5-Day Discounted Uganda Gorilla and Chimp Trekking Safari

Period : April, May & Nov
Pickup : Entebbe Airport
Drop-off : Entebbe Airport

Tour Overview

If you’re looking for an affordable way to experience two of Africa’s greatest wildlife encounters, this 5-Day Discounted Uganda Gorilla and Chimp Trekking safari was built for you. During April, May, and November, Uganda Wildlife Authority opens up discounted gorilla and chimpanzee permits, making this the smartest time of year to plan a Uganda gorilla trekking safari without stretching your budget.

In five unforgettable days, you’ll journey through two of Uganda’s most celebrated national parks. The trip begins in Kibale Forest National Park, home to one of Africa’s largest chimpanzee populations, where you’ll track wild chimps through dense, birdsong-filled rainforest. From there, you’ll head south to the world-famous Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for a close, unforgettable encounter with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

Cost Includes

Transportation (Car, Fuel, Driver Guide)
Meals & Accommodation as mentioned
Gorilla Trekking Permit
Chimpanzee Trekking Permit
Sabyinyo Hike Fees
Bottled Drinking Water
Government Taxes

Cost Excludes

International Flights
Accommodation Before and After your Trip
Optional Batwa Cultural Experience
Sourvenirs
Tips & Porter Hiring

Travel Plan

Day 1: Airport Pickup and Drive to Kibale Forest National Park

Your Iconic Africa Safaris guide will be waiting for you at Entebbe International Airport (or your hotel), ready to load your bags into a comfortable, private 4×4 Land Cruiser. From there, you’ll set off on a scenic drive northwest toward Kibale Forest National Park — the gateway to Uganda’s best chimpanzee trekking experience.

The drive itself is part of the adventure. You’ll pass through rolling green hills, sprawling tea plantations, and small, lively trading towns that offer a genuine glimpse into everyday Ugandan life long before you reach the forest.

Accommodation: Chimpanzee Forest Lodge (Comfortable Budget Lodge)

Meal Plan: Half-Board

Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking and Optional Bigodi Nature Walk

Kibale Forest wakes up early, and so will you. A 5:30 AM start gets you ready for breakfast and a strong cup of Ugandan coffee before a short drive to Kanyanchu Visitor Centre for your 7:30 AM ranger briefing — the official start of your chimpanzee trekking permit experience.

Trekking groups are kept small, just six visitors per group, to protect the chimps and keep the encounter personal. As you enter the thick rainforest, you’ll likely hear the chimps calling out long before you see them, followed by the thrill of spotting them swinging through the canopy, grooming one another, and feeding just overhead. Kibale is home to more than 1,500 chimpanzees, and treks typically last between two and five hours depending on how the group moves that day.

After returning to the lodge to rest and review your photos, the afternoon brings an optional different kind of walk. Around 3:00 PM, a local guide takes you through the papyrus wetlands on the Bigodi Nature Walk, a highlight often overlooked by travellers rushing straight to gorilla trekking. Here, you’ll spot some of Uganda’s 200+ recorded bird species, including turacos and hornbills, plus red colobus and black-and-white colobus monkeys moving through the trees above. Your guide will also share local knowledge about plants traditionally used for cooking and medicine. The walk runs 2–3 hours and rounds out a full, rewarding day in Kibale.

Accommodation: Chimpanzee Forest Lodge (Comfortable Budget Lodge)
Meal Plan: Full-Board

Day 3: Drive South to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

After breakfast, you’ll begin the drive south toward Bwindi Impenetrable National Park — home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The route winds through some of Uganda’s most dramatic scenery, including crater lakes, ancient forest patches, and terraced hillsides, with plenty of stops along the way for photos.

By evening, you’ll arrive at your lodge as Bwindi’s cool, misty forest settles in for the night — a fitting welcome ahead of tomorrow’s gorilla trek.

Accommodation: Gorilla Bluff Lodge (Comfortable Budget Lodge)
Meal Plan: Full-Board

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking Experience

This is the day most travellers are always counting down to. You’ll wake between 5:30 and 6:00 AM, have breakfast, and head to park headquarters by 7:30 AM for a briefing on trekking rules and safety guidelines — an essential part of every responsible gorilla trekking experience.

