6 Days Uganda Group Joining Safari
Introduction
Experience the best of Uganda’s wildlife and primates on this 6 Days Uganda Group Joining Safari, an exciting shared adventure designed for travellers who want to explore Uganda at an affordable price while meeting other safari enthusiasts.
This safari takes you through some of Uganda’s most famous wildlife destinations, including Kibale National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Lake Mburo National Park.
The journey combines chimpanzee trekking, game drives, a Kazinga Channel boat safari, mountain gorilla trekking and spectacular countryside scenery. Travelling as part of a group helps reduce transport costs while still giving you the experience of a professionally guided Uganda safari.
The highlight is the opportunity to encounter two of Africa’s great apes: chimpanzees in Kibale Forest and endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Whether you are a solo traveller, couple, photographer or wildlife enthusiast, this Uganda group joining safari provides an excellent way to experience several of the country’s major attractions within six days.
6 Days Uganda Group Joining Safari Short Itinerary
Day 1: Kampala/Entebbe – Transfer to Kibale National Park
Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale – Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Day 3: Queen Elizabeth Game Drive – Kazinga Channel Boat Safari
Day 4: Queen Elizabeth – Ishasha – Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi – Transfer towards Lake Mburo National Park
Day 6: Lake Mburo Game Drive – Return to Kampala/Entebbe
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Kampala/Entebbe – Transfer to Kibale National Park
Your 6 Days Uganda Group Joining Safari begins with an early morning meeting in Kampala or Entebbe. Meet your safari guide and fellow travellers before starting the journey towards western Uganda.
Drive through Uganda’s beautiful countryside, passing towns, villages, tea-growing areas and rolling green landscapes on the way towards the Fort Portal and Kibale region.
There will be stops along the journey for refreshments, lunch and photography depending on the group’s schedule.
On arrival near Kibale National Park, check into your accommodation and relax after the journey.
If time permits, you may enjoy a short walk around the surrounding community or simply relax and prepare for the following morning’s chimpanzee trekking experience.
Main destination: Kibale National Park
Main activity: Scenic transfer
Overnight: Kibale area
Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale – Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After an early breakfast, transfer to the chimpanzee trekking briefing point.
You will receive a briefing from the ranger guides about chimpanzee trekking regulations and forest safety before entering Kibale Forest.
Follow your ranger through the tropical forest while listening for chimpanzee calls and watching for other primates and forest wildlife.
Once chimpanzees are located, you will have an opportunity to observe their behaviour as they feed, communicate, climb through the forest canopy and interact with one another.
Kibale is also home to several other primate species, making the forest walk rewarding even before encountering the chimpanzees.
After completing the trek, return for lunch before continuing towards Queen Elizabeth National Park.
The journey offers beautiful views of western Uganda’s landscapes, with the Rwenzori Mountains sometimes visible in the distance when conditions are clear.
Arrive at your accommodation around Queen Elizabeth National Park for dinner and overnight.
Main activities: Chimpanzee trekking and scenic transfer
Overnight: Queen Elizabeth National Park area
Day 3: Queen Elizabeth Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Safari
Start the day with an early breakfast followed by a morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
The morning hours provide excellent opportunities to search for wildlife before temperatures rise.
Depending on wildlife movements and luck, you may encounter elephants, Uganda kob, buffaloes, warthogs, waterbucks and several other mammals. Predators such as lions and leopards may also be encountered, although wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed.
After the game drive, return for lunch and some relaxation.
In the afternoon, enjoy a boat safari on the Kazinga Channel, the natural waterway connecting Lake George and Lake Edward.
Cruising along the channel provides excellent opportunities to observe hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes, elephants and numerous water birds along the shoreline.
The boat trip is also particularly rewarding for photography because wildlife can often be observed from the water.
After the cruise, return to your accommodation for dinner and overnight.
Main activities: Morning game drive and Kazinga Channel boat safari
Overnight: Queen Elizabeth National Park area
Day 4: Queen Elizabeth – Ishasha – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After breakfast, continue south through Queen Elizabeth National Park towards the Ishasha sector.
Ishasha is particularly famous for its tree-climbing lions. During the drive, your guide will search the open savannah and large fig trees where lions may sometimes be found resting.
