The Pearl of Africa
Gorillas in Bwindi, chimpanzees in Kibale and the source of the Nile.
The journey
Mountain gorillas in Bwindi, chimpanzees in Kibale, the tree-climbing lions of Queen Elizabeth, and the source of the Nile at Jinja: Africa’s Pearl at its most remarkable.
When to go
June to August & December to February
This is the ultimate time to visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Forest trails are significantly less muddy, making the steep volcanic hikes much safer and easier. The clear skies also mean better lighting for wildlife photography.
January to February & July to August
During these peak dry windows, vegetation in parks like Queen Elizabeth National Park and Murchison Falls National Park thins out. Animals gather around shrinking waterholes, making them much easier to spot.
March, September to November
Trekking trails can get slippery, but the parks are beautifully green, the air is crisp, and it is an exceptional time for birdwatching as migratory species arrive.
April to May
This is the peak of the “long rains”. Heavy downpours can cause road delays, and the dense forest foliage makes tracking primates slightly more challenging. However, many luxury lodges offer massive, discounted accommodation rates, and you will have the gorilla families almost entirely to yourself.
Highlights
From the highlands of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to Kibale and Queen Elizabeth, Uganda offers travelers the opportunity to see rare primates, tree-climbing lions, authentic cultures and fascinating eco-systems.
Face to Face with Mountain Gorillas
White Water Rafting on the Source of the Nile
Lions in the Fig Trees
Following Chimps Through the Canopy
Batwa Forest Traditions
Intimate Lodges in Wild Settings
Questions
Quick answers before you start. Anything else, our travel advisors are a message away.
Ask about UgandaAs early as possible. Permits are limited to eight visitors per gorilla family per day and sell out months ahead in peak season. We secure permits as soon as travel dates are confirmed.
Most itineraries combine private road transfers with experienced driver-guides and domestic flights from Entebbe to airstrips near Bwindi, Kibale and Queen Elizabeth. Flying saves many hours on long road journeys.
We recommend 8 to 12 days to combine gorillas, chimpanzees and a savannah safari. Shorter gorilla-focused trips of three to four days are also possible.
More of the continent