From there, you’ll enter Bwindi’s ancient forest in a small group of up to eight trekkers, accompanied by armed rangers and experienced guides. As you climb through the dense vegetation, birds call overhead and other forest wildlife occasionally appears between the trees. Then, often without much warning, your guide signals that the gorilla family has been found.

What follows is one hour with a wild mountain gorilla family — watching mothers tend to their young, silverbacks resting peacefully, and juveniles playing and tumbling nearby. It’s widely regarded as one of the most moving wildlife encounters anywhere on Earth, and it’s the centerpiece of this Uganda gorilla and chimp trekking safari.

Accommodation: Gorilla Bluff Lodge (Comfortable Budget Lodge)

Meal Plan: Full-Board

Day 4: Return Drive to Entebbe

After breakfast, you’ll set off on the scenic 9–10 hour return drive to Entebbe. It’s a long day on the road, but your guide will help pass the time with stories and highlights from the trip while Uganda’s countryside rolls by one last time. You’ll arrive back in Entebbe by evening, taking home memories of gorillas, chimpanzees, and Uganda’s wild landscapes that will last a lifetime.

Accommodation: None unless requested

Meal Plan: Half-Board

Answered FAQs

What is the cost per person and can this cost change?

The cost per person is $1,860 per person. This price is based on two people sharing accommodation and covers transport, meals, lodging, and both trekking permits. Groups larger than two typically pay less per person, since costs like the vehicle and guide are shared across more travellers.

When is the right time to book this discounted Uganda gorilla and chimp trekking safari?

The discounted rates apply specifically in April, May, and November, which fall within Uganda’s low seasons. These months still offer excellent trekking conditions, and the lower visitor numbers even make gorilla and chimpanzee encounters feel more private.

How physically demanding is gorilla and chimpanzee trekking in Uganda?

Both treks involve walking on uneven forest terrain, sometimes uphill, for anywhere between two and five hours depending on where the primates are found that day. A reasonable level of fitness helps, but porters are available in Bwindi to carry bags and offer support if needed.

What should I pack for this Uganda gorilla and chimp trekking trip?

Sturdy waterproof hiking boots, face-mask, gardening-style gloves, a rain jacket, long trousers, and a hat are essentials, since both forests can be muddy and thick with vegetation. A daypack, insect repellent, and a good camera or phone with extra battery are also worth bringing for the trekking days.

Are the lodges on this itinerary suitable for budget-conscious travellers?

Yes. Chimpanzee Forest Lodge and Gorilla Bluff Lodge are both comfortable budget lodges. They offer clean, private rooms and good meals without the higher price tag of luxury properties — which fits well with the overall discounted nature of this itinerary.

    
 
 
         
   Arjan L 
 1 September 2026
 
 
 Verified Extremely Satisfied! We were extremely happy with our 5 days tour with Iconic Africa Safaris. We visited Bwindi, Mgahinga for Golden Monkeys, Lake Mutanda and also did coffee experience in Kisoro. It was a very nice trip. Our guide Moses was fantastic. He was very helpful and always making sure everything was okay with us. The car was very comfortable, which was important because we had some long drives. The accommodation was also very good and the choices were top quality. Everything was well planned before we arrived. The itinerary was clear and we knew what we were going to do each day. For the Gorilla trekking, the permits were bought in advance. Iconic Africa Safaris arranged everything and sent us the soft copies of the permits. This worked very well and we did not have to worry about it. From our side, we had to change the itinerary a couple of times because of some scheduling problems. Iconic Africa Safaris was very flexible and changed the plans to fit our needs. This was really appreciated. Overall, we had a great experience with Iconic Africa Safaris. The organisation was very good and Moses was a great guide. We would definitely recommend them to anybody planning to visit Uganda.
  
