21 Days Wildlife & Primates Safari Overview
The 21 Days Wildlife & Primates Safari – Rwanda Uganda is a long East African safari. It combines wildlife viewing, chimpanzee tracking, mountain gorilla trekking, nature walks, boat trips and cultural visits.
First, the route takes you through Murchison Falls, Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi, Volcanoes National Park, Mgahinga, Lake Bunyonyi and Lake Mburo. Then, the journey continues to Jinja and Kampala.
In addition, the trip includes Kaniyo Pabidi, Kyambura Gorge, Ishasha, Lake Mutanda and a Rwanda gorilla trekking experience. Optional activities can be added after they are confirmed.
Safari Highlights
First, the safari covers several of the main wildlife and primate areas in Uganda and Rwanda. Then, each stop adds a different experience.
- Murchison Falls National Park: Enjoy game drives and a boat trip on the Victoria Nile.
- Kaniyo Pabidi: Explore a forest area known for primates and chimpanzee experiences.
- Kibale National Park: Track chimpanzees and look for other forest primates.
- Queen Elizabeth National Park: Enjoy game drives and a boat trip on the Kazinga Channel.
- Kyambura Gorge: Search for chimpanzees in a forested gorge.
- Ishasha Sector: Search for the famous tree-climbing lions of southern Queen Elizabeth.
- Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: Take part in a mountain gorilla trekking experience.
- Volcanoes National Park: Cross into Rwanda for another gorilla trekking experience.
- Mgahinga National Park: Golden monkey trekking can be added to the final confirmed plan.
- Lake Bunyonyi: Relax beside one of southwestern Uganda's scenic lakes.
- Lake Mburo National Park: Enjoy wildlife viewing, a boat trip and a horseback safari option.
- Jinja & the Nile: Finish with white-water rafting and optional bungee jumping.
Wildlife & Primates You May See
Wildlife sightings depend on the season, habitat and animal movement. However, the source itinerary includes many savannah animals, forest primates, mountain gorillas, golden monkeys and birds.
Detailed 21-Day Safari Itinerary
The itinerary below keeps each day short and easy to scan. First, the trip focuses on northern and western Uganda. Next, it moves to Bwindi and Rwanda. Finally, it returns to southern Uganda, Jinja and Kampala.
Journey to Murchison Falls
First, leave Kampala or Entebbe and travel to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda's largest national park.
Along the way, enjoy views of the Ugandan countryside. Then, continue to the Murchison Falls area.
Kaniyo Pabidi
The source itinerary includes a visit around Kaniyo Pabidi. The area is linked to forest primates and chimpanzee experiences.
After that, continue to your accommodation for dinner and overnight.
Morning Game Drive
Start the day with a game drive along the northern bank of the Nile.
You may see Rothschild's giraffes, hartebeest, elephants, lions, waterbucks and many birds.
Victoria Nile Boat Cruise
After the game drive and lunch, enjoy a boat trip on the Victoria Nile toward the base of Murchison Falls.
Along the river, look for hippos, crocodiles, elephants and water birds. Shoebill sightings are also possible.
Morning Wildlife Drive
Next, enjoy another wildlife drive around Murchison Falls. Search for elephants, lions, buffaloes, giraffes, hartebeest and waterbuck.
Kaniyo Pabidi Chimpanzee Experience
Then, enjoy a forest experience at Kaniyo Pabidi. Rangers can help visitors search for chimpanzees and learn about forest life.
Finally, return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Transfer to Kibale
After breakfast, travel toward Kibale Forest National Park through Fort Portal.
Kibale is known for chimpanzees and other forest primates. Therefore, it is an important stop on this safari.
Kibale Forest
On arrival, settle into your accommodation. Then, prepare for the next day's chimpanzee tracking.
Chimpanzee Tracking
After breakfast, begin the chimpanzee tracking experience in Kibale Forest.
The source itinerary describes about four hours of tracking. You may also see red colobus, L'Hoest's monkeys, blue monkeys, red-tailed monkeys and grey-cheeked mangabeys.
Bigodi Swamp
After lunch, continue with a walk around Bigodi Swamp. The source itinerary describes this as a community-based experience.
Journey to Queen Elizabeth
Next, travel from Kibale to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Along the way, the landscape changes from forest to open areas. Because of this, the drive offers a varied view of western Uganda.
Wildlife Viewing
Depending on the time of arrival, enjoy wildlife viewing in the park. Possible sightings include lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards and antelope.
Wildlife Game Drive
Start the day with a game drive through Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Search for lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kob, topi, bushbuck and other wildlife.
Kazinga Channel
After the game drive, enjoy a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake Edward and Lake George.
During the cruise, look for hippos, crocodiles and many birds.
Kyambura Gorge
Next, travel to Kyambura Gorge for a chimpanzee tracking experience.
The gorge has forest, birds and butterflies. Meanwhile, visitors can search for chimpanzees with guides.
Katwe Crater Lakes & Salt Mining
Later, visit the Katwe salt mining area. This gives you a chance to learn about local salt production.
