3: Murchison Falls National Park
Drive north to Uganda’s largest national park — Murchison Falls. Named after an explosive 43-metre-high waterfall created where the Nile erupts through a crack in the Rift Valley escarpment, this is one of East Africa’s most rewarding safari destinations.
Day 2 activities:
Scenic drive north with stops en route
Game drive across Murchison’s open savannah — elephants, giraffes, lions, buffaloes, and Uganda kobs
Evening at your lodge with sunset views
Day 3 activities:
Early morning game drive — the light is soft and warm, perfect for photography
Boat cruise to the base of Murchison Falls ($38 per person) — close encounters with hippos and crocodiles
Hike to the top of the falls for dramatic sunset views where the Nile squeezes through a 7-metre gorge
What to expect: Big landscapes, loud water, and excellent wildlife viewing. The park is home to over 76 mammal species including the Big Five.
Fun note: The falls will roar louder than your shower playlist.
Meal Plan: Full board
Accommodation:
Budget: Red Chilli Rest Camp / Fort Murchison (tented)
Mid-range: Pakuba Safari Lodge / Murchison River Lodge
Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge / Nile Safari Lodge / Baker’s Lodge
Day 4: Kibale National Park — Chimpanzee Trekking
Drive through tea plantations and rolling hills to Kibale National Park — the “Primate Capital of the World,” home to around 1,500 chimpanzees and 13 primate species including the Uganda mangabey, a monkey unique to Uganda.
Afternoon: Briefing for tomorrow’s chimp tracking and a guided walk in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary — a community-managed eco-tourism project renowned for its birdlife and primate sightings.
What to expect: Birdsong playlist and butterfly cameo appearances.
Tip: Chimps share 98% of our DNA — family drama is universal.
Meal Plan: Full board
Accommodation:
Budget: Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse
Mid-range: Kibale Forest Lodge / Kibale Forest Camp / Isunga Lodge
Luxury: Ndali Safari Lodge / Kyaninga Lodge / Primate Lodge Kibale
Day 5–6: Queen Elizabeth National Park
Head to Queen Elizabeth National Park via the crater lakes region. This savannah-dominated reserve is known for its conspicuous populations of lion, elephant, buffalo, and other iconic African creatures.
Day 5 activities:
Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park (3–4 hours)
Evening game drive in Kasenyi plains — lions, leopards, and herds of elephant
Day 6 activities:
Morning game drive in Kasenyi with great predator and plains game opportunities
Afternoon boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel ($30 per person) — one of the highest concentrations of hippos in Africa, plus crocodiles, buffaloes, and abundant birdlife
Sundowner photography session on the channel
What to expect: A water-side wildlife parade; prepare to be spoiled for animal variety.
Highlight: Sunset on the Kazinga Channel is a photographer’s checklist ticked.
Tip: Tree-climbing lions are proof that cats really do think they own the world. In the Ishasha sector, look for them resting in candelabra trees.
Meal Plan: Full board
Accommodation:
Budget: Simba Safari Camp / Pumba Cottages
Mid-range: Tembo Safari Lodge / Twin Lakes Safari Lodge / Bush Lodge
Luxury: Kyambura Gorge Lodge / Mweya Safari Lodge
Day 7: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park — Gorilla Trekking
The crown jewel of your safari. Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site supporting almost half the world’s mountain gorillas.
After an early briefing at the ranger station, trackers lead you into Bwindi’s rainforest to find your assigned habituated gorilla family. When the moment comes and you’re within the regulated viewing distance, you’ll spend up to one hour watching gorilla life unfold: feeding, nudging young ones, dramatic stares, and unexpected tenderness.
A maximum of 8 people are allowed per gorilla family per day, and the minimum age is 15 years old — strictly enforced by UWA rangers.
Trek time: 2–6+ hours depending on gorilla location.
Etiquette reminder: No flash photography, maintain 7-metre distance from gorillas, and follow ranger instructions.
Emotional note: You may laugh, cry, and smile all in one hour — it’s normal.
Tip: Gorillas are gentle giants — but don’t try to beat your chest, they’ll win.
Meal Plan: Full board
Accommodation:
Budget: Ruhija Gorilla Friends Camp / Buhoma Community Rest Camp
Mid-range: Gorilla Mist Camp / Engagi Lodge / Silverback Lodge
Luxury: Gorilla Forest Camp / Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge / Bwindi Lodge
Day 8: Lake Bunyonyi — Relaxation & Adventure
It’s time to chill out at Lake Bunyonyi — a flooded river valley that runs for 25 kilometres through the majestic hills of southwest Uganda. This lovely freshwater lake has something for everybody.
Activities at Lake Bunyonyi:
Boat cruise to one of the lake’s 29 islands (including Punishment Island)
Swimming — the lake is free of hippos and crocodiles, making it safe for swimming
Zip-lining across the lake for adventure seekers
Canoeing in traditional dugout canoes
Hiking in the surrounding hills with panoramic views
Village walks to meet local communities
What to expect: A chance to unwind and reflect on your gorilla trekking experience.
