Primates of Uganda
FEATURED ITINERARY HIGHLIGHT
13 day tour:

Primates of Uganda

This exciting wildlife adventure takes you to one of East Africa's most diverse and unspoilt environments and provides a unique opportunity to track Mountain Gorillas in their natu...

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Primates of Uganda Tour

This exciting wildlife adventure takes you to one of East Africa's most diverse and unspoilt environments and provides a unique opportunity to track Mountain Gorillas in their natural environment.

Trip Highlights 6 featured moments
Gorilla tracking at Bwindi
chimpanzee tracking at Kibale and Kyambura Gorge
Queen Elizabeth NP game drives
amazing African landscapes
experience amazing & diverse wildlife
enjoy river & lake cruises

Itinerary

This exciting wildlife adventure takes you to one of East Africa's most diverse and unspoilt environments and provides a...

DAY 1 Entebbe Arrival & Transfe...
DAY 2 Drive to Kibale Forest Na...
DAY 3 Chimpanzee tracking in Ki...
DAY 4 Drive to Queen Elizabeth...
DAY 5 Queen Elizabeth National...
DAY 6 Kyambura Gorge walk and C...
DAY 7 Drive to Bwindi via the I...
DAY 8 Gorilla tracking at Bwind...
DAY 9 Explore the forest on a s...
DAY 10 Drive to Lake Mburo & boa...
DAY 11 Lake Mburo, guided game w...
DAY 12 Drive to Kampala & stop e...
DAY 13 Transfer to the airport f...
DAY 1

Entebbe Arrival & Transfer to Your Hotel

Day 1 Meals TBC
Meet the representative at Entebbe Airport and transfer to the accommodation selected for your stay. Once there, receive practical assistance with settling in and an outline of the plans ahead. The remainder of the arrival period is kept relaxed, allowing you to get comfortable after the flight and prepare for the Uganda experiences that follow.

Activities

  • Arrival at Entebbe Airport You are met on arrival at Entebbe airport after completing the formalities. This is where your primate-tracking journey through Uganda begins.
  • Transfer Entebbe Airport → Your Hotel A road transfer takes you from the airport to your chosen accommodation. The rest of the day is left free to recover from the flight.
  • Welcome Meeting with Your Local Representative A short welcome meeting is held at the hotel with your local representative. They help you settle in and talk through the plan for the days ahead.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Single room supplement
Extra day in Kampala - pre-tour
Entebbe Arrival & Transfer to Your Hotel
DAY 2

Drive to Kibale Forest National Park

Day 2 Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
The road journey to Kibale takes around five to six hours and includes a lunch stop at Fort Portal. After arrival, transfer to Primate Lodge for the two-night stay and join a short visit to Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary. Birdlife, butterflies and primates may be encountered, but all wildlife sightings depend on natural conditions. No particular species should be guaranteed during the wetland visit.

Activities

  • Drive to Kibale Forest National Park Five to six hours on the road takes you to Kibale Forest National Park through dramatic western Ugandan landscapes. Village life and farmland pass the window before the road enters the forest.
  • Lunch Stop at Fort Portal The drive pauses at Fort Portal, the crater-lake town that acts as the gateway to Kibale Forest. A meal is taken here before continuing on to the forest.
  • Guided Walk – Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary A community guide leads you along the boardwalk trail through Bigodi swamp. Look for red-tailed monkey, L'Hoest's monkey, black and white colobus and grey-cheeked mangabey, along with a long list of birds and butterflies.
Drive to Kibale Forest National Park
DAY 3

Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park

Day 3 Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
The morning chimpanzee trek lasts approximately five hours and takes place with an experienced guide. Chimpanzees are highly mobile, so encounters remain unpredictable. After lunch, continue to Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for the 4.5-kilometre guided trail, where birdlife, butterflies and up to several primate species may be seen naturally. Return to Primate Lodge afterwards, with no further organised activity specified.

