Uganda Safaris

Mountain gorilla trekking, chimpanzees in Kibale, Queen Elizabeth game drives, and Murchison Falls — the Pearl of Africa.

Uganda is East Africa’s primate capital and a superb all-round safari destination. Trek mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, track chimpanzees in Kibale, then add classic savannah game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park and the thunder of the Nile at Murchison Falls.

Most itineraries open with carefully dated gorilla or chimpanzee permits, then move into savannah parks for lions, elephants, Uganda kob, and boat safaris. Eight to twelve days covers primates plus two parks without rush; shorter trips focus on Bwindi with one savannah partner.

Tanzania Safari Trip coordinates permits, lodge nights, and private transport so your Uganda circuit stays practical — alone or as an extension after Tanzania or Kenya.

Mountain gorilla among lush foliage — gorilla trekking Uganda

Giraffes grazing on Ugandan savanna grasslands

Young chimpanzee in rainforest — Kibale chimpanzee tracking

Powerful waterfall cascading through a rocky gorge — Murchison Falls style

Why choose Uganda for your safari

Few countries let you stand near mountain gorillas and still finish with Big Five savannah in the same fortnight. Uganda’s parks are compact enough for road circuits when flights are not required.

We plan permit dates first (they dictate the calendar), then build lodges and game drives around them. You travel with clear expectations on trek difficulty, what is included, and how queen Elizabeth or Murchison fits your energy level.

Bwindi gorilla trekking Limited permits, mountain forest, and an hour with a habituated gorilla family — one of Africa’s most memorable wildlife encounters when booked for the right dates.
Kibale chimpanzees Track chimps in dense rainforest with experienced guides. Often paired with crater-lake scenery and a softer trek day than Bwindi.
Queen Elizabeth NP Kazinga Channel boat safaris, tree-climbing lions in Ishasha (when ranging there), and classic Rift Valley savannah — Uganda’s most varied game park.
Murchison Falls The Nile forces through a narrow gorge in a roar of white water, with game drives and boat outings on either side of the falls.
Compact circuits Parks link into efficient road or short-hop itineraries, so primate and savannah days can share one Uganda holiday.
Expert permit planning Gorilla and chimp permits sell out in peak months. Tanzania Safari Trip locks dates early and builds the rest of your route around them.

Uganda safari FAQs

What is the best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking runs year-round. June–September and December–February are usually drier and more popular. March–May and October–November can be greener and quieter, with muddy forest trails after rain.

How many days do I need for an Uganda safari?

Plan 7–10 days for gorillas plus Queen Elizabeth or Kibale. Add Murchison Falls for 10–12 days. Shorter 5–6 day trips can focus on Bwindi and one savannah park when time is limited.

Do I need a gorilla permit in advance?

Yes. Uganda Wildlife Authority gorilla permits are limited and should be secured ahead of peak-season travel. Our team books permits as part of your safari package once dates are confirmed.

Is Uganda good for first-time visitors?

Yes — especially if primates or a mix of forest and savannah appeal to you. Guides and lodges are well set up for international travellers, and English is widely spoken.

Gorilla vs chimpanzee — can I do both?

Absolutely. Many itineraries include one gorilla trek in Bwindi and chimpanzee tracking in Kibale. Fitness levels and trek durations differ; we pace days so you recover between forest activities.

How hard is gorilla trekking?

Difficulty varies with group location and weather. Expect hiking in dense forest for one to several hours. A reasonable fitness level helps; porters and guides support the experience. Tell us about mobility needs when booking.