7-Day Luxury Gorilla and Chimpanzee Habituation Wildlife Safari

Day 4: Queen Elizabeth Park: Tracking Lions and Boat Safari

On Day 4, we embark on a journey to the northern area of Queen Elizabeth National Park, driving to the Mweya Area. This scenic route offers numerous wildlife sightings as we approach our destination, the Kyambura Gorge. Often referred to as the “Valley of the Apes” and famously dubbed “the lost Valley” by the BBC, this area features a striking rift in the savannah with an underground forest below, providing a unique landscape that captivates all who visit. Upon arrival, we check in at Kyambura Gorge Lodge, a luxurious retreat nestled near this natural wonder.

Kyambura Gorge Lodge

Originally a coffee shop, Kyambura Gorge Lodge has been remade into one of Uganda’s standout lodges, blending rustic charm with luxury. Guests can choose from lovely rooms called ‘Bandas,’ offered in standard and deluxe types, to ensure a cozy and memorable stay. The lodge centers around a refreshing swimming pool—ideal for a relaxing swim after a day of exploring. You can unwind with a drink and exchange stories of your safari adventures with other guests. Famous for its outstanding service and superb meals, the lodge provides much more than just a place to stay.

Kyambura Gorge Lodge is also actively involved in cultural and conservation initiatives. Guests are invited to visit a nearby women’s coffee cooperative to see their remarkable efforts or join a forest restoration project aiding the local chimpanzee population. At Kyambura Gorge Lodge, every part of your visit contributes to a richer experience, combining luxurious stays with meaningful interaction with the local community.

Other top lodging options in the area include Elephant Plains Lodge, Kasenyi Safari Camp, Katara Lodge, Mweya Safari Lodge , and Enganzi Lodge.

Afternoon Kazinga Channel Boat Safari

In the afternoon, embark on the Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise, a two-hour journey and a true highlight of your visit to Queen Elizabeth Park. The cruise begins at the Mweya Landing site. Private boat options are available for a more personalized experience. Glide along the natural waterway connecting Lake George with Lake Edward. Be enthralled by the wildlife, birds, and reptiles that inhabit the Kazinga Channel.

During the cruise, discover East Africa’s largest concentration of hippos. This provides a unique chance to observe these majestic creatures in their natural setting. The channel also serves as a haven for hundreds of bird species. Their vibrant plumage and melodious calls delight bird watchers. Look out for herds of elephants and buffalos along the banks. You may also see graceful antelopes, intriguing crocodiles, and fascinating monitor lizards in this lush landscape.

As you navigate the Kazinga Channel, glimpse charming local fishing villages. These offer insights into the traditional lifestyles of the communities. This journey isn’t just about wildlife—it’s also a great opportunity for cultural immersion and photography. Capture iconic images, such as the open-mouthed hippo or the serene landscape. The Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise promises a wealth of memories and stunning photographs, making it an unforgettable part of your safari experience.

Early Evening Game Drive

Late in the afternoon, embark on a thrilling 2½-hour game drive through the Mweya area of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Accompanied by an experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority Ranger for guidance and security, you will explore one of the park’s renowned game tracks. With both the ranger and your knowledgeable driver-guide to spot and explain the wildlife, you’re in for a treat. Queen Elizabeth Park is celebrated for its thriving elephant population. During your drive, you’ll also have the opportunity to see large herds of buffalo, as well as lions, leopards, hyenas, smaller cats, and a wide variety of antelopes.

After the exhilarating game drive, we return to the lodge, where you can enjoy some well-deserved leisure time. Relax by the swimming pool, soak up the serene surroundings, and reflect on the day’s sightings. This peaceful downtime provides the perfect balance to the day’s adventures. Your meal plan for the day includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, ensuring that all your culinary needs are met while you savor the natural beauty and wildlife of Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Day 5: Kibale Forest: Natural Beauty

Our Gorilla-Chimpanzee Habituation Safari continues. Start your day with a delectable breakfast, and if conditions permit, embark on the mesmerizing Sunrise Explosion Crater Drive. This scenic route, featured in National Geographic, is one of Western Uganda’s most breathtaking drives. Sunrise, typically around 20 minutes to 7 in the morning, offers prime opportunities to capture the natural wonders of this area through your camera lens.

