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5-Day Bwindi Gorilla Trekking, Lake Bunyonyi & Queen Elizabeth Safari (Midrange Tour)

Destinations: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park • Lake Bunyonyi • Queen Elizabeth National Park 

Travel Style: Midrange lodges and camps 

Ideal for: Solo travelers, couples, small groups, and adventure seekers

Uganda’s Wild Heart in Five Days

This safari blends three of Uganda’s most iconic destinations into a compact, unforgettable journey. Trek through the misty jungles of Bwindi to meet endangered mountain gorillas, unwind by the island-dotted waters of Lake Bunyonyi, and explore the savannahs and wetlands of Queen Elizabeth National Park, home to tree-climbing lions, elephants, and hippos. Whether you're traveling solo or with friends, this itinerary offers the perfect mix of thrill, tranquility, and discovery.


a gorilla standing in the middle of a lush green forest


Day-by-Day Itinerary

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

Drive Time: ~6–7 hours

Activities:

  • Early morning departure through Uganda’s scenic countryside, crossing the equator.

  • Lunch en route in Mbarara.

  • Evening arrival at Queen Elizabeth NP with time to relax at the lodge overlooking the savannah.

Accommodation: Irungu Forest Safari Lodge 

Amenities: Panoramic views, en-suite rooms, pool, restaurant, Wi-Fi

Day 2: Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Safari

Activities:

  • Morning Game Drive (Kasenyi Plains): Spot elephants, buffaloes, lions, antelopes, and more. Duration: 2.5–3 hours

  • Afternoon Boat Cruise (Kazinga Channel): See hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife along the water. Duration: 2 hours

Accommodation: Same as Day 1

Day 3: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Drive Time: ~4–5 hours via Ishasha

Activities:

  • Scenic drive through the Ishasha sector, famous for tree-climbing lions.

  • Continue to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home of the mountain gorillas.

  • Evening relaxation at your forest lodge.

Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Camp

Amenities: En-suite rooms, hot showers, Wi-Fi, forest views, restaurant & bar

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi & Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi

Activities:

  • Gorilla Trekking: After briefing, trek through dense rainforest with rangers to meet your assigned gorilla family. Spend one magical hour with them. Duration: 2–6 hours depending on gorilla location.

  • Afternoon Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi: A short 2–3 hour drive brings you to Uganda’s most scenic lake, dotted with 29 islands. Evening leisure by the lakeside.

Accommodation: Arcadia Cottages 

Amenities: Lakeside dining, canoe rentals, Wi-Fi, bar & restaurant

Day 5: Lake Bunyonyi Exploration & Return to Kampala/Entebbe

Drive Time: ~8–9 hours

Activities:

  • Morning Canoe Ride or Island Visit: Explore Punishment Island or Kyahugye Island, enjoy birdwatching and cultural stories. Duration: 1.5–2 hours

  • Scenic Drive Back: Lunch stop in Mbarara and equator photo opportunity.

  • Optional Airport Drop-Off or Overnight Stay depending on flight schedule.

Key Tour Highlights

  • Gorilla trekking in Bwindi’s ancient rainforest
  • Canoe ride and island visits on Lake Bunyonyi
  • Game drive in Queen Elizabeth NP’s savannah plains
  • Boat safari on the hippo-filled Kazinga Channel
  • Scenic drives through Uganda’s highlands and tea estates

Major Attractions

Destination
Highlight
Bwindi Impenetrable NPMountain gorillas, rainforest trekking
Lake BunyonyiCanoeing, birdwatching, island visits
Queen Elizabeth NPBig game viewing, boat cruise, tree-climbing lions

Inclusions

  • Gorilla trekking permit (USD 800 per person)
  • All ground transport in 4x4 safari vehicle
  • 4 nights midrange accommodation
  • All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
  • Park entry fees and ranger guides
  • Canoe ride on Lake Bunyonyi
  • Kazinga Channel boat cruise
  • Bottled drinking water during transfers

Exclusions

  • International flights
  • Uganda visa fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips and personal expenses
  • Optional activities not listed
  • Alcoholic beverages

Accommodation Overview

Lodge Name
Location
Key Amenities
Rushaga Gorilla LodgeBwindiForest views, hot showers, Wi-Fi
Arcadia CottagesLake BunyonyiLakeside dining, canoe rentals, Wi-Fi
Irungu Forest Safari LodgeQueen Elizabeth NPPanoramic views, pool, en-suite rooms

Ready to Trek, Cruise, and Explore Uganda’s Wild Wonders?

Whether you're traveling solo or with a group, this midrange safari offers the perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and cultural immersion.

Inquire now

Book your safari

Request a customized itinerary  

Email: info@nileabenteuer.com

Website: www.nileabenteuersafaris.com 

Call: +256 393 000382

WhatsApp: +256 742 603325

Let Uganda move you.