Overview of the 7 Days Gorilla and Wildlife Safari

Embark on a 7 Days Gorilla and Wildlife Safari in Bwindi & Queen Elizabeth National Park. This 7-day safari offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines the thrill of tracking endangered mountain gorillas in the dense forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with the excitement of classic African wildlife viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The journey takes you from the urban buzz of Kampala to the lush landscapes of western Uganda, where savannahs, wetlands, crater lakes, and rainforest converge to create one of Africa’s most biodiverse regions.

In Queen Elizabeth National Park, enjoy traditional game drives in the Kasenyi plains, where lions, elephants, buffaloes, and antelope roam. A scenic boat safari along the Kazinga Channel provides intimate sightings of hippos, crocodiles, and prolific birdlife. In the southern Ishasha Sector, look out for the region’s famous tree-climbing lions, a rare and fascinating sight.

7 Days Gorilla and Wildlife Safari Day by Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Transfer to Kampala

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be welcomed by your safari guide and transferred to your hotel in Kampala or Entebbe. Depending on your arrival time, you may opt for a short excursion to the Entebbe Botanical Gardens or the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre. Later, enjoy a safari briefing and relax at your accommodation in preparation for the journey ahead.

Overnight at Lake Victoria Serena Hotel or K Hotel Entebbe

Meal Plan: Dinner

Day 2: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

After an early breakfast, depart Kampala and drive west toward Queen Elizabeth National Park. The scenic drive passes through lush countryside, local villages, and tea plantations, with a stopover in Fort Portal for lunch. Upon arrival in the park, enjoy a short game drive en route to your lodge. Settle in, enjoy the surrounding views, and prepare for a full day of wildlife exploration.

Overnight at Enganzi Game Lodge/Elephant Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 3: Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Safari

Begin the day with a sunrise game drive in the Kasenyi plains, known for their abundance of wildlife including lions, elephants, buffaloes, warthogs, and various antelope species. After lunch, embark on a boat cruise along the 1 Channel, a natural waterway that links Lake Edward and Lake George. This channel is renowned for its high concentration of hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife, offering excellent photo opportunities. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Overnight at Enganzi Game Lodge/Elephant Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4: Ishasha Sector – Tree-Climbing Lions & Transfer to Bwindi

Check out after breakfast and head south through the Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth NP, famous for its rare tree-climbing lions often seen lounging in fig trees. Enjoy a game drive in the area before continuing to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to roughly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Arrive at your lodge in the afternoon or evening, nestled in the misty rainforest near your trekking starting point.

Overnight at Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge/Four Gorillas Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing from park rangers. You’ll then be assigned to a gorilla family and begin your trek through dense forest terrain. The trek can take anywhere from 1 to 8 hours depending on the gorilla family’s location, but the reward is an awe-inspiring hour spent observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. After the trek, return to your lodge to relax or take an optional cultural visit to a nearby Batwa community.

Overnight at Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge/Four Gorillas Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 6: Optional Activities & Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi / Return Drive

Depending on your interest and energy levels, today could include optional activities such as golden monkey tracking (if trekking was near Mgahinga), a second gorilla trek (at extra cost), or a visit to a local community. Later, transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, a serene and scenic lake dotted with islands, for relaxation and reflection on your safari experience. Alternatively, you can begin the return journey toward Kampala if you have time constraints.

Overnight at Lake Bunyonyi Overland Resort/ Arcadia Lodge Bunyonyi

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 7: Return to Entebbe / Departure

After breakfast, begin the drive back to Entebbe, passing through the picturesque southwestern highlands. Enjoy a stop at the Equator for photos and a chance to purchase souvenirs. Depending on your flight time, you may have lunch en route before arriving in Entebbe in the afternoon or evening. Your guide will drop you off at the airport in time for your departure flight, marking the end of your unforgettable gorilla and wildlife safari.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch