12-Day Thrilling Madagascar Tour & Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

12 Days

Embark on an extraordinary 12-Day Thrilling Madagascar Tour & Gorilla Trekking in Uganda, a primate and wildlife adventure that blends the enchanting rainforests of Madagascar with the rich biodiversity of Uganda. Picture yourself trekking through misty jungles, encountering playful lemurs, and then crossing into East Africa for unforgettable chimpanzee and gorilla trekking experiences. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and immersive activities, every day promises discovery, excitement, and connection with nature.

Your journey begins in Madagascar’s lush eastern rainforests, exploring the remarkable Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, the renowned Analamazaotra National Park, and the scenic Palmarium Reserve. Wander beneath towering trees alive with the calls of the indri, spot colorful chameleons, and discover a world found nowhere else on earth. These forests are a haven for Madagascar’s iconic lemurs, fascinating primates known for their expressive eyes, social behavior, and essential role in maintaining the island’s delicate ecosystem.

The adventure continues in Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa,” where rich landscapes and incredible wildlife await. Track chimpanzees in the lush forests of Kibale National Park, renowned for its high concentration of primates, and explore the diverse savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park, home to tree-climbing lions, elephants, and abundant birdlife. The highlight of your journey awaits in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where you will come face-to-face with endangered mountain gorillas in one of the most profound wildlife encounters on Earth.

Unwind at the serene shores of Lake Bunyonyi, surrounded by terraced hills and dotted islands, offering the perfect setting to relax and reflect on your adventure.

Book your 12-Day Madagascar & Uganda Tour with Kubwa Five Safaris and experience a seamless blend of rainforest exploration, primate encounters, and cultural discovery. From Madagascar’s unique wildlife to Uganda’s iconic gorilla trekking, this journey promises unforgettable memories across two of Africa’s most captivating destinations.

Cost per person:

Starting from: $7280 (Mid-Range & Budget Accommodation) per person based on two travelers sharing

 1 Person2 People3 People4 People5 People6 People
Jan-April$9100$7280$7080$6980$6880$6780
May- August$9300$7480$7280$7180$7080$6980
Sept- Dec$9200$7380$7180$7080$6980$6880

Cost Per Child (Discount)

Age0-2 years old3-6 years old7-10 years old11-13 years old14+ years old
Discount Rate100%65%50%15%0%

 

  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner
  • Mid-Range & Budget Lodges
  • English, Spanish, French, Dutch, German, Italian, and Chinese speaking guides
  • Safari Vehicle
  • 1-100 people
  • 1-90 years old
  • January - December
  • Ivato International Airport
  • Entebbe International Airport

Why This Tour?

12-Day Thrilling Madagascar Tour & Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Embark on the ultimate adventure of a lifetime with our 12-Day Thrilling Madagascar Tour & Gorilla Trekking in Uganda, where the unique wildlife of Madagascar's lush rainforests and Uganda's misty mountains blend for an unforgettable journey! Imagine exploring Andasibe-Mantadia National Park's lemur-filled forests, strolling through Palmarium Reserve's endemic plants, spotting chameleons in Analamazaotra Park, tracking chimpanzees in Kibale National Park, witnessing wildlife in Queen Elizabeth National Park's savannahs, facing Uganda's majestic mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and relaxing on Lake Bunyonyi's serene shores.

With expert guides, comfy stays, and epic adventures, this journey takes you through two of Africa's most incredible destinations – Madagascar's weird and wonderful wildlife and Uganda's primate paradise. Get ready for a wild adventure blending rainforests, mountains, lakes, and unforgettable wildlife encounters in Madagascar and Uganda!

African Tours

You will visit AndasibeMantadia National Park, Vakona Reserve, Analamazaotra National Park, Mitsinjo Forest, Kibale National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Lake Bynyonyi.

Experience the wild adventure of a lifetime on our 12-Day Madagascar & Uganda Tour! Explore Madagascar's lemur-filled Andasibe-Mantadia, Palmarium's plants, Analamazaotra's chameleons; Uganda's Kibale chimps, Queen Elizabeth wildlife, Bwindi gorillas, and Lake Bunyonyi chill.

