Classic Uganda: Gorillas, Chimps & Safari

Track endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest during an included gorilla trekking experience - one of Africa's most powerful and intimate wildlife encounters.
Search for the rare tree-climbing lions of Ishasha and enjoy classic game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Cruise the wildlife-rich Kazinga Channel, where hippos, elephants, buffalo and prolific birdlife gather along the water's edge.
Journey through Uganda's diverse landscapes, from misty rainforest and volcanic highlands to sweeping plains and crater lakes.

Days

from C$11,823 - C$14,430

55 Years of Expertise in Tailor-Made Travel

ExcellentBased on 5,336 Reviews

55 Years of Expertise in Tailor-Made Travel

ExcellentBased on 5,336 Reviews

Trip Features

Active Elements

Includes light adventure or movement for added discovery.

Epic Scenery

Showcases landscapes that elevate parts of the journey.

Off the Beaten Path

Includes lesser-known stops revealing authentic local life and surprises.

Safari & Wildlife

Vacations that showcase the world's most fascinating wildlife.

Active Elements

Includes light adventure or movement for added discovery.

Epic Scenery

Showcases landscapes that elevate parts of the journey.

Off the Beaten Path

Includes lesser-known stops revealing authentic local life and surprises.

Safari & Wildlife

Vacations that showcase the world's most fascinating wildlife.

Trip Itinerary

At a Glance

DAY

Arrive in Entebbe

DAY

Entebbe to Bwindi

DAY

Gorilla Trekkking

DAY

Bwindi to Queen Elizabeth National Park

DAY

Queen Elizabeth National Park

DAY

Queen Elizabeth National Park

DAY

Chimp Trekking and Queen Elizabeth National Park

DAY

Queen Elizabeth National Park to Kibale

DAY

Kibale National Park and Bigodi Swamp

DAY

Depart from Kibale

Travel Itinerary

Trip Starts

Trip Stop

Trip Ends

Detailed Itinerary

DAY

Arrive in Entebbe

Multi Day Tour

Arrive Entebbe

On arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be met by Goway's local representative and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, a half-day trip to Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary may be arranged at an additional cost. This could also be arranged at the end of your safari if you prefer. This evening, you will receive a short pre-trip briefing at the hotel.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Your Accommodation

Best Western Premier Garden Hotel Entebbe

Best Western Premier Garden Hotel Entebbe is a contemporary lakeside hotel located in a quiet area of Entebbe, a short drive from Entebbe International Airport. The property offers comfortable rooms and suites, many with views over Lake Victoria or the landscaped gardens. Facilities include a restaurant serving international and local cuisine, a bar, an outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and spa services. Business travelers are supported with meeting and conference facilities, while leisure guests can enjoy the peaceful setting and easy access to Entebbe Botanical Gardens and the town center. The hotel provides airport transfers, free Wi-Fi, and on-site parking, making it a practical and relaxing base for both short stays and extended visits in Entebbe.

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DAY

Entebbe to Bwindi

Multi Day Tour

Entebbe to Bwindi

Check out and transfer to the airport this morning. This morning's flight on a light aircraft to Kihihi airstrip takes just over an hour. Transfer through local villages and along mountain roads to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a World Heritage site (a drive of 90 mins). Considered the most diverse forest in Uganda, Bwindi is one of the richest ecosystems in East Africa and home to over 120 mammals, 345 species of birds, 200 species of butterflies, and 160 species of trees. The park contains an estimated one-half of the world's population of the endangered Mountain Gorilla, making it an extremely valuable conservation site. Set within the forest and just steps away from the Gorilla Trekking headquarters, Buhoma Lodge offers cozy accommodations in wooden chalets with uninterrupted views of the pristine rainforest canopy. Renowned for its warm welcome and attentive service, Buhoma is an eco-friendly lodge operating on solar power and has been constructed using sustainable local materials. Each of the ten wooden chalets has a private verandah and enormous windows, giving spectacular views. Awaken to chattering forest birds, and watch out for the occasional mountain gorilla that has ventured right in to visit the lodge.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Your Accommodation

