Overview
7 Days Uganda Gorillas and Game Safari : One of the short yet exciting Uganda safaris you can go for this season is this 7 Days safari to Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park. It takes you exploring these alluring destinations in western Uganda and rewards with remarkable experiences of getting up close to the giant mountain gorillas and watching several species of wildlife in savannah plains.
Highlights
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi
- Game drive in Queen Elizabeth national park
- Boat cruise on Kazinga channel
- Stop over at the equator
- Optional activities: Batwa community walk, relaxing at Lake Bunyonyi
Itinerary
Our company representative will already be at the airport before you arrive and they will receive you and transfer you to your booked hotel in Entebbe or Kampala. A briefing of the safari with details of the next day’s program just before your driver leaves.
Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Meal plan: Dinner
This morning starts with breakfast at the hotel, then meet your safari driver and check out. Drive westwards and have your first stop over in Kayabwe for the equator experience. Proceed with the journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park with an en-route lunch in Mbarara.
Arrive at the lodge and check in. dinner and overnight at the lodge.
Meal plan: Full board
At 6 a.m., you will rise up and have breakfast. Thereafter, set off to Kasenyi plains for the morning game drive. Several animal species to see, including Uganda kobs, waterbucks, elephants, buffaloes and warthogs. There is also a chance to see lions, a leopard or a hyena. Lots of savannah birds too.
Drive back to the lodge for lunch and go for an afternoon boat cruise on Kazinga channel. This is another exciting moment to see a variety of animals such as hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes, elephants and many water birds.
Back to the lodge for dinner and the overnight.
Meal plan: Full board
You are well on your last day in Queen Elizabeth national park on this 7 Day Uganda Safari. Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast at the lodge, check out and transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park via Ishasha sector where you will have a short game drive to look out for the tree climbing lions. Arrival at your lodge in the evening. Dinner and breakfast at the lodge.
Meal plan: Full board
A morning filled with pristineness and lovely views, starting with an early morning breakfast at the lodge. Along with your packed lunch, you will head to the park offices for briefing just before starting the gorilla trekking adventure.
With guidance of park rangers, you will search for the gorillas in the forest after which you will return to the offices for your trekking certificates and drive back to the lodge. An evening at leisure.
Dinner and overnight at the lodge.
Meal plan: Full board
This day will be spent on the road as you drive from Bwindi to Kampala or Entebbe. The journey begins in the morning, and takes 9-11 hours depending on your trekking sector in Bwindi.
You will have an en-route lunch and then dinner and overnight at the hotel in Kampala or Entebbe.
Meal plan: Full board
You will check out of the hotel, so your safari driver drops you off at the airport for your flight back home.
End of safari
Includes/Excludes
Includes
- Transportation:
- Airport pick-up and drop-off at Entebbe International Airport.
- Comfortable 4x4 safari vehicle for all transfers, game drives, and excursions.
- English-speaking safari guide throughout the safari.
- Accommodation:
- Full-board accommodation (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) at selected lodges, camps, and hotels during the safari.
- Accommodation is provided based on your choice and budget, from mid-range to luxury.
- Activities:
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with a professional guide.
- Game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park to view wildlife including elephants, lions, hippos, buffaloes, and more.
- Boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park for great views of hippos, crocodiles, and bird species.
- Nature walks in the parks, including visits to local communities for cultural experiences.
- Optional visit to the Batwa pygmies for a cultural experience (at additional cost).
- Park Fees:
- Park entry fees for both Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park.
- Gorilla trekking permit in Bwindi for a once-in-a-lifetime experience to see mountain gorillas.
- Game drive and boat cruise fees within Queen Elizabeth National Park.
- Meals:
- All meals as specified in the itinerary (typically breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
- Guide Services:
- Services of a professional, experienced guide for the entire safari.
- Local Beverages:
- Bottled water and standard non-alcoholic beverages during activities.
Excludes
- International Flights:
- Flights to and from Entebbe International Airport are not included in the cost of the safari.
- Visa Fees:
- Visa fees for Uganda are not included. You can apply for an e-visa online or obtain a visa on arrival at the airport, depending on your nationality.
- Personal Expenses:
- Personal expenses such as souvenirs, telephone calls, and laundry services are not included.
- Tips and Gratuities:
- Tips for your guide, hotel staff, and other service providers are not included. Tipping is customary, typically $10–$20 per day for the guide.
- Travel Insurance:
- Travel insurance is not included. It is strongly recommended to obtain travel insurance that covers health, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.
- Optional Activities:
- Any optional activities such as hot air balloon safaris, additional cultural performances, or other personal requests are not included in the price.
