5-day gorilla tracking and queen Elizabeth safari
Embark on an extraordinary 5-day gorilla tracking and queen Elizabeth safari – true Uganda safaris that combine the awe-inspiring gorilla tracking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with the remarkable wildlife safari encounters in Queen Elizabeth National Park. This safari promises an immersive journey through the diverse landscapes of Uganda, where you will have the opportunity to witness the incredible biodiversity and natural wonders of these two iconic destinations. Get ready to trek through dense forests in search of gorillas, embark on thrilling game drives across vast savannahs, cruise along a scenic channel teeming with wildlife, and immerse yourself in the captivating culture of the local communities. This carefully crafted itinerary ensures that you have an unforgettable experience, creating cherished memories and forging a deep connection with the enchanting beauty of Uganda’s wilderness. Get ready to embark on a safari that will leave you in awe of the magnificent creatures and breathtaking landscapes that await you in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Highlights of 5-day gorilla tracking and queen Elizabeth safari
– Explore Queen Elizabeth National Park, known for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. Enjoy thrilling game drives in the savannah plains, where you can spot elephants, buffalos, lions, leopards, and various antelope species. The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 600 bird species to discover.
– Embark on a memorable boat safari along the Kazinga Channel. Witness large concentrations of hippos and crocodiles, as well as a myriad of bird species. Keep your camera ready to capture close-up views of wildlife drinking and bathing at the water’s edge.
– Immerse yourself in the beauty of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Experience the ultimate adventure of gorilla tracking, trekking through the dense forest in search of these magnificent creatures. Spend a precious hour observing the gorillas up close, witnessing their behavior and capturing unforgettable moments.
– Marvel at the changing landscapes during your scenic drives, from the picturesque views of the Rwenzori Mountains to the mist-covered mountains and lush greenery of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
– Stay in comfortable accommodations that suit your preferences, ranging from luxury lodges to mid-range and budget options. Relax and unwind in the heart of nature, surrounded by the tranquility and beauty of the national parks.
– Enjoy the services of experienced guides and trackers who will accompany you on your safari, providing valuable insights, ensuring your safety, and enhancing your overall experience.
– Discover the cultural heritage of the local communities surrounding the parks. Engage with the local people, learn about their traditions, and witness traditional dances and performances.
– Capture stunning photographs of the wildlife, landscapes, and unique moments throughout your safari, creating lasting memories of your incredible journey.
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
day 1 of 5-day gorilla tracking and queen Elizabeth safari Upon your arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our guide who will provide a brief orientation about your safari. From there, you will embark on a scenic drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, located approximately 400 kilometers (250 miles) from Entebbe. The journey takes about 6-7 hours, depending on road conditions and stops along the way. As you drive, you’ll pass through picturesque landscapes, rural communities, and stunning views of the Rwenzori Mountains. Upon arrival at the park, you will check in at your chosen accommodation and have some time to relax and enjoy the surroundings. In the evening, you can take a leisurely nature walk around the lodge or simply unwind and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Accommodation Options:
Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge (located within the park)
Mid-range: Enganzi Game Lodge (15 kilometers/9 miles from the park)
Budget: Pumba Safari Cottages (25 kilometers/15 miles from the park)
Day 2: Game Drive and Boat Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Start your day with an early morning game drive in the vast savannah plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park. The game drive covers a distance of approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) and takes around 4-5 hours. As the sun rises, you will have the opportunity to spot various wildlife species, including elephants, buffalos, lions, leopards, hyenas, and a wide variety of antelope species. The park is also a paradise for bird lovers, with over 600 bird species recorded. After the game drive, return to the lodge for a refreshing breakfast and some relaxation. In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling boat safari along the Kazinga Channel. This boat trip covers a distance of about 32 kilometers (20 miles) and takes approximately 2-3 hours. The channel offers a unique opportunity to see large concentrations of hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. The shores of the channel are also frequented by elephants, buffalos, and other wildlife, providing excellent photo opportunities.
Accommodation Options:
Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge (located within the park)
Mid-range: Enganzi Game Lodge (15 kilometers/9 miles from the park)
Budget: Pumba Safari Cottages (25 kilometers/15 miles from the park)
Day 3: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
on day 3 of 5-day gorilla tracking and queen Elizabeth safari After breakfast, bid farewell to Queen Elizabeth National Park as you embark on a scenic drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located approximately 160 kilometers (100 miles) away. The journey takes about 4-5 hours, depending on road conditions and stops along the way. As you drive, you’ll be captivated by the changing landscapes, from the savannah plains to the mist-covered mountains and lush greenery of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Arriving at your lodge, you will check in and have the remainder of the day at leisure. Take this opportunity to relax and immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings of the forest during your 5-day gorilla tracking and queen Elizabeth safari.
Accommodation Options:
Luxury: Mahogany Springs/Chameleon Hill/Silverback Lodge/Buhoma Lodge (located near the park)
Mid-range: Gorilla Mist Camp/Bakiga Lodge/Ichumbi Gorilla Safari Lodge (located near the park)
Budget: Ruhija Gorilla Friends Camp/Rushaga Gorilla Camp (located near the park)
Day 4: Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
The highlight of your 5-day gorilla tracking and queen Elizabeth safari awaits today – gorilla tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters, which is usually a short distance from your lodge. Here, you will receive a briefing about the dos and don’ts during the gorilla trek.
Bwindi is home to several gorilla families, and the trek can vary in duration and intensity, depending on the location of the gorillas. Trekking distances can range from 3 to 8 kilometers (2 to 5 miles) and can take anywhere from 2 to 8 hours, including the time spent with the gorillas. The experienced guides and trackers will lead you through the dense forest, following the trails and signs of the gorillas. Once you find them, spend a magical hour in their presence, observing their behavior and capturing precious memories. The encounter with these gentle giants is a truly unforgettable experience.
Accommodation Options:
Luxury: Mahogany Springs/Chameleon Hill/Silverback Lodge/Buhoma Lodge (located near the park)
Mid-range: Gorilla Mist Camp/Bakiga Lodge/Ichumbi Gorilla Safari Lodge (located near the park)
Budget: Ruhija Gorilla Friends Camp/Rushaga Gorilla Camp (located near the park)
Day 5: Return to Entebbe
After breakfast, bid farewell to Bwindi and embark on the journey back to Entebbe, covering a distance of approximately 500 kilometers (311 miles). The drive takes about 8-9 hours, allowing for breaks and lunch along the way. As you travel, you can reflect on the incredible experiences and breathtaking scenery you have encountered during your safari. Arriving in Entebbe, you will be dropped off at your preferred location, marking the end of your 5-day Gorilla Tracking and Queen Elizabeth safari.
