Unforgettable 6-Day Ethiopia & Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Uganda

6 Days

Embark on the ultimate East African adventure with our Unforgettable 6-Day Ethiopia & Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Uganda, where Ethiopia's ancient mystique meets Uganda's misty mountain gorillas! Imagine exploring Lalibela's rock-hewn churches, immersing in Ethiopia's cultural heartbeat, then jetting to Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for a life-changing gorilla trekking experience – a journey blending Africa's historic charm with primate magic. With expert guides, comfy stays, and epic adventures, get ready for an unforgettable journey through Ethiopia's culture and Uganda's wild heart, where Ethiopia's ancient rocks and Uganda's gorilla forests create memories to last!

The town of Lalibela is a marvel of spiritual and architectural heritage, famous for its extraordinary rock-hewn churches carved directly from solid stone. These UNESCO-listed sites, including the iconic Church of Saint George, showcase centuries of Christian devotion and remarkable craftsmanship, connected by tunnels and trenches that invite exploration and reflection. Complementing this historical journey is Ethiopia’s traditional coffee ceremony, a warm and intimate ritual where fresh beans are roasted, ground, and brewed. Sharing coffee symbolizes hospitality, connection, and culture, offering visitors a sensory and deeply authentic Ethiopian experience that lingers long after the cup is finished.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its dense, misty rainforest and incredible biodiversity, including endangered mountain gorillas. Trekking through its lush trails, visitors encounter vibrant birdlife, primates, and stunning vegetation while guided experts provide insights into the ecosystem. Complementing the wildlife adventure is an authentic Batwa cultural experience. Meeting the Batwa people, one of Uganda’s original forest-dwelling communities, offers a glimpse into their traditional lifestyle, music, dance, and survival skills. Together, gorilla trekking and the Batwa encounter provide a unique blend of nature, culture, and unforgettable human connection in the heart of Uganda.

Cost per person:

Starting from: $4670 (Budget Accommodation) per person based on two travelers sharing

 1 Person2 People3 People4 People5 People6 People
Jan-April$5250$4670$4470$4370$4270$4170
May- August$5450$4870$4670$4570$4470$4370
Sept- Dec$5350$4770$4570$4470$4370$4270

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
  • Budget Lodges
  • English, Spanish, French, Dutch, German, Italian, and Chinese speaking guides
  • Safari Van/ 4X4 Landcruiser
  • 1-100 people
  • 1-90 years old
  • January - December
  • Addis Ababa Bole International Airport
  • Entebbe International Airport

Why This Tour?

Unforgettable 6-Day Ethiopia & Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Uganda

Embark on our Unforgettable 6-Day Ethiopia & Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Uganda, a journey blending history, culture, and wildlife. Explore the sacred rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, including the iconic Church of Saint George, and experience the warmth of a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony. Then venture to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for an extraordinary gorilla trekking adventure through dense rainforest, complemented by an authentic Batwa cultural encounter. Expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and immersive experiences make this tour a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness Ethiopia’s heritage and Uganda’s wild wonders in one seamless, unforgettable journey.

East Africa Tours

You will visit Addis Ababa, Lalibela and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

This Unforgettable 6-Day Ethiopia & Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Uganda offers an exceptional blend of ancient heritage, living traditions, and once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounters. Your journey begins in Addis Ababa, where a visit to the renowned National Museum of Ethiopia introduces you to Ethiopia’s deep history through remarkable archaeological and cultural treasures.

From the vibrant capital, travel to the sacred town of Lalibela, one of Africa’s most treasured spiritual destinations. Over immersive explorations, discover the extraordinary rock-hewn churches, including the iconic Church of Saint George, carved entirely from solid rock and connected by ancient tunnels and passageways. These UNESCO-listed wonders showcase remarkable engineering, deep religious symbolism, and centuries-old Christian devotion that continues to thrive today. Enhance your cultural experience with a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony, where the rich aromas and rituals reflect the warmth and hospitality of local communities.

The adventure then transitions to Uganda, where nature takes center stage in the lush rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Here, embark on a guided gorilla trekking experience through dense jungle terrain, culminating in a rare and emotional encounter with endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Observing these gentle giants up close is both humbling and unforgettable.

Seamlessly combining culture, history, and wildlife, this journey features expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and meaningful experiences, making it perfect for travelers seeking a unique and enriching African adventure.

As you wrap up this Unforgettable 6-Day Ethiopia & Gorilla Trekking Adventure, the memories of Lalibela's ancient rocks, Bwindi's misty gorilla forests, and the thrill of face-to-face gorilla encounters will linger big – the scents of Ethiopia's culture, the sounds of Uganda's forests, the magic of primate encounters stay with you. The adventure ends, the call of Africa's wild heart remains, beckoning you to return to these lands of wonder, culture, and unforgettable memories, where history and wildlife tell stories of Africa's untamed charm. Book this safari now and enjoy an adventure of a life-time!

Highlights

  • Cultural Tour
  • Coffee Ceremony
  • Visit Museum
  • Visit First Group Of Churches
  • Visit Second Group Of Churches
  • Gorilla Trekking
  • Batwa Cultural Interaction
  • Bird Watching

Tour Plan

  • Day
    1

    Arrive In Ethiopia | Addis Ababa City Tour | Visit the National Museum

    On arrival in Ethiopia in the morning hours, 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 Addis Ababa Bole International Airport and be transferred to your hotel, check in and have your lunch.

    At the hotel, you will check in and relax for the rest of the day.

    Meals and overnight at Avi Pension/ Mad Vervet Hostel/ Addis Amba Hotel addis.

