Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe and Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
Welcome to Uganda! Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at Entebbe International Airport by your Ripple Safaris guide. After a brief introduction, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to Kibale Forest National Park, renowned for its rich primate population. The drive offers glimpses of Uganda’s lush landscapes and charming rural life. Arriving in Kibale in the late afternoon, you’ll check into your lodge, nestled on the edge of the forest and offering stunning views of the surrounding greenery. Enjoy a relaxing dinner at the lodge, with the sounds of the forest creating a tranquil ambiance, as you prepare for the primate tracking adventures ahead.
Day 2: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest
Today, you’ll experience the thrill of chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest, home to over 1,500 chimpanzees. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing on tracking protocols. With your guide, trek through the dense forest, where the air is filled with the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves. The trek may be physically demanding, but the reward of encountering a family of chimpanzees is extraordinary. Observe their playful interactions, vocalizations, and complex social behaviors up close. After your chimpanzee encounter, return to your lodge for lunch and some relaxation. In the afternoon, you may opt for a guided nature walk or visit a nearby community to learn about local traditions.
Day 3: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
After breakfast, check out of your lodge and begin your journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, one of Uganda’s most iconic national parks. The drive takes you through beautiful landscapes and rural areas, offering a glimpse of life in southwestern Uganda. Arriving in Bwindi in the afternoon, you’ll check into your lodge, which provides spectacular views of the dense, mist-covered forest. The evening is yours to unwind and prepare for the incredible gorilla trekking experience that awaits. Enjoy a delicious dinner at the lodge and soak in the serene surroundings.
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Today is the highlight of your safari—gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. After an early breakfast, you’ll head to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking protocols. With your guide and a team of trackers, you’ll embark on a trek through the thick forest, navigating rugged terrain and lush vegetation. The effort is well worth it when you encounter a family of mountain gorillas. Spend up to an hour observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, watching their social interactions and enjoying their gentle presence. After your gorilla encounter, return to your lodge for a hearty lunch and some well-deserved relaxation. In the afternoon, you may visit a local community or simply enjoy the lodge’s amenities.
Day 5: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
After breakfast, check out of your lodge and begin your journey to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. The drive offers stunning views of the Rwandan countryside and the dramatic Virunga Volcanoes in the distance. Arriving in Volcanoes National Park in the afternoon, you’ll check into your lodge, which provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon and dinner at the lodge, taking in the peaceful environment and preparing for the exciting primate tracking experiences in Rwanda.
Day 6: Golden Monkey Tracking and Departure
Your final day of adventure begins with golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park. After breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing on golden monkey tracking protocols. Accompanied by expert guides, you’ll trek through the bamboo forests in search of these lively and colorful primates. The golden monkeys’ playful antics and vibrant fur make for a fascinating and dynamic tracking experience. After spending time with the golden monkeys, return to your lodge for lunch. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a final stroll around the lodge or some last-minute shopping in Kigali. Your guide will then transfer you to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight. As you leave, you’ll carry with you unforgettable memories of Uganda’s incredible primates and stunning landscapes.
