8-Day Fly-in Uganda Safari: Gorilla Trekking, Chimpanzees & Big Five Wildlife
Discover the untamed beauty of East Africa on this unforgettable Uganda Safari that takes you deep into the country’s most iconic national parks. This 8-day fly-in lodge safari combines luxury travel, exceptional wildlife experiences, and cultural encounters — all with seamless domestic flights for comfort and convenience.
Tour Highlights
- Scenic domestic flights between Entebbe, Bwindi, and Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge
- Game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park (Ishasha & Mweya sectors)
- Boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel
- Authentic village visits and guided community walks
- Luxury lodge accommodations in prime wilderness locations
Detailed Uganda Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Gateway to Your Uganda Safari
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, your guide will transfer you to the Best Western Premier Garden Hotel. Conveniently located near Lake Victoria and the Botanical Gardens, this modern hotel offers comfortable ensuite rooms, international dining, and leisure facilities. Explore Entebbe’s charming streets, take a boat cruise on Lake Victoria, or browse local markets for crafts and souvenirs.
Day 2: Fly to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – Home of Mountain Gorillas
After breakfast, you’ll board a scheduled flight to Kihihi, followed by a scenic 90-minute drive through the Ugandan highlands to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Spend two nights at the tranquil Buhoma Lodge, a sustainable luxury lodge located near the gorilla trekking trailhead. Enjoy the forest views and listen to the sounds of nature while relaxing in your private chalet.
Day 3: Uganda Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi National Park
This is the highlight of your Uganda Safari. Begin the day with an early morning trek in search of the rare and endangered mountain gorillas. Led by experienced rangers, you’ll journey deep into the rainforest for an unforgettable hour with a gorilla family. After the trek, unwind at Buhoma Lodge with a complimentary massage or explore the nearby community on a guided visit.
Day 4: Transfer to Ishasha – Queen Elizabeth National Park
Travel south to the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, known for its iconic tree-climbing lions. Visit a local community en route before arriving at Ishasha Wilderness Camp, where luxury tented accommodations await. Spend the afternoon on a game drive spotting elephants, antelope, and the park’s unique lion prides lounging in the fig trees.
Day 5: Game Drives in Ishasha – Tree-Climbing Lions & Savannah Wildlife
Enjoy a full day exploring the Ishasha region, which features diverse landscapes, ancient forests, and abundant wildlife. Expect to see buffalos, topis, monkeys, and a rich array of birds. Return to your riverside camp for bush sundowners and a memorable night under the stars.
Day 6: Kazinga Channel Cruise – Transfer to Mweya Sector
Drive north to the Mweya Peninsula, a region of Queen Elizabeth National Park known for crater lakes and sweeping savannah views. Check in at Elephant Plains Lodge, a scenic eco-lodge offering panoramic views of Lake Kikorongo. In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxed boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, where elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species can be seen at close range.
Day 7: Chimpanzee Trekking & Game Viewing in Kyambura Gorge
Experience an exciting chimpanzee trekking adventure in Kyambura Gorge, also known as the Valley of Apes. Walk through the tropical forest listening for rustling leaves and echoing calls as you search for habituated chimp families. Later, continue your wildlife exploration with a game drive before returning to Elephant Plains Lodge for your final night in the wild.
Day 8: Return Flight to Entebbe – End of Your Uganda Safari
After breakfast, transfer to Mweya Airstrip for your scheduled return flight to Entebbe. If your international departure is later in the evening, optional tours in Entebbe or an extra overnight stay can be arranged. Your incredible Uganda Safari concludes with memories to last a lifetime.
Optional Add-On Activities
- Community cultural visits in Bwindi and Ishasha
- Bwindi Forest nature walk
- Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary day trip
- White-water rafting and bungee jumping in Jinja
Important Travel Notes
- Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking require a moderate to high fitness level
- Travelers must be free of contagious illnesses to participate in primate trekking
- This tour is not suitable for children under 16 unless arranged as a private family safari
Why Choose This Fly-in Uganda Safari?
This luxury Uganda Safari is perfect for travelers seeking a deeper, more immersive wildlife experience without long drives between parks. With carefully selected lodges, expert guides, and premium access to Uganda’s top national parks, this itinerary offers the best of gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, and African safari adventure all in one seamless journey.