Activities

  • Guided Walk – Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary A community guide leads you along the boardwalk trail through Bigodi swamp. Look for red-tailed monkey, L'Hoest's monkey, black and white colobus and grey-cheeked mangabey, along with a long list of birds and butterflies.
  • Chimpanzee Trek – Kibale Forest National Park An early breakfast is followed by a five-hour trek in search of chimpanzees. They move fast and sightings are never guaranteed, so your guide reads the forest and follows the calls.
  • Free Time / Leisure – Primate Lodge Primate Lodge in the late afternoon is followed by an evening at leisure. The sounds of the forest provide company from the veranda after a long day on the trails.
Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park
DAY 4

Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Day 4 Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
The day includes the road journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park, a short game drive, arrival at Jacana Safari Lodge and an afternoon boat trip on the Kazinga Channel. The source lists several mammals that may be seen, but no species should be guaranteed. Wildlife activity varies naturally, and sightings of leopard, lion and giant forest hog are specifically described as less regular.

Activities

  • Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park The drive south towards Queen Elizabeth National Park follows the Rwenzori range for most of the way. You arrive around the middle of the day.
  • Game Drive En Route to Queen Elizabeth National Park A brief game run into Queen Elizabeth National Park breaks the drive. Lion, leopard, hyena, elephant and buffalo are all possible across the open country as you make your way in.
  • Boat Trip on the Kazinga Channel Afternoon cruising on the Kazinga Channel brings you to its mouth, where elephant, buffalo, waterbuck and outsized hippo are seen almost daily. Giant forest hog, leopard and lion are the less common bonuses.
Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park
DAY 5

Queen Elizabeth National Park, game drives

Day 5 Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
We begin today very early and after an early breakfast we head to the Kasenyi Plains area of Queen Elizabeth which supports the highest concentration of Game in the park. These plains are one of the most important breeding grounds for the Ugandan Kob and at times, thousands can be be gathered in this area. Kasenyi is also an area known for its Lions, Elephants and Buffalo populations. After lunch we leave the vehicle behind and take a walk through the Maramagambo Forest. This is one of Uganda's largest forests and it is the only place in Queen Elizabeth where Blue Lakes can be found. One of the main draws to the forest is the abundant primate populations which include L'Hoests's monkey, Bush babies, Chimpanzees, Baboons, vervet and red-tailed monkeys. Another popular walk is to the Bat Cave where significant populations of bats are resident as well as the Rock Python which is regularly spotted by visitors. Tonight is spent at the Jacana Safari Lodge.

Activities

  • Morning Game Drive – Kasenyi Plains First light sees you heading out to the Kasenyi Plains, where game is at its densest in the park. These are important breeding grounds for the Ugandan kob, and lion, elephant and buffalo follow the herds.
  • Guided Walk – Maramagambo Forest Maramagambo, one of Uganda's largest forests and the only part of the park holding its Blue Lakes, is explored on foot in the afternoon. Watch for chimpanzees, baboons, bush babies and several species of monkey.
  • Visit the Bat Cave – Maramagambo Forest A short walk leads to the Bat Cave in Maramagambo Forest, home to a large resident colony of bats. Rock pythons are drawn to the same spot and are regularly spotted by visitors.
Queen Elizabeth National Park, game drives
DAY 6

Kyambura Gorge walk and Chimpanzee tracking

Day 6 Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Today we have a trip to visit Kyambura Gorge which is home to an isolated population of Chimpanzees. Kyambura Gorge is around 100 metres deep and we begin today's trip with a hike down from the edge of the gorge before beginning to track the Chimpanzees. Because of the small habitat which they inhabit you have a much better chance of viewing Chimpanzees here and they can often be tracked by their sounds alone. Once we locate the Chimpanzees you will be able to witness them playing, squabbling and going about their daily life high above in the forest canopy. Kyambura is also home to many of animals and a vast display of flora and fauna. This afternoon can be spent relaxing at the Jacana Safari Lodge or joining us for an additional game drive within Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Activities

  • Chimpanzee Tracking – Kyambura Gorge From the rim of Kyambura Gorge you descend around a hundred metres to track the isolated chimpanzee community living in the forest below. The small habitat improves your odds, and the group can often be located by sound alone.
  • Free Time / Leisure – Jacana Safari Lodge Jacana Safari Lodge, set beside the water in the heart of the park, offers an afternoon at leisure. Birdwatching and rest follow the forest climb.
  • Optional Afternoon Game Drive – Queen Elizabeth National Park An extra game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park can replace the afternoon at the lodge. It offers a second shot at the species that eluded you earlier in your stay.
Kyambura Gorge walk and Chimpanzee tracking
DAY 7

