The 7 Days Empire of Apes Safari is a breathtaking primate adventure that takes you deep into Uganda’s rainforests to witness some of the world’s rarest and most intelligent creatures – mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and other primates. This immersive safari combines treks through Kibale Forest, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, offering a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience.
Tailored for primate lovers, nature photographers, and adventure seekers, this safari takes you to the heart of Uganda’s jungles where chimpanzees scream through the canopy, gorillas lounge in dense bamboo, and the Big Five roam across the savannah. The Empire of Apes Safari is not just about wildlife – it’s about connection, conservation, and discovery.
Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest – the primate capital of the world
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – encounter mountain gorillas in the wild
Game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park – look out for tree-climbing lions
Boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel – spot hippos, crocs, and elephants
Scenic drives through Uganda’s lush countryside and crater lakes
Cultural experiences with local communities
Bird watching and scenic nature walks
One of the best safaris in Africa for primate and wildlife enthusiasts
Visit three major national parks with diverse ecosystems and animals
Small group or private departures with expert guides
High chances of gorilla and chimp sightings
Opportunity to see over 12 species of primates in their natural habitats
Combines adventure, culture, and scenic beauty
At the edge of the Albertine rift in South Western Uganda lies the vast and misty Bwindi impenetrable forest which stretches over a formation of steep mountains. This ancient pristine forest is home to families of formidable mountain gorillas that we will encounter within this 7 days adventure. Our expedition will bring us into the homes of energetic chimps in Kibale forest and draw us to the most scenic park in Uganda.
After a sumptuous breakfast in Kampala, we drive west, taking in the scenic views as we head to Fort Portal, a beautiful town nestled in the shadow of the “Mountains of the Moon.” Enjoy a short respite in this charming town before moving on to the idyllic formations of the crater lakes. From Fort Portal, we set a course for the thriving forest of Kibale National Park, where we turn in for the night at our booked safari lodge.
Meal Plan: Half-Board.
The evergreen Kibale Forest holds the widest variety and highest concentration of primates in East Africa. On a guided nature walk, we encounter wild chimpanzee, red-tailed monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys and more. We return to our lodge for lunch and later set out to Bigodi Swamp, an ideal place for bird lovers. After a satisfying day of exploration, we return to our lodge in time for dinner.
All meals included
Drinking water (Other drinks not included)
We check out of our lodge and head out for a brief tour at Lake Nkuruba, where we will see magnificent views of the vibrant crater lakes, cradled in vegetation and gentle hills. After lunch, we head toward the popular Queen Elizabeth National Park just in time for an evening game drive. We hope to see warthogs, buffalo, waterbucks and elephants before checking in for a night of comfort at our booked Lodge.
Meal Plan: Full-Board.
The crisp morning opens with a game drive to seek out various animals; this is a great opportunity for wildlife sightings as animals tend to be more active in the wee hours. We return from our adventure in the beautiful savannah to some much-needed relaxation and lunch before we head out on an afternoon boat cruise along Kazinga Channel. Hippos, crocodiles, and other mammals, reptiles, and birds congregate at the shores in the afternoon heat. We will drive to the crater lakes and take in the scenic views before returning to the lodge in time for dinner.
Meal Plan: Full-Board.
Today we depart from Queen Elizabeth, but not before attempting to set eyes on the tree climbing lions of Ishasha. We cross stunning landscapes to reach Bwindi National Park, where we will seek out another rare creature, the mountain gorilla.
Meal Plan: Half-Board.
After breakfast, we set out for a briefing at the park offices where we are allocated gorilla tracking groups and given tips in preparation for a close encounter with the gentle giants. Guided by an experienced tracker, we brave a challenging trek through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest; it may take minutes or hours of pushing through vegetation before we set our eyes on a colossal dominant silverback male and his group.
Upon return from the deep forest, you will receive your gorilla tracking certificate, and later, after refreshing at the lodge, set out for a community walk, a charming experience with the local people and a closer look into their culture.
Meal Plan: Full-Board.
After a fun-filled adventure of seven days, we check out of the lodge and begin our journey to a preferred drop off point in Kampala/Entebbe. Our first stop will be in Mbarara for lunch and last stop at the Uganda Equator for pictures and shopping for various souvenirs or gifts for friends and family.
Meal Plan: Half-Board
Important to Know
Rates Per Person
$2,615 per person when 1 person travels alone
$1,975 per person when 2 persons travel together
$1,897 per person when 3 persons travel together
$1,844 per person when 4 persons travel together
$1,753 per person when 5 persons travel together
$1,680 per person when 6 persons travel together
June to October – Best time for gorilla and chimpanzee tracking, dry trails
December to February – Good weather and active wildlife
March to May / November – Rainy season; fewer tourists but muddy trails
Q: Is the gorilla trekking permit included?
A: Yes. Your safari package includes gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits.
Q: How difficult is gorilla trekking?
A: Moderate to strenuous. It may involve several hours of hiking in mountainous terrain. Porters are available.
Q: Can this tour be customized?
A: Absolutely! Add days, upgrade accommodations, or fly instead of drive.
Q: Are vaccinations or health precautions required?
A: Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory. Antimalarial precautions and COVID-19 vaccines are recommended.
Q: What should I pack?
A: Sturdy boots, long-sleeved clothing, gloves, rain jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle.
Join us on a soul-stirring journey into the Empire of Apes and experience a primate safari like no other. From the dense jungles of Bwindi to the lively treetops of Kibale, this is your chance to walk among the wild and leave with stories that will echo for a lifetime.
Tanzania is a year-round safari destination with many adventures being offered all over the country. For optimal wildlife sightings, the dry season from June to October is your best bet! Read more on when to visit Tanzania
Both have their perks with Big Five national parks, the incredible Great Migration and that quintessential African experience we all dream of. Check out our article on Serengeti vs Masai Mara to help you decide.
They both have such different safari experiences! Tanzania offers Big Five game reserves on classic dusty desert plains, rather South Africa partners the Big Five animals with luscious winelands. Both are just as good, but it depends on your safari style.
That’s a tough one! Botswana is home to herds of elephants at Chobe and the sparkling Okavango Delta, and Tanzania has the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro and Great Migration. Check out our article on Botswana vs Tanzania safaris to help you decide.
Tanzania is in general a safe, hassle-free country. However, like most places, you do need to take precautions and listen to your tour guide. It also pays to read our articles on ‘Things to know before going to Tanzania’.
A camera and binoculars are a must. You’ll regret it if you don’t take them! As for clothing, definitely pack lightweight, breathable clothing. Remember, Tanzania is an arid country so the days can get quite hot. Read more on what to pack for a safari in Tanzania in our travel magazine
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