5 Days Uganda Safari with Kibale Chimp Tracking and Semuliki Hot Springs
This 5 Days Uganda Safari with Kibale Chimp Tracking and Semuliki Hot Springs is customized for those interested in a chimpanzee trek and a safari to Semuliki National Park. You will visit the Kibale Tropical Forest for the chimpanzee trek, then have a game safari in the Tooro-Semuliki Game Reserve, Hot springs in Semuliki National Park, and River Semuliki. The adventure encompasses the renowned Kibale Forest National Park, locally known as "Ekibira kya Kibale," and the mystical Semuliki region, called "Entare ya Semuliki" by the local Batooro people.
Your Uganda Safari experience delves deep into the heart of primate country, where the dense forests harbour over 13 species of primates, including our closest relatives, the chimpanzees. From the community-driven conservation initiatives in Bigodi village to the bubbling hot springs of Semuliki, every moment offers a unique perspective on Uganda's rich natural heritage. The journey through these diverse ecosystems showcases the country's remarkable biodiversity and cultural significance.
This immersive Uganda Safari adventure connects you with wildlife and local communities, offering insights into traditional conservation practices and modern wildlife management. The journey spans approximately 330 kilometers from Kampala to Kibale Forest National Park, followed by exploring the lesser-known but equally magnificent Semuliki region, where the Congo Basin rainforest meets East Africa.
Tour highlights
Expert-guided chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest National Park
Community-based Bigodi Wetland walk
Game drives in Tooro-Semuliki Wildlife Reserve
Visit the mystical male (Bitente) and female (Nyasimbi) hot springs in Semuliki National Park
Opportunities for shoebill stork sighting
Cultural interactions with local communities
Night game drives for nocturnal wildlife viewing
Bird watching in one of Africa's most diverse habitats
Price Includes:
- Chimpanzee tracking permit
- Park entrance fees
- All activities mentioned in the itinerary
- Ground transport in 4WD custom vehicle
- Bottled water in a safari vehicle
- Full board accommodation
- English-speaking driver-guide
- Driver allowances
Price Excludes:
- Ugandan Visa
- International and internal flights
- Personal expenses
- Gratitude and beverages
- Optional Activities
- Laundry fees
- Tips
- Life insurance
- Additional drinks
Itinary in details
- DayDay 1Pick Up from Entebbe/Kampala and Drive to Kibale Forest National Park
Your Uganda Safari begins with an early morning pickup from Kampala or Entebbe, embarking on a scenic 5–6-hour journey covering 330 kilometers to Kibale Forest National Park. The Uganda Safari route takes you through the picturesque landscapes of central and western Uganda, with a lunch stop in Fort Portal town, known locally as "Kabarole." Your Uganda Safari adventure continues with your arrival at your lodge near Kibale Forest, where you'll spend the night immersed in the sounds of the surrounding rainforest.
- DayDay 2Chimpanzee Tracking and Bigodi Wetland Walk
Begin your Uganda Safari Day with an early morning drive to the Kanyanchu Visitor Center for a briefing before your chimpanzee tracking experience. Your Uganda Safari guides will lead you through the forest trails of Kibale, known as the "Primate Capital of the World," where you'll spend an hour observing our fascinating cousins. This Uganda Safari afternoon features a community-based walk-through of Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, locally known as "Magombe Swamp," offering excellent birding opportunities and chances to spot other primates.
- DayDay 3Transfer to Tooro-Semuliki Wildlife Reserve for an Afternoon Game Drive
Today's Uganda Safari adventure takes you on a 2-hour drive from Kibale to Tooro-Semuliki Wildlife Reserve, covering approximately 85 kilometers. Your Uganda Safari experience includes an afternoon game drive through the diverse landscapes of the reserve, where savannah meets forest. The Uganda Safari continues with opportunities to spot unique wildlife, including the elusive shoebill stork in the wetland areas of the reserve.
- DayDay 4Visit the Semuliki Hot Springs and Afternoon Game Drive in Tooro Semuliki
Your Uganda Safari Day begins with a visit to the fascinating hot springs of Semuliki National Park, where local guides share cultural stories about these geological wonders. The Uganda Safari experience continues with a guided walk to both Bitente and Nyasimbi hot springs, each holding significant cultural importance. Your Uganda Safari afternoon features another game drive in the Tooro Semuliki Game Reserve, offering final chances to spot wildlife against the backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains.
- DayDay 5Return to Kampala/Entebbe and End of Trip
The final day of your Uganda Safari involves a morning departure for the return journey to Kampala or Entebbe. This Uganda Safari route provides opportunities for last-minute photography of the western Uganda landscape. Your Uganda Safari concludes with arrival in Kampala or Entebbe in the late afternoon, approximately 6-7 hours after departure.