Begin your extraordinary safari in the captivating island nation of Madagascar, where unique wildlife and lush rainforests set the stage for an unforgettable adventure. From the capital, venture into the enchanting eastern rainforests of Andasibe-Mantadia National Park, a haven for biodiversity. Here, you’ll trek through misty forests alive with the haunting calls of the indri, Madagascar’s largest lemur. Continue to the nearby Analamazaotra National Park, renowned for its accessible trails and incredible opportunities to spot lemurs, chameleons, and rare bird species.

Your Madagascar experience deepens with a visit to the beautiful Palmarium Reserve, set along the tranquil shores of Lake Ampitabe. This private reserve offers close encounters with various lemur species in a serene and intimate setting, as well as guided walks that reveal the secrets of the rainforest.

Your journey in Madagascar will end with a guided city tour in Antananarivo, a vibrant capital rich in history, culture, and panoramic hilltop views. Explore bustling markets, colonial architecture, and gain insight into the island’s diverse heritage.

The Ugandan leg of your safari begins in Kibale National Park, a lush tropical forest renowned for its remarkable diversity of primates. Here, you’ll trek through dense greenery in search of chimpanzees, listening to their calls echo through the forest while encountering other monkey species and vibrant birdlife. A visit to Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary offers an enriching cultural experience while at Kibale. Guided by local residents, you explore wetlands rich in birds and monkeys while learning about traditional lifestyles, crafts, and community projects, making it a meaningful and authentic encounter with rural Ugandan life.

The tree climbing lions in the Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park are not an exception. They are a rare and fascinating sight, often seen lounging on fig tree branches. These lions are believed to climb to escape heat and biting insects or to gain a better vantage point. Spotting them resting above the savannah is a truly unforgettable safari experience.

The journey then leads to the misty forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where the highlight awaits; an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience. Coming face-to-face with a mountain gorilla family is both humbling and awe-inspiring and finally, unwind at the serene Lake Bunyonyi, surrounded by terraced hills and dotted with islands, offering the perfect setting for relaxation after your adventure.

As you wrap up this 12-Day Madagascar Tour & Gorilla Trekking in Uganda, the wild memories of Madagascar's unique lemurs in Andasibe's rainforests, Palmarium's giant palms, Analamazaotra's tiny chameleons, Uganda's chimpanzees in Kibale's forests, Queen Elizabeth's savannah wildlife, Bwindi's majestic gorillas, and Lake Bunyonyi's tranquil beauty will linger big – the sounds of lemurs calling, the thrill of gorilla encounters, the magic of island and mainland wildlife, and the serenity of Africa's landscapes stay with you. The adventure ends, the call of Africa's wild heart remains, beckoning you to return to these lands of wonder, wildlife, and unforgettable memories, where rainforests, mountains, and lakes tell stories of Africa's untamed magic.

Highlights

  • Night Walks
  • Nature Walks
  • Guided Game Drives
  • Birding Tours
  • Walking Tours
  • Gorilla Trekking
  • Chimpanzee Trekking
  • Explore Vakona Reserve
  • Tree-Climbing Lions
  • Batwa Cultural Interaction
  • Bigodi Community Walk
  • Zip-lining
  • Canoeing
  • Kayaking
  • Ninja-warrior

Tour Plan

  • Day
    01

    Arrive In Madagascar | Transfer To Hotel In Antananarivo

    On arrival in Madagascar, you will be welcomed and picked up by our Kubwa Five Safaris guide who will be holding an A4 paper with your name printed on it at Ivato International Airport and transferred to your hotel in Antananarivo.

    You will check in and do some relaxing for the rest of the day to rest off the jet lag.

    Antananarivo makes for a charming introduction to Madagascar, thanks to its attractively hilly location, wealth of historic buildings, comfortable climate, cosmopolitan culture and delicious French influenced cuisine.

