8-Day Murchison Falls, Chimp and Epic Gorilla Trekking Safari

Embark on an extraordinary 8-day adventure through the heart of Uganda’s untamed wilderness. This captivating safari promises a rare glimpse into the country’s natural wonders, from the thundering Murchison Falls to the elusive mountain gorillas. Witness the power of nature as you track endangered black rhinos, observe the vibrant wildlife of Murchison Falls National Park, and learn about the high-density chimpanzee populations of Kibale Forest. However, the true highlight of this journey lies in the opportunity to trek through the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in search of the majestic mountain gorillas. Prepare to be captivated by Uganda’s unparalleled beauty and the chance to encounter some of the world’s most remarkable creatures.

Key Points

• This 8-day safari offers opportunities to track endangered black rhinos, witness the powerful Murchison Falls, and explore Murchison Falls National Park.
• The itinerary includes guided tours, boat trips, and diverse wildlife viewing, such as elephants, buffaloes, and Nile crocodiles.
• Visitors can experience the high concentration of chimpanzees in the Kibale Forest and have the chance to trek for mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
• The package includes all meals, accommodations, ground transportation, English-speaking driver/guide, and various activities as outlined in the itinerary.
• Trekking permits for chimpanzees and gorillas are not included in the package price and must be purchased separately.

Safari Highlights

The safari excursion promises thrilling wildlife encounters, including a chance to track endangered black rhinos and witness the powerful Murchison Falls, where the mighty Nile River forces its way through a narrow gorge.

Guests will embark on guided tours and boat trips in Murchison Falls National Park, home to a diverse array of animals like elephants, buffaloes, and Nile crocodiles.

The adventure continues in Kibale Forest, renowned for its high concentration of chimpanzees, providing an opportunity to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat.

Included Services

As per the itinerary, the safari package includes all meals and accommodations, along with ground transportation in a comfortable safari vehicle and an English-speaking driver/guide to accompany your throughout their journey.

Guests can expect water, launch/boat trips, airport/hotel transfers, and all activities as outlined in the itinerary. The tour also covers fuel surcharge, landing, and facility fees, ensuring a seamless experience.

This comprehensive package allows travelers to focus on the magnificent wildlife and natural wonders, without having to worry about the logistics. With these all-inclusive services, guests can fully enjoy the safari experience and make the most of their time in Uganda.

Excluded Services

While the safari package includes a comprehensive set of services, certain activities and expenses aren’t covered.

Travelers should be aware that the cost of chimp ($150) and gorilla ($600) trekking permits are excluded from the package price.

Plus, phone calls, bar bills, personal/travel insurance, airfare, driver guide’s gratuity, and other personal expenses aren’t included in the tour.

The exclusions are clearly outlined to help travelers budget appropriately and avoid any unexpected costs. It’s important for guests to review the details carefully and plan accordingly to ensure a smooth and enjoyable safari experience.

General Information

Confirmation of this safari package is provided at the time of booking, allowing travelers to secure their reservation promptly. The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, catering to guests with diverse mobility needs. A visa is required to enter Uganda, which travelers should obtain prior to the trip. The minimum age for participants is 15, and there is no minimum group size, ensuring flexibility for solo travelers or small groups.

Accessibility	Transportation	Permits
Wheelchair	Near public	Visa required
Stroller	Infant seats	Chimp ($150)
–	–	Gorilla ($600)
–	–	–
–	–	–

Cancellation Policy

Travelers can receive a full refund if they cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time of the experience. However, no refund is provided for cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance, and any changes requested within 24 hours of the start time won’t be accepted.

This cancellation policy is clear and straightforward, allowing for flexibility while also ensuring the tour operator can properly plan and prepare for the safari. Customers are encouraged to review the policy carefully and make any necessary arrangements well in advance to avoid disappointment or additional costs.

Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park is the largest and oldest conservation area in Uganda, spanning an impressive 3,893 square kilometers and offering visitors a chance to witness the magnificent Murchison Falls, where the Nile River dramatically plunges through a narrow gorge. The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the iconic Nile crocodile, the hippo, and the elusive shoebill stork. Visitors can explore the park through a variety of activities, such as guided game drives, boat cruises along the Nile, and hiking to the top of the falls. The park’s rich ecosystem and stunning landscapes make it a must-visit destination for any safari enthusiast.

Animal	Habitat	Behavior
Nile Crocodile	Riverbanks and Shores	Basking in the sun, hunting for prey
Hippopotamus	Shallow Waters	Grazing on land, submerging in water to regulate body temperature
Shoebill Stork	Wetlands and Swamps	Stalking prey, unique bill shape for catching fish

Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale Forest National Park is a lush, tropical rainforest that covers an area of 795 square kilometers in western Uganda.

It’s renowned for its impressive population of chimpanzees, which visitors can track and observe in their natural habitat through guided treks.

The park is also home to a diverse array of primate species, including the black-and-white colobus monkey, the red-tailed monkey, and the L’Hoest’s monkey.

The forest offers:

• Excellent opportunities for chimpanzee trekking
• Diverse bird life with over 370 species recorded
• Scenic hiking trails through the dense vegetation
• Chance to spot other primates like monkeys and mangabeys

Visitors can enjoy the rich biodiversity and primate-filled ecosystems of this captivating Ugandan wilderness.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, situated in southwestern Uganda, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and the endangered mountain gorillas that call it home.

This primeval forest is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth, harboring over 120 mammal species, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and the elusive mountain gorilla.

The park’s highlight is the opportunity to trek through the dense jungle in search of these magnificent primates, observing their complex social behaviors and interactions up close.

Visitors can also explore the park’s network of hiking trails, discover cascading waterfalls, and enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the local Batwa community.

Bwindi’s pristine wilderness is a true haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Safari?

According to the information provided, all meals are included in the safari experience. Guests may not bring their own food and drinks, as the package covers all dining and refreshment needs during the excursion.

Are There Any Special Requirements for the Trekking Permits?

The trekking permits for chimps and gorillas have specific requirements. Chimp permits cost $150 per person, while gorilla permits cost $600 per person. Participants must be at least 15 years old and obtain the necessary permits prior to the safari.

What Is the Typical Group Size for the Safari Experience?

The safari experience typically has no minimum group size, though it’s wheelchair and stroller accessible. Groups may vary in size, but the included services are consistent for all participants.

Can I Extend My Stay at the National Parks?

Guests can extend their stay at the national parks, but they must coordinate this with the tour operator. Additional costs may apply for extended lodging, activities, and transportation. The operator can provide specific details on extending one’s safari experience.

Are There Any Additional Fees for Any of the Activities?

Yes, there are additional fees for certain activities. The package excludes the costs of chimpanzee ($150) and gorilla ($600) trekking permits. Travelers must purchase these permits separately prior to the safari experience.

Recap

This 8-day safari in Uganda offers a comprehensive exploration of the country’s natural wonders.

Highlights include:

• Tracking endangered black rhinos
• Witnessing the powerful Murchison Falls
• Trekking for mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Visitors can also experience:

• The high concentration of chimpanzees in Kibale Forest
• Observe diverse wildlife such as elephants, buffaloes, and Nile crocodiles in Murchison Falls National Park