Drive to Bwindi via the Ishasha Plains

Day 7 Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Travel towards Bwindi with a lunch stop and short game drive through the Ishasha Plains included en route. Tree-climbing lions may be present, but the source itself notes that the behaviour varies and is more likely in the rainy season, so no sighting should be promised. After the game drive, continue to Bwindi and arrive at the base for the later gorilla-tracking programme.

Activities

  • Game Drive – The Ishasha Plains A short game drive across the Ishasha Plains breaks the journey. The area is famous for lions that rest in fig trees, a behaviour most often seen during the rains, with around forty animals in three prides.
  • Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest The road pushes south towards Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, the base for your gorilla tracking. As the drive progresses the savannah gives way to dense montane forest.
DAY 8

Gorilla tracking at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Day 8 Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Today's activities are the highlight of most peoples visit to Uganda - a unique encounter with the Mountain Gorillas. Today we have an early start where we will register with the local ranger station, and after being assigned a group we will transfer to the trailhead where our adventure will begin. It's hard to give an estimate of how long you will be hiking today as this depends on how where the Gorillas are located, the hike can take anything from 2 to 8 hours. For conservation purposes you will be limited to just 1 hour with the Gorillas, so make the most of your time here! The feeling is indescribable when you first time you lock eyes with one of these gentle giants. You will be able to watch them grooming, feeding, playing and witness how human like their interactions with each other are.

Activities

  • Mountain Gorillas Head into the forest with experienced rangers in search of endangered mountain gorillas. Hike through steep, lush terrain until you locate a family group and spend precious time observing them at close range.
DAY 9

Explore the forest on a series of guided walks

Day 9 Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
The day is flexible within Bwindi, with forest walks of different lengths chosen locally with the guide. The source states that a village walk of around three hours may be possible depending on the length of the forest walk. Bird, mammal and primate sightings are never guaranteed. The Bakiga and Batwa cultural visit should therefore remain conditional rather than automatically included for every departure.

Activities

  • Guided Forest Walks – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Bwindi's network of forest trails ranges from half an hour to a full eight hours. The route is settled with your guide on the day to suit how far you want to walk.
  • Birdwatching in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Bwindi's forest trails are followed with birds in mind. Over 190 species have been recorded here, ten of them listed in the Red Data Book, in what is thought to be the most biodiverse forest in East Africa.
  • Village Walk – the Bakiga and Batwa Communities If the morning trail leaves enough time, a three-hour walk through the villages on the forest edge introduces you to the customs and daily practices of the Bakiga and Batwa people.
DAY 10

Drive to Lake Mburo & boat trip or game drive

Day 10 Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Drive from Bwindi to Lake Mburo over roughly four to five hours and continue through the park to the accommodation. Lunch is followed by the scheduled afternoon boat trip. Hippos, crocodiles, waterbuck, bushbuck, buffalo and birds are commonly seen according to the source, but no encounter should be guaranteed. The overnight stay is at Mihingo Lodge. The collection should not substitute a game drive for the stated boat activity.

Activities

  • Drive Bwindi → Lake Mburo Four to five hours on the road east from Bwindi to Lake Mburo passes through some of the finest scenery in the country. Stops for photographs can be made as often as you like.
  • Boat Trip on Lake Mburo A motorboat trip across Lake Mburo in the afternoon brings you face to face with hippo, crocodile, waterbuck, bushbuck and buffalo along the shoreline, with plenty of birdlife to match.
  • Lake Mburo Settle into your lodge or camp near Lake Mburo and enjoy the scenic surroundings. Listen for birds and look out for wildlife that may pass close to the property.
DAY 11

Lake Mburo, guided game walk

Day 11 Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
One thing unique to Lake Mburo is that you are permitted to walk anywhere within the park when accompanied by a ranger. On our guided walks you may encounter Buffalo, Impala, Topi, Zebra, and Waterbuck. We can be flexible with the length of our walks depending on how much energy you have left!! In order to explore the park fully you need to do this by road, we have an optional afternoon game drive where we follow the Impala and Zebra tracks for some fantastic game viewing.

