5-Days Kibale & Semuliki Primate Vacation | Chimpanzee Trekking

Overview

5-Day Kibale & Semuliki Primate Vacation – chimpanzee trekking 

This 5-day adventure combines chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest with a safari to Semuliki National Park. Explore the Bigodi community, discover the hot springs of Semuliki, and visit the Amabere nga Nyinamwiru caves. Delve into Uganda’s rich biodiversity and cultural heritage, experiencing primates, conservation efforts, and unique landscapes from Kibale’s tropical forests to the Congo Basin’s edge.

Day 1: Flight Transfer – Kibale Forest National Park

Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from either Kampala or Entebbe, setting off on a scenic 5–6-hour drive covering 330 kilometers to Kibale Forest National Park. As you journey through the breathtaking landscapes of central and western Uganda, you’ll pause for a delightful lunch in Fort Portal, also known as “Kabarole.” Upon arrival at the Kibale Tourist Safari Lodge, nestled near the edge of the forest, you’ll spend the night surrounded by the soothing sounds of the rainforest, ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

Overnight:

High-end: Tabebuia Spa & Safari Resort

Luxury: Primates Lodge

Mid-range: Kibale Tourist Safari Lodge

Budget: Kibale Forest Camp

Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: Explore Sempaya Hot springs & Amabere Caves – Fort Portal

Your adventure begins with a visit to the captivating hot springs of Semuliki National Park, where local ranger guides will enrich your experience with fascinating cultural stories surrounding these remarkable geological wonders. You’ll explore both the Bitente (Male) and Nyasimbi (Female) hot springs, each steeped in cultural significance and local folklore. These natural marvels are not only visually stunning but also hold deep meaning for the surrounding communities.

Afterward, you’ll continue your journey to Nyakasura, where you’ll visit the Amabere nga Nyinamwiru caves. This cultural site offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty, with a brief hike leading you to the top of the world, a vantage point offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the “Mountains of the Moon.” This scenic spot provides a perfect opportunity to capture the majesty of the landscape. After taking in the stunning views, you’ll return to your lodge in Kibale Forest to relax and reflect on the day’s unforgettable experiences.

Overnight:

High-end: Tabebuia Spa & Safari Resort

Luxury: Primates Lodge

Mid-range: Kibale Tourist Safari Lodge

Budget: Kibale Forest Camp

Meal Plan: Full board

Day 3: Bigodi Swamp & Community Walk – Kibale National Park

After breakfast at leisure, you’ll head to the charming Bigodi village, where you’ll embark on a delightful nature walk. Along the way, you’ll encounter a picturesque swamp teeming with vibrant butterflies, diverse plant life, and a variety of wildlife. The area is a paradise for birdwatchers, offering the chance to spot remarkable species like the striking Great Blue Turaco.

Next, immerse yourself in the local culture with a guided village walk, where you’ll learn about the traditional ways of life. Visit local artisans and experience the craft of banana beer brewing, basket weaving, and the ancient healing practices of a traditional healer. You’ll also gain insight into the art of coffee production, from bean to cup, for a truly authentic cultural experience.

Overnight:

High-end: Tabebuia Spa & Safari Resort

Luxury: Primates Lodge

Mid-range: Kibale Tourist Safari Lodge

Budget: Kibale Forest Camp

Meal Plan: Full board

Day 4: Ultimate Chimpanzee Trekking Experience – Kibale Forest National Park

Start your day with an early morning breakfast, filling you with energy for an exciting day ahead. Afterward, your driver-guide will take you to the Kanyanchu Visitor Center, where you’ll receive a thorough briefing from your ranger guide in preparation for your chimpanzee tracking adventure. With your permits and expectations set, you’ll embark on an unforgettable trek through the lush forest trails of Kibale, often referred to as the ‘Primate Capital of the World.’

As you make your way through the dense vegetation, your knowledgeable ranger guide will share insights into the diverse flora and fauna that make up this remarkable ecosystem. Once you’ve located a group of chimpanzees, you’ll have the incredible opportunity to observe these fascinating creatures up close in their natural habitat. Watch as they interact, forage for food, and display behaviors that reveal their complex social structures. You’ll spend an hour immersed in this unique experience, gaining a deeper appreciation for our closest relatives.

After your trek, return to the lodge to enjoy a well-deserved hot lunch, perfect for refueling after a morning of adventure. The afternoon is yours to relax and unwind, reflecting on the unforgettable chimpanzee encounter and the rich experiences of the previous days. Spend your time leisurely exploring the lodge surroundings or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere as you prepare for the next chapter of your journey.

Overnight:

High-end: Tabebuia Spa & Safari Resort

Luxury: Primates Lodge

Mid-range: Kibale Tourist Safari Lodge

Budget: Kibale Forest Camp

Meal Plan: Full board

Day 5: Depart to Entebbe International Airport

On the final day of your adventure, you’ll enjoy a morning departure for the scenic road transfer to Kampala or Entebbe. As you travel, take advantage of the stunning western Uganda landscapes for some last-minute photography, capturing the beauty of the rolling hills, lush valleys, and vibrant villages. Your Kibale & Semuliki Adventure concludes with your arrival in Kampala or Entebbe in the late afternoon, after a 6–7-hour drive. From here, you’ll head to the airport for your onward flight, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences you’ve had during this incredible journey.

Overnight: No

Meal plan: Breakfast & Lunch