5-Day Gorillas & Golden Monkeys Safari in Uganda
Explore two of Uganda’s most iconic primate experiences in one unforgettable trip: the mountain gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and the rare encounter with the endangered golden monkeys in the bamboo forests of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
This 5-day Uganda safari itinerary is perfect for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the heart of the Virunga Mountains while supporting primate conservation. With scenic drives, cultural experiences, and expert guides, you’ll get a true taste of the southwestern highlands.
️ Trip Overview
- Safari Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
- Destinations: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
- Activities: Gorilla trekking, golden monkey tracking, cultural walk
- Accommodation: Comfortable mid-range or luxury lodges in Kisoro region
Suggested internal links:
Uganda Gorilla Trekking Packages
Golden Monkey Tracking in Mgahinga
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe or Transfer from Kampala to Kisoro
Highlights:
- Airport pickup or overland transfer
- Scenic southwestern landscapes
- Optional flight to Kisoro (recommended)
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, a representative from Murchison Falls Safaris will meet you and assist with your transfer. If time allows, take a scenic domestic flight to Kisoro—a picturesque town near the gorilla trekking sectors of Bwindi and Mgahinga.
Alternatively, travel by road through the rolling green hills of western Uganda, stopping for lunch in Mbarara and a quick break at the Equator monument.
Arrive in Kisoro and check into your lodge nestled in the misty highlands of the Virunga range.
Recommended Lodges:
- Mid-range: Traveler’s Rest Hotel, Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
- Luxury: Chameleon Hill Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
Suggested internal links:
Best Gorilla Lodges in Kisoro
Domestic Flights to Kisoro
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Highlights:
- Lifetime encounter with endangered mountain gorillas
- Trek through ancient rainforest with expert guides
- Learn about gorilla conservation and behavior
After an early breakfast, transfer to the Bwindi National Park briefing point (usually Rushaga or Nkuringo sectors). You’ll receive a safety briefing and be assigned to a gorilla family group.
Your guided trek may take 2–6 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location. Once located, you’ll have one magical hour to observe the gorillas as they eat, groom, nest, and interact in their natural environment.
Return to your lodge for a late lunch and relax with views of the surrounding rainforest.
What to Bring:
- Waterproof hiking gear and boots
- Insect repellent, walking stick
- Packed lunch and 2L drinking water
- Camera (no flash)
Gorilla Permit:
USD $800 (included in package)
Suggested internal links:
Bwindi Gorilla Permit Info
Gorilla Trekking Preparation Guide
Day 3: Golden Monkey Tracking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Highlights:
- Track the rare and playful golden monkeys
- Walk through volcanic bamboo forests in the Virunga range
- Stunning views of Mt. Gahinga and Muhabura
After breakfast, head to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, Uganda’s smallest but most scenic park, located at the intersection of Uganda, Rwanda, and DRC.
Join a guided team of rangers to track golden monkeys—a rare, endangered primate species found only in the Albertine Rift’s high-altitude forests. These agile creatures live in bamboo thickets and are known for their curious and energetic behavior.
The golden monkey tracking excursion typically lasts 2–4 hours, with one hour allowed for photography and observation once a troop is found.
Golden Monkey Permit:
USD $100 per person (included)
Optional Afternoon Activities:
- Hike to Garama Cave (former Batwa shelter)
- Community cultural visit
Suggested internal links:
Golden Monkey Facts
Top Trails in Mgahinga National Park
️ Day 4: Batwa Cultural Trail & Scenic Highlands Tour
Highlights:
- Walk with Batwa forest elders
- Learn traditional hunting, herbal medicine, and fire-making skills
- Cultural dances and storytelling
After days of trekking, enjoy a slower, more cultural day with a visit to the Batwa Trail. The Batwa pygmies were the original forest dwellers and hunter-gatherers of the Mgahinga and Bwindi areas before being displaced by conservation policies.
Walk the trail with Batwa elders who will guide you through their ancestral practices, show you how they lived in caves, used medicinal plants, and demonstrate traditional music and dance.
This experience offers insight into the balance between conservation and indigenous rights, while also supporting local livelihoods.
Suggested internal links:
Batwa Trail Cultural Experience
Supporting Indigenous Communities in Uganda
Day 5: Return to Entebbe or Departure
Highlights:
- Optional domestic flight from Kisoro to Entebbe
- Souvenir shopping en route
- End of safari
Depending on your schedule, you’ll either:
- Drive back to Entebbe/Kampala with lunch en route
- Or take a morning flight from Kisoro Airstrip to Entebbe
You’ll be dropped at your hotel or the airport in time for your onward flight.
✅ What’s Included
- Gorilla trekking permit (USD $800)
- Golden monkey tracking permit (USD $100)
- All park entry fees and guide services
- Private 4×4 safari vehicle with fuel
- 4 nights’ full board accommodation
- Bottled water and snacks during activities
- Cultural experiences (Batwa Trail)
❌ What’s Not Included
- International flights & Uganda visa
- Alcoholic drinks and souvenirs
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guides and rangers
Who Is This Safari For?
- ♂️ Solo travelers and couples seeking wildlife + culture
- Primate enthusiasts
- Photographers and nature lovers
- Active families with older teens
Book Your Gorilla & Golden Monkey Safari With Murchison Falls Safaris
With expert guides, guaranteed permits, and deep local knowledge, Murchison Falls Safaris crafts experiences that go beyond wildlife—connecting you with culture, community, and conservation. Let us handle the logistics so you can focus on the adventure.
Suggested internal links:
Compare Primate Safari Packages
Speak to a Uganda Safari Consultant
Final Thoughts
Few places in the world offer the chance to track both mountain gorillas and golden monkeys in one safari. This 5-Day Gorillas & Golden Monkeys Safari delivers an unforgettable double-primate adventure with meaningful cultural immersion—ideal for travelers who want more than just snapshots.
Book your experience with Murchison Falls Safaris and let us take you where few have ventured.