Activities

  • Guided Game Walk – Lake Mburo National Park Lake Mburo is the rare Ugandan park where walking anywhere is permitted with a ranger. Set off on foot among buffalo, impala, topi, zebra and waterbuck, going as far as your legs allow.
  • Optional Afternoon Game Drive – Lake Mburo National Park An optional afternoon drive along the Impala and Zebra tracks covers more ground than walking allows. The road network reaches parts of the park that a foot safari cannot.
DAY 12

Drive to Kampala & stop en-route at the Equator

Day 12 Breakfast,Lunch
Travel back to Kampala with a stop at the Equator. The source says there is a chance for a final game drive, so this should not automatically be treated as guaranteed. After arrival, the rest of the day is at leisure. A visit to the Uganda National Museum is available as an optional afternoon tour and should remain clearly separate from the included programme.

Activities

  • Equator – Uganda Mark your second Equator crossing in Uganda with another brief stop. Capture photos and appreciate the changing scenery between the country’s regions.
DAY 13

Transfer to the airport for departure

Day 13 Breakfast
Today we bid farewell to this unique and interesting country. Our guide will transfer you to Entebbe Airport for your departure. Most of the remaining time is spent travelling between the named places, with the surroundings changing along the way. The journey itself provides time to watch the landscape change between the departure point and the next destination.

Activities

  • Transfer to Entebbe Airport Your guide travels with you by road to Entebbe Airport in good time for your departure, closing the loop on the journey that began there.
  • Tour Ends – Entebbe Farewell is said to Uganda and to the guides who have led you through its forests and plains. Your Primates of Uganda tour ends here.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Extra day in Kampala - post-tour

Included and Excluded

Included

  • Accommodation at your requested standard
  • All meals indicated in your itinerary
  • Airport transfers at the start and end of your trip
  • Gorilla trekking permit
  • Park and Game Reserve entrance fees
  • All activities mentioned in your itinerary
  • Qualified tour guide to accompany you on all sightseeing
  • Private vehicles for all road journeys indicated
  • Comprehensive pre-departure material

Excluded

  • International flights (can be arranged on request)
  • Visas
  • Departure taxes
  • Tips
  • Meals, drinks & snacks not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Any other items not mentioned in the itinerary

Departure Dates

Guaranteed departures with confirmed dates. Book early to secure your preferred date.

Departure Date Return Date Availability From price Notes
No departure dates currently available.
No departure dates currently available.
Private Tours

Private Tailor-Made

Travel exclusively with your family or friends on a private tour tailored to your pace and preferences.

