Embark on a thrilling 5-day journey through Uganda’s untamed wilderness. Trek through Kibale Forest in search of chimpanzees, be amazed by the stunning volcanic crater lakes, and get up close with mountain gorillas in Bwindi’s ancient rainforest. Stay in luxurious accommodations like Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp and immerse yourself in the rich Batwa culture.
Enjoy a hassle-free adventure with seasoned guides and all-inclusive luxury. From the tranquil lakeside beauty of Entebbe to unforgettable encounters with primates, this expedition offers the perfect blend of wildlife, cultural exploration, and spectacular landscapes for an unparalleled African adventure.
Entebbe
Nestled on a scenic peninsula along Lake Victoria, Entebbe was once Uganda’s administrative hub and remains a short drive from the bustling capital. With its tree-lined streets and welcoming atmosphere, it serves as a perfect base for exploring the area. Visitors can enjoy leisurely days on the pristine beaches of Lake Victoria, wander through the lush fields and forests of the stunning Botanical Gardens, or visit the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, which provides a safe haven for orphaned chimpanzees.
Overnight: No.5 Boutique Hotel
Located in the peaceful suburbs of Entebbe, Hotel No.5 offers a stylish and intimate retreat. From the moment you arrive, you'll be greeted with warm hospitality. With elegant rooms that open onto the garden and swimming pool, it’s an ideal choice for guests seeking a relaxing and serene environment.
Feel at ease – take a dip in the pool, indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment, or stay active in the hotel’s gym. For an exceptional dining experience in Entebbe, enjoy meticulously crafted menus complemented by a curated international wine list, served with pride and passion.
With a focus on personalized service and attention to every detail, Hotel No. 5 guarantees a peaceful and memorable stay in this lively town.
Alternate: Protea Hotel by Marriott Entebbe
Located just 1km from the airport, Protea Hotel by Marriott Entebbe offers 73 stylish rooms right on the sparkling shores of Lake Victoria. The hotel features a restaurant with a delectable à la carte menu served every day of the week. Specialties such as Tilapia and Nile Perch are a highlight, and guests can unwind on the terrace or at the bar. The hotel’s elegant design and inviting ambiance create a luxurious atmosphere that suits your travel needs perfectly. The outdoor terrace, with its unique charm and stunning views of the lake, provides an ideal spot to relax and soak in the surroundings.
Ndali Kasenda Crater Lakes
Nestled in the heart of Western Uganda, the captivating Ndali-Kasenda Crater Lakes are surrounded by dramatic cone-shaped hills and serene calderas. Situated near Kibale Forest and Queen Elizabeth National Parks, these volcanic craters were formed around 8,000 to 10,000 years ago. Today, they are home to a variety of lakes, some with crystal-clear blue waters, while others glow in shades of emerald green and release a sulfuric scent due to lingering volcanic gases. The lush vegetation that blankets the crater rims provides stunning views of nearby hills, tea plantations, and on clear days, even the majestic Rwenzori Mountains. While a few of the lakes are safe for swimming, others are toxic and should be avoided. Visitors can enjoy activities such as nature walks, boat excursions, bird watching, and exploring the "Top of the World" viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views.
Overnight: Ndali Lodge
Uganda, often referred to as the 'Cradle of the Nile', is one of Africa’s best-kept secrets. With its stunning diversity of flora, fauna, and landscapes, few countries can match the variety that Uganda offers. Whether you're visiting Africa for the first time or are a seasoned traveler, Uganda has something special in store for you.
Ndali Lodge is beautifully situated in the Bunyaruguru crater lake region of Western Uganda, just 26 kilometers south of Fort Portal. Surrounded by 1000 acres of privately owned, traditionally cultivated farmland, this lodge offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature. No trip to Uganda would be complete without immersing yourself in the wonders of Ndali Lodge.
