11 - Days Primates of the great rift valley safari, Uganda (Luxury)

Overview

Begin in the Kibale Forest, watching as the verdant, forested lands of Uganda transform into a mystical world brimming with chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, baboons and more. Your journey to Kyambura welcomes even more wildlife adventures, as the elusive Lost Chimpanzees of Kyambura are at your fingertips, along with mind-blowing gorge panoramas. A tranquil boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel brings you to your final destination amidst one of Uganda’s most beautiful gorilla habitats.

Day 1

Arrival in Uganda

As you arrive at Entebbe Airport, a warm welcome awaits from a Wayfairer representative. Your journey begins as they whisk you away to the tranquil oasis of Hotel No. 5. This elegant retreat is the perfect place to rest and rejuvenate, with its serene atmosphere and understated luxury, offering a prelude to the wonders that lie ahead. Overnight at Hotel No. 5, where the sounds of nature and a delicious breakfast prepare you for the adventure of a lifetime.

Main Destination:

Entebbe (City)

Accommodation:

No.5 Boutique Hotel

Luxury hotel located in Entebbe (City)

Meals & Drinks:

Dinner (Breakfast & lunch not included)

All drinks (Except for spirits/liquor)

Day 2

From the Skies to the Mountains

Fly from Entebbe to Kasese to meet your expert guide. En route to Kibale Lodge, visit the Rwenzori Sculpture Foundation to discover art reflecting local traditions. Your retreat offers spectacular views of the Rwenzori Mountains and the plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park. This afternoon, visit a local school to witness the impactful work of the Roots and Shoots conservation program. Conclude your day with sunset cocktails on the terrace, soaking in the majestic beauty of the African wild.

Main Destination:

Kibale National Park (Chimps)

Accommodation:

Kibale Forest Lodge

Mid-range lodge located just outside Kibale NP (Chimps)

Meals & Drinks:

Lunch & dinner (Breakfast not included)

All drinks (Except for spirits/liquor)

Day 3

Chimpanzees in the Kibale Forest

Venture into the heart of Kibale Forest, the primate capital of the world, for a profound encounter with wild chimpanzees. Observing their graceful movements and social energy in the canopy is an unforgettable experience. In the afternoon, explore the Bigodi Wetland, a sanctuary for birdlife and rare species like the sitatunga antelope and red colobus monkey. This unhurried day perfectly combines world-class primate tracking with the serene beauty of one of Uganda's most diverse habitats.

Main Destination:

Kibale National Park (Chimps)

Accommodation:

Kibale Forest Lodge

Mid-range lodge located just outside Kibale NP (Chimps)

Meals & Drinks:

All meals included

All drinks (Except for spirits/liquor)

Day 4

Exploring Kibale

Enjoy another day connecting with the chimpanzees of Kibale, where every encounter reveals new aspects of their complex social lives. Keep a watchful eye for diverse wildlife, from olive baboons to nocturnal bushbabies. In the afternoon, visit the Sadhguru School to learn about the vital intersection of education and conservation in the region. This unhurried pace allows you to fully absorb the forest's magic, concluding with a peaceful evening at the lodge to reflect on your journey.

Main Destination:

Kibale National Park (Chimps)

Accommodation:

Kibale Forest Lodge

Mid-range lodge located just outside Kibale NP (Chimps)

Meals & Drinks:

All meals included

All drinks (Except for spirits/liquor)

Day 5

Journey at Kyambura

Journey to Kyambura Gorge Lodge, elegantly perched on the edge of Queen Elizabeth National Park. En route, keep watch for lions and elephants roaming the savannah. After lunch, descend into the mystical gorge via the Fig Tree Trail. This lush chasm is home to the isolated Lost Chimpanzees of Kyambura. While sightings are a rare privilege, the forest's ancient beauty is a reward in itself. Later, review camera trap footage to discover the nocturnal secrets of this spectacular sunken world.

Main Destination:

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Accommodation:

Kyambura Gorge Lodge

Luxury lodge located just outside Queen Elizabeth NP

Kyambura Gorge Lodge Overview 

Deluxe room 

Kyambura Gorge Lodge Overview

Swimming Pool 

Meals & Drinks:

All meals included

All drinks (Premium wines & liquors might be excluded)

Day 6

Boat Cruise on the Kazinga

At dawn, explore the Kasenyi plains on a morning game drive to spot lions, leopards, and elephant herds. Joined by a wildlife specialist, you’ll learn about the vital lion monitoring project protecting these iconic predators. The afternoon brings a scenic cruise along the Kazinga Channel, offering close encounters with hippos, buffaloes, and lakeside elephants. Conclude your day with cocktails on the veranda, watching the sun set over the gorge - a sophisticated blend of conservation and wildlife discovery.