Ishasha Sector
Travel to the southern Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Ishasha is known for tree-climbing lions. The area also has elephants, buffaloes, topi and other wildlife.
Wildlife Viewing
Enjoy game viewing across the Ishasha landscape. Then, continue with the safari route toward Bwindi.
Tree-climbing lion sightings are possible. However, sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Queen Elizabeth Game Drive
First, enjoy another wildlife drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Then, continue toward the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest area.
The source itinerary highlights the Ishasha route and its wildlife views.
Journey to Bwindi
Continue toward Bwindi, which is home to mountain gorillas and a rich forest environment.
Journey to Bwindi
Continue to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, home to mountain gorillas and many forest animals and birds.
The source itinerary highlights Bwindi's dense forest, steep paths and rich wildlife.
Gorilla Trek Preparation
After arrival, settle into your accommodation. Then, prepare for the next day's mountain gorilla trekking.
Mountain Gorilla Trekking
After breakfast, go to the gorilla trekking briefing point with your packed lunch and trekking gear.
Then, enter the forest with ranger guides and search for one of Bwindi's habituated mountain gorilla groups.
Gorilla Encounter
Trekking time depends on the location and movement of the gorilla family. Therefore, the trek can take different amounts of time.
After the trek, return to the lodge to rest. An optional cultural experience may also be available.
Bwindi Forest Experience
Enjoy time around the Bwindi forest with a nature or forest walk, based on the confirmed plan.
Lake Mutanda
Later, continue toward the Lake Mutanda / Kisoro area. The area has views of the volcanic mountains.
After arrival, settle into your accommodation. Then, prepare for the next day's border crossing.
Gahinga Experience
The source itinerary includes a Gahinga hiking experience before the trip crosses the Uganda-Rwanda border.
Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
After the hike, cross into Rwanda and continue toward Volcanoes National Park.
Check into your accommodation. Then, prepare for the next day's Rwanda gorilla trek.
Rwanda Gorilla Trekking
After an early breakfast, go to the Kinigi park headquarters for a briefing and group allocation.
Next, continue to the trailhead and hike through the volcanic mountain area in search of a gorilla family.
Gorilla Encounter
The source itinerary says that tracking can take several hours. The time depends on where the gorillas are found.
After the trek, return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.
Optional Activities
The source itinerary provides an optional day for rest and extra activities around the forest region.
For example, you may choose a local visit, nature walk or cycling experience. Golden monkey trekking can also be considered if it is added to the final confirmed plan.
- Relax and enjoy forest views
- Optional local community visit
- Optional nature walk
- Optional cycling experience
- Golden monkey trekking if confirmed
- Other activities based on availability
However, optional activities are not included unless they are listed in the final safari quotation.
Journey to Lake Bunyonyi
Continue toward Lake Bunyonyi, one of the scenic highland lakes in southwestern Uganda.
The lake is surrounded by hills and many small islands. Therefore, it offers a calm place to rest after the trekking days.
Nature & Boat Experience
The source itinerary includes a nature walk and boat ride around Lake Bunyonyi.
Journey to Lake Mburo
After breakfast, travel toward Lake Mburo National Park.
The source itinerary describes an early departure followed by wildlife viewing in the park.
Lake Mburo Wildlife
Possible sightings include zebras, topi, elands, impalas, buffaloes and other antelope.
Later, enjoy an afternoon boat experience on the lake.
Horseback Wildlife Experience
Enjoy a horseback riding experience in Lake Mburo National Park while looking for wildlife.
Journey to Jinja
Later, travel toward Jinja, a major adventure destination in Uganda and part of the Nile's source region.
On arrival, check into your accommodation for the night.
Nile Rafting
Begin the day with a transfer to the rafting start point for a white-water rafting experience on the Nile.
The source itinerary describes a full-day rafting trip with lunch.
Optional Bungee Jumping
The itinerary also lists bungee jumping as an optional activity.
However, adventure activities should be confirmed before travel. They also depend on operator availability and the required conditions.
Kampala City Tour
Explore Kampala, Uganda's capital, with a guide. Visit selected historical, cultural and religious sites.
The source itinerary lists possible visits to Bulange, Lubiri, Kasubi Tombs, Gaddafi Mosque, Uganda Museum, Bahai Temple, craft markets, monuments, Namugongo Martyrs Shrine, Namirembe Cathedral and Rubaga Cathedral.
Departure Transfer
After the city tour and lunch, continue to Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight.
Finally, this marks the end of the 21 Days Wildlife & Primates Safari.
Safari Inclusions & Exclusions
The final package depends on the confirmed travel plan. Therefore, check the quotation before making your booking.