    Meals and overnight at Boutique Hôtel La Varangue/ Le Fred/ San Cristobal Boutique Hotel.

  • Day
    02

    Transfer To Andasibe-Mantadia National Park | Explore Vakona Reserve

    After breakfast, you will be driven to Andasibe-Mantadia National Park.

    Today, head east from Antananarivo to Andasibe, a lush rainforest destination about 4 hours away.

    On arrival, visit the Vakona Reserve, famous for its lemur island where you can encounter friendly lemurs up close. The reserve also features crocodiles and endemic bird species.

    After the visit, settle into your lodge for the night, surrounded by the soothing sounds of the forest.

    Meals and overnight at Mantadia Lodge/ Relais de Mantadia/ Hotel Sahatandra.

  • Day
    03

    Travel To Manambato | Transfer To Ankanin'ny Nofy | Night Walk In Palmarium Reserve

    After breakfast, you will be driven to Manambato, then take a boat along the Pangalanes Canal to reach the peaceful Ankanin’ny Nofy (The Nest of Dreams).

    After dinner, head into the forest for a nocturnal walk in the Palmarium to seek out the rare and mysterious Aye-Aye lemur.

    There's no better place than the Palmarium Reserve to see a wide variety of Madagascar's most charismatic forest lemurs.

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    Around a dozen different lemur species have been introduced to this forested 50-hectare private reserve on the shore of Lake Ampitabe; it's a real delight to watch these charming creatures folic in the trees and scamper around the restaurant.

    An added bonus is that the Palmarium Reserve can only be reached by boat, a trip that allows you to see something of the remote and atmospheric Pangalanes, the world's longest artificial canal.

    Meals and overnight at

  • Day
    04

    Tour Palmarium | Return To Andasibe-Mantadia National Park | Relaxing

    After breakfast, you will spend the morning discovering the Palmarium Reserve, home to several species of lemurs roaming freely, as well as unique plants found only in this region.

    Top 5 Best Visited Attractions In Madagascar

    In the afternoon, return by boat and car to Andasibe for a relaxed evening.

    Meals and overnight at Meals and overnight at Mantadia Lodge/ Relais de Mantadia/ Hotel Sahatandra.

  • Day
    05

    Transfer To Analamazaotra Park | Guided Walk | Return To Antananarivo | Transfer To Your Hotel

    After breakfast, you will set out for a guided exploration of Analamazaotra National Park, where you’ll be greeted by the distinct calls of the Indri Indri.

    Walk along forest trails, spotting chameleons, birds, and various lemur species.

    Analamazaotra National Park is the sector of Andasibe Mantadia National Park where it is easiest to see the indri, a large and eagerly sought after back-and-white lemur.

    In the evening, return to Antananarivo.

    Meals and overnight at Mantadia Lodge/ Relais de Mantadia/ Hotel Sahatandra.

  • Day
    06

    City Tour | Malagasy Cultural Interaction In Antananarivo

    After breakfast, you will immerse yourself in Malagasy culture with a curated cultural day.

    You will explore the capital’s markets for some last-minute souvenirs.

    Practically all roads and flights in Madagascar lead to or from the capital Antananarivo. Fortunately, though, most people agree it's no hardship to return to this characterful city and spend more time enjoying its unique urban Malagasy atmosphere.

    Meals and overnight at Boutique Hôtel La Varangue/ Le Fred/ San Cristobal Boutique Hotel.

  • Day
    07

    Last Day In Madagascar | Transfer To The Airport | Fly To Uganda | Transfer To A Hotel

    After breakfast, you will be transferred to Ivato International Airport for your scheduled flight to Uganda.

    Upon arrival in Uganda, you will be welcomed and picked by our Kubwa Five Safaris guide who will be holding an A4 paper with your name printed on it at  Entebbe International Airport and be transferred to your hotel in Entebbe.

    Meals and overnight at Jet Villas Entebbe/ Cycad Entebbe Guest House/ ViaVia Uganda Entebbe.

