8 Day Uganda Gorilla Safari from Kampala – Camping Overland Tour
Embark on a life-changing Uganda Gorilla Safari through some of East Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes. Starting and ending in Kampala, this 8-day camping overland safari takes you deep into Uganda’s lush national parks to track endangered mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and more. Discover Uganda’s abundant wildlife, scenic lakes, and rich cultural heritage on an unforgettable adventure.
Safari Highlights
- Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Chimpanzee Trekking in Budongo Forest
- Victoria Nile boat cruise in Murchison Falls National Park
- Optional Rhino Walk at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
- Scenic stops at Lake Kikorongo and Lake Bunyonyi
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Kampala to Murchison Falls via Masindi
Your Uganda Gorilla Safari begins in Kampala, heading northwest to Murchison Falls National Park via the town of Masindi. Marvel at the lush landscapes of the Albertine Rift Valley as you pass sugarcane plantations and tropical forests. You’ll have the option to visit the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for a close-up experience with Uganda’s only wild rhinos.
Optional Activity: Ziwa Rhino Walk
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Budongo Forest & Victoria Nile River Cruise
Set off on an early morning chimpanzee trekking adventure in Budongo Forest, home to East Africa’s largest population of chimps. Later, enjoy a scenic boat cruise along the Victoria Nile in Murchison Falls National Park, where you can spot elephants, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, and more.
Included Activities: Chimpanzee Trekking & Nile River Boat Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Masindi to Lake Kikorongo Region
Travel to the Lake Kikorongo area near Queen Elizabeth National Park, known for tree-climbing lions and volcanic crater lakes. Camp with panoramic views of Lake Kikorongo, a beautiful crater lake linked to Lake George.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Lake Kikorongo to Lake Bunyonyi
Cross the equator and journey to Lake Bunyonyi, a tranquil highland lake surrounded by steep terraced hills and dotted with 29 islands. This scenic lake is your base for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Included Activity: Equator Crossing
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Days 5 & 6: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest
The highlight of your Uganda Gorilla Safari is trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to nearly half the world’s wild mountain gorillas. Trek through dense forest with experienced guides and trackers to observe a family of gorillas in their natural habitat. On your non-trekking day, enjoy optional activities like visiting a Pygmy village or canoeing on Lake Bunyonyi.
Optional Activities: Gorilla Trekking, Canoeing, Pygmy Village Tour, Rwanda Day Trip
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (x2)
Note: Gorilla trekking permits are limited and not included in the tour price. Only one day is spent trekking the gorillas.
Day 7: Lake Bunyonyi to Lake Mburo
Travel northeast to Lake Mburo National Park, a peaceful park filled with zebras, impalas, hippos, and over 300 bird species. Enjoy the views from your safari camp on the edge of the park.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 8: Lake Mburo to Kampala
End your camping Uganda Gorilla Safari with a return drive to Kampala, stopping at the equator en route. The tour concludes in the early evening in the capital.
Included Activity: Equator Crossing
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Tour Information
Type: Camping Overland Safari
Start/End: Kampala, Uganda
This Uganda Gorilla Safari is also available as a lodge overland tour, following the same route with upgraded accommodations. Contact us for details and availability.
Optional Excursions
- Gorilla Trekking Permit (not included)
- Ziwa Rhino Walk
- Canoeing on Lake Bunyonyi
- Pygmy Village Tour
- Guided Birding Walk
- Rwanda Day Tour
Child Policy
This safari allows children aged 12 and above on scheduled departures, with a maximum of 4 children (aged 12–15) per tour. Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking require a minimum age of 16. Some activities may have further restrictions.
Travel Tips
We recommend arriving in Kampala one day before the tour begins and departing one day after it ends to account for any delays. Pre- and post-tour accommodation can be arranged on request.
Book your 8-day Uganda Gorilla Safari today and enjoy one of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife encounters!