Included
- Uganda gorilla trekking permit if listed in the confirmed plan
- Chimpanzee tracking permits if listed in the confirmed plan
- Relevant national park entrance fees
- Meals listed in the safari plan
- 4x4 safari transport to and from the airport
- English-speaking tour guide/driver
- Game drives listed in the itinerary
- Boat cruises listed in the itinerary
- Gorilla trekking listed in the itinerary
- Golden monkey trekking if confirmed
- Accommodation in the selected package
- Activities listed in the final quotation
Not Included
- Tourist visas and cross-border documents
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Laundry services
- Alcoholic and personal drinks
- Tips and gratuities
- Optional activities unless confirmed
- Bungee jumping unless confirmed
- Extra activities not listed in the quotation
- Services not listed as included
21 Days Wildlife & Primates Safari Cost
The source page currently shows an advertised price of USD 7,810 per person for two people. However, the final price may change based on travel dates, accommodation, permit availability, Rwanda and Uganda arrangements, optional activities and the number of travellers.
Therefore, contact Ajokis Tours & Travel for a final quotation based on your travel dates and needs.
Accommodation
The source itinerary lists accommodation in Murchison Falls, Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi, Rwanda's Volcanoes region, Kisoro, Lake Bunyonyi, Lake Mburo and Jinja.
Examples include Paraa Safari Lodge, Nile Safari Lodge, Sambiya River Lodge, Kibale Forest Camp, Ndali Lodge, Primate Lodge Kibale and Mweya Safari Lodge.
Other listed options include Hippo Hill Camp, Gorilla Forest Camp, Gorilla Resort Camp, Mt. Gahinga Volcanoes Lodge, Birdnest Bunyonyi, Mihingo Lodge and Jinja Nile Resort.
In addition, Ajokis Tours & Travel can arrange accommodation based on your budget, comfort level and availability.
What to Pack
Because the safari includes game drives, forest walks and gorilla trekking, pack light but bring useful outdoor items.
- Comfortable safari clothing
- Light long-sleeved clothing
- Strong hiking shoes
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
- Warm clothing for the highlands
- Binoculars
- Camera and spare batteries
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Hat
- Reusable water bottle
- Small day backpack
- Personal medication
- Valid passport and travel documents
Why Book This Safari With Ajokis Tours & Travel?
Uganda & Rwanda in One Journey
First, this itinerary links major wildlife and primate areas in Uganda with a gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda.
Wildlife & Primates
Next, the safari combines game drives with chimpanzee tracking, mountain gorilla trekking and other primate experiences.
Murchison Falls & the Nile
In addition, explore Murchison Falls with game drives, a Nile boat trip and a forest experience around Kaniyo Pabidi.
Queen Elizabeth & Kyambura
Then, discover Queen Elizabeth National Park, the Kazinga Channel, Kyambura Gorge and the Ishasha sector.
Two Gorilla Trekking Experiences
The source itinerary includes gorilla trekking in both Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda and Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda.
Golden Monkeys & Lake Bunyonyi
After Rwanda, the route returns toward southwestern Uganda. Golden monkey trekking can be included if confirmed, followed by Lake Bunyonyi and other highland experiences.
Adventure Finale
Finally, the trip includes Lake Mburo wildlife experiences, Jinja Nile rafting, optional bungee jumping and a Kampala city tour.
Flexible Safari Planning
Ajokis Tours & Travel can discuss your dates, accommodation choice, group size and optional activities before the safari is confirmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days is this wildlife and primates safari?
The safari lasts 21 days. It combines wildlife viewing, chimpanzee tracking, gorilla trekking, nature walks, boat trips and other activities.
Does the safari visit both Uganda and Rwanda?
Yes. The source itinerary starts in Uganda and later crosses into Rwanda for gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park.
Does the safari include gorilla trekking in Uganda?
Yes. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is scheduled for Day 12.
Does the safari include gorilla trekking in Rwanda?
Yes. Gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park is scheduled for Day 15.
Does the safari include chimpanzee tracking?
Yes. The itinerary includes chimpanzee experiences at Kaniyo Pabidi, Kibale Forest and Kyambura Gorge.
Does the safari include golden monkey trekking?
Golden monkey trekking can be included if it is added to the final confirmed plan. The supplied itinerary lists Day 16 as an optional day, so this activity should be confirmed before booking.
Can I see tree-climbing lions?
The itinerary visits the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, an area known for tree-climbing lions. However, sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Does the safari include Lake Bunyonyi?
Yes. Lake Bunyonyi is scheduled for Day 17, with a nature walk and boat experience in the source itinerary.
Does the safari include Lake Mburo?
Yes. The itinerary includes Lake Mburo wildlife viewing, a boat experience and horseback riding.
Does the safari include Nile rafting?
Yes. White-water rafting on the Nile is scheduled for Day 20 in Jinja.
Is bungee jumping included?
The source itinerary mentions bungee jumping as an optional activity. Therefore, confirm it with Ajokis Tours & Travel before the safari.
What is the advertised price?
The source page shows an advertised price of USD 7,810 per person for two people. However, Ajokis Tours & Travel should confirm the final price based on dates, accommodation, permits, cross-border plans and availability.
Can this 21-day safari be customized?
Yes. Contact Ajokis Tours & Travel with your dates, number of travellers, accommodation level and special interests.
Where does the safari end?
Finally, the source itinerary ends on Day 21 with a Kampala city tour and transfer to Entebbe International Airport.