  • Day
    08

    Transfer To Kibale National Park | Bigodi Community Walk

    After breakfast, you will be transferred to Kibale National park, driving Southwest through the Albertine Escarpment of the great Western Rift Valley. You will  have lunch on your way.

    On arrival in Kibale National Park, you will be driven to Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for a community walk and cultural interaction. It is a fascinating area, located in Magombe swamp.

    Bigodi Walk

    This area is recognized for an extensive array of biodiversity among which are several primates species like the red colobus monkeys, baboons, black and white colobus monkeys, blue monkey grey cheeked, mangabey, vervet monkeys, red tailed monkeys and the L’Hoest monkeys. Additional mammals such as sitatungas, mongooses, bush pigs, otters plus bush bucks.

    Meals and overnight at Chimpanzee Capital Safari Lodge/ Kibale Forest Camp (Non-self contained tents)/ Kibale Eco Home.

  • Day
    09

    Chimp Trekking | Travel To Queen Elizabeth National Park | Boat Ride | Evening Game Drive

    After breakfast, you will head out with your guide and a packed lunch to the park head offices for a briefing about the do’s and don’ts of chimpanzee trekking. You will start early and take about two to six hours, depending on the location of the chimps.

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    The opportunity to see chimpanzees in the wild is one of the most memorable of all safari activities. Getting close to these creatures that share so much of our DNA is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and the excitement of walking through the forest and knowing that they are close will stay with you forever.

    After chimpanzee trekking, you will be transferred to Queen Elizabeth National Park. This is a huge park where wildlife and people co-exist in harmony.

    Set on the Rift Valley floor in view of the snow-capped Rwenzori peaks, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers plenty of variety to safari-goers. On the Kasenyi and Ishasha Plains, large herds of Uganda kob, the national antelope, stand on constant guard for the lions that feed on them.

    On arrival in Queen Elizabeth National Park, you will go for a boat cruise on the Kazinga channel which connects Lake Edward and Lake George.

    boat ride on Kazinga chanel

    Some of the best wildlife viewings are done on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, passing squacco herons, pied kingfishers, large numbers of buffalo and hippo, basking crocodiles and very many different bird species and large mammals. This is one of the most memorable experiences from the park. Over 300 hippos are found in the lake.

    After the boat cruise, you will go for an evening game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park aiming to catch the lions hunting in the evening. Lions usually hunt when the temperatures are cooler.  We also expect to see the Uganda kob, elephants, buffalos, warthogs, leopards and waterbucks.

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    Meals and overnight at Songbird Safari Lodge/ Enshama Game Lodge & Campsite/ Engiri Game Lodge.

  • Day
    10

    Travel To Ishasha Sector | Tree Climbing Lion Tracking | Transfer To Bwindi Impenetrable National Park | Batwa Cultural Interaction

    After an early morning breakfast, you will be transferred to Ishasha Sector for the tree-climbing lions on the Kasenyi Plains. Ishasha is located in the southern sector of Queen Elizabeth.

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    Have a game drive in Ishasha, famous for its tree climbing lions. The Ishasha Sector is notably recognized for its resident tree-climbing lions which are an exceptional attraction.

    After the game drive in Ishasha it is time to move to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home of the famous mountain gorillas. You will have lunch en route.

    On arrival, you will check in at your lodge, then later in the evening,  you will head out for a community walk where you will visit the Batwa. This is an indigenous group of people that have lived in the forest for over 500,000 years. You will enjoy traditional dances and drama from them.

    Batwa culture

    Meals and overnight at Ruhija Gorilla Friends Resort/ Gorilla Friends Resort Lodge/ Nshongi Camp.

  • Day
    11

    Gorilla Trekking | Travel To Lake Bunyonyi With 29 Islands | Optional Activities

    After breakfast, you will head out with your guide and a packed lunch to the park head offices for a briefing about the do’s and don’ts of gorilla trekking.

    Afterwards, you will head out for gorilla trekking through the misty rain forest. Trekking lasts two to six hours, depending on the location of the gentle giants. Make sure you carry enough water, sturdy shoes, non-flash cameras, and rain jackets.