  • Flexible dates
  • Personalized experience
  • Premium comfort

Frequently Asked Questions

Why book the Primates of Uganda tour?
Thirteen days entirely private, starting and ending in Entebbe, built around one of the most extraordinary wildlife encounters on earth: spending an hour with habituated mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. But this tour gives you so much more alongside the gorillas. You track chimpanzees twice (Kibale Forest and Kyambura Gorge), take game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park past the Kazinga Channel's hippos and the Kasenyi Plains' lions, walk the Maramagambo Forest, look for tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha Plains, and finish with boat trips and guided walks at Lake Mburo. Private 4x4 vehicle throughout, stays at lodges including Primate Lodge Kibale, Jacana Safari Lodge, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp and Mihingo Lodge.
Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to Uganda?
Yes. Uganda is one of East Africa's friendliest and most welcoming countries and the itinerary is well-structured for first-timers. Your private guide handles logistics throughout, so you can focus entirely on the wildlife experiences. The gorilla tracking is the centrepiece but the variety of primate and wildlife encounters across the 13 days means it never feels like a single-purpose trip.
What is the best time of year to do the Primates of Uganda tour?
Uganda has a relatively steady climate year-round, but the key factor for this tour is avoiding the rainy seasons. Gorilla tracking and forest walks in the rain are very challenging: muddy trails, reduced visibility, and difficult going. The main rainy seasons peak mid-September to November and March to May. The dry seasons (December to February and June to August) are the most popular and recommended times to visit.
What is unique about Uganda for primate tracking compared to other destinations?
Uganda is one of only three countries in the world where mountain gorilla tracking is possible, and it combines this with genuinely accessible chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest (one of the best places on earth for wild chimpanzee viewing) and the isolated Kyambura Gorge population. Very few destinations offer the combination of gorilla, chimpanzee, and diverse savanna wildlife in a single trip.
Why does this tour cost what it does?
We get it, Uganda is not a cheap destination. This is a private tour (just your party, not a joined group), with a dedicated local English-speaking guide in a private 4x4 for all 13 days, stays at quality lodges throughout, all meals included in the itinerary, park and game reserve entrance fees included, all activity fees included, and airport transfers at both ends. The gorilla permit is a significant separate cost (non-refundable once purchased, so it is invoiced at the time of your deposit), but represents a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience.
What is actually included in the price?
Included: accommodation at your requested standard throughout; all meals as indicated in the itinerary (12 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 10 dinners); airport transfers at the start and end of the tour; gorilla trekking permit (invoiced separately at cost at time of booking); park and game reserve entrance fees for all included activities; Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary walks; Kazinga Channel boat trip; chimpanzee tracking permits for Kibale and Kyambura; Lake Mburo boat trip and guided walks; qualified local guide accompanying you throughout; and private 4x4 vehicle for all road journeys.
What is NOT included and how much extra should I budget?
Not included: international flights; Uganda visa fee (check current rates at the Ugandan directorate of citizenship and immigration control website); departure taxes; travel insurance; tips for your guide and driver; meals and drinks not specified in the itinerary; and any personal shopping. Tips are not arranged in a kitty format; your guide will advise on appropriate amounts.
Can I pay in instalments?
Yes. Pay a deposit to secure your place and the gorilla permit is invoiced with the deposit (as it is non-refundable once purchased). The balance is due eight weeks before departure.
How physically demanding is the Primates of Uganda tour?
Moderate to strenuous, specifically for the gorilla tracking. The hike into Bwindi Impenetrable Forest can take anywhere from 2 to 8 hours depending on where the gorilla family is that day. The terrain is steep, muddy and dense in places. Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale involves approximately 5 hours of forest hiking. Game drives and boat trips are entirely non-strenuous. You need to be able to hike for several hours on uneven, sometimes steep ground.
What if I am older than the rest of the group?
This is a private tour, so the pace is set for your group specifically. The gorilla tracking is the main physical challenge: it cannot be shortened or skipped (you are limited to 1 hour with the gorillas once located). If you have concerns about the hiking intensity, discuss this with us before booking and we can help you assess whether the exertion level is realistic for your fitness.
