Uganda magic
Track Gorillas. Walk with Chimpanzees. Safaris on the Nile.
July 12th - July 23rd, 2026
$6,950 per person | 12 days | 4 guests
Special Gorilla permits for 4 hours with the gorillas (4x the usual time)
“Incredible, incredible adventure. It was always a dream of mine to see mountain gorillas up close, wild and in their element. I can't say enough about how life-changing that experience was.”
— Guest on Uganda 2024
Chimpanzee and Golden Monkey Treks
Safaris for Lions, Leopards, Elephants, and more in Murchison National Park
Nile River Safari and Rafting on the Nile
Only 4 guests
Why you will love this trip
Special Gorilla Habituation permits — Our group of 4 is alone with the gorillas for 4 hours, making this lifetime memory even more intimate and special. Very few people get to do that.
All the best experiences in Uganda on one trip — I created this itinerary to show the very best of Uganda. It is an unforgettable 12 day trip across many different experiences and ecosystems.
I used to live in Uganda and have a deep passion for the country — This trip grew out of a wish to share how amazing this place, its wildlife, and its people are.
FAQs
What is the chance of seeing gorillas?
Very high. Encounter rates are among the best of any wildlife experience.
What makes this trip unique?
We use gorilla habituation permits, giving us 4 hours with the gorillas instead of the usual 1.
How hard is the gorilla trek?
Challenging but do-able. Expect 1–2 hours each way. Walking sticks and porters are there to help.
Is it safe?
Yes. Uganda is one of East Africa’s safer destinations. We work with trusted rangers and lodges. There is poverty, but Ugandans are warm and openhearted.
What about vaccines and illnesses?
Not as bad as you think. A Yellow Fever vaccine is required, which is straightforward to get. Use standard precautions against mosquitos, like insect repellent and long sleeved clothing. We will provide a full packing list to help.
What people are saying about Uganda
“Our trip was a dream come true, with each experience uniquely special, making it impossible to pick a favorite.”
— Guest on Uganda 2024
“Incredible, incredible adventure. It was always a dream of mine to see mountain gorillas up close, wild and in their element. I can't say enough about how life-changing that experience was.”
— Guest on Uganda 2024
“In an era where many prioritize social media clout, Alex's genuine passion and commitment to responsible travel shine through.”
— Guest on Uganda 2024
“Never in my life have experienced the embodiment of a word such as Thoughtful but that's truly what this trip is, you can feel the passion Alex has for this itinerary.”
— Guest on Uganda 2024
What would you like to experience?
Let’s make it happen.
Itinerary
Dates
Sunday July 12th, 2026 - Thursday July 23rd, 2026
Day 1 — Arrival in Entebbe
Fly into Entebbe Airport (EBB). We will pick you up from the airport. After settling in we will meet for dinner and a trip briefing.
Day 2 — Walk with Rhinos, Enter Murchison
Tracking rhinos on foot at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, with a chance for close encounters and great photos. We will continue to Murchison National Park and settle into our lodge.
Day 3 — Safaris & Murchison Falls
Morning and evening game drives searching for lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and more. Between drives we will visit the “Top of the Falls,” where the Nile thunders through a narrow gorge.
Day 4 — Nile River Safari & Travel to Kibale
Cruise the Nile in search of hippos, crocodiles, shoebills, and elephants. We will then drive to Kibale National Park.
Day 5 — Chimpanzee Trek
Set out at dawn to do our Chimpanzee trek. With luck, we’ll observe chimpanzees grooming, feeding, and socializing.
Day 6 — Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to Uganda’s mountain gorillas. Settle into our lodge overlooking the forest.
Day 7 — Gorilla Habituation Experience
A highlight of a lifetime: four hours with a semi-habituated gorilla family. Only four permits are issued daily, so our group will get an intimate and special experience with the gorillas.
Day 8 — Golden Monkeys of Mgahinga
Trek into the high-altitude forests of Mgahinga National Park to search for golden monkeys. A fun and unique experience.
Day 9 — Mburo National Park & Night Safari
Night safari at Lake Mburo National Park. This park is one of the best in Uganda for night drives, with a good chance of seeing leopard.
Day 10 — Drive to the Nile at Jinja
Drive to Jinja, gateway to the Nile. We will stay at a lodge perched above the river’s rapids, with one of the most spectacular views of the trip.
Day 11 — Rafting or Relaxing on the Nile
Incredible white-water rafting on the Nile, or gentler alternatives like visiting the Nile’s source for those who do not want to raft.
Day 12 — Departure from Entebbe
We return to Entebbe for your flights home.
Peaceful Lodges Surrounded by Uganda’s Beauty
Immersed in nature — Every lodge is chosen for its incredible setting and closeness to wildlife
Unique stays — From forest cottages to riverside safari tents and eco-lodges overlooking the Nile
Comfortable — Clean rooms, private bathrooms, mosquito nets, WiFi, and warm hospitality
All meals included — We can accommodate dietary preferences
Single room upgrades available — We pair solo travelers, but single rooms are available for those who prefer
How can we help?
Plan Your Uganda Expedition
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Booking Deposit
Secure your spot with a $1,500 deposit via the Book Now button on this page or by contacting us at alex@thoughtfulexpeditions.com.
Payment Terms
$1,500 deposit to confirm your place.
Remaining balance due 120 days before the trip.
Payments managed through WeTravel, where you can pay by credit card or bank transfer in your preferred currency.
Cancellation Policy
120+ days before trip: Full refund minus $500 admin fee (waived if transferring deposit to another trip).
90–120 days: 50% refund.
Less than 90 days: No refunds possible.