Activities: Kibale Forest Chimp Tracking
One of the most popular activities in Kibale Forest begins at the Kanyanchu Visitor Center, with walks at 08:00 and 15:00, lasting between 2 to 3 hours. Chimpanzees are the main attraction, but keep an eye out for other primates like the black & white colobus, red-tailed monkeys, and grey-cheeked mangabeys. Your expert guides will also point out various bird species, including pittas, and share interesting facts about the local plant species. The walk is conducted in small groups of 6 people.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
Situated in the southwestern region of Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is considered one of Africa’s oldest rainforests. Famous worldwide for its incredible gorilla sighting experiences, the park is home to nearly half of the planet’s remaining mountain gorillas. This unforgettable adventure unfolds amidst a dramatic landscape of dense jungle, cascading waterfalls, sparkling mountain streams, deep valleys, and steep ridges. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the forest is celebrated for its unparalleled natural beauty and ecological importance. Beyond gorilla encounters, visitors can enjoy forest treks, spot over 340 bird species, and observe a colorful array of butterflies. Be sure to take in the awe-inspiring Virunga Volcanoes, three of which remain active.
Overnight: Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp
Experience a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with Uganda’s endangered gorillas when you stay in one of the ten private luxury tents, nestled in the heart of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Ecologically conscious and elegantly styled, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp seamlessly blends into the breathtaking African mountain landscape. Located within the national park, the camp is just minutes away from the starting point of your gorilla trekking adventure.
Situated in one of Africa’s most remote locations, the comfortable canvas tents are adorned with indigenous prints and locally crafted furniture. Neutral-toned linens drape over the beds, and local artifacts create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Each tent features a spacious stone-walled bathroom with private sections and a freestanding bath, perfect for relaxing after a day of trekking. As the sun rises, the surrounding trees come to life, and thanks to the limited number of tents, the camp maintains an exclusive, intimate feel, providing a magical African experience with minimal environmental impact, while still offering modern amenities.
Alternate: Mahogany Springs Lodge
Set in one of the world’s most secluded, beautiful, and natural locations, Mahogany Springs Lodge is just a 2-minute drive from the starting point of your gorilla tracking adventure.
All rooms at Mahogany Springs are luxurious suites, available in twin, double, or triple configurations. The suites are equipped with 24/7 power and feature large en-suite bathrooms with beautifully designed open terracotta showers.
Each of the 12 suites offers a private terrace with breathtaking panoramic views of the grounds, river, and surrounding landscape.
The main dining area is elegantly furnished and offers stunning views over the lodge’s gardens, providing a peaceful and unmatched setting for your meals. The exceptional service provided is as much a work of art as the cuisine, with staff trained to the highest standards. Inside the main building, there is a charming bar where guests can relax and enjoy a wide range of cocktails or a fine bottle of wine. Much of the produce used at Mahogany Springs is grown on-site, ensuring the freshest ingredients for your dining experience.
Activities: Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary and Crater Walk Tour
Mahogany Springs is situated in one of the world’s most intimate and naturally beautiful settings, just 2 minutes from the gorilla tracking starting point.
The Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary is a community-run conservation project located on the edge of Kibale National Park. Guided tours are available, taking you along a trail through the wetland, often using a boardwalk. The sanctuary is a birdwatcher’s haven, home to 138 species of birds, including the popular Great Blue Turaco. It also hosts 8 species of primates, including black and white colobus, red colobus, mangabey, red-tailed monkey, vervet monkey, and L’Hoest’s monkey.
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Start your day early with a nutritious breakfast to fuel your body for the exciting gorilla trekking adventure. Before 8:00 am, head to the ranger station for registration and a briefing by one of the expert rangers. The guides will then lead you through the thick bush, navigating the undergrowth, as you track the gorillas. (Please note, the trek can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 5-6 hours.) A moderate level of fitness is required, and sturdy walking shoes are recommended. Once you find the gorillas, sit quietly in the forest, listening to their vocalizations, and witness the impressive size of the dominant male, the Silverback. It’s an incredible experience to be surrounded by some of the last remaining mountain gorillas in the wild, with only around 650 of these majestic creatures left in the world.
Overnight: Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp
Experience a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with Uganda’s endangered gorillas when you stay in one of the ten luxurious private tents nestled in the heart of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Batwa Cultural Village
The Batwa Cultural Village offers a unique opportunity to experience the traditional way of life of the Batwa people (also known as Pygmies), who still live in tree houses much as they did centuries ago. The Batwa began transitioning from their forest homes only around 15 years ago, and thanks to the support of a compassionate American benefactor, they were able to reclaim the land and establish a cultural program. The funds generated from visitors help sustain the Batwa project, and the community is eager to share their heritage, showcasing their skills in weapon-making, traditional dance, fire-starting with sticks, and cooking.
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