Main Destination:

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Accommodation:

Kyambura Gorge Lodge

Luxury lodge located just outside Queen Elizabeth NP

Meals & Drinks:

All meals included

All drinks (Except for spirits/liquor)

Day 7

Trek in the Kyambura Gorge

Following a serene bush breakfast, return to Kyambura Gorge for a deeper exploration of its lush ecosystem. Alongside expert guides, track the subtle signs of the wild and learn about the creatures that thrive here. Later, engage with the Kyambura Eco-tourism Project; roast coffee with the local women’s cooperative or contribute to conservation by planting a tree. Your day concludes with a community barbecue and traditional storytelling, offering a sophisticated connection to Uganda’s heritage.

Main Destination:

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Accommodation:

Kyambura Gorge Lodge

Luxury lodge located just outside Queen Elizabeth NP

Meals & Drinks:

All meals included

All drinks (Except for spirits/liquor)

Day 8

Arrival at Mount Gahinga Lodge

Fly to Kisoro for your transfer to Mount Gahinga Lodge, beautifully situated at the foot of the Virunga Volcanoes. In the afternoon, visit the Batwa Village to discover the ancient traditions of one of Africa’s oldest communities. As evening falls, enjoy cocktails and an insightful fireside talk with a Gorilla Doctors veterinarian to learn about vital primate conservation. It is an unhurried and sophisticated introduction to this spectacular region, where culture and nature meet.

Main Destination:

Virunga Mountains (Uganda)

Accommodation:

Mount Gahinga Lodge

Luxury lodge located just outside Mgahinga Gorilla NP (Gorillas)

Lodge Overview

Deluxe Room 

MAI

Room

Meals & Drinks:

Lunch & dinner (Breakfast not included)

All drinks (Except for spirits/liquor)

Day 9

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Today, you’ll set out for one of the most extraordinary experiences on Earth - gorilla trekking. The journey through steep, dense forests is challenging, but every step is worth it when you finally come face-to-face with a family of mountain gorillas. Watching these gentle giants in their natural habitat is a humbling and awe-inspiring experience. After a fulfilling day, return to the lodge and treat yourself to a rejuvenating Rungu massage at the Gahinga Spa. You will overnight at Mount Gahinga Lodge, where relaxation follows adventure.

Main Destination:

Virunga Mountains (Uganda)

Accommodation:

Mount Gahinga Lodge

Luxury lodge located just outside Mgahinga Gorilla NP (Gorillas)

Meals & Drinks:

All meals included

All drinks (Except for spirits/liquor)

Day 10

Exploring the Virunga Mountains

Your final full day in Uganda begins with a trek into the foothills of the Virunga Mountains in search of the playful and rare golden monkeys. Their vibrant fur and lively antics make them a joy to watch as they swing through the trees. In the afternoon, take time to relax and revisit the Batwa Heritage Trail to deepen your connection to the land and its people. You will overnight at Mount Gahinga Lodge, where the serenity of the mountains soothes your soul.

Main Destination:

Virunga Mountains (Uganda)

Accommodation:

Mount Gahinga Lodge

Luxury lodge located just outside Mgahinga Gorilla NP (Gorillas)

Meals & Drinks:

All meals included

All drinks (Premium wines & liquors might be excluded)

Day 11

Departure Home

As your adventure comes to a close, transfer to Kisoro airstrip for your return flight to Entebbe, carrying with you memories of unforgettable encounters with Uganda’s wildlife, landscapes, and people. Departure times align perfectly with international flights, allowing you to reflect on your incredible journey through this magical land.

Main Destination:

Entebbe (City)

Accommodation:

No accommodation (End of tour)

Meals & Drinks:

Meals at own expense

Drinks not included

Included

Park fees

(For non-residents)

Gorilla permits

(One per person, non-resident)

Chimp permits

(One per person, non-resident)

All activities

(Unless labeled as optional)

All accommodation

(Unless listed as upgrade)

A professional driver/guide

All transportation

(Unless labeled as optional)

All flights during the tour

All Taxes/VAT

Roundtrip airport transfer

Meals

(As specified in the day-by-day section)

Drinks

(As specified in the day-by-day section)

Excluded

International flights

(From/to home)

Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour

Tips

(Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)

Personal items

(Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)

Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees

Some meals

(As specified in the day-by-day section)