 
        
   Yu L 
 16 August 2026
 
 
 Verified Title: Uganda Gorillas, Kenya Wildlife and Watamu Beach Holiday We had an amazing Uganda and Kenya adventure with Iconic Africa Safaris. Our journey started in Uganda with pickup from 2 Friends Hotel in Entebbe which was recommended by Joan. The trip was well organized from the beginning. Gorilla trekking in Uganda was one of our biggest highlights. Seeing the gorillas in their natural forest home was an incredible experience. Our guide was knowledgeable and made us feel safe throughout the trek. We then continued to Kenya for exciting wildlife safaris. We saw elephants, lions, giraffes and zebras during our game drives. Our guide was friendly and shared useful information about the animals and their surroundings. After the safari we headed to Watamu Beach on the Kenyan coast. The beautiful beach gave us the perfect place to relax after our wildlife adventures. We enjoyed the warm weather and peaceful Indian Ocean views. Iconic Africa Safaris provided excellent service and great value. We highly recommend them for a Uganda and Kenya safari with a Watamu beach holiday.Title: Uganda Gorillas, Kenya Wildlife and Watamu Beach Holiday
  
 
        
   Neve m 
 26 July 2026
 
 
 Verified Trip of a lifetime across Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda Just got back from the trip of a lifetime! 😍 18 days across Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda with Iconic Africa Safaris, and wow, what an adventure. Charles put together our whole itinerary and honestly it was perfect, no stress, just good planning from day one. Ben was our guide in Kenya and he was so much fun, always spotting animals before we even saw them. Then Clinton took over in Tanzania and showed us the Serengeti, which was breathtaking. But the best part? Rwanda with Moses, trekking through the forest to see the gorillas up close. We literally cried, it was so emotional. Every guide made us feel safe and cared for the whole trip. If you are thinking about a safari, just book it with these guys. Thank you Charles, Ben, Clinton and Moses for the memories we will keep forever!
  
 
        
   Christian T 
 18 June 2026
 
 
 Verified 8 Tage in Ruanda und Burundi – Eine Reise, die jeden Cent wert war 🇷🇼🇧🇮 Meine Freunde und ich haben 8 Tage in Ruanda und Burundi verbracht. Es war eine sehr schöne Reise von Anfang bis Ende. Unser Guide Patrick war sehr gut. Er kannte beide Länder sehr gut und erklärte uns die Tiere, die Orte und die Kultur auf einfache Weise. Wir fühlten uns während der ganzen Reise sicher und gut betreut. Ruth hat die Reise ebenfalls sehr gut organisiert. Die Höhepunkte der Reise waren das Gorilla-Trekking im Volcanoes National Park die Tiere im Akagera National Park und das traditionelle Trommeln in Gisohora Drum Sanctuary. Die Unterkünfte waren komfortabel und das Preis-Leistungs-Verhältnis war gut. Wir sind sehr glücklich nach Hause gefahren und würden jederzeit wieder mit Iconic Africa Safaris⁠ reisen.🤗
  
 
        
   Harry B 
 16 June 2026
 
 
 Verified A great adventure My Dad and I visited Murchison Falls and Kibale recently, and had an amazing experience. In organising, Charles was very easy to communicate with and helped us build a nice itinerary. Throughout the tour, we learnt a lot through both Charles and our driver Kenneth. This is a relatively new company, but they are dedicated to providing a great service, and I highly recommend.
  
 
        
   Tweneboah K 
 16 May 2026
 
 
 Verified Great Mgahinga Gorillas & Lake Mutanda Experience My girlfriend and I were warmly welcomed at Entebbe Airport by our friendly Iconic Africa safari guide, Moses. He helped us put our bags in the safari jeep and drove us to Kisoro. The journey was long, about 10 hours, but Moses made several stops so we could stretch our bodies and take photos. We stayed at Ikaze Cottages in Kisoro. It was a simple, affordable and nice place with beautiful surroundings. Thanks to Charles from Iconic for choosing it. The next day was our gorilla trekking day. We woke up very early. The road to Mgahinga was not good, but thanks to Moses for driving carefully and helping us arrive on time for this once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience. Spending one hour with the gorillas felt like heaven on earth. After seeing the gorillas, we visited Lake Mutanda. Anyone who visits Kisoro should not miss this place. We enjoyed canoeing, seeing the islands, and meeting local people around this beautiful area. I will tell my friends to tell their friends to book with you and your guide Moses.
  