Tip: Lake Bunyonyi means “place of little birds” — bring binoculars, not breadcrumbs.
Meal Plan: Full board
Accommodation:
Budget: Bunyonyi Overland Resort / Crater Bay Cottages
Mid-range: Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort / Arcadia Lodges Lake Bunyonyi
Luxury: BirdNest Resort / Lake Bunyonyi Rock Resort / Heritage Lodge Habuharo
Day 9: Lake Mburo National Park
Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park — Uganda’s smallest but wildlife-rich park, and the country’s only national park where you can leave the vehicle behind and walk among wildlife.
Although it isn’t a classic Big Five destination (elephants and rhinos are absent, and lions and leopards are scarce), Lake Mburo hosts a varied selection of African wildlife, including several iconic species not found elsewhere in western Uganda. The park’s acacia-swathed slopes and valleys are home to giraffe, zebra, buffalo, impala, waterbuck, bushbuck, and various other grazers and browsers.
Activities:
Evening game drive with warm light and cooler temperatures — ideal for spotting wildlife
Optional walking safari — the signature Lake Mburo experience
What to expect: Zebras, giraffes, and impalas up close. Lake Mburo is Uganda’s only park with impalas — basically the VIP lounge for antelopes.
Meal Plan: Full board
Accommodation:
Budget: Rwonyo Rest Camp / Eagle’s Nest
Mid-range: Mburo Safari Lodge / Arcadia Cottages
Luxury: Mihingo Lodge / Kigambira Safari Lodge
Day 10: Departure — Entebbe International Airport
Drive back to Entebbe with lunch en route. Reflect on ten days of diverse ecosystems, wildlife highlights, and local encounters. Drop at Entebbe International Airport for your onward flight, or transfer to your hotel if you’re extending your stay.
What to expect: Time to reflect, sort photos, and start planning your next trip back.
Final tip: Leave room in your suitcase for souvenirs and one or two memories that won’t fit in your camera. Wave goodbye to Uganda, but don’t worry — the gorillas will remember you.
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch
Safari Inclusions & Exclusions
✅ Includes:
Gorilla trekking permit ($800 for foreign non-residents)
Chimpanzee tracking permit (Kibale — $250 in 2026 / $300 in 2027)
Park entrance fees (Murchison Falls — $45/day; Queen Elizabeth — $40/day; Lake Mburo — $40/day)
Accommodation in listed lodges (double room basis)
All meals as per itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Drinking water throughout the safari
Professional English-speaking driver-guide
Ground transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
Airport transfers
Nile boat cruise ($38) and Kazinga Channel boat cruise ($30)
Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary nature walk
Kampala city tour
Free branded rain jacket per traveller
❌ Excludes:
International flights
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Alcoholic beverages & soft drinks
Tips & personal expenses
Optional activities (Batwa cultural visit, gorilla habituation experience)
Best Time to Go on This Uganda Safari
The best time for gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking in Uganda is during the dry seasons: June to September and December to February. These months offer firmer trails, clearer views, and better wildlife spotting.
The low seasons of April, May, and November bring lower lodge rates, thinner crowds, and discounted permits — gorilla permits drop to $600 for foreign non-residents** and chimpanzee permits to **$200 during these months. However, trails can be muddy and some roads may be challenging. Low-season permits cannot be rescheduled, so book with confidence once your dates are confirmed.
Pro tip: If your travel dates are flexible, booking a low-season safari can save you over $200 per person on gorilla permits alone.
Visa & Entry Requirements (2026)
Uganda has simplified entry for many travellers in 2026:
Single-entry tourist visa: $50, applied for online at https://visas.immigration.go.ug[reference:4].
East Africa Tourist Visa (EATV): $100, permits multi-entry travel across Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya over a 90-day period.
Visa-free entry: Uganda has extended visa-free entry (up to 3 months) to approximately 40 additional countries.
Yellow fever vaccination: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry into Uganda.
Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned travel dates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Uganda gorilla permit cost in 2026?
A gorilla trekking permit in Uganda costs $800 per person** for foreign non-residents during high season, and **$600 during the low-season months of April, May, and November. Foreign residents pay $700 (high season) or $500 (low season).
How much does a chimpanzee permit cost in Kibale?
In 2026, a Kibale chimpanzee tracking permit costs $250 for foreign non-residents**. From January 1, 2027, this increases to **$300 for standard tracking and **$400** for habituation experiences. During the low seasons (April, May, November), permits drop to $200.
How long is the gorilla trekking experience?
Treks vary from 30 minutes to 8 hours depending on where the gorillas have moved overnight. You get exactly one hour with the gorillas once found.
What is the minimum age for gorilla trekking?
The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Bwindi is 15 years old, strictly enforced by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers at the briefing. No exceptions are made in 2026–2027.
How difficult is gorilla trekking?
Moderately challenging (2–6 hours hike, sometimes longer). A reasonable fitness level is recommended. Porters are available at the trailhead for $15–$20 and are highly recommended — they carry your bag and assist on slippery slopes. Seniors aged 70+ can trek with a porter and a free walking stick.