Other wildlife including elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kob and antelopes may also be encountered.
Continue towards Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, travelling through changing landscapes, rural communities and the beautiful hills of southwestern Uganda.
Bwindi is one of Uganda’s most important conservation areas and is internationally known for its mountain gorillas.
Arrive at your lodge in the afternoon or evening.
Have dinner and get an early night’s rest in preparation for one of the biggest highlights of the safari: gorilla trekking.
Main activities: Ishasha wildlife drive and transfer to Bwindi
Overnight: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park area
Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi – Transfer Towards Lake Mburo
Wake up early for breakfast before transferring to the designated gorilla trekking briefing point.
Your ranger guides will explain the trekking regulations and what to expect before assigning visitors to gorilla trekking groups.
Enter Bwindi‘s rainforest and begin searching for a habituated mountain gorilla family.
The trek can vary considerably in length depending on the location and movements of the gorillas. The terrain can be steep, muddy and physically demanding, making suitable hiking shoes, drinking water and appropriate clothing important.
When your group reaches the gorillas, you will have the permitted viewing period to observe them under the supervision of the ranger guides.
Watching a mountain gorilla family at close range is one of Uganda’s most memorable wildlife experiences.
After trekking, meet your safari driver-guide and begin travelling towards the Lake Mburo region.
Depending on the gorilla trekking finishing time and road conditions, arrival may be later in the day.
Main activity: Mountain gorilla trekking
Overnight: Lake Mburo area or convenient en-route accommodation
Day 6: Lake Mburo National Park – Kampala/Entebbe
Enjoy breakfast before exploring Lake Mburo National Park.
Lake Mburo provides a very different environment from the forests of Kibale and Bwindi. Its open savannah, woodland and wetland habitats support a variety of wildlife.
Look out for zebras, impalas, buffaloes, elands, warthogs, waterbucks and other animals during your final wildlife experience.
After the activity, begin the journey back towards Kampala or Entebbe.
A stop may be made around the Equator area for lunch, photographs and souvenir shopping depending on the group’s schedule.
Continue to Kampala or Entebbe, marking the end of your 6 Days Uganda Group Joining Safari.
Travellers departing Uganda should book flights sufficiently late to allow for road conditions and possible delays.
Why Choose Our 6 Days Uganda Group Joining Safari?
Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking in One Safari
Experience two of Uganda’s signature primate encounters by visiting chimpanzees in Kibale and mountain gorillas in Bwindi.
More Affordable Group Travel
Joining other travellers allows transportation and some safari operating costs to be shared, making this an attractive option for travellers who do not require a completely private safari.
Excellent for Solo Travellers
Solo travellers can join scheduled departures without having to pay the full transport cost associated with operating a private safari vehicle.
Diverse Wildlife Experiences
The itinerary combines tropical rainforest, savannah, wetlands, lakes and mountain landscapes.
Kazinga Channel Boat Safari
Enjoy a different perspective on Uganda’s wildlife while cruising along one of the country’s best-known wildlife waterways.
Search for the Ishasha Tree-Climbing Lions
Travel through the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park and search for its famous tree-climbing lions.
Professional Local Safari Guide
Travel with an experienced driver-guide who assists with wildlife viewing, transfers and safari logistics throughout the journey.
Small-Group Experience
Group joining safaris provide an opportunity to meet travellers from different parts of the world while exploring Uganda together.
Safari Inclusions
The following is what is included in the 6 days Uganda group joining safari:
- Safari vehicle and transportation throughout the itinerary
- Professional English-speaking safari driver-guide
- Fuel for the safari
- Accommodation for 5 nights
- Meals according to the confirmed itinerary
- Uganda Wildlife Authority park entrance fees
- Chimpanzee trekking permit when included in the confirmed quotation and the permit to be obtained from Uganda Wildlife Authority(UWA)
- Gorilla trekking permit when included in the confirmed quotation and the permit to be obtained from Uganda Wildlife Authority(UWA)
- Ranger-guided chimpanzee trekking
- Ranger-guided gorilla trekking
- Queen Elizabeth National Park game drives
- Kazinga Channel boat safari
- Ishasha wildlife drive
- Lake Mburo wildlife viewing
- Bottled drinking water in the safari vehicle
- Kampala or Entebbe pick-up and drop-off according to the confirmed itinerary
Safari Exclusions
Unless specifically included in your quotation, the safari price does not include:
- International flights
- Uganda entry visa
- Travel insurance
- Personal medical expenses
- Alcoholic drinks
- Premium drinks and additional beverages
- Laundry services
- Porter fees during gorilla trekking
- Tips and gratuities
- Souvenirs and personal shopping
- Additional accommodation before or after the safari
- Activities not mentioned in the confirmed itinerary
- Expenses resulting from circumstances outside the operator’s control
Best Time for a 6 Days Uganda Group Joining Safari
This 6 Days Uganda Group Joining Safari can operate throughout the year.