 
        
   PAVAN K 
 13 May 2026
 
 
 Verified Uganda and Rwanda Magic We just returned from a combined Uganda and Rwanda tour with Iconic Africa Safaris as group of 3 friends and it was excellent. We saw the gorillas in Mgahinga, Uganda, which was the best part of our life. We then crossed back to Rwanda for the game and Lake kivu. Jimmy was our guide and he was very smart and friendly. He knew exactly where to find the animals in Akagera National Park in Rwanda. We saw elephants, rhinos, lions, antelopes,giraffes, zebras and even we were lucky to spot a leopard! We also loved the Kigali city tour. The city is very peaceful and the people are very kind. Ending the trip at Lake Kivu was a great idea because it is so quiet and pretty. Jimmy made sure we had the best food and the best rooms. We love Iconic Africa Safaris!
  
 
        
   Muhumuza m 
 10 May 2026
 
 
 Verified Customer oriented and value for money tour operator I travelled with a friend from the Netherlands and her two 14-year-old sons on a 7-day tour in Uganda organised by Iconic Africa. We chose the tour because it offered excellent value for money based on what was advertised on their website, and the experience exceeded our expectations. Since the boys were under 15 years old, gorilla trekking was not possible, but Charles did an outstanding job suggesting tailor-made alternatives that suited us perfectly. His recommended accommodation choices were also excellent. During the trip, we visited Kibale National Park for chimpanzee tracking, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Bunyonyi, and Lake Mburo National Park. Although I have visited Uganda’s national parks many times before through self-organised and self-driving trips, this experience stood out as the most memorable because of the professional service and the superb accommodation arrangements made by Charles. We had specifically requested mid-range accommodation, and everything turned out exactly as we had hoped for — comfortable, well chosen, and at a price we could comfortably afford. I am sure Charles handled many things behind the scenes, but what I would especially like to thank him for is assigning Moses as our guide, driver, counsellor, scientist, entertainer, and all-around companion throughout the journey. Moses is the best guide I have ever had. His knowledge, patience, sense of humour, and passion for Uganda made our trip truly unforgettable. He consistently went above and beyond to ensure we were comfortable, informed, and enjoying every moment of the safari. We could not have asked for a better experience, and I would highly recommend Iconic Africa to anyone planning a trip to Uganda.
  
 
        
   Zwart S 
 5 February 2026
 
 
 Verified Great Honeymoon Safari with Iconic Africa! Ronnie was an outstanding guide on our 5-day Kibale and Bwindi honeymoon safari. He made it unforgettable! The lodges -Treetops in Kibale and Gorilla Leisure Lodge in Bwindi were worth every penny. Charles in the office handled everything quickly, made easy changes to our itinerary and shared fun Uganda facts. Chimp and gorilla trekking were thrilling once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Their caring service made Uganda special in our hearts. We highly recommend this company - request Ronnie as your guide!
  
 
        
   Emile 
 23 January 2026
 
 
 Verified An Iconic Safari Indeed Our 4-day trip to Bwindi and Lake Bunyonyi with Iconic Africa Safaris was truly unforgettable. We traveled as couples and had an amazing time from start to finish. Our guide, Jimmy picked us up in Kampala for the long but incredibly scenic 9-hour drive to the Rushaga region. Gorilla trekking was the absolute highlight of the trip. Even when road delays nearly made us late for the early morning briefing, Jimmy’s quick thinking saved the day and ensured we didn’t miss a thing. We also loved visiting the Batwa community and later unwinding at Lake Bunyonyi with peaceful canoeing. On our return journey, we stopped at the Equator after Mbarara for photos, which was a perfect way to end the adventure. Everything exceeded our expectations. Jimmy was thoughtful, professional and made the journey feel very personal. We can’t wait to visit Uganda again. Thank you, Iconic Africa!