Uganda beyond gorillas: chimps, shoebills and savannah
Most visitors fly in for one hour with the gorillas and fly straight out again, missing a country many seasoned travellers consider East Africa's best-kept secret.
Uganda Safari · Uganda gorilla trekking · Uganda safari holidays
Uganda is often treated as a brief add-on for gorilla trekking, yet this overlooks a landscape rich with savannah game, dense primate populations, and dramatic rivers. Beyond the Bwindi forests, the country invites a longer exploration.
Dennis Njoroge and our Nairobi team recommend extending your stay to witness these highlights.
Uganda's main regions compared
| Region | Signature experience | Time needed |
|---|---|---|
| Kibale Forest | Chimpanzee trekking | 1-2 nights |
| Murchison Falls | Boat safari and savannah drives | 2-3 nights |
| Bwindi | Mountain gorilla trekking | 2 nights |
Highlights
- Kibale Forest Primates
- Murchison Falls and the Nile
- Queen Elizabeth National Park
- The Logistics
01
Kibale Forest Primates
Kibale protects a remarkable primate density where chimpanzee trekking boasts high success rates. The forest walks, filled with birdlife and towering figs, offer an immersive experience that complements the energetic chimp encounters.
02
Murchison Falls and the Nile
The Nile narrows through a tiny gap before plunging into the pool below. This park combines classic savannah drives with boat safaris, showcasing elephants, giraffes, and the rare shoebill stork along the riverbanks.
03
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Famous for the Ishasha sector's tree-climbing lions, this park also features the Kazinga Channel. Boat safaris here provide close views of hippos and buffalo, offering one of Africa's premier water-based wildlife experiences.
04
The Logistics
A typical ten-day circuit runs from Entebbe through Kibale and Queen Elizabeth, concluding at Bwindi. Adding Murchison Falls requires slightly more time but ensures a complete Ugandan safari experience.
Dos
- Book permits well ahead of your travel dates
- Hire a porter — it supports the local community
- Wear long sleeves, gloves and sturdy waterproof boots
- Keep the 7-metre distance from the gorillas
- Carry a rain jacket, water and snacks
Don'ts
- Don't trek if you have a cold or flu
- Don't use flash photography
- Don't eat or drink near the gorillas
- Don't stare directly into a silverback's eyes
- Don't exceed the one-hour visit
What's usually included
- Gorilla trekking permit (when booked with us)
- Ranger and tracker guides on the trek
- Lodge near the park
- Private vehicle and driver-guide
- Meals as listed
- Airport transfers
Usually not included
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guides and camp staff
- Personal items and souvenirs
- Premium drinks unless all-inclusive
- Optional activities not in your itinerary
Keep exploring
Published fees to plan around
Sources checked 7 October 2026 · US dollars · fees only, not full safari prices
| Fee | Published amount | Who and when |
|---|---|---|
| Rwanda · standard gorilla permit | US$1,500 | Per foreign visitor, per trek. Resident and promotional eligibility differs; accommodation, transfers and porter hire are separate.Rwanda Development Board booking portal |
| Uganda · low-season gorilla permit | US$600 | Foreign non-resident, April, May or November. UWA announcement dated 26 February 2026; these discounted permits cannot be rescheduled.Uganda Wildlife Authority tariff announcement |
| Uganda · standard gorilla permit from 2027 | US$800 | Foreign non-resident, per trek. The cited revised tariff takes effect 1 January 2027; confirm the applicable rate for earlier travel.Uganda Wildlife Authority tariff announcement |
Your accommodation and flights need a quote for your dates, room arrangement and availability. Compare the full journey total, not a nightly headline: meals, transport, guiding, entry fees and optional activities should be clear. Published tariffs may change; we reconfirm the applicable fees before you book.
Our editorial values
Original travel guidance by Dennis Njoroge, CEO of Perch Africa Safaris. Wildlife and weather are never guaranteed. Published fees link to their authority sources; camp and flight prices are confirmed for your own journey. You receive your full itinerary and matching proforma before payment.
Why settle for a brochure safari
Plan Uganda travel with a team that plans it around you
- Private guide and vehicle
- Named stays and itemised costs
- Availability checked before confirmation
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Frequently asked questions
How many days are needed to see Uganda properly?
Seven to ten days covers the main circuit, while four days suffice for just gorilla trekking.
Is chimp trekking comparable to gorillas?
Chimps are more active and vocal, creating a different, high-energy encounter many travellers pair with gorillas.
When is the best time to visit?
June to September and December to February are driest and best for trekking.
