12 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Zambia Safari

Are you interested in Visiting Gorillas after proceeding to Zambia for a 5 Five safari, we have a 12 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Zambia Safari itinerary combining gorilla trekking in Uganda and a safari in Zambia for an incredible blend of wildlife experiences and natural beauty. Gorilla trekking is one of the top activities you should do on your visit to Uganda, you will have an opportunity to visit and trek the mountain gorillas in the Bwindi forest located in the far southwestern part of Uganda. Gorilla tracking in Uganda is done in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These are one of the only 2 national parks home to the endangered mountain gorillas in Uganda, other national parks include Volcanoes national park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in DR Congo.

Zambia is often referred to as the best safari holiday destination in Africa for walking safaris, with Luangwa Valley National Park in particular which is home to some of Africa’s finest walking safari trails giving you an opportunity to get close to wildlife. Zambia’s best safari destinations are Luangwa Valley, including North and South Luangwa National Parks, the beautiful breathtaking and stunning Lower Zambezi and the vast wilderness of Kafue National Park. However, there are also a number of lesser-known parks visited by very few travelers.

How to Combine Gorilla Trekking in Uganda with Zambia Safari?

There are many options on how to Combine Gorilla Trekking in Uganda with Zambia Safari, you can start the tour with visiting Uganda for gorilla trekking then after fly to Zambia for safari and vice versa. The flight connects between Zambia and Uganda are operated by different airlines and options include Kenya Airways, Rwandair and Air link among others.

Here is the summary itinerary of the 12 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Zambia Safari

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe, Uganda

• Arrive at Entebbe International Airport.
• Transfer to your accommodation in Entebbe.
• Rest and recover from your journey.

Day 2: Entebbe to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

• Fly or drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.
• Check into your lodge near Bwindi.
• Rest and prepare for the upcoming gorilla trekking adventure.

Day 3-4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

• Participate in gorilla trekking for two days.
• Spend an hour with each gorilla group, observing and photographing them.
• Return to the lodge after each trek for relaxation and rest.

Day 5: Bwindi to Entebbe to Lusaka, Zambia

• Travel back to Entebbe and catch a flight to Lusaka, Zambia.
• Upon arrival in Lusaka, transfer to your accommodation.
• Rest and prepare for the Zambia safari.

Day 6: Lower Zambezi National Park

• Fly to Lower Zambezi National Park.
• Check into your lodge.
• Enjoy an afternoon/evening game drive or a boat safari along the Zambezi River.

Day 7: Lower Zambezi National Park

• Full day of activities in Lower Zambezi.
• Morning and afternoon game drives or boat safaris.
• Opportunity to spot elephants, lions, hippos, and various bird species.

Day 8: South Luangwa National Park

• Fly to South Luangwa National Park.
• Check into your lodge.
• Relax and enjoy the surroundings of the African bush.

Day 9-10: South Luangwa National Park

• Two full days of game drives in South Luangwa.
• Explore the diverse landscapes and incredible wildlife of the park.
• Chance to see leopards, giraffes, buffalo, and more.

Day 11: Livingstone and Victoria Falls

• Fly to Livingstone.
• Visit the iconic Victoria Falls, one of the natural wonders of the world.
• Enjoy optional activities such as a helicopter ride over the falls or a guided tour.

Day 12: Livingstone – Departure

• Depending on your flight schedule, you might have some free time for last-minute shopping or activities.
• Transfer to Livingstone Airport for your departure.

Please note that this is a general itinerary and can be customized based on your preferences, budget, and availability. Make sure to consider travel times between destinations, as well as any entry requirements, visa regulations, and health precautions that might be in place at the time of your travel. It’s also recommended to book your accommodations and activities in advance, especially for gorilla trekking permits, as they have limited availability.

About Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

About Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is one of the only 4 national parks home to the endangered mountain gorillas in the world, other national parks include Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda, Volcanoes national park in Rwanda and Virunga National Park in DR Congo. Bwindi Forest National Park is one of Africa’s oldest forests with a diverse biodiversity with various species which include 350 birds, 310 butterflies, 200 trees, 51 reptiles, 88 moths and 120 mammals, the park is also home to several primates including chimpanzees, L’Hoest’s monkey and the major one the Mountain Gorillas. The global population of mountain gorillas is 1064 individuals and half of these can be found in Bwindi forest, the park has over 15 habituated gorilla family groups open for gorilla tracking with 8 gorilla permits allocated to each group per day.

What is the best time to go Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest?

The best time to do a gorilla trekking in Bwindi forest is during the drier months of January, February, June to early September, this is makes it easier to travel to the park and gives a clear view of gorillas given the vegetation cover is not too much high grown

What to pack for Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest?

During gorilla tracking you will need a comfortable, hard wearing, pair of walking shoes or boots.  Conditions are generally very muddy when it is raining. There are uphill sections which may be quite steep and strenuous.  It is also advisable to wear a long sleeve cotton shirt and lightweight long trousers to protect yourself from the undergrowth, stinging nettles and biting ants.  Suggested Items to pack for Gorilla trekking in Bwindi include;

• Insect Repellent                      
  • Torch/Flashlight – and Spare Batteries
  • Wet Wipes                             
  • Water Bottle                                 
  • Camera, lenses etc
  • Comfortable walking/hiking boots & socks          
  • Gardening gloves for gorilla tracking
  • Sandals/strops/walking shoes    
  • Hat and Sunscreen
  • Rain Jacket
  • Sweater/fleece
  • Swimwear
  • Binoculars (game/bird watching)

Why Book 12 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Zambia Safari Through Eco Adventure Safaris

Eco Adventure Safaris will help you book your gorilla trekking permits trekking in Bwindi Forest contact us and we advise you on the booking process. We also have different gorilla trekking safari packages ranging from budget, mid-range to luxury options that we can book for you including the gorilla permits. Feel free to checkout our trip advisor reviews and read from a community of happy satisfied clients. With us, you can be rest assured of a memorable Uganda safari holiday. We are devoted to providing excellent service and customer satisfaction. Our team of excellent tour consultants is always willing to help answer all your safari questions. We guarantee you a great gorilla tour in Uganda, Rwanda and DR Congo with us. Contact us here for more information about booking the 12 Days Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Zambia Safari.