7-Day Uganda Community & Conservation Safari | Great Apes

Adventure, culture, and environmental protection all come together on this life-altering 7-Day Uganda Community & Conservation Safari. Hotel No. 5 in Entebbe is a lovely boutique resort that provides a peaceful beginning to your Seven-Day Uganda Community & Conservation Safari adventure. Then, go on to Queen Elizabeth National Park‘s Kyambura Gorge Lodge, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture while also enjoying the untamed beauty of the savannah. Take advantage of the chance to collect honey with the neighbourhood beekeepers group or go animal viewing in the marshes.

Mount Gahinga Lodge, situated in the foothills of the Virunga Volcanoes, is the exciting apex of your tour. In the lush jungles of Mgahinga National Park, you will embark on the breathtaking 7-Day Uganda Community & Conservation Safari of gorilla trekking. Experiencing the outdoors among these docile giants in their native environment is an extraordinary gift. Join a gorilla vet for enlightening evening fireside conversations where you can learn about the vital conservation measures being made to safeguard these endangered species and secure their future.

One of the most unique cultural experiences offered by this itinerary is the opportunity to meet the Batwa, an ancient indigenous people of Africa. Learn about the Batwa’s rich history as forest dwellers and hunter-gatherers as you stroll around their hamlet and community center. This is an opportunity to see how a resilient community is building a sustainable future through conservation collaborations; it’s not just about culture; it’s about the whole experience.

A Detailed 7-Day Uganda Community & Conservation Safari

Day 1: A Boutique Hotel Beginning

Located in the quiet outskirts of Entebbe, Hotel No. 5 is a charming boutique resort known for its discreet elegance and first-rate service. Its refined decor, tranquil setting, and meticulous attention to detail make it an ideal home base for adventures in Uganda. Unwind by the refreshing pool, savour delectable dishes at the on-site restaurant, or unwind with a sundowner cocktail at the comfortable bar. It’s an ideal way to kick off your safari focused on community and conservation.

Days 2 – 3: Beekeeping & Finding Lost Chimps | 2 Nights

Kyambura Gorge Lodge is an exquisite refuge that is situated on the edge of Queen Elizabeth National Park, offering two amazing nights of relaxation. A representative will be there to help you with your domestic flight to Kasese airstrip after you are transferred from your accommodation to Entebbe Airport. As you journey through the breathtaking scenery of Queen Elizabeth National Park, your knowledgeable guides will be there to greet you and provide fascinating insights. To break up the two-hour journey, you should visit the Rwenzori Sculpture Foundation. It’s a one-of-a-kind cultural partnership that helps young artists in Uganda. You can spend your first afternoon learning how to harvest honey at the Kyambura beekeepers cooperative, or you can go for a peaceful evening stroll in the marshes and see monkeys, birds, and other animals.

On day two, you’ll have an early bush breakfast with park views before setting off on a thrilling walk via the Kyambura Gorge and the Fig Tree Trail. Here, in stark contrast to the neighbouring grasslands, you can look for the “Lost Chimps of Kyambura” as they make their way through the thick canopy. Afternoon boat rides will take you along the Kazinga Channel, an area rich in wildlife including elephants, buffalo, hippos, and a rainbow of birds.

Days 4 – 6: Gorilla Trekking & Cultural Experiences | 3 Nights

Located on the outskirts of Mgahinga National Park, at the base of the breathtaking Virunga Volcanoes, Mount Gahinga Lodge is the perfect place to spend three unforgettable days and nights. After taking an early morning flight to Kisoro, your trip continues with a beautiful one- to two-hour drive to the lodge. One of the oldest tribes in Africa, the Batwa, will have their rich culture introduced to you on your first afternoon. Learn more about the Batwa people’s history as hunter-gatherers by taking a Batwa Heritage Tour and touring their new community center and village. Start your evening off right with cocktails before dinner and a captivating fireside talk with a Gorilla Doctors vet. Hear everything about their important job to ensure the well-being of mountain gorillas.

After an early breakfast on day two, you’ll be transferred to Mgahinga National Park for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience. The journey to see these magnificent monkeys takes you through verdant bamboo woods and rugged hills. An hour spent watching them behave is awe-inspiring and provides a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with one of the most endangered species in the natural world. After a much-needed late lunch, head back to the lodge for some relaxation. The Gahinga Spa offers complimentary services, including the world-renowned Rungu massage, so you can unwind in style. You can witness the Batwa community’s efforts to create a sustainable future via their crafts at the Batwa Vocational Centre.

Take advantage of your last day by exploring the bamboo forests in search of the vivacious golden monkeys. These unique monkeys are famous for their vibrant colours and mischievous activities. The Gisozi Caldera, with its stunning panoramas of Lake Mutanda and the Kisoro Valley, is the destination of an afternoon guided walk. As the sun goes down, take in the breathtaking scenery that has made Mount Gahinga Lodge an unforgettable stop on your tour.

Day 7: Goodbye Uganda, Until We Meet Again!

Last but not least, on your last morning, you will be taken from the resort to the Kisoro airfield for your early morning flight to Entebbe. From there, you will be linked to your international flight. We look forward to seeing you return soon.

End of the 7-Day Uganda Community & Conservation Safari | Great Apes

Inclusions

  • Meals:
    Kyambura Gorge Lodge : Full Board (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
    Mount Gahinga Lodge : Full Board (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
  • All necessary permits, conservancy and park fees
  • All activities specified, including morning and evening game drives each full day on safari
  • 24/7 assistance and support during your trip

Exclusions

  • Your international flights to and from Africa + any related taxes
  • Any travel visas you require (though we help you with this)
  • Tips
  • Personal items (eg. travel insurance, souvenirs