The Ultimate Adventure: Combining Gorilla Trekking with a Safari in Uganda
Uganda is one of the few places on Earth where you can track endangered mountain gorillas and experience a classic Big Five safari—all in one unforgettable trip. Here’s how to plan the perfect gorilla-safari combination for an epic African adventure.
Why Uganda is the Best for Gorillas + Safari
✔ More affordable permits than Rwanda ($800 vs. $1,500)
✔ Diverse wildlife – Lions, elephants, chimps, and gorillas in one country
✔ Compact circuit – Safari parks and gorilla forests are well-connected
✔ Unique activities – Boat cruises, chimp trekking, and cultural encounters
The Perfect 7-10 Day Itinerary
Day 1-3: Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Big Five game drives (lions, elephants, buffaloes)
- Boat cruise on Kazinga Channel – Hippos, crocs, and birds galore
- Chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge
Day 4-5: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
- 1-day gorilla trek (4-8 hour hike, 1 hour with gorillas)
- Optional Batwa cultural experience (forest pygmy community)
Day 6-7: Safari in Murchison Falls NP
- Nile River boat safari to the thunderous Murchison Falls
- Game drives for giraffes, lions, and rare shoebill storks
Want a shorter trip? Focus on Bwindi + Queen Elizabeth (5-6 days).
Top Safari Parks to Pair with Gorilla Trekking
| Park | Highlights | Distance from Bwindi |
|---|---|---|
| Queen Elizabeth | Tree-climbing lions, Kazinga Channel | ~4-5 hours |
| Murchison Falls | Epic Nile views, big herds of giraffes | ~8 hours (or fly) |
| Lake Mburo | Zebras, horseback safaris | ~6 hours |
| Kibale Forest | Best chimp trekking in Africa | ~5 hours |
Logistics: How to Travel Between Parks
By Road
- Scenic but long drives (4-8 hours between parks)
- Private 4×4 with pop-top (best for game viewing)
By Air
- Domestic flights connect Entebbe to Bwindi (Kisoro airstrip) and safari parks
- Saves time but more expensive
When to Go
Best Months: June–September & December–February (dry seasons)
Avoid: March–May (heavy rains make trails slippery)
Budget Guide
- Mid-range trip (7 days): $3,500-$5,000 per person
- Luxury trip (10 days): $6,000-$10,000+
Includes permits, lodging, transport, and guides.
Money-Saving Tip: Book early—gorilla permits sell out fast!
Why This Combo is Unbeatable
- Twice the wildlife – From gorillas to lions in one trip
- Varied adventures – Hiking, boating, and game drives
- Conservation impact – Tourism dollars protect both savannas and forests
“Tracking gorillas in the morning and spotting lions by sunset—only in Uganda!”
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
✔ Secure gorilla permits first (book 6-12 months ahead)
✔ Choose a reputable safari operator
✔ Pack for both jungle and savanna (light layers + good boots)