7 Days GORILLA TRACKING, ADVENTURE AND UGANDA CULTURE - RVE

DAY 1

Arrival in Kampala

Your tour begins in the bustling capital of Uganda, Kampala, a city where modernity meets tradition in a vibrant tapestry of sights and sounds colorful markets and lively street vendors, experiencing the rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality of its people. After checking into your hotel, rest and prepare for an early morning drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where the magic of gorilla tracking awaits amidst the lush forests and misty mountains. Prepare for an unforgettable journey from the heart of Kampala to the awe-inspiring beauty of Bwindi, where nature's wonders await your exploration.

Overnight at Choate Botique Hotel
Meal plan: Half Board

DAY 2

Kampala to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

On day 2, you will leave the bustling streets of Kampala and take a scenic drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The park is situated in southwestern Uganda, was first established as a Crown Forest Reserve in 1932, and gazetted as a national park in 1991.

The ancient Bwindi Forest is an important UNESCO World Heritage Site and is Uganda's most famous national park due to the large population of endangered mountain gorillas living in the bamboo forests of its interior. Of the close to 1,000 mountain gorillas in this region, about 470 reside in the ancient Bwindi Forest, dating back to the last ice age and providing the backdrop for the 'Bucket List' adventure of tracking mountain gorillas in their natural habitat of dense bamboo thickets with enchanting views of the tropical Bwindi Impenetrable forest.

In addition to the famous mountain gorillas, the park features an astonishing variety of flora and fauna, including 120 species of mammals, of which 10 are primates, 350 species of birds, 310 species of butterflies, 27 species of chameleons, geckos, and frogs. The forest is among the most ecologically diverse in East Africa.

Overnight: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge

DAY 3

Gorilla tracking & Batwa Experience

Your day starts with an unforgettable experience as you embark on a gorilla tracking expedition in the ancient Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. You will hike through the dense foliage and bamboo thickets to witness the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Later in the afternoon, you will also venture to Explore Batwa Cultural Trail, an experience established by the Batwa Forest People of southwestern Uganda to highlight their ancient cultures and traditions. The Batwa Forest People are an ethnic group with rich and ancient ancestral traditions and rely on the forest, hunting and harvesting wild yams and honey without adversely affecting the area's ecosystem. Exploring the 'Batwa Trail' allows you to join their guides and venture along extensive forest trails to learn about their cultures, traditions, and techniques of surviving in the forest. You will also visit their villages in the forest to observe musical performances and traditional hunting/gathering demonstrations.

Overnight: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge

DAY 4

Sana Gorilla Rafting & Transfer to Bunyonyi

You will have an action-packed adventure with the Sana Gorilla Rafting experience, where you'll navigate through thrilling rapids and scenic landscapes on a rafting excursion. Feel the rush of the river as you conquer the challenges of the rapids, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Following the rafting adventure, you will transfer to the tranquil Lake Bunyonyi. Lake Bunyonyi, known as the "Switzerland of Africa," is a hidden gem nestled in the southwestern part of Uganda, offering a tranquil oasis of natural beauty and serenity. The lake is dotted with 29 picturesque islands, each with its own unique charm and character, creating a stunning backdrop for relaxation and exploration.

Visitors can unwind on the shores of the lake, surrounded by lush green hills and clear blue waters, providing a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Overnight: Birdsnest Resort

DAY 5

Ziplining, Quad Biking & Transfer to Emburara farm

Get ready for a day filled with adrenaline-pumping activities and scenic delights starting with an exciting ziplining adventure at Lake Bunyonyi and an exhilarating quad biking excursion around Lake Bunyonyi, exploring the rugged terrain and hidden gems of this beautiful region. After the thrilling activities, you will continue to Emburara Farm Lodge in Mbarara for a cultural experience.

Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Mbarara, Emburara Farm is a working farm that specializes in dairy production, offering guests the opportunity to learn about traditional farming practices and sustainable agriculture. Visitors can participate in various farm activities, such as milking cows, feeding animals, and harvesting crops, gaining hands-on experience in rural farming life. It is also known for its delicious farm-to-table dining experiences, where guests can enjoy fresh and organic meals prepared using ingredients sourced directly from the farm.

From hearty breakfasts to gourmet dinners, the farm's culinary offerings showcase the best of Ugandan cuisine. In addition to its agricultural pursuits, Emburara Farm also provides comfortable accommodation options for guests looking to relax and unwind in a peaceful rural setting. The farm's cottages and guest rooms are designed to offer a cozy and authentic farm stay experience, allowing visitors to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature. Overall, Emburara Farm in Mbarara offers a unique blend of farm experiences, comfortable accommodation, and farm-to-table dining, making it a charming and enriching destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the beauty and tranquility of rural Uganda.

Overnight: Emburara Farm Lodge

DAY 6

Emburara cultural experience and return to Kampala

On Day 6 of your remarkable safari journey, prepare for a morning filled with cultural immersion at the captivating Emburara Farm in Mbarara. You will awaken to the sights and sounds of rural Uganda as you engage in authentic farm activities, such as milking cows, tending to crops, and experiencing firsthand the daily rhythms of farm life. Learn about traditional farming practices and the importance of sustainable agriculture while connecting with the land and the local community. After a delightful cultural experience at Emburara Farm, embark on a scenic drive back to Kampala, the vibrant capital of Uganda

Overnight: Choate Boutique Hotel.

DAY 7

Departure

Enjoy a smooth transfer from your Kampala accommodation to Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight.

Safari Activities & Services Included In Safari Price
• Gorilla tracking permits
• Sana Gorilla Rafting
• Lake Bunyonyi - Zip lining
• Lake Bunyonyi - Quad biking
• Batwa cultural experience
• English-speaking driver and tour guide.
• Road transfers with 4 x 4 safari vehicles, including fuel.
• National park and conservation fees listed in this itinerary.
• Meals as specified in this itinerary.
• Meal plan index: FB-Full Board.