8 Days Primates Safari

The 8-Day Primates Safari takes you deep into the heart of East Africa’s lush rainforests, home to some of the world’s most fascinating primates. This unforgettable journey will take you to the breathtaking national parks and reserves of Uganda and Rwanda, where you will trek through dense jungles to encounter mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and golden monkeys. Along the way, you will experience stunning landscapes, cultural interactions, and diverse wildlife that make this safari a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

• Trek through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to observe endangered mountain gorillas up close.
• Explore Kibale National Park, renowned for its high density of chimpanzees.
• Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park for a game drive and boat cruise.
• Experience golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda.
• Take a cultural tour to interact with local communities.
• Enjoy scenic views of the Virunga Volcanoes and Albertine Rift Valley.
• Relax in comfortable eco-lodges and tented camps throughout the safari.

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be welcomed by a safari guide who will transfer you to your hotel for relaxation and a briefing about the safari. Depending on your arrival time, you may visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre or take a sunset cruise on Lake Victoria. Accommodation: Hotel in Entebbe Meals: Dinner

After breakfast, depart for Kibale National Park, known as the primate capital of the world. The drive will take approximately 5-6 hours, passing through scenic countryside, rolling hills, and small towns. On arrival, check in at your lodge and later take a guided nature walk in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a haven for birds, butterflies, and primates such as red colobus monkeys and L’Hoest’s monkeys. Accommodation: Lodge near Kibale National Park Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is an exciting day as you set off early for chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest. After a briefing from the park rangers, trek into the forest in search of these intelligent and playful primates. Along the way, you may also spot other primates such as black-and-white colobus monkeys and olive baboons. After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch before heading to Queen Elizabeth National Park, a drive of about 2-3 hours. In the evening, enjoy a game drive in the park. Accommodation: Safari Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Begin the day with an early morning game drive in the Kasenyi Plains, where you have a chance to see elephants, lions, buffaloes, antelopes, and hyenas. After breakfast, visit the Katwe salt lake, where you can observe traditional salt mining. In the afternoon, take a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, famous for its high concentration of hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species. Accommodation: Safari Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, drive south towards Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to almost half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The scenic drive will pass through the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, where tree-climbing lions can be spotted. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and spend the rest of the evening relaxing or taking a guided village walk. Accommodation: Lodge near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  The highlight of the safari awaits! After an early morning briefing by park rangers, embark on an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience. The trek can take between 2 to 6 hours, depending on the gorilla group's location. Once found, you will have one magical hour to observe and photograph these gentle giants. After the trek, return to the lodge for a well-deserved rest and, later, enjoy an optional cultural experience with the Batwa pygmies. Accommodation: Lodge near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, depart for Rwanda, crossing the border into Volcanoes National Park. The drive will take approximately 5-6 hours, offering stunning views of terraced hills and the Virunga Mountains. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and relax in preparation for another primate adventure. Accommodation: Lodge near Volcanoes National Park Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

On the final day of your safari, embark on a golden monkey trekking adventure in Volcanoes National Park. These playful primates are endemic to the Virunga Mountains and offer a thrilling sight. After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch before being transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

• Airport transfers
• All accommodations as per itinerary
• Meals as specified in the itinerary
• Park entrance fees
• Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits
• Golden monkey trekking permits
• Boat cruise on Kazinga Channel
• Game drives and guided nature walks
• Experienced English-speaking guide
• Drinking water while on safari

• International flights
• Visa fees
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, tips, etc.)
• Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary

This 8-day primates safari promises unforgettable encounters with some of the world’s most fascinating primates, set against the backdrop of Africa’s stunning landscapes. Whether you are an avid wildlife enthusiast or a first-time traveler, this journey will leave you with lasting memories of East Africa’s incredible biodiversity and culture.