Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa,” offers one of the most magnificent and diverse safari experiences on the continent. The pinnacle for many travellers is the profound, intimate encounter with the endangered mountain gorillas in the dense mists of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The perfect complement to this jungle adventure is a classic savannah safari in the breathtaking Queen Elizabeth National Park (QENP).
Combining these two iconic destinations in one seamless itinerary is not just feasible—it’s the recommended way to experience the best of Western Uganda, providing a thrilling blend of gorilla trekking in Bwindi forest and classic big game viewing in Queen Elizabeth national park.
Why Combine Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth?
The logistics of an itinerary are often dictated by geography, and fortunately, Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Parks are geographically positioned to allow for a smooth transition.
- The Ishasha Link: The southern sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, known as Ishasha, is famous for its unique tree-climbing lions. This area lies directly on the primary overland route connecting the northern sectors of Bwindi (like Buhoma) and the main game viewing areas of QENP (Kasenyi and Mweya). This natural corridor allows for an exciting game drive as you transfer between the two parks.
- Contrasting Ecosystems: Bwindi is an ancient, misty, steep-sloped montane rainforest, home to approximately half the world’s mountain gorillas. QENP is a vast expanse of savanna, woodland, wetlands, and lakes, supporting four of the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo) and a spectacular array of birdlife. The contrast ensures a well-rounded and visually stunning safari.
Suggested 6-Day Gorilla & Wildlife Safari Itinerary
This itinerary is designed for a rich experience, combining the key activities of both parks with practical travel days.
Day 1: Arrival in Uganda & Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Morning: Arrive at Entebbe International Airport (EBB). Meet your professional safari guide/driver.
- Transfer: Begin the scenic drive west towards Queen Elizabeth National Park. This is a full-day’s journey (approx. 7-9 hours) with a mandatory stop at the Equator crossing point for photographs and souvenir shopping.
- Evening: Arrive at your chosen lodge on the Mweya Peninsula or Kasenyi Plains. Relax and enjoy the first spectacular sunset over the African plains.
Day 2: Classic Game Drives & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise (QENP)
- Morning Game Drive: Wake up before dawn and head out to the Kasenyi Plains for an early morning game drive. The golden hour is the best time to spot predators like lions and leopards before they retreat from the heat. Expect sightings of elephants, buffalo, Uganda Kob, warthogs, and various antelopes.
- Afternoon Boat Cruise: After lunch, proceed to the Kazinga Channel for a two-hour boat safari. This channel connects Lake George and Lake Edward and boasts one of the world’s highest concentrations of hippos. You’ll also see large herds of buffalo and elephants on the banks, Nile crocodiles basking, and a multitude of spectacular bird species.
- Evening: Optional late evening game drive or simply relax at the lodge.
Day 3: Ishasha Tree-Climbing Lions and Transfer to Bwindi
- Morning: Enjoy an early breakfast and check out. Your transfer day is also a game drive. You will drive south to the Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
- Ishasha Game Drive: Spend the morning searching for the area’s famous tree-climbing lions, a behaviour unique to this area and one other location in Africa. They are often found draped across the branches of fig trees, resting in the cool air above the ground.
- Afternoon: Exit QENP and continue the drive to your booked lodge near the appropriate gorilla trekking sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (e.g., Buhoma for the shortest Ishasha transfer).
- Logistics Note: Bwindi has four main sectors (Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo). Your accommodation must be booked close to the sector for which your gorilla permit is secured, as the drive between sectors can take hours.
Day 4: The Ultimate Encounter: Mountain Gorilla Trekking
- Morning Briefing: After an early breakfast, transfer to the Park Headquarters for a briefing at 7:30 AM. Here, you’ll be allocated a gorilla family to visit and meet your ranger guides.
- The Trek: Begin your gorilla trek into the dense, misty forest. The trek can range from 1 to 8 hours depending on where the family is located. This requires a moderate to high level of fitness, sturdy hiking boots, and a rain jacket. Porters are highly recommended to assist with your daypack and the challenging terrain.
- The Hour: Upon finding the gorillas, you are allowed precisely one hour to observe, photograph, and simply sit in awe of these gentle giants. It is an unmatched wildlife moment.
- Afternoon: Return to the trailhead, collect your certificate, and transfer back to your lodge for dinner and a well-deserved rest.
Day 5: Forest Relaxation or Optional Activities
- Day of Rest/Exploration: This day serves as a buffer to recover from the arduous trek and to engage in local culture.
- Optional Activities:
- Batwa Cultural Experience: A guided walk led by members of the Batwa Pygmy community, offering insight into their forest-dwelling hunter-gatherer lifestyle before they were relocated from the park.
- Forest Walk: Guided nature walks inside the forest to spot endemic birds, butterflies, and smaller primates.
- Lake Mutanda/Bunyonyi: A scenic transfer to one of these stunning crater lakes for a canoe trip or simple relaxation (especially feasible if your trekking sector was Nkuringo or Rushaga).
Day 6: Departure to Kampala/Entebbe or Kigali
- Morning: After a final breakfast, begin the long-distance transfer back to Kampala or Entebbe (approx. 9-10 hours).
- Alternative Option (Shorter Drive): For an easier departure, consider flying out from the nearby Kihihi or Kisoro Airstrip (Bwindi) to Entebbe or transferring to Kigali, Rwanda (approx. 4-5 hours) for an international flight.
- Evening: Arrive in Kampala/Entebbe for your outbound flight or hotel stay.
Essential Safari Planning Tips
- Gorilla Permits are Key:
- A gorilla permit is mandatory and costs $800 per person in Uganda (as of 2024/2025).
- Book 6 to 12 months in advance, especially if travelling during the peak dry seasons (June–September and December–February). Without a permit, you cannot trek.
- Best Time to Visit:
- Uganda is a year-round destination. The dry seasons (June–August and December–February) are generally preferred for trekking as the trails are less muddy. However, these are also the busiest and most expensive times. The ‘shoulder seasons’ (March, May, October, November) offer lower rates with good, though slightly wetter, conditions.
- Packing Essentials:
- For Bwindi: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots; gaiters (for mud and biting ants); gardening gloves (for gripping vegetation); a waterproof jacket; long trousers and long-sleeved shirts (neutral colors).
- For Queen Elizabeth: Lighter, breathable clothing for hot game drives; a wide-brimmed hat; and sunglasses.
- General: High-SPF sunscreen, insect repellent, a basic first aid kit, and a good camera with extra batteries.
- Fitness Level:
- While QENP is mostly driving, the gorilla trek is physically demanding. You should be prepared for several hours of hiking through dense vegetation, ascending and descending steep, muddy slopes. Hire a porter! They are invaluable for assisting you and it directly supports the local community.
By combining the adrenaline of a savanna game drive with the sheer wonder of meeting mountain gorillas, your Uganda tour creates a truly comprehensive and unforgettable African safari narrative. You can book the Bwindi gorilla trekking & Queen Elizabeth park wildlife safari today by simlpy contacting us via [email protected] or calling +256-700135510 to speak/chat with the reservations team.