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    Spending time in the presence of mountain gorillas is a real privilege, so we are sure you will enjoy trekking deep into the forest to find them. This is one of the most memorable experiences you can have while on safari.

    At the end of this long and exciting adventure, you will be transferred to Lake Bunyonyi, which is a twisting water body, dotted with 29 islands of various shapes and sizes scattered across the water.

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    On arrival at Lake Bunyonyi, you will check in at your lodge and relax for the rest of your day.

    Meals and overnight at Paradise Eco Hub/ Bunyonyi Overland Resort/ Crater Bay Cottages and Camp.

  • Day
    12

    The Last Day With Us | Equator Stopover | Transfer To The Airport | Fly Back Home

    After having a delightful breakfast, you will be driven to the Airport. Along the way, you will have a stopover at the Equator in Masaka. You will be able to see where this imaginary line divides our planet into two equal hemispheres. Lunch, snacks, souvenirs and photographs may be taken here.

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    You will then be transferred to Entebbe International Airport for your scheduled flight back home.

    Even the best safaris must come to an end. We're sure that you travel home with a suitcase full of happy memories, and we hope that you will join us again sometime in the future.

Inclusions

  • One gorilla permit per person to be secured and paid for well in advance
  • One chimpanzee permit per person to be secured and paid for well in advance
  • Services of an expert guide
  • Airport transfer (Airport pick up and drop off)
  • Air ticket from Madagascar to Uganda.
  • Daily meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Ground transportation (Open Sided Safari Vehicle / Safari Vehicle Open Sided)
  • Full board accommodation and en route meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • Park fees and relevant government taxes.

Exclusions

  • Airfares
  • Visa fees
  • Personal insurance
  • Expenses of personal nature, such as drinks, tips, laundry, telephone, and cigarettes
  • Accommodation and meals not indicated in the itinerary

Accommodation

Throughout this exciting journey, you will be accommodated in a variety of accommodations.

The accommodation is appropriate and will be determined by your budget. Kubwa Five Safaris offers the best service at every level. Kubwa Five Safaris reserves the right to substitute comparable or superior accommodations. If an equivalent standard hotel is not available, Kubwa Five Safaris may substitute the next best quality hotel or suggest a superior for an additional fee. Hotels and lodges provide free Wi-Fi.

How to Get There

Arrival by airplane

Please book your flight to arrive at Ivato International Airport. Kubwa Five Safaris will pick you up from Ivato International Airport. 

After After your thrilling vacation in Madagascar, Kubwa Five Safaris will transfer you to Ivato International Airport for your scheduled flight to Entebbe International Airport. Air transfer is included.

After your safari in Uganda, Kubwa Five Safaris will drop you off at Entebbe International Airport for your scheduled flight back home. Airport transfer is included.

Visa Applications

Please write to us for more details.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is included in the safari package cost?

The cost covers all accommodations, meals as specified, park entrance fees, game drives, gorilla and chimpanzee permits, boat cruise, guide services, air ticket from Madagascar to Uganda and ground transportation throughout the safari.

3. What should I pack for this 12-day safari?

Essentials include lightweight clothing, hiking boots, a rain jacket, insect repellent, sunscreen, binoculars, a camera, a reusable water bottle, and personal medication. A full packing list will be shared upon booking.

4. Is this safari suitable for families with children?

Yes, but children under 15 are not allowed to participate in gorilla and chimpanzee trekking. We offer alternative activities for young children on those days.

5. What type of accommodations are provided?

We use clean, safe, and comfortable lodges/tents.

6. Can dietary requirements be accommodated?

Yes. We cater to most dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and others. Please let us know your preferences in advance.

7. How physically demanding is the safari?

While most of the safari involves vehicle-based game drives and scenic travel, gorilla and chimpanzee trekking require moderate physical fitness due to hiking in mountainous and forested terrain.

8. Is travel insurance required?

Yes. We strongly recommend that all participants have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage.