Buhoma Lodge

Buhoma Lodge commands spectacular and uninterrupted views of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park home to the rare and elusive Mountain Gorilla. Situated within the National Park, less than five minutes' walk, from the start of the gorilla trekking point. Ten, comfortable cottages have been carefully built, each with its own private verandah, allowing wonderful views of the forest canopy of the National Park. An elevated lounge area, complete with bar and dining facilities, offers a cozy, comfortable environment, to discuss the day's activities around the fireplaces which add atmosphere and warmth in the cool evenings.

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DAY

Gorilla Trekkking

Multi Day Tour

Gorilla Trekkking

You will be escorted to the National Parks headquarters to meet your guides for your gorilla tracking experience. An early morning trek into the forest on the slopes of the volcanoes, led by experienced trackers will bring you amongst a family of Mountain Gorillas. These massive primates are extremely rare, with only approximately 650 remaining. You will get within metres of the family, and be privileged to spend time amongst them. The trekking may be fairly strenuous; up to six hours or longer is not uncommon - at relatively high altitudes. Mountain Gorillas are wild animals, and such sightings cannot be guaranteed; however, the success rate is well over 95%. PLEASE NOTE: on certain departures, due to Gorilla Permit availability, this leg of your safari may be undertaken in Rwanda. A similar standard of accommodation will be utilized in Rwanda, but there may be a surcharge depending on availability. Please check at the time of booking.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Your Accommodation

Buhoma Lodge

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DAY

Bwindi to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Multi Day Tour

Bwindi to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Today you will have the option of a second Gorilla Trek (additional cost, please request at time of booking). In the afternoon, depart Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and travel to Ishasha, located in the southern part of Queen Elizabeth National Park (a 2-3 hour drive) with a possible community visit en route (time permitting). Check into your accommodations and enjoy dinner at your safari camp. Located on the banks of the Ntungwe River, the eco-friendly Ishasha Wilderness Camp is an idyllic retreat for people who truly enjoy remote wilderness. This exclusive 10-tented camp offers the only luxury accommodation in the remote southern sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. The thatched central lounge and dining area offers a comfortable area for guests to enjoy wholesome dining, although meals are often served "al fresco" next to the river. The outdoor fireplace is the perfect place for guests to relax with sundowners and wind down after an exciting day of game viewing.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Your Accommodation

Ishasha Wilderness Camp

Ishasha Wilderness Camp with its' 6 Meru Style tents is located on the banks of the Ntungwe River and providing access to a host of game viewing including the famous tree climbing lions. Each tent has en-suite bathrooms with hot bush showers and eco-friendly toilets. Ishasha Wilderness Camp is the perfect place to stop on the way to track the gorillas of Bwindi. Ishasha Wilderness Camp is located inside the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park on the Ntungwe River; it is an idyllic retreat for people who truly want to experience the wilderness. This exclusive tented camp offers quality accommodation and services in this unspoilt remote southern sector of Queen Elizabeth National.

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DAY

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Multi Day Tour

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Today is spent exploring Queen Elizabeth National Park with morning and afternoon game drives in the park. Enjoy a sundowner in the park as you take in the glorious African sunset before returning to your camp for another delicious dinner. Located in the western arm of the Great Rift Valley, the park is home to a wide variety of wildlife including elephants, leopards, lions, hippos, buffalo, Uganda kob, baboons, and many species of birds. With both a riverine and savannah habitat, the southern Ishasha area includes the massive Maramagambo, one of the largest surviving natural forests in Uganda, and is home to the tree-climbing lions typically found in the area. Afternoon game drives will be enjoyed in the Ishasha area, looking for the huge herds of buffalo, elephants, Uganda kob, and of course the famous tree-climbing lion typically found in the area.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Your Accommodation