  • Day
    2

    Transfer To The Airport | Fly To Lalibela | Hotel Transfer | Tour First Group Of Churches | Coffee Ceremony

    After breakfast, you will be transferred to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport for your flight to Lalibela.

    On arrival, you will be welcomed by our Kubwa Five Safaris guide who will transfer you to your hotel in Lalibela for lunch.

    After lunch, you will visit the first group of churches which are Bet Medehanialem, Bet Maryam, Bet Michael and Gologota and finish on the most famous cross shaped church Bet Giorgis.

    In the evening, you will have a traditional Ethiopian coffee ceremony with a local family and have dinner in cultural restaurant while some live band music is playing.

    Top 6 Eye Catching Cultural Tours In Ethiopia

    At the end of the 12th and beginning of the 13th centuries, King Lalibela organized the construction of a series of rock hewn churches which are now One of the wonders of the world.

    Lalibela contains 11 monolithic churches that were built in the 12th century and are carved out of the pink granite rock.

    Meals and overnight at Hill Top Lodge Lalibela/ Top Twelve Hotel/ Lalibela Hotel.

  • Day
    3

    Last Day In Ethiopia | Visit 2nd Group Of Churches | Fly To Addis Ababa | Fly To Uganda | Hotel Transfer

    After having a delightful breakfast, you will visit the second group of churches. These are; Bete Gebriel, Bete Mercorios, Bete Amanuel, Bethlehem and Bete Aba Libanos.

    Gondar City

    After, you will be transferred to Lalibela Airport then you fly back to Addis Ababa and catch your scheduled flight to Uganda.

    On arrival in Uganda, 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 Entebbe International Airport and driven to your hotel within Entebbe.

  • Day
    04

    Transfer To Bwindi Impenetrable National Park | Batwa Cultural Interaction

    After breakfast, you will be transferred to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

    You don't need to stray far off the beaten path in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to understand how Uganda's premier gorilla-tracking destination acquired its English name. The steep slopes and dense substrata of ferns and shrubs in this magnificent highland forest can make for challenging walking conditions. Fortunately, the park has a good network of footpaths allowing you to look for its diverse wildlife, not only mountain gorillas but also 10 other primate, six forest antelope, 350 bird and 200-plus butterfly species.

    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 community

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

  • Day
    05

    Gorilla Trekking | Relaxing

    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.

    14 Day Budget Thrilling Safari

    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 head back to your lodge to freshen up and do some relaxing for the rest of the day.

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

  • Day
    06

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

    After having a delightful breakfast, you will be transferred to Entebbe International Airport for your scheduled flight back home.

    You will have a stopover at the Equator in Masaka and have your lunch from there. See where this imaginary line divides our planet into two equal hemispheres.
    Snacks, souvenirs, and photographs may be taken here.

    After the stopover, you will proceed to Entebbe International Airport for your scheduled flight back home.

    Much as we'd like your tour with us to last forever, sadly, today marks the end of your safari. Having shared so many wonderful experiences together, it's time to say goodbye and look back together on an amazing safari. We hope that you'll come back to travel with us again one day.

Inclusions

  • One gorilla 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)
  • Flight tickets from Addis Ababa Bole International Airport to Lalibela Airport and back to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport
  • Flight ticket from Ethiopia to Uganda
  • Daily meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
  • Ground transportation (4×4 safari Land Cruiser / minivan with pop-up tops)
  • 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 Addis Ababa Bole International Airport.

After your thrilling vacation in Ethiopia, Kubwa Five Safaris will transfer you to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport for your scheduled flight to Entebbe International Airport. Air Transfer included.

After your thrilling vacation in Uganda, Kubwa Five Safaris will transfer you to Entebbe International Airport for your scheduled flight back home.

Visa Applications and Flight bookings

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, boat cruises, guide services, and ground transportation throughout the safari.

2. Are gorilla trekking permits included?

Yes. Gorilla trekking permits (Bwindi) are included in the total cost of the trip.

3. What should I pack for this 6-day safari?

Essentials include lightweight clothing, hiking boots, a 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 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. All accommodations have private self-contained rooms; bathrooms are inside the rooms/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?

Gorilla trekking requires 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 Ethiopia

Visiting Ethiopia offers a journey unlike any other, rich in history, culture, and dramatic landscapes. Explore ancient wonders like Lalibela and Axum, where centuries-old traditions still thrive. Trek through the breathtaking Simien Mountains National Park, home to rare wildlife and stunning views. Experience vibrant festivals such as Timkat and savor unique cuisine and coffee culture. From the otherworldly Danakil Depression to welcoming communities, Ethiopia promises authentic, immersive adventures that blend nature, heritage, and unforgettable cultural encounters.

12. Frequently Asked Question about Ethiopia

  • Is Ethiopia safe for tourists?

Yes, Ethiopia is generally safe for tourists, particularly in well-traveled destinations such as Lalibela, Simien Mountains National Park, and Axum. As with any destination, travelers should take standard precautions, avoid isolated areas at night, and follow advice from local guides and authorities.

  • What is the best time to visit Ethiopia?

The ideal time to visit Ethiopia is during the dry season, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing, trekking, and cultural tours. This period also coincides with vibrant festivals such as Timkat, offering unique cultural experiences.

  • Is Ethiopia good for family travel?

Absolutely! Ethiopia is a wonderful destination for families, offering rich history, diverse landscapes, and engaging cultural experiences. Many tours are family-friendly, with opportunities to explore ancient sites, enjoy nature, and learn about local traditions in an interactive and memorable way.

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.