Can I combine chimpanzee tracking with gorilla trekking?
Yes — this 10-day safari is specifically designed to combine both experiences, along with rhino tracking and wildlife game drives.
What should I pack for this safari?
Pack sturdy waterproof hiking boots, gaiters for Bwindi, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, a rain jacket, warm fleece for mornings, gardening gloves, insect repellent, sunscreen (SPF 50+), a wide-brimmed hat, binoculars, and a refillable water bottle. Avoid dark blue and black clothing, as these colours attract tsetse flies.
Are the permits refundable or transferable?
Permits are non-refundable and non-transferable. Low-season permits cannot be rescheduled under any circumstances. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential.
Photography Tips for Your Uganda Safari
Zoom lens: A 200mm+ telephoto lens is essential for gorilla and chimpanzee photography without disturbing the animals.
No flash: Flash photography is strictly prohibited during gorilla and chimpanzee trekking.
Extra batteries and memory cards: Power supply at remote lodges can be limited — bring spare batteries and a portable charger.
Waterproof cover: Bwindi and Kibale are rainforests — a waterproof camera cover is essential.
Golden hour: Early morning and late afternoon game drives offer the best light for wildlife photography.
Kazinga Channel: A sunset cruise on the Kazinga Channel is a photographer’s dream — hippos, birds, and buffalo at the waterline.
Safety & Health Tips
Yellow fever vaccination: Required for entry into Uganda.
Malaria prophylaxis: Recommended for all travellers visiting Uganda’s national parks.
Travel insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation and trip cancellation is essential — permits are non-refundable.
Stay hydrated: Carry a reusable water bottle and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Roads: Some roads in national parks and rural areas can be bumpy and dusty. If your sense of humour is travel-tuned, you’ll do fine.
Cash: Bring sufficient local currency (USD or UGX) for tips and small purchases in rural areas; ATMs are rare near parks.
Why Choose This 10-Day Uganda Safari?
Balanced adventure: Wildlife, primates, culture, and relaxation in one seamless journey
Seven top destinations: Kampala, Murchison Falls, Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi, Lake Bunyonyi, and Lake Mburo
Flexible accommodation: Budget, mid-range, and luxury options available at every stop
Expert guides: English-speaking driver-guides with deep knowledge of Uganda’s wildlife, ecosystems, and culture
Conservation impact: Your permit fees directly support gorilla, chimpanzee, and wildlife conservation efforts across Uganda
Free branded rain jacket: Every traveller receives a complimentary branded rain jacket
Value-packed: Permits included, no hidden costs
Eco-conscious travel: Lodges supporting conservation and local communities
Practical Notes and Packing Reminders
Daily rhythm: Expect early mornings, full days, and evenings for photo review and storytelling.
Clothing: Lightweight layers, waterproof jacket, warm fleece for mornings, and long sleeves for forest protection. Neutral colours (khaki, green, beige) are best — avoid dark blue and black.
Footwear: Sturdy waterproof hiking boots with ankle support; gaiters useful in Bwindi.
Health: Bring malaria prophylaxis, required vaccinations, and comprehensive travel insurance.
Cash and connectivity: Bring sufficient local currency; network coverage will be intermittent.
Sustainability: Use reusable water bottles, respect wildlife rules, and favour operators who support conservation.
✅ Why Book With Us
Licensed & Accredited: Registered with Uganda Tourism Board.
Eco-Conscious: Lodges and activities support conservation and local communities.
Transparent Pricing: No hidden costs — permits included.
Expert Guides: English-speaking driver-guides with years of Uganda safari experience.
📌 Booking Instructions
Confirm Availability: Contact us for permit and lodge availability — permits sell out months in advance during peak season.
Secure Your Spot: Full payment is now required to secure permits, as the Uganda Wildlife Authority no longer holds reservations without payment (effective March 1, 2026).
Prepare Travel Documents: Ensure a valid passport, visa, and comprehensive travel insurance.
Pack Smart: Hiking boots, rain jacket, insect repellent, and binoculars recommended. We offer a free branded rain jacket per traveller.
Final Payment: Balance due before arrival.
Ready to Book Your 10-Day Uganda Safari?
Contact us today to check availability, secure your gorilla and chimpanzee permits, and customise this 10-day / 9-night Uganda wildlife, chimpanzee, and gorilla trekking safari to your travel dates and budget. Permits sell out months in advance during peak season, so early booking is essential. Full payment is now required to secure permits, as UWA no longer holds reservations without payment.
Book your 2026/2027 Uganda gorilla safari now and experience the adventure of a lifetime — from the thunder of Murchison Falls to the silent majesty of Bwindi’s mountain gorillas, with the serene shores of Lake Bunyonyi and the wildlife-rich plains of Lake Mburo in between.
Trip Expert
Customize this tour using our local expertise. We will recommend the best lodges to suit your travel style and book your permits for your travel dates. We take care of all the ground logistics so you can relax and enjoy a perfect getaway!