9. What is the group size?

Our private safari is tailored to provide an intimate and immersive experience for small groups. We accommodate groups of 4 to 24 travelers, ensuring that each participant receives personalized attention and a unique safari experience.

10. Can the itinerary be customized?

Yes, we can tailor this safari to fit your schedule, interests, or accommodation preferences. Contact us for a personalized quote.

11. Why You Should Visit Madagascar?

  • Madagascar

Madagascar is one of the most extraordinary travel destinations in the world — a place where nature feels untouched, wildlife exists nowhere else on Earth, and landscapes change dramatically from rainforest to desert to tropical coastline.

Madagascar is not a typical mass-tourism destination. Visiting feels adventurous and rewarding, perfect for travelers seeking something rare and meaningful. Whether trekking through rainforest trails, spotting nocturnal lemurs, or exploring remote coastal villages, every day feels like discovery.

Madagascar is a global biodiversity hotspot. Scientists are still discovering new species here, making it one of the most biologically important places on Earth.

12. Frequently Asked Question about Madagascar

  1. Where is Madagascar located?

Madagascar is a large island nation in the Indian Ocean, off the southeastern coast of Africa, opposite Mozambique.

2. Is Madagascar safe for tourists?

Madagascar is generally safe for tourists, especially in national parks and main tourist areas. Like many destinations, petty theft can occur in cities such as Antananarivo, so basic precautions are recommended (avoid walking alone at night, secure valuables, and use trusted guides).

3. What is Madagascar famous for?

Madagascar is famous for its unique wildlife, especially lemurs, baobab trees, and chameleons. It’s also known for dramatic landscapes like Tsingy de Bemaraha and the iconic Avenue of the Baobabs.

4. What wildlife can I see in Madagascar?

You can see several species of lemurs, chameleons, geckos, rare birds, and endemic plants. Popular wildlife destinations include Andasibe-Mantadia National Park and Ranomafana National Park.

13. Why You Should Visit Uganda?

  • Uganda

Uganda is known as "The Pearl of Africa" with good cause. It is one of the few places in the world where you may enjoy safaris, mountains, forests, rivers, and rich culture all in one trip.

It is one of just three nations where you can journey to observe wild mountain gorillas, particularly in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Meeting these gentle giants is an unforgettable experience.

The Nile River's source is in Uganda! Jinja, Africa's adventure capital, offers whitewater rafting, kayaking, bungee jumping, and relaxing sunset cruises.

14. Frequently Asked Questions about Uganda

  1. When is the best time of year to visit Uganda?

Uganda is accessible at any time of year. Mountain gorilla trekking is on most tourists’ bucket lists, and permits are available all year.

Uganda is a tropical country that receives a lot of rain. The wettest months are March to May, which can make travel difficult. During the Wet Season some roads become extremely muddy and difficult to navigate.

The dry season months of June to August and December to February provide the best travel conditions, and are also ideal for Ugandan gorilla trekking. The dry season months are also ideal for general wildlife viewing in savannah reserves because animals congregate around rivers and waterholes, and the grass is shorter, making spotting easier.

2. How are the wildlife viewing opportunities in Uganda?

Uganda is home to some of the best wilderness areas on the African continent. Uganda unquestionably has some of the best and most beautiful wildlife in the world.

Uganda has a diverse wildlife population and is home to the big five game animals. Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Kidepo Valley National Park, and Lake Mburo National Park are the best places in Uganda to see wildlife.

A wildlife viewing experience in Uganda is well worth your time and money, and it will leave you with lasting memories. Uganda, unspoiled and raw, offers a genuine sense of off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Uganda is endowed with numerous natural and cultural wonders that are largely unknown to the general public. Uganda is still relatively unknown, with the majority of tourists interviewed stating that this was their first visit and promising to return with their friends. With an astounding number of hippos, rhinos, lions, leopards, elephants, gorillas, chimps, giraffes, buffalos, and other animals thriving in Uganda’s national parks, Uganda is undeniably endowed.