Ishasha Wilderness Camp

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DAY

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Multi Day Tour

Queen Elizabeth National Park

This morning, you'll have one last chance to do some game viewing in the Ishasha section of the park. From Ishasha, you drive approximately 2 hours to the northern region of Queen Elizabeth National Park. This afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Your Accommodation

Elephant Plains Lodge

Welcome to Elephant Plains Lodge, nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda. This lodge offers an unparalleled safari experience, where the rhythms of nature harmonize with exceptional comfort. Surrounded by the diverse wildlife of the savanna, accommodations blend luxury with an authentic safari ambiance. Each room is meticulously designed, offering panoramic views of the park and featuring modern amenities for a relaxed stay after adventurous days. Savor delectable cuisine at our restaurant, crafted from fresh local ingredients, complemented by breathtaking views of the park. Unwind by the poolside or gather around the campfire, sharing stories of the day's adventures. At Elephant Plains Lodge, immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Uganda for an unforgettable safari retreat.

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DAY

Chimp Trekking and Queen Elizabeth National Park

Multi Day Tour

Chimp Trekking and Queen Elizabeth National Park

After breakfast at your lodge, head to Kyambura for your first chimp trek. The forest is alive with noise! Chimpanzees can be quite active and may move quickly through the forest canopy...or, if you are lucky, you may find them resting or eating near the forest floors. It's an exhilarating walk, in the beautiful scenery. As with gorilla trekking, sightings cannot be guaranteed. After your trek, return to your lodge for lunch and a bit of leisure time before heading out on your afternoon game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Your Accommodation

Elephant Plains Lodge

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DAY

Queen Elizabeth National Park to Kibale

Multi Day Tour

Queen Elizabeth National Park to Kibale

Today you will travel on a 2-3 hour drive from Queen Elizabeth National Park (north) on good roads to the Kibale area. On a clear day, you may get views of the Rwenzoris in the distance. You will spend the next two nights here, allowing ample time to enjoy the very best this area has to offer, with the option to join a second chimpanzee tracking experience in the forest. The park contains pristine lowland tropical rainforest, montane forest, and mixed tropical deciduous forest. In addition to the forest, you will also notice areas of grassland and swamp. The forest is rich in wildlife. It is most noted for its primate population. Some of the other mammals you might see are bushbuck, Harvey's red duiker, blue duiker, bush pig, and African civet. More difficult to spot are buffalo, waterbuck, hippo, warthog, and giant forest hog. Herds of elephants once traveled back and forth through the area. These elephants have become more and more rare and now are seldom seen. The birdlike in the forest and grasslands of the forest are abundant. There are almost 300 species, which have been identified here. There are 144 species of butterflies in the park and a diverse population of moths and other insects. A system of trails has been developed within the park, and tour guides are available to guide visitors.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Your Accommodation

Primate Lodge

Experience the world renowned Ugandan hospitality amidst unrivaled nature, scenery and serenity in the heart of Kibale rainforest National Park, Uganda's primates' paradise and home to over 13 different species of primates and numerous other mammals, butterflies and birds. Primate Lodge Kibale's principal edge is location, tucked deep in the forest and right next door to the starting point for Chimpanzee tracking excursion as well as the incredible Chimpanzee Habituation, really, two of the most genuinely breath-taking wildlife experiences on the planet.

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DAY

Kibale National Park and Bigodi Swamp

Multi Day Tour

Kibale National Park and Bigodi Swamp

This morning you have a second opportunity to do chimp trekking, this time in the Kibale Forest National Park (permit required at additional cost) or enjoy some leisure time around the Lodge. In the afternoon, enjoy a visit to the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary - run by the local community and famous for monkeys and birdlife. The star attraction you might get to see - the red colobus monkeys! Also black-and-white colobus; L'Hoest's monkeys; vervet monkeys; olive baboons, and sometimes the grey-cheeked mangabey. For birding enthusiasts - how about the chance to spot the great blue Turaco; Papyrus gonolek; green-breasted pitta (rare, seasonal); and perhaps hornbills, kingfishers, and weavers going about their daily routines.

