6 Days Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi NP, Lake Bunyonyi, Queen Elizabeth NP

A 6 Days Uganda Gorilla Tracking safari is a perfect blend of primate encounters, classic savannah wildlife, and breathtaking scenery. This journey takes you to the misty forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for mountain gorilla trekking, the wildlife-rich plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park, and the serene beauty of Lake Bunyonyi, one of Africa’s most picturesque lakes.

This itinerary offers an unforgettable combination of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery in southwestern Uganda.

Below is a detailed day-by-day program for your 6 Days Uganda Gorilla Tracking experience.

Day 1: Transfer from Entebbe / Kampala to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Your safari begins with an early morning departure from Entebbe or Kampala, driving southwest through Uganda’s scenic countryside. Pass tea plantations, rolling hills, and traditional villages as you journey toward Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Arrive in time for lunch and check in at your lodge.

Afternoon Game Drive

In the afternoon, enjoy your first game drive in the Kasenyi Plains, where you may encounter elephants, buffaloes, lions, Uganda kob, and warthogs. The open savannah and crater lakes create stunning photographic backdrops.

Dinner and overnight in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Day 2: Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Safari

Morning Game Drive

Start the day with an early morning game drive, the best time to spot predators such as lions and leopards, as well as large herds of antelope and elephants.

Afternoon Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel

After lunch, take a relaxing boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake Edward and Lake George. The channel hosts one of the highest concentrations of hippos in Africa, along with Nile crocodiles, buffaloes, elephants, and countless bird species.

Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 3: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Ishasha Sector)

After breakfast, drive south through the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions often seen resting in fig trees.

Continue to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.

Arrive at your forest lodge in the evening, relax, and prepare for the next day’s gorilla trek.

Day 4: Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

This is the highlight of your 6 Days Uganda Gorilla Tracking safari.

After an early breakfast, report to the park headquarters for a briefing by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. You will be assigned a gorilla family and begin your trek into the dense rainforest.

The trek may take between 1 and 5 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location. Once found, you’ll spend one unforgettable hour observing them at close range as they feed, groom, and interact.

Return to your lodge for lunch and spend the afternoon relaxing, enjoying the cool forest atmosphere.

Day 5: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi

After breakfast, drive to Lake Bunyonyi, often called the “Switzerland of Africa” due to its terraced hills and dotted islands. The lake is one of the deepest in Africa and is free of crocodiles and hippos, making it ideal for relaxation.

Afternoon at Leisure

Enjoy a canoe ride, a nature walk, or simply relax by the lakeside, taking in the tranquil scenery and fresh air.

Dinner and overnight at a lakeside lodge.

Day 6: Return to Entebbe / Kampala – Departure

After a relaxed breakfast with views over Lake Bunyonyi, begin your return journey to Entebbe or Kampala. En route, you may stop at the Equator for photos and souvenir shopping.

Arrive in the evening for your onward flight or hotel drop-off, marking the end of your memorable 6 Days Uganda Gorilla Tracking adventure.

What to Pack for Your 6 Days Uganda Gorilla Tracking Safari

  • Long-sleeved shirts and trousers

  • Waterproof hiking boots

  • Rain jacket or poncho

  • Gardening gloves for forest trekking

  • Insect repellent

  • Sun hat and sunscreen

  • Camera and binoculars

  • Reusable water bottle

Best Time to Go for Gorilla Tracking in Uganda

The best time for gorilla tracking is during the dry seasons:

  • June to September

  • December to February

These months offer better hiking conditions and easier access to forest trails, though gorilla trekking is possible year-round.

FAQs

How difficult is gorilla trekking in Bwindi?
Moderate fitness is required. Treks can be challenging due to steep and muddy terrain, but the experience is extremely rewarding.

How close will I get to the gorillas?
You will observe them from about 7 meters, under the guidance of trained rangers.

Is Lake Bunyonyi safe for swimming?
Yes, it is one of the few lakes in Uganda free of crocodiles and hippos.

What wildlife will I see in Queen Elizabeth National Park?
You can see elephants, lions, buffaloes, leopards, hippos, crocodiles, and a wide variety of bird species.

A 6 Days Uganda Gorilla Tracking safari offers the perfect mix of thrilling wildlife encounters, iconic mountain gorilla trekking, and peaceful relaxation by Lake Bunyonyi. From the vast savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park to the misty forests of Bwindi and the calm waters of Lake Bunyonyi, this journey showcases the very best of Uganda’s natural beauty and biodiversity.