5-Day Itinerary to Queen Elizabeth & Bwindi forest National Park
Tour Overview
This 5-day tour will take you through the stunning landscapes of Queen Elizabeth National Park, known for its diverse wildlife and scenic Kazinga Channel and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to the iconic mountain gorillas.
You’ll enjoy game drives, boat cruises and gorilla trekking, creating unforgettable experiences in two of Uganda’s most celebrated parks.
Tour Highlights
Exciting game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel.
A chance to spot tree-climbing lions in Ishasha.
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Scenic views of the rift valley and rolling hills of southwestern Uganda.
Route Summary.
Day 1: Kampala/Entebbe to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Starting Point: Kampala or Entebbe
Route: Kampala – Masaka – Mbarara – Bushenyi – Queen Elizabeth National Park
Travel Time: Approximately 6-7 hours
Key Stops: Equator Crossing in Kayabwe, tea plantations in Bushenyi
Day 3: Queen Elizabeth National Park (Ishasha Sector) to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Starting Point: Queen Elizabeth National Park (Ishasha sector)
Route: Ishasha sector – Kihihi – Buhoma (Bwindi Impenetrable National Park)
Travel Time: Approximately 4-5 hours
Key Stops: Ishasha sector for tree-climbing lions
Day 5: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to Kampala/Entebbe
Starting Point: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Route: Bwindi – Kihihi – Rukungiri – Ntungamo – Mbarara – Masaka – Kampala/Entebbe
Travel Time: Approximately 8-9 hours
Key Stops: Scenic viewpoints along the Kigezi Highlands, Rukungiri for snacks/stretch break.
Key Points to Note
Gorilla Trekking Permits: Permits should be secured in advance before the day of trekking.
Health Considerations: Ensure you are in good physical health for gorilla trekking as it can be physically demanding.
Packing Tips: Bring sturdy hiking boots, a rain jacket, insect repellent and sunscreen for comfort during the trip.
Accommodation Options: Mid-range and budget lodges are available. Pre-booking is essential, especially during peak seasons.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Pick-up from your desired location (Kampala or Entebbe) and begin the scenic drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, passing through the beautiful countryside. Arrive at the park and check into your lodge. Take a short evening game drive as you get a feel for the wildlife in the park.
Accommodation:
Luxury. Mweya safari lodge
Mid-range. Enganzi game lodge
Budget. Pumba safari cottages
Day 2: Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
Head out for a game drive in the Kasenyi Plains to spot elephants, buffalos, lions, leopards and a variety of antelopes.
Return to the lodge for breakfast and a bit of relaxation.
Enjoy a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, where you can view hippos, crocodiles and birds in their natural habitat. Optional game drives in the evening or relax at the lodge.
Accommodation:
Luxury. Mweya safari lodge
Mid-range. Enganzi game lodge
Budget. Pumba safari cottages
Day 3: Transfer to Bwindi via Ishasha Sector
After breakfast, drive towards Bwindi Impenetrable National Park through the Ishasha sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions.
Keep an eye out for these unique predators resting in fig trees. Arrive in Bwindi and check into your lodge.
The rest of the day is free to relax and prepare for gorilla trekking.
Accommodation:
Luxury. Buhoma lodge.
Mid-range: haven lodge buhoma
Budget: buhoma community rest camp
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After an early breakfast, proceed to the park headquarters for a briefing about the gorilla trekking experience.
You’ll then head into the forest in search of a gorilla family.Spend an hour with the gorillas once you find them, observing their behavior and interactions. Return to your lodge to relax or take a nature walk around the community.
Accommodation:
Luxury. Buhoma lodge.
Mid-range: haven lodge buhoma
Budget: buhoma community rest camp
Day 5: Departure
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before starting your journey back to Kampala or Entebbe, with scenic stops along the way. Arrive at your desired drop-off location, marking the end of your safari adventure.
End of tour. Thank you for entrusting gecko safaris Africa .
Tour Includes & Excludes
TOUR INCLUDES
- Transportation
- A professional tour guide
- Entry and trekking fees plus permits
- All activities unless labeled optional
- Drinking water
- Accommodation and meals
- Airport transfers
TOUR EXCLUDES
- Visa
- International flights
- Gratuity (tip)
- Laundry services
- Beverages
- Souvenirs