The drier periods, particularly June to August and December to February, are popular for wildlife viewing and primate safaris because trails and roads are generally easier to navigate.
The wetter months can also be rewarding. Uganda’s landscapes become particularly green, and Kibale’s chimpanzees can still be tracked throughout the year.
Travellers should therefore not automatically avoid the rainy seasons. Tropical rainfall can occur at any time of year, while weather patterns can vary from one year to another.
For gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, we recommend booking well in advance because permits are limited.
Frequently Asked Questions about the 6 Days Group Joining Safari
What is a Uganda group joining safari?
A group joining safari allows individual travellers, couples or small groups to share a safari vehicle and itinerary with other travellers. This helps reduce the cost compared with operating a private safari.
How many days is this safari?
The safari lasts 6 days and 5 nights.
Where does the safari start?
The safari normally starts from Kampala or Entebbe, depending on the confirmed departure arrangements.
Where does the safari end?
The safari normally ends in Kampala or Entebbe on Day 6.
Which national parks will we visit?
The itinerary includes Kibale National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Lake Mburo National Park.
Is gorilla trekking included?
Gorilla trekking forms one of the main activities of this itinerary. Your quotation should clearly confirm whether the gorilla permit is included in the advertised price.
Is chimpanzee trekking included?
Yes, chimpanzee trekking in Kibale is part of the itinerary. The final quotation should confirm the applicable permit arrangements.
How long does gorilla trekking take?
There is no fixed trekking duration. The time required depends on the location and movements of the gorilla family, terrain and other conditions.
How much time do we spend with the gorillas?
Standard gorilla trekking normally permits visitors up to one hour with the habituated gorilla family once it is encountered.
How much time do we spend with chimpanzees?
Standard chimpanzee tracking normally permits up to one hour of viewing once the chimpanzees are encountered.
Is gorilla trekking difficult?
The difficulty varies. Some gorilla families may be reached relatively quickly, while others require several hours of hiking through steep or muddy terrain.
Do I need to be physically fit?
A reasonable level of fitness is recommended, particularly for gorilla trekking.
Can I hire a porter for gorilla trekking?
Yes. Porters are often available to assist with bags and provide support on difficult sections of the trail. Porter fees are normally paid separately unless included in your package.
What should I wear for gorilla trekking?
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt and comfortable outdoor clothing. A lightweight waterproof jacket is also recommended.
What should I bring for chimpanzee trekking?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, long trousers, drinking water, rain protection, insect repellent and your camera.
Are gorilla sightings guaranteed?
Wildlife encounters cannot be absolutely guaranteed because gorillas live in their natural habitat. Habituated gorilla families are monitored by park authorities, which assists ranger guides in locating them.
Are chimpanzee sightings guaranteed?
Chimpanzees are wild animals, so sightings cannot be guaranteed. Kibale is nevertheless one of Uganda’s principal destinations for chimpanzee tracking.
Can children join this safari?
Families can join the general safari, but age restrictions apply to gorilla and chimpanzee trekking. Families travelling with children should confirm current requirements before booking.
Will we see lions?
Queen Elizabeth National Park supports lions, and the itinerary includes game drives in suitable lion habitat. However, sightings of any wild animal cannot be guaranteed.
Can we see tree-climbing lions?
The itinerary travels through the Ishasha sector, which is well known for tree-climbing lions. Sightings depend on the animals’ movements.
Will we see elephants?