Following the unforgettable Explosion Crater Drive, we continue our journey to Kibale Forest, lasting approximately 2 hours. Upon arrival, you will check into the lodge of your choice.

Lunch

In the afternoon, gear up to explore the Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary. This three-hour guided hike takes you through a jungle swamp. The path is lined with sturdy planks that form a boardwalk over the swampy terrain. Your guide, a local expert, has helped maintain the wetlands for many years. This sanctuary draws thousands of visitors annually.

During the hike, stay alert for various wildlife. You might see Chimpanzees, Colobus Monkeys, and baboons. The area is also famous for its birdlife, especially the vibrant Blue Turaco. In terms of mammals, look out for otters, bush pigs, mongooses, and the elusive Sitatunga Antelope.

After the hike, we continue to Kibale Forest, checking into the delightful Papaya Lake Lodge. This exquisite lodge is known for its affordable luxury, exceptional service, and delicious meals. It sets a new standard for luxury lodging. At the lodge, immerse yourself in a tranquil atmosphere ideal for relaxation and rejuvenation. Enjoy a refreshing swim or a soothing massage to enhance your well-being during your stay.

Day 6: Kibale Chimpanzees: Habituation Insights

Kickstart your day with an early breakfast, and then set off to meet your Ranger-Guide, who will accompany you into the heart of Kibale Forest, where a Chimpanzee Group is currently undergoing habituation—a process that spans up to two years. This crucial process teaches the Chimpanzees to tolerate the presence of humans.

Chimpanzee Habituation Experience permit costs $300 per person, whereas a permit for a 1-hour chimpanzee trek costs $250. Chimpanzee troops can consist of over 100 members and live in a complex social structure. Alpha males take on the role of defending the territory against other chimpanzees, while females are typically part of smaller family groups, where they care for the young.

Long before you lay eyes on the chimpanzees, their distinctive hooting calls will resonate in the distance. Eventually, you will encounter them and spend one hour in their midst, closely observing their behaviors and habits. Typically, you may encounter 4 to 6 primate species here, as well as numerous bird species, butterflies, mammals, and the forest itself, showcasing its unique vegetation. During a full-day habituation experience, you are likely to witness even more than during a standard trek.

It is imperative that you wear appropriate clothing and shoes for the experience and carry a minimum of 3 liters of water along with a packed lunch.

Papaya Lake Lodge.

Day 7: Departure: Farewell to Africa – Reflecting on Luxury Primate Habituation and Wildlife Safari

Start your day with a hearty breakfast as you prepare to say goodbye to your unforgettable Gorilla-Chimpanzee Habituation Experience-Wildlife Safari. We will schedule your departure based on your flight time from Entebbe, with an estimated drive of 5 to 6 hours, taking into account road conditions and traffic. We will adjust your lunch and morning activities to align seamlessly with your flight arrangements.

If time permits in the morning, consider embarking on the “Top of the World Hike.” This three-hour climb takes you up a mountain, passing through three crater lakes, quaint hamlets, farms, and tea plantations. At the summit, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Rwenzori Mountains—also known as the Mountains of the Moon—Queen Elizabeth Park, and the stunning surrounding countryside.

This day marks the conclusion of your 7-Day Luxury Gorilla-Chimpanzee Habituation Experience-Wildlife Safari. We will begin our four-hour drive to Entebbe. If your flight departs in the evening, we can arrange a day room to accommodate your schedule. If your departure is scheduled for the following day, we can also secure an overnight room to ensure your comfort and convenience. This arrangement allows you to relax and refresh before your journey home, providing a smooth and seamless conclusion to your extraordinary adventure in Uganda.