Grassrootz Exclusive - 8 days the best of the west

Day notes

Upon arrival at Entebbe Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by the guesthouse driver, who will take you to your accommodation nearby.

Depending on your arrival time, there may be space to ease into Uganda with a few optional activities. You could head out to Mabamba Swamp in search of the famous shoebill, or enjoy a relaxed walk through the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, where nature gently introduces you to the rhythm of the country.

Day notes

After breakfast, you’ll set off for Kibale Forest National Park. The drive from Kampala takes around four hours, but it’s far from boring. Along the way, the scenery keeps changing — rolling hills, green valleys, and mountain views that make you forget the time. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey as the landscape slowly turns greener the closer you get to the forest.

Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a well-earned lunch, after which it’s time to stretch your legs on the Bigodi Wetland Walk. This gentle hike takes you through a rich and lively area, home to many bird species and several types of monkeys. Keep your eyes and ears open — there’s always something moving, calling, or swinging through the trees.

Day notes

Today it’s time to go in search of the chimpanzees in Kibale Forest National Park. The morning starts at the ranger station, where you’ll receive a short briefing before stepping into the rainforest. From there, the walk leads you deep into the forest, following sounds, movement, and the expert knowledge of the rangers.

The trek can be challenging at times, so good walking shoes are essential, and a poncho is always a good idea. Move quietly, listen carefully, and you’ll increase your chances of meeting the chimps. Thanks to the rangers’ experience, the odds of a sighting are very high.

After this exciting encounter, you’ll drive on to Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you’ll settle into your lodge and unwind after a day full of adventure.

Optional activity
On Day 3, you can choose to take part in Chimpanzee Habituation — a longer and more in-depth experience with the chimps, available for an additional USD 50 per person.

Day notes

The day starts with an early morning game drive, when the park is at its most active and wildlife is on the move. After a relaxed break in the middle of the day, the adventure continues at 2:00 PM with a boat safari on the Kazinga Channel. Drift along the water as hippos, crocodiles, and countless birds appear along the banks. By around 5:00 PM, you’ll return to the lodge, just in time to unwind and enjoy the evening.

Day notes

The day begins with a lion tracking experience, joining a member of the research team as they follow a pride using radio tracking. This method makes it possible to get remarkably close, while learning how the lions move through their territory. Along the way, you’ll gain insight into the important role lions play in the ecosystem, and the challenges of living side by side with nearby communities.

In the late afternoon, you’ll continue your journey to Buhoma Gorilla Lodge, beautifully located on the edge of the national park. It’s the perfect place to settle in, surrounded by forest and anticipation for the days ahead.

Day notes

Today is the day you’ll meet the mountain gorillas!

After breakfast, you’ll head to the meeting point for your gorilla trek. The anticipation builds as you step into the misty forest, following the rangers in search of these incredible creatures. Depending on how long it takes to locate the gorilla family, your adventure will then continue to Lake Mutanda, where you can relax and soak in the stunning views, reflecting on an unforgettable encounter with one of nature’s most majestic animals.

Day notes

The Golden Monkey Tracking is a truly unique experience! It’s not just the playful monkeys that will amaze you — the scenery and surroundings are equally breathtaking and unforgettable.

After this adventure, you’ll continue on to Lake Mburo National Park, famous for its large herds of zebras and, more recently, for sightings of giraffe groups roaming the savannah. At the end of the day, you’ll check in at Rwakobo Rock, a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the peaceful African evening.

Optional activities for Day 7

• Boat ride on Lake Mburo – USD 30 per person. This depends on your arrival time at the park, and your guide will advise if it’s possible.

• Night game drive – USD 100 per person for a thrilling chance to see the park’s nocturnal wildlife.

Day notes

After a final walking safari, it’s time to head back to Entebbe, where your Ugandan adventure began. Along the way, soak in the last glimpses of the beautiful countryside and reflect on the incredible wildlife and memories you’ve collected.

Depending on your flight schedule, there may be some free time to explore Entebbe before your departure.

Note: You can expect to arrive in Entebbe between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM.