11-Day Primates of the Great Rift Valley Safari, Uganda

Upon arrival at Entebbe Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by a Wildhorn Africa representative and transferred to the peaceful haven of Hotel No. 5. This elegant boutique retreat offers a serene atmosphere and subtle luxury, making it the perfect place to unwind and refresh before your safari begins. Spend the night at Hotel No. 5, where the gentle sounds of nature and a delightful breakfast will set the tone for the adventure of a lifetime.

Wake up early for an unforgettable trek into Kibale Forest, often hailed as the primate capital of the world. The forest hums with life as you venture beneath its towering canopy, the calls of chimpanzees echoing through the trees. Soon, you’ll find yourself face-to-face with these remarkable primates, watching as they swing effortlessly through the branches—a breathtaking experience that will remain etched in your memory.

In the afternoon, explore the Bigodi Wetland, a haven for birders and nature lovers alike. Keep your eyes open for the rare red colobus monkey, the shy sitatunga antelope, and a dazzling array of bird species, including the striking great blue turaco. As the day winds down, return to Kibale Lodge with Wildhorn Africa, where the enchanting spirit of the forest lingers long into the night.

Today brings another chance to encounter the remarkable chimpanzees of Kibale, with each trek offering a new and unforgettable experience. As you explore, stay alert for the forest’s many other inhabitants—from the lively olive baboons to the elusive bushbabies that emerge from the undergrowth.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Sadhguru School, a place where education and conservation come together to inspire Uganda’s next generation. As the day winds down, return to the serene comfort of Kibale Lodge with Wildhorn Africa, where you can unwind and reflect on the extraordinary memories made.

After a relaxed breakfast, continue your adventure with Wildhorn Africa to Kyambura Gorge Lodge, set on the edge of Queen Elizabeth National Park. As you drive through the park, keep an eye out for lions, leopards, elephants, and the elegant Uganda kob. Following lunch, embark on a hike along the Fig Tree Trail, descending into the enchanting Kyambura Gorge. This lush, hidden chasm feels like another world, home to a small, isolated group of chimpanzees known as the “Lost Chimpanzees of Kyambura.” While sightings are never guaranteed, the gorge’s sheer beauty is a reward in itself.

Back at the lodge, you’ll have the chance to review camera trap footage, offering a glimpse into the nocturnal lives of the wildlife that roams the gorge. Spend the night at Kyambura Gorge Lodge, where the wonders of the day linger in your dreams.

As the first light spreads across the savannah, set out on an early morning game drive through the Kasenyi Plains with Wildhorn Africa. Here, lions stalk their prey, elephants move gracefully in herds, and leopards lurk in the thickets, waiting to be spotted. Accompanied by a member of the Kyambura Wildlife Team, you’ll also gain insight into the vital lion monitoring project dedicated to safeguarding these magnificent predators.

In the afternoon, shift from land to water with a scenic boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel. The riverbanks bustle with wildlife—hippos wallow in the shallows while elephants and buffalo gather at the edge to drink. As evening falls, return to the lodge to savor cocktails on the veranda, watching the sun set behind the gorge in a breathtaking golden glow. Overnight at Kyambura Gorge Lodge, where the wilderness blends seamlessly with comfort and luxury.

After a delightful bush breakfast, lace up your boots for another trek into the mystical Kyambura Gorge. This time, your adventure goes beyond searching for chimpanzees, as your guide helps you follow tracks and uncover the hidden stories of the wildlife that flourishes within this unique ecosystem.

Later in the day, you’ll engage with the Kyambura Gorge Eco-Tourism Project—perhaps trying your hand at roasting coffee alongside the Kyambura Women’s Coffee Cooperative or planting a tree in the wildlife buffer zone to contribute to conservation efforts. As evening falls, gather with the local community for a barbecue and a storytelling session that weaves together wildlife and culture. Spend the night at Kyambura Gorge Lodge with Wildhorn Africa, where the essence of Uganda’s wilderness truly comes alive.

Take a flight to Kisoro, then continue by road to the stunning Mount Gahinga Lodge, beautifully set at the base of the Virunga Volcanoes. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in culture with a visit to the Gahinga Batwa Village, where one of Africa’s oldest communities will share stories of their heritage as forest-dwelling hunter-gatherers.

Later, unwind with cocktails and a fireside conversation with a veterinarian from the Gorilla Doctors, gaining insight into the vital work being done to protect these endangered primates. Overnight at Mount Gahinga Lodge with Wildhorn Africa, where the clear night skies glow brilliantly above the volcanoes.

Today, prepare for one of the most unforgettable adventures on the planet—gorilla trekking. The trek leads you through steep, lush forests, and while the journey can be demanding, the reward is beyond measure as you come face-to-face with a family of mountain gorillas. Observing these gentle giants in their natural environment is both humbling and awe-inspiring, leaving memories to last a lifetime.

After this remarkable experience, return to the lodge and indulge in a soothing Rungu massage at the Gahinga Spa, the perfect way to unwind. Spend the night at Mount Gahinga Lodge with Wildhorn Africa, where relaxation perfectly complements the day’s adventure.

Your final full day in Uganda with Wildhorn Africa begins with a trek into the foothills of the Virunga Mountains to track the rare and playful golden monkeys. Their striking golden coats and energetic behavior make them a delight to observe as they leap gracefully through the treetops. In the afternoon, take time to relax or revisit the Batwa Heritage Trail, offering a deeper appreciation of the land and its people. Overnight at Mount Gahinga Lodge, where the peaceful embrace of the mountains provides the perfect ending to your adventure.

As your journey with Wildhorn Africa comes to an end, you’ll transfer to Kisoro airstrip for your return flight to Entebbe. Along the way, you’ll carry cherished memories of remarkable encounters with Uganda’s wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and warm-hearted people. Flight schedules are designed to connect seamlessly with international departures, giving you time to reflect on the unforgettable experiences from this magical land.