Uganda & Gorilla Trek Express

Kampala - Chimpanzee Trekking Area. Departing Kampala, we cross the Equator again and pass through fertile green hills, tangled forests. From our vehicle we witness herds of Ankole cattle with their incredible long curving horns roaming the roads and paddocks. Our first evening here is free to unwind and relax, take a walk in the surrounding areas and take in the local ambient of the community.

Please note: The pre-departure meeting is held at 18:00 on the evening prior to departure at Red Chili Hideaway in Kampala and the tour departs at 5am on Day 1. Please see the Trip Notes for further information.

Kalinzu Forest or Kyambura Gorge. Today, we head out in search of chimpanzees. Unlike their larger cousins, the mountain gorillas, chimps primarily lives in the trees, making our viewing experience one of gazing up into the dense forest canopy. Unsurprisingly, witnessing humanity’s closest relative in its natural habitat is an unforgettable experience

Please note:Chimpanzee Trek permits are issued by the wildlife authority in small group. Depending on our group size, we may trek on the afternoon of day 1, morning or afternoon of day 2, or morning of day 3.

Chimpanzee Trekking Area - Lake Bunyonyi. On day 3 we drive to Lake Bunyonyi, dotted with scenic islands and surrounded by lush forest and rolling hills. Over the next three days everyone in the group will enjoy their mountain gorilla trek, but we will split into smaller groups in order to avoid disturbing the gorillas. On the days when you are not trekking, you are free to take a boat trip to some of Lake Bunyonyi's islands, go bird-watching, visit a local village or hire canoes to paddle on the lake.

On the day of your trek, we will hike for anywhere between 30 minutes and 6 or 7 hours into Bwindi National Park (or occasionally Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda, this will be made clear to you in advance), depending on the location of the gorillas. A decent level of fitness is required as we trek through the steamy jungle. Your guide will know the location of the nearest gorilla family.

Once we have located the gorillas, you will spend around an hour watching from a safe distance. Keep quiet, keep low to the ground and follow all the instructions of your guide - this is for your safety and for the welfare of the mountain gorillas. You are welcome to take photos, as long as there is no flash.

One of the world's most endangered creatures, mountain gorillas are heavily protected, with around 1,000 animals now living in the rainforests of central Africa. Numbers have increased remarkably due to effective protection in recent years - keep your eyes peeled for the giant silverback alpha male, and some of the adorable youngsters that represent the future of their species.

When it is time to leave the gorillas, we trek back to Lake Bunyonyi, where you can reflect on what is sure to be the highlight of your African adventure. The rest of your time here is at leisure, whilst the rest of our group completes their trek.

Lake Bunyonyi - Kampala. Leaving the mountain gorillas and Lake Bunyonyi behind, we return to Kampala, skirting around the northern edge of Lake Victoria. Our tour arrangements come to an end on arrival back in the city.