Elephants occur in several areas visited during the safari, particularly Queen Elizabeth National Park. Sightings remain dependent on wildlife movements.
Will we see zebras?
Lake Mburo National Park provides a good opportunity to look for zebras during the final part of the safari.
What happens during the Kazinga Channel boat safari?
The boat safari explores the Kazinga Channel, where travellers can look for hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes, elephants and numerous bird species.
What type of accommodation is used?
Group joining safaris generally use budget or mid-range safari accommodation, depending on the package selected.
Can I request a private room?
Yes. Single-room arrangements can usually be requested, although a single-room supplement may apply.
Can couples have a double room?
Yes. Couples can normally request double-room accommodation, subject to availability.
What meals are included?
Meals are provided according to the confirmed safari package and accommodation meal plan.
Is drinking water provided?
Bottled drinking water is normally provided in the safari vehicle during the journey.
What safari vehicle is used?
A suitable safari vehicle is used according to the group size and road conditions.
Will everyone have a window seat?
This depends on the vehicle configuration and confirmed group size. Ask about the vehicle setup when booking if a window seat is important to you.
Can solo travellers join?
Yes. This safari is particularly suitable for solo travellers who want to share safari transportation with other visitors.
Can couples join?
Yes. Couples can join scheduled departures.
Can a private group book the entire safari?
Yes. The itinerary can also be arranged as a private safari for families, friends or other private groups.
Is the safari suitable for photographers?
Yes. The itinerary offers opportunities for photographing primates, savannah wildlife, birds, landscapes and local scenery.
Do I need travel insurance?
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended, including appropriate medical and trip interruption coverage.
Do I need a Uganda visa?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality and circumstances. Travellers should check Uganda’s current official entry requirements before travelling.
How early should I book?
Early booking is strongly recommended, especially because gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits are limited.
Can I book this safari at the last minute?
Last-minute bookings may sometimes be possible, but they depend heavily on permit, accommodation and group departure availability.
Is the safari available throughout the year?
Yes. The itinerary can operate year-round, subject to permit, accommodation and group availability.
What are the best months for the safari?
Many travellers prefer the drier periods around June–August and December–February, although Uganda offers rewarding wildlife and primate experiences throughout the year.
What happens if it rains during gorilla trekking?
Gorilla trekking generally continues during normal rainfall. Visitors should carry suitable waterproof clothing and protect cameras and other electronics.
Can I bring a camera?
Yes. Cameras are highly recommended, although visitors must follow ranger instructions regarding photography around primates.
Can I use flash photography with gorillas?
Flash photography should not be used around gorillas. Follow your ranger’s instructions throughout the encounter.
Can the itinerary be extended?
Yes. Additional days can be added for destinations such as Murchison Falls National Park, Lake Bunyonyi, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Jinja or other parts of Uganda.
Can I add golden monkey tracking?
Yes. The safari can be extended to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for golden monkey tracking.
Can I add a night in Lake Bunyonyi?
Yes. Lake Bunyonyi can be added after gorilla trekking for relaxation before continuing with the safari.
Can airport transfers be arranged?
Yes. Airport transfers can be arranged depending on your arrival and departure schedule.
What currency should I bring?
US dollars and Uganda shillings are commonly used for tourism-related expenses. Travellers should confirm payment requirements before arrival.
Is Uganda suitable for a first African safari?
Yes. This itinerary combines several classic African safari experiences with Uganda’s distinctive primate trekking opportunities.
Why combine gorillas and chimpanzees?
Combining both experiences allows travellers to encounter two different great ape species and explore very different forest environments during one journey.
How do I reserve my place?
Contact the safari operator with your preferred travel date, number of travellers, accommodation preference and trekking requirements. Availability of the group departure, gorilla permit, chimpanzee permit and accommodation can then be checked before confirming the booking.
Book Your 6 Days Uganda Group Joining Safari
Explore Uganda’s forests, savannahs and wildlife with fellow travellers on an unforgettable six-day adventure.
From tracking chimpanzees through Kibale Forest and cruising the Kazinga Channel to searching for lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park and standing just metres from mountain gorillas in Bwindi, this safari brings together some of Uganda’s most memorable wildlife experiences.
Send us your preferred travel date and number of travellers to check the next available group departure.