What if I have mobility issues or a medical condition?
Gorilla tracking in Bwindi requires a genuine ability to hike uphill on steep, sometimes muddy forest trails for multiple hours. Significant mobility limitations make the gorilla trek unrealistic. The game drives, boat trips and Kazinga Channel cruise sections are accessible. If gorilla tracking is the main motivation, please discuss your mobility situation with us honestly before committing to the permit, which is non-refundable.
How do I prepare physically for the gorilla trek?
Start regular uphill walking training at least 6-8 weeks before departure. The Bwindi trek involves steep, uneven jungle terrain and can take up to 8 hours in humid conditions. Good waterproof hiking boots are essential. Walking poles are permitted and strongly recommended. On the day, porters are available at the ranger station for a fee to carry your pack and provide support on steep sections.
Is Uganda safe to visit right now?
Uganda is one of East Africa's most stable and welcoming countries and is visited safely by thousands of international tourists annually. The national parks and lodges covered on this tour have good security infrastructure. Check the UK Foreign Office or US State Department travel advice before departure.
Is it safe for women travelling solo?
Yes. The private tour format means you travel with your own dedicated guide throughout, which provides an inherently secure framework. Solo female travellers choose this tour regularly.
What happens if I get sick on tour?
Kampala has good private hospitals. In the more remote national parks (Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi), the nearest medical facility may be several hours away. Travel insurance covering medical treatment and emergency evacuation is compulsory. Malaria is present in Uganda; take appropriate prophylactics as recommended by your GP.
Do I need malaria prophylactics?
Yes. Malaria is present throughout Uganda, including in the national park areas covered on this tour. Consult your GP or a travel clinic before departure for advice on the most appropriate prophylactic for you. Use insect repellent and cover up after dark. A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is also required for entry to Uganda.
What is the accommodation actually like?
You stay in good-quality wildlife lodges rated approximately 2 to 3-star level at each park. Specific lodges include Primate Lodge Kibale (in the forest, excellent for chimp-watching from the grounds), Jacana Safari Lodge at Queen Elizabeth National Park, Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp at Bwindi (inside the forest, immersive and atmospheric), and Mihingo Lodge at Lake Mburo (a beautiful tented lodge). All have en-suite facilities. Accommodation standard can be upgraded for private bookings; contact us to discuss options.
What is Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp like?
Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp is set within Bwindi Impenetrable Forest itself, meaning you can hear and sometimes see forest wildlife from your tent. It is comfortable rather than luxurious, with en-suite tents that have hot water and private verandas. It is one of the most immersive lodge settings in East Africa, putting you right in the gorillas' habitat the night before your trek.
Will I have Wi-Fi?
Urban hotels in Kampala have Wi-Fi. The wildlife lodges have variable connectivity: some have Wi-Fi in communal areas, others have limited or no reliable internet. Bwindi and remote sections of Queen Elizabeth National Park have very limited mobile coverage. Bring a local SIM card (Uganda's networks are reasonably good along main routes) for connectivity between parks.
Can I upgrade the accommodation?
Yes. As a private tailor-made tour, accommodation can be upgraded throughout to higher-end lodge properties. Contact us to discuss options and pricing for a customised itinerary.
What kind of food will we eat?
Lodge meals across Uganda tend to be a mix of Ugandan and international dishes: fresh vegetables, grilled meats, rice, matoke (cooked plantain), beans and local fish from Lake Mburo. Kibale Forest and Queen Elizabeth lodges serve good-quality buffet meals. In Kampala, a wide range of cuisines is available at restaurants.
Can you cater for vegetarian vegan or gluten-free diets?
Vegetarian is straightforward at most lodges. Vegan and gluten-free require advance communication: inform us at booking and we will brief the lodges along the route. Remote lodges can accommodate with advance notice; simply relying on the buffet without prior warning is riskier.
Is it safe to drink the water?
Tap water is not reliably safe to drink in Uganda. Use bottled water or bring a filtered water bottle. Lodges typically provide purified drinking water. Carry sufficient water on trekking days, as the gorilla hike can last most of a day in humid conditions.
Is this trip good for solo travellers?
Excellent. The tour is fully private, so a solo traveller has a dedicated guide and vehicle entirely to themselves. There are no other group members to coordinate with. This is one of the most individually tailored wildlife experiences available.
Do I have to share a room?