Meal

Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch

Your Accommodation

Primate Lodge

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DAY

Depart from Kibale

Multi Day Tour

Depart

After an early breakfast for the drive back to Entebbe, stopping for curio shopping on the roadside and a quick photo stop at the Equator time permitting. Arrive back in Entebbe, late afternoon with drop off at the airport.

Meal

Breakfast, Lunch

What to Expect

Explore what moves you.

Bewindi National Park, Uganda

Lioness, Queen Elizabeth National Park

Hippos, Ishasha River

African Elephants, Kazinga Channel

Chimpanzees, Kyambura Gorge

Know when to go.

Place

Conditions

Daily max temperatureMonthly rainfall

EntebbeOccasional Showers

29°C / 83°F

67mm / 2.7"

Weather data is based on monthly averages.

Popularity rating

ExcellentBased on 5,336 Reviews

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I want to thank Taha for his outstanding knowledge on Ghana. It was so good to work with him on the planning and the process to Ghana. Everything was amazing, from the hotels, tour guide Leslie, restaurants, and the food. I would definitely recommend Taha to anyone wanting to travel with a group. Best, Lisa V HendersonLisa Henderson

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Early 2026 I met Alice Teramoto at the Phoenix travel show. I asked her about a dive trip to the Great Barrier Reef. Thankfully I kept her card. About 7 months later I started planning the trip myself. I was overwhelmed after I got my airline tickets to and from Australia and organized a dive boat. Thankfully I found her card. I texted her with my dates and within two days she had a complete agenda to me. It was amazing. She had transport to and from airports, car rental, tours everywhere I was going. I was gone for 6 weeks and I was so happy with everything she planned. I haven't used a travel agent in the past but believe me I would us Goway Travel and Alice again. barbara coy

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Everything was looked after and no stress for usJean Willoughby

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Vanessa from Goway Travel did a fantastic job pulling together a really comprehensive itinerary for our trip to Egypt. Her advice about "must see" sites was extremely helpful and she also provided great tips based on her own experience travelling to Egypt. Excellent planning by Vanessa meant we were able to thoroughly enjoy our trip. Olga

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I want to Thank Vanessa Lloyd for putting together the most perfect itinerary for my husband and my dream trip to Santorini, Greece. Every detail was perfectly executed. From the pick ups, to tours and most certainly our hotel location, it was truly a dream!! We were so happy and completely blown away, that we couldn't help but shared our experience with several folks we met during our trip... and I just bet they will be using Goway Travel for any future plans of theirs, just like us. Africa, here we come....Tanya Kash