Uganda is home to over 350 different species of mammals of various sizes. They include large mammals such as gorillas, rhinos, hippos, chimps, buffaloes, lions, leopards, elephants, zebras, giraffes, and warthogs, as well as small mammals such as bats, moles, and shrews. These mammals are classified into three groups: primates (gorillas, chimps, monkeys, and others), carnivores (leopards, African wildcats, cheetahs, and others), and herbivores (Buffalos, elephants, Giraffes and more).

3. Is Uganda safe for tourists?

When traveling to urban areas, travelers should take the usual precautions for their safety and try to avoid traveling at night. Petty crime is a problem in urban areas, just as it is in all poor countries. Each national park is equipped with security personnel in order to guarantee the tourists’ well-being.

15. What are Gorilla Tracking Rules And Regulations?

  • Before Departing On Your Gorilla Trekking:
  • A maximum number of eight visitors may visit a group of habituated mountain gorillas in a day. This minimizes behavioral disturbance to the gorillas and the risk of their exposure to human-borne diseases.
  • Always wash your hands before you head out to the gorillas.
  • On The Way To The Gorillas:
  • Please always keep your voices low. You will also be able to observe the great birdlife and other wildlife in the forest.
  • DO NOT leave rubbish in the park. Whatever you bring into the forest should be carried back out with you.
  • You will be taken to where the guides observed the gorillas the day before. From there you will follow the gorilla’s trail to find them. Look out for the gorilla’s nesting sites along the way!
  • When you approach the mountain gorillas, the guides will inform you to get ready.
  • When You Are With The Gorillas:
  • A seven-meter (21 feet) distance should be tried to be observed at all times from the gorillas. The further back you are, the more relaxed the group will be.
  • You must stay in a tight group whey you are near the gorillas.
  • Keep your voices down at all times. However, it is okay to ask the guide questions.
  • Do not smoke, drink, or eat when you are near the gorillas. Eating or drinking inevitably will increase the risk of food/drink morsels/droplets falling, which could increase the risk of transmission of diseases.
  • Sometimes the gorillas charge. Follow the guides example (crouch down slowly, do not look the gorillas directly in the eyes, and wait for the animals to pass). Do not attempt to run away because that will increase the risk.
  • Flash photography is not permitted! When taking pictures move slowly and carefully.
  • Do not touch the gorillas. They are wild animals.
  • The maximum time you can spend with the gorillas is one hour. However, if the gorillas become agitated or nervous, the guide will finish the visit early.
  • After the visit keep your voices down until you are 200 meters away from the gorillas.
  • General Health Rules:
  • Remember that mountain gorillas are very susceptible to human diseases. The following rules are ways to minimize the risk your visit might pose to them.
  • Respect the limits imposed on the number of visitors allowed with the gorillas each day. This minimizes the risk of disease transmission and stress to the group.
  • If you are feeling ill, or you are carrying a contagious disease, volunteer to stay behind. An alternate visit will be arranged for you, or you will be refunded your money.
  • If you feel the urge to cough or sneeze when you are near the gorillas, please turn your head away and cover your nose and mouth in order to minimize the spread of bacteria or viruses.
  • Always stay seven meters (21 feet) away from the gorillas. This is to protect them from catching human diseases.
  • Do not leave any rubbish (eg. food wrappers) in the park; foreign items can harbor diseases or other contaminants.
  • If you need to go to the toilet while in the forest, please ask the guide to dig you a hole with his panga. Make sure the hole is 30 centimeters deep and fill it in when you are finished.
  • What To Bring On Your Gorilla Safari:
  • Wear comfortable hiking shoes suitable for steep muddy slopes.
  • Put on earplugs for those who feel uncomfortable with the jungle sounds.
  • Carry a packed lunch and enough drinking water.
  • Carry rain gear, sunscreen lotion, a hat (as the weather is unpredictable), and insect repellent.
  • Bring a photo of a film camera. Using a flashlight is not permitted so we recommend using films of 400-800 ASA.