Accommodation is based on double or twin occupancy. A single supplement is available for solo travellers who want a private room throughout.
What is the group size?
This is a fully private tour with no fixed group size. The pricing given is based on 2 travellers; solo travellers or larger groups receive a customised quotation. Even during the gorilla tracking itself, you will be assigned to a gorilla family group and may share the trek with a small number of other visitors (conservation rules limit visitor numbers per gorilla family per day).
Can I customise the itinerary?
Yes, completely. This is a sample tailor-made itinerary. You can extend or shorten any section, upgrade accommodation, add bird-watching days, or adjust pacing. Contact us with your group size, preferred dates and any specific interests.
Is this tour suitable for kids?
Gorilla tracking requires participants to be in reasonable physical condition for a multi-hour hike in demanding terrain. Children are permitted on gorilla treks but must be of sufficient age and fitness. Consult us before booking if you plan to bring children, and check current park minimum age requirements.
Do I need a visa for Uganda?
Most nationalities require a Uganda tourist visa, available online in advance or on arrival at Entebbe airport. Check current fees and requirements on the official Ugandan directorate of citizenship website before departure.
What should I pack?
Waterproof hiking boots (essential for Bwindi); long trousers and long sleeves for forest trekking (protection from insects and vegetation); lightweight layers; a lightweight waterproof jacket; walking poles (strongly recommended for the gorilla trek, available locally but bring your own if possible); insect repellent with DEET; sunscreen; a daypack for trekking days; binoculars for game drives; and a camera with a good zoom. Clothing should be in subdued colours.
Are any vaccinations required?
Recommended vaccinations for Uganda include Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid and Yellow Fever. A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required for entry to Uganda. Malaria prophylactics are required. Consult your GP or a travel clinic for current and personalised advice.
Do I need to book international flights through you?
No. International flights are not included. Your arrival and departure airport is Entebbe International Airport (EBB), near Kampala. If you would like help with flight options, our team can advise.
What about tipping?
Tipping for your guide and driver is expected and appreciated. Your guide will advise on current appropriate amounts at the start of the tour. In Uganda, hard currency (US Dollars) is the most practical for tips; Ugandan Shillings are also accepted.
Can I add an extra day in Kampala?
Yes. An extra day in Kampala is available as a pre- or post-tour addition. Kampala has a growing food and arts scene and an optional visit to the National Museum of Uganda (one of the best and oldest in East Africa) is available.
Can I do an afternoon game drive in Lake Mburo?
Yes. An optional afternoon game drive in Lake Mburo National Park is available in addition to the included boat trip and guided walking. Lake Mburo supports good populations of Zebra, Impala, Topi and Waterbuck.
Can I upgrade the lodge accommodation?
Yes. The standard itinerary uses comfortable 2-3-star lodges. Upgrades to higher-end properties are available throughout. Contact us for a customised quotation based on your preferred accommodation level.
How far ahead should I book?
Gorilla permits are strictly limited in number per day per gorilla family at Bwindi. During the dry season peak (December to February and June to August), permits sell out many months in advance. Booking 6-9 months ahead for peak dates is strongly recommended. The permit is purchased and paid for at the time of your deposit and is non-refundable and non-transferable.
How does booking work?
Contact us with your preferred dates and group size for a customised quotation. Once agreed, you pay a deposit and the gorilla permit is purchased immediately (as permits are non-refundable, it is invoiced at cost at the time of your deposit). The tour balance is due eight weeks before departure.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, travel insurance is compulsory and must cover medical treatment, emergency evacuation, and repatriation. Given the remote locations covered, medical evacuation coverage is particularly important. The gorilla permit is non-refundable; ensure your policy covers cancellation of non-refundable permit costs if you need to cancel the tour. World Nomads Travel Insurance is a recommended starting point.
What is your cancellation policy?
A sliding scale of cancellation charges applies. Full terms are in our booking conditions. Note that the gorilla permit cost is non-refundable regardless of when you cancel, so your travel insurance should cover this specific risk. Encounters Travel is UK-registered and customer funds are protected by Trust My Travel's financial protection scheme.
What if my dates do not work?
As a fully tailor-made private tour, the dates are entirely flexible. Contact us with your preferred timing and we will check gorilla permit availability for those dates.
Still have questions?