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Exceptional Customer Service, Accountability, and Leadership — Thank You, Goway Travel! As a Canadian travel advisor with Discover Joy Travel, affiliated with TravelOnly, I want to recognize three exceptional individuals at Goway Travel: Jaime Vargas-Hernandez (Destination Specialist – North America and Latin America), Sean Hebert (Vice President, The Americas), and Jason Stratford (Business Development Manager). I recently booked a cross-Canada vacation for my clients, and while the itinerary offered many wonderful experiences, there were several unexpected challenges along the way, particularly involving transportation, transfers, and certain aspects of the overall travel experience. As a travel advisor, one of the most difficult situations is hearing that your clients are disappointed, especially when you've worked hard to create a memorable and seamless vacation for them. What truly impressed me was how Goway responded when things didn't go as planned. From the beginning, Jaime was responsive, professional, and genuinely committed to addressing our concerns. He listened carefully, communicated with the appropriate teams, and made sure our clients' feedback was taken seriously. Jason Stratford was equally supportive, demonstrating the value of having a Business Development Manager who genuinely advocates for travel advisors and their clients. I also want to extend my sincere appreciation to Sean Hebert, Vice President of The Americas, for his outstanding leadership and personal attention to our situation. His involvement demonstrated that customer satisfaction and accountability are priorities at Goway, even at the executive level. What impressed me most was that Goway didn't simply acknowledge the challenges — they listened, took ownership, and made a genuine effort to rebuild our clients' confidence and trust. In fact, despite the difficulties they experienced, my clients were so impressed with how Goway handled their concerns that they expressed interest in booking another international vacation through them, with another couple potentially joining! To me, that speaks volumes. Exceptional customer service isn't about everything going perfectly. It's about how a company responds when things go wrong. As a travel advisor, I value supplier relationships built on trust, transparency, accountability, and genuine care for travellers. Knowing that I have a team willing to listen, take responsibility, and work toward a resolution gives me greater confidence when recommending Goway to my clients. Jaime, Jason, and Sean — thank you for your professionalism, patience, dedication, and for making me feel genuinely supported as a travel advisor. You didn't just help resolve a difficult situation; you helped restore confidence and strengthen a valuable business relationship. Goway is fortunate to have individuals like you representing the company. I look forward to continuing our partnership and creating many more memorable travel experiences for our clients. Highly recommended — not because everything was perfect, but because Goway demonstrated what genuine accountability, strong leadership, and exceptional customer service should look like. — Evangeline Fiset Discover Joy Travel | TravelOnly Fort St. John, British Columbia, CanadaEvangeline de Torres - Fiset

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Thank you Vanessa, always a pleasure dealing with you and knowing you'll give us the perfect customized trip. Everything was spot on with excellent guides, drivers.Terry F.

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Every detail was managed and executed beyond our expectations and everything flowed from one destination to the nextClinton G Hughes

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This is a review for my Goway travel guide in Ho Chi Minh City. Mr. PHẠM HỮU THIỆN (TONY) was a very kind and knowledgeable guide during our 5 day stay in the city. Friendly, likeable and funny, Very accommodating to our needs during our visit. He and his driver were always early for every excursion as well as the final day for our airport departure. He gave us wonderful recommendations for sights and restaurants for our personal time. I highly recommend Mr. Pham (Tony) for your stay in the Ho Chi Minh area.George C.

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Brooke Theron has booked 3 trips for us, France and Tunisia in 2025 and we have just returned from a 2 week trip from China. The entire trip was flawless, from the research to the booking Brooke is always soo helpful in whole process. Brooke always works with us to answer any questions and make sure any request we have can be added. Our tour guides James, Helen, Felicity and Keira and drivers were all top notch with lots of information on each stop and sent us onto our next stop with no problems. The hotels, trains and tours were all excellent. We couldn't have asked for more I look forward to working with Brooke and Goway tours on our next vacation.Maddie

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What do the experts say?

Yael Marom

Destination Specialist

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The staff at the lodges are all exceptional and really go out of their way to make your stay memorable. In one lodge, the wake up call included him singing "The Lion Sleeps Tonight" to me.

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Laura Vagners

Destination Specialist

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Gorilla trekking is such a unique experience - it can only be done in this part of the world. While the gorilla trekk is such a highlight, the surrounding areas are so beautiful it is worth considering spending more time in destination.

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Classic Uganda: Gorillas, Chimps & Safari

Trip Features

Trip Itinerary

At a Glance

Arrive in Entebbe

Entebbe to Bwindi

Gorilla Trekkking

Bwindi to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Chimp Trekking and Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park to Kibale

Kibale National Park and Bigodi Swamp

Depart from Kibale

Detailed Itinerary

Arrive in Entebbe

Entebbe to Bwindi

Gorilla Trekkking

Bwindi to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Chimp Trekking and Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park to Kibale

Kibale National Park and Bigodi Swamp

Depart from Kibale

Departures

Terms and Conditions

What to Expect

Explore what moves you.

Most Popular Time to Travel

Know when to go.

Our Commitment

Why Travel with Goway?

What do the experts say?

Yael Marom

Laura Vagners

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