8-Day Uganda Western Rift Safari: Kibale, Semuliki & Rwenzori
Chimpanzees in Kibale, hot springs in Semuliki and the snow-topped Rwenzoris above Kasese.
Go beyond the expected.
Uganda's western rift in one loop: forests full of primates, crater lakes, the lowland forest of Semuliki, the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains and a final savannah park. It suits travellers who want variety and are comfortable with some driving.
- Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park
- Crater lake walks around Fort Portal
- Sempaya hot springs and forest birds in Semuliki National Park
- Guided day hike in the Rwenzori Mountains National Park
- Game drive and Kazinga Channel cruise in Queen Elizabeth National Park
What's included
Included
- All accommodation as specified
- Private 4x4 safari vehicle with driver-guide
- Park and reserve entrance fees for the activities listed
- Guided activities as listed in the day-by-day itinerary
- Meals as specified in the day-by-day itinerary
- Chimpanzee tracking permit in Kibale National Park
Not included
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal expenses
- Alcoholic beverages
Confirm current park fees, permit availability, accommodation and pricing before booking, since these can change with season and demand. Access to remote areas should be confirmed before travel.
Day by day
Day 1 Arrival in Entebbe
Entebbe
Arrive and transfer to your accommodation, with time to rest and meet your guide for a briefing on the days ahead.
Day 2 To Fort Portal via Katonga
Katonga Wildlife Reserve and Fort Portal and the Crater Lakes
Drive west, stopping at Katonga Wildlife Reserve for a short wetland and birdwatching break, then continue to Fort Portal, the gateway to the crater lakes.
Day 3 Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale
Kibale National Park
A guided forest walk in search of a chimpanzee community, with time to watch them feeding and moving. In the afternoon, visit a nearby community wetland for birds and monkeys.
Day 4 Crater lakes
Fort Portal and the Crater Lakes
A walk among volcanic crater lakes, farms and forest patches, with views across the countryside and a chance to meet local people.
Day 5 Semuliki National Park and Toro-Semliki
Semuliki National Park and Toro-Semliki Wildlife Reserve
Drive to the Semuliki valley for a guided walk through lowland forest to the Sempaya hot springs, followed by a game drive and birdwatching in Toro-Semliki Wildlife Reserve beside Lake Albert.
Day 6 Kasese and the Rwenzori Mountains
Kasese and Rwenzori Mountains National Park
Drive around the Rwenzori foothills to Kasese for a guided day hike on the lower trails of Rwenzori Mountains National Park, through mossy forest and mountain streams.
Day 7 Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park
A morning game drive across the plains, followed by an afternoon boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, where hippos, buffalo and elephants gather.
Day 8 Return and departure
Entebbe
A full day's drive back to Entebbe, with stops along the way. We recommend an evening or late-night departure.
On this safari
Places you will visit
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Start with the places and experiences that matter to you. We will shape the Safari around them.
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Questions about 8-Day Uganda Western Rift Safari: Kibale, Semuliki & Rwenzori
Do I need a visa to visit Uganda?
Most nationalities need a visa for Uganda, commonly available as an e-visa applied for online before travel. Requirements vary by nationality, so check the current official guidance for your passport well ahead of your safari.
How many days do I need in Uganda?
A focused gorilla trekking safari can work in as few as 4–5 days, but 8–12 days lets you combine gorilla trekking with chimpanzee tracking, a savannah park such as Queen Elizabeth or Murchison Falls, and some rest time — we shape the exact length around what you want to include.
How many national parks does Uganda have?
Uganda protects its landscapes and wildlife across ten national parks, ranging from the rainforest of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (home to mountain gorillas) to the savanna of Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls, Uganda’s largest park.
How much does a gorilla trekking permit cost in Uganda?
Uganda gorilla trekking permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and priced separately from your safari cost. Permit prices and availability change periodically, so we confirm the current official rate and secure your permit as part of planning your safari — book several months ahead where possible, since permits for popular dates sell out.
What is the best time to visit Uganda?
Uganda can be visited year-round. The drier months (roughly December–February and June–September) are generally easiest for trekking and game viewing, while the wetter months bring lush scenery, fewer crowds and lower lodge rates. Gorilla trekking is possible in any month, since it happens in rainforest regardless of season.
What wildlife is Uganda known for?
Uganda is best known for mountain gorillas — it holds roughly half of the world’s remaining population — alongside strong chimpanzee tracking in Kibale, tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and over 1,000 recorded bird species, an exceptional figure for a country of its size.