Contact our travel team.

Contact our team

Traveler Reviews

4.7
Excellent
Based on 1,738 reviews
5
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4
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2.2%
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1.3%
92% of travelers recommend this tour
A
Andrea
Tour review
Apr 25, 2026
I love how this tour has a lot of free time cuz we get to see other places that wasn’t included on the tour package, but it’s totally fine. Our tour guide CheongAn is super nice, friendly, knowledgeable and so thoughtful!
M
Mypster
Egypt
Feb 01, 2026
We had such a fantastic vacation in Egypt! We couldn’t it have planned this ourselves - so many venues, all smoothly scheduled with all transfers arranged. There was always a guide to make sure things went well, and they did indeed make everything work. From the pyramids to Luxor and the new amazing Grand Egyptian Museum, we always had a knowledgeable local certified guide who added immensely to our understanding. The Nile cruise boat was excellent as well, comfortable and fun!
I had many questions prior to and after booking, and the company provided excellent communication and support. Highly recommend!!
a
ashleyblack1212
Egypt
Sep 01, 2025
My friend and I purchased the 'Egypt Express Tour' provided by Encounters Travel and I must say, it was one of the best experiences I have ever had in my life! We were assigned an agent from the company by the name of 'Mariska Knoesen'. She was very professional, proficient, and answered all of my questions and concerns, via e-mail, in a timely fashion. Upon our arrival in Egypt, we were greeted by a friendly team from Encounters Travel, who were all fluent in English. They assisted us with getting Egyptian visas and made exiting the airport easy. In total, it ended up being 9 of us grouped together. Our main tour guide was a gentleman by the name of 'Ashrafbehairy', whom we all referred to as "Ash" for short. HE WAS AMAZING!! We could not have asked for a better tour guide for our trip. He was very humble, kind, and knowledgeable. He accompanied us from Cairo to Aswan and then to Luxor and back to Cairo, via train. We visited several attractions such as the Pyramids, Philae Temple, Edfu Temple, and the Valley of the Kings (just to name a few). While at each sight, Ash explained its history to us and was able to answer all questions. He assisted with translation (Arabic and English) when needed, got us snacks, provided water, and took me to the shop to get items I desperately needed (sunblock and aloe lol). He even gave everyone a souvenir keychain at the end of our trip. Most importantly, we all felt SAFE! There is so much more I could say about this trip, but I will end by saying that it was honestly a great experience! I highly recommend purchasing this tour from Encounters Travel.
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Inspire15809026809
Bhutan
Aug 01, 2025
Encounters Travel, you did it again! We had an amazing and very memorable trip to Bhutan. It was very well organized. The tour company did a wonderful job. Our journey through Bhutan was nothing short of magical. From the moment we arrived, the country's serene landscapes and deep-rooted culture wrapped us in a sense of peace and wonder. The hike to Paro Taktsang (Tiger's Nest Monastery) was a breathtaking hike and an even more spiritual reward at the top. The view was surreal, and the monastery seemed to float on the cliffside. The trip leaves you with a calmer heart, a clearer mind, and memories that feel timeless!
K
Kim
Tour review
Jul 16, 2025
It was awhile ago that I took this tour but it was absolutely FANTASTIC! Wonderful guide and driver. He was AMAZING.. It was very well organized & I can’t say anything but great things about it.

Accommodation

The hotels and accommodations listed below are the ones we most often use on this tour. From time to time we may exchange these for similar properties at the same level.

Options

Our tours are designed to include all that you need to enjoy a really special time in the country you're visiting. However, we do also offer some extra options to complement the tour and add some additional sightseeing or activities, or some extra time at either end of the tour.

All accommodation based options (e.g. Single supplements, extra nights, upgrades) should be booked and paid for in advance so that we can make the appropriate arrangements. Most other options can be booked and paid for in advance or while you are on the tour, though we recommend booking in advance to ensure there are no issues with availability.

Most options are priced the same throughout the year, though some may have seasonal pricing or minimum number requirements - our sales team will advise the final pricing based on your travel date and number of passengers on your booking.

No optional extras are currently listed for this tour.

Tour Notes

The detailed Tour Notes below provide important practical information about how the tour runs, what to expect, and how to prepare for your holiday.

1. Accommodation

This tour uses comfortable accommodations which can be considered appoximately 2 to 3-star level. Accommodation is based on twin, triple or double en-suite rooms. Please visit the accommodation tab of this tour for examples of the hotels normally used on this tour. If you have any specific accommodation requests please let us know and we'll be happy to provide you with a customised quotation.

2. Transport
3. Transfers
4. Group Size/Tour Leaders/Guides
5. Entrance Fees
6. Gorilla Permit
7. Dates & Prices
8. Money - Uganda
9. Time
10. Voltage
11. Tipping
12. Booking & Payment
13. Financial Security
14. Responsible Tourism
15. Follow Us Online
16. Travel Insurance
17. Before you travel
18. Reduce Plastic Waste with Water-to-Go Filter bottles
19. Private & Tailor-made Tours
20. Health and Vaccinations
21. Passports and Visas
22. International Flights and Airport Transfers
23. What to take

Travel Inspiration

Related blog articles to help you plan and get inspired before your trip.

Related blog articles are coming soon.