- Alcoholic Beverages:
- Alcoholic drinks and any beverages outside the standard offering (e.g., wines, cocktails) are not included unless specified.
- Additional Accommodation:
- Accommodation before the start or after the end of the safari is not included unless otherwise specified.
- Vaccinations and Health Services:
- Vaccination fees and medical services are not included. It's important to consult with your healthcare provider regarding required vaccinations for Uganda.
- Any Additional Costs:
- Any other costs not specified in the itinerary, including extra meals, optional excursions, or any services that are outside the agreed-upon package, are not included.
FAQs
What is included in the 7 Days Uganda Gorillas and Game Safari?
- The safari includes full-board accommodation (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle, gorilla trekking permits in Bwindi, game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, park entry fees, guide services, and meals during the safari.
2. How physically demanding is the gorilla trekking activity?
- Gorilla trekking requires a moderate level of fitness, as you will be hiking through dense forest and uneven terrain. It can take 2-6 hours depending on the location of the gorillas. The trek is manageable for most people in good health. However, it is not recommended for those with significant mobility issues or health concerns.
3. What is the best time to go on the 7 Days Uganda Gorillas and Game Safari?
- The best time to visit Uganda for this safari is during the dry seasons: from June to September and December to February. These months are ideal for gorilla trekking and game viewing, as the weather is generally more favorable for outdoor activities.
4. Do I need a visa for Uganda?
- Yes, most visitors require a Uganda visa. You can apply for an e-visa online before your trip or obtain a visa on arrival at Entebbe International Airport, depending on your nationality.
5. Are there any age restrictions for gorilla trekking?
- Yes, the minimum age for gorilla trekking in Uganda is 15 years. For those under 15, alternative activities can be arranged.
6. What wildlife can I expect to see in Queen Elizabeth National Park?
- You can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, waterbucks, and several species of birds. The boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel provides a unique opportunity to see aquatic life like hippos and crocodiles up close.
7. What should I pack for the safari?
- Essentials to pack include sturdy hiking boots, long-sleeved clothing (for trekking), rain gear, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), insect repellent, camera, binoculars, and any personal medication. A water bottle is also important for hydration.
8. Can I customize the safari to my preferences?
- Yes, the safari can be customized to meet your specific interests. You can add extra activities like hot air balloon safaris, or extend your stay at specific parks, depending on your preferences.
9. Is the safari family-friendly?
- Yes, the safari can be adjusted to be family-friendly. However, gorilla trekking has a minimum age limit of 15 years, and some other activities may have age restrictions. The safari also includes a variety of activities that families can enjoy together, such as game drives and boat cruises.
10. Can I extend the safari or add extra activities?
- Yes, you can extend your safari to visit other parks or add optional activities such as a visit to the Batwa pygmies, additional cultural experiences, or nature walks. Please discuss any additional requests with the safari operator before booking.
11. How long are the drives between destinations?
- The drives between the destinations vary. For example, the drive from Kampala to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park can take about 8-9 hours, while the drive from Bwindi to Queen Elizabeth National Park is about 4-5 hours. Roads may be bumpy, especially in rural areas, so travel time may vary.
12. What kind of accommodation will I stay in?
- The safari offers a choice of accommodations ranging from mid-range lodges to luxury camps and hotels. All accommodations are selected to provide comfort and good access to the parks, with full-board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) included.
13. Is it safe to travel in Uganda?
- Yes, Uganda is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any other destination, it’s important to follow the advice of your guide, avoid risky areas, and keep an eye on your personal belongings. Travel insurance is recommended for additional peace of mind.
14. What if I don’t see any gorillas or wildlife?
- While wildlife sightings are highly likely, sightings are not guaranteed. If you are unable to see gorillas on the first trek, the tour operator may arrange a second trek (depending on availability of permits). In case of missed wildlife sightings, your guide will do their best to ensure you have alternative experiences.
15. Can I visit other destinations during the safari?
- Yes, you can extend the safari to visit other destinations like Lake Mburo National Park, Kibale Forest for chimpanzee trekking, or Semuliki National Park. Talk to your safari operator about adding extra destinations to your itinerary.
16. Is it necessary to have travel insurance for the safari?
- Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended for all safaris, covering trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost baggage. Ensure your insurance also covers gorilla trekking, as this is a physical activity.
17. What type of food is served during the safari?
- You will be provided with a variety of meals, including traditional Ugandan food such as matoke (plantains), posho (maize porridge), beans, and meat dishes, as well as international cuisines. If you have any dietary restrictions, inform your tour operator in advance.
18. Are there any health requirements or vaccinations for the safari?
- Recommended vaccinations include yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A, and malaria prevention is advised. Check with your doctor or travel clinic for specific recommendations before your trip.