6-Day Gorilla Trekking, Wildlife & Cultural Safari Expedition (Budget Safari)
Destinations: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park • Queen Elizabeth National Park • Lake Bunyonyi • Kampala
Style: Budget lodges and community-based experiences
Ideal for: Solo travelers, student groups, adventure seekers, and cultural enthusiasts
Uganda’s Wild Soul on a Budget
This 6-day expedition takes you deep into the heart of Uganda’s natural and cultural heritage. From trekking endangered mountain gorillas in the misty jungles of Bwindi to spotting elephants and lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and connecting with local communities around Lake Bunyonyi, this safari is designed to be immersive, affordable, and unforgettable.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kampala → Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Drive Time: ~6–7 hours Activities:
- Scenic Transfer from Kampala to Queen Elizabeth NP Depart early and travel through Uganda’s lush countryside, passing tea plantations and crater lakes. Stop for lunch en route. Duration: Full-day transfer with breaks
- Evening Relaxation at Lodge Settle into your lodge near the park and enjoy sunset views over the savannah. Duration: Flexible
Accommodation: Budget Option: Pumba Safari Cottages / Tembo Safari Lodge
Amenities: En-suite rooms, local cuisine, Wi-Fi (limited), scenic views
Day 2: Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Safari
Activities:
- Morning Game Drive in Kasenyi Plains Spot elephants, buffaloes, lions, warthogs, and antelopes in the savannah. Duration: 2.5–3 hours
- Afternoon Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel Cruise past hippos, crocodiles, and water birds. Great for photography and relaxation. Duration: 2 hours
Accommodation: Same as Day 1
Day 3: Transfer to Bwindi via Ishasha Sector
Drive Time: ~4–5 hours
Activities:
- Game Drive in Ishasha Sector (Tree-Climbing Lions) Stop en route for a game drive in Ishasha, famous for lions lounging in fig trees. Duration: 2 hours
- Arrival and Relaxation at Bwindi Lodge Check into your lodge and enjoy forest views and a quiet evening. Duration: Flexible
Accommodation: Budget Option: Buhoma Community Rest Camp / Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge
Amenities: En-suite bandas or rooms, mosquito nets, hot showers, restaurant
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
Activities:
- Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest After briefing, trek through dense forest to find your assigned gorilla family. Spend one unforgettable hour with them. Duration: 2–6 hours depending on gorilla location
- Afternoon Rest or Optional Nature Walk Return to the lodge for lunch and rest. Optional guided nature walk or visit to a local craft shop. Duration: 1–2 hours (optional)
Accommodation: Same as Day 3
Day 5: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi & Canoe Ride
Drive Time: ~2–3 hours
Activities:
- Scenic Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi Drive through the highlands to Uganda’s most scenic lake, dotted with 29 islands. Duration: Morning transfer
- Afternoon Canoe Ride or Island Visit Explore the lake in a traditional dugout canoe, visiting Punishment Island or Kyahugye Island for birdwatching and cultural stories. Duration: 1.5–2 hours
Accommodation: Budget Option: Bunyonyi Overland Resort / Byoona Amagara Island Retreat Amenities: Lakeside views, restaurant, bar, canoe rentals, Wi-Fi
Day 6: Cultural Visit & Return to Kampala
Drive Time: ~7–8 hours
Activities:
- Morning Cultural Visit to Local Community or School Engage with a local youth group or school for cultural exchange, storytelling, or music. Duration: 1.5 hours
- Scenic Drive Back to Kampala Depart mid-morning, stopping for lunch and a photo opportunity at the equator monument. Duration: Full-day transfer
Key Tour Highlights
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi’s ancient rainforest
- Game drives and boat safari in Queen Elizabeth NP
- Canoeing and cultural visits at Lake Bunyonyi
- Scenic drives through Uganda’s highlands and tea estates
- Optional community engagement and nature walks
Major Attractions
Destination | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Bwindi Impenetrable NP | Mountain gorillas, rainforest trekking |
| Queen Elizabeth NP | Big game, boat cruise, tree-climbing lions |
| Lake Bunyonyi | Canoeing, birdwatching, island visits |
| Ishasha Sector | Tree-climbing lions, scenic savannah |
✅ Inclusions
- Gorilla trekking permit (USD 800 per person)
- All ground transport in 4x4 safari vehicle
- 5 nights budget accommodation
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Park entry fees and ranger guides
- Boat cruise and canoe ride
- Cultural visits and community guide fees
- 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Pumba Safari Cottages | Queen Elizabeth NP | En-suite rooms, Wi-Fi, local cuisine |
| Buhoma Community Rest Camp | Bwindi | Forest views, hot showers, restaurant |
| Bunyonyi Overland Resort | Lake Bunyonyi | Lakeside bar/restaurant, canoe rentals |
Ready to Trek, Explore, and Connect with Uganda’s Wild Soul?
This budget safari is perfect for solo travelers and groups who want to experience Uganda’s most iconic wildlife and cultural landscapes, without overspending.
Request a customized itinerary
Email: info@nileabenteuersafaris.com
Website: www.nileabenteuersafaris.com
Call: +256 393 000382
WhatsApp: +256 742 603325
Let the adventure begin.