4-Days Gorillas & Golden Monkeys
Embark on a compact 4-Days Gorillas & Golden Monkeys yet deeply rewarding journey into Uganda’s southwestern highlands, where mist-covered volcanoes and dense montane forests offer sanctuary to some of the world’s most endangered primates. This 4-day road safari takes you off the beaten path to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, a gem tucked into the Virunga Mountains near the border with Rwanda and the DRC. Unlike the more frequented Bwindi, Mgahinga offers a more intimate, less crowded gorilla trekking experience—and it’s the only place in Uganda where you can trek both mountain gorillas and golden monkeys in a single trip. From the soulful eyes of a silverback gorilla to the playful antics of golden monkeys leaping through the bamboo, this adventure delivers a powerful connection to the wild. Traveling by road allows you to soak in the scenic beauty of Uganda’s countryside, with rolling hills, crater lakes, and terraced farms dotting the landscape. With cozy accommodations, expert guides, and thrilling treks through pristine forest, this safari is ideal for travelers seeking a short yet immersive primate-focused experience.
Safari Highlights
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi/Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Golden monkey tracking in the bamboo forests of the Virunga Mountains
Stunning views of the Virunga volcanoes, forming the trans-border between Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC
Comfortable lodge stay
Evenings by the fireplace
Opportunity for optional activities like canoeing on Lake Mutanda, visiting the Batwa community
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Kampala/Entebbe – Kisoro (Approx. 8–9hrs by road)
You will depart early in the morning from Entebbe or Kampala for a full-day road journey to Uganda’s far southwest, driving through diverse landscapes including rolling hills, savannah plains, and lush highland farms. This route offers an immersive window into rural Uganda, with scenic stops along the way for refreshments, photography, and lunch in Mbarara or Kabale town. As you ascend into the Kigezi Highlands, often called the “Switzerland of Africa,” the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic. Upon reaching Kisoro, you’ll check in to your lodge, located either in the volcanic foothills or by the shores of Lake Mutanda. The evening is free to relax by the fireplace or enjoy a peaceful sundowner as you acclimate to the cool mountain air.
Accommodation options:
- Rushaga Gorilla Camp (Moderate)
- Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge, Bwindi Orugano Lodge (Midrange)
- Four gorilla lodge, Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge (Luxury)
Meals: Full board
Destination: Nkuringo bwindi
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
After an early breakfast, you will transfer to the Ntebeko Park Headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking etiquette and safety protocols. The trek begins soon after, with experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers guiding you through dense bamboo forest, moss-draped trees, and steep volcanic terrain in search of one of Mgahinga’s habituated mountain gorilla families. The duration of the trek varies, depending on the gorillas’ movements, and can range from 2 to 6 hours. Once the gorillas are located, you will spend a full hour in their presence, observing their interactions, behaviors, and powerful yet gentle nature. After the trek, return to the lodge for a hot lunch and well-deserved rest. The rest of the day is free to unwind, or you may opt for a short walk around the area or a community visit in Kisoro.
Accommodation options:
- Rushaga Gorilla Camp (Moderate)
- Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge, Bwindi Orugano Lodge (Midrange)
- Four gorilla lodge, Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge (Luxury)
Meals: Full board
Destination: Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Day 3: Golden Monkey Tracking and Optional Activities
Enjoy an early breakfast before heading back into Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for your second primate adventure—golden monkey tracking. These rare, lively monkeys are endemic to the Virunga volcanic region and live in the park’s bamboo zone. The trek is moderate and often shorter than gorilla trekking, with plenty of opportunities to see the monkeys leaping through trees, feeding, and socializing in the canopy. After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, optional activities are available depending on your energy and interests. These may include a peaceful canoe ride on Lake Mutanda, a visit to the Batwa pygmy community for a cultural experience, or simply enjoying the quiet mountain scenery from the comfort of your lodge.
ccommodation options:
- Rushaga Gorilla Camp (Moderate)
- Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge, Bwindi Orugano Lodge (Midrange)
- Four gorilla lodge, Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge (Luxury)
Meals: Full board
Destination: Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Day 4: Return to Kampala or Entebbe
After breakfast, begin the return journey by road to Kampala or Entebbe, with lunch enroute and several scenic and cultural stopovers to break up the trip. Expect to arrive in the early evening. Depending on your departure plans, optional accommodation or airport drop-off can be arranged upon arrival.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
End of 4-Days Gorillas & Golden Monkeys
Inclusions
Ground transportation in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle
A professional English speaking guide
All accommodation for 3 nights as per itinerary (on full board: breakfast, lunch, dinner)
1 gorilla trekking permit per person (Mgahinga Gorilla National Park)
1 golden monkey tracking permit per person
Park entrance fees for all activities in Mgahinga
Bottled drinking water in the vehicle during the trip
All meals as indicated in the itinerary
All government taxes and applicable permits
Exclusions
International airfare
Uganda tourist visa (approx. USD 50)
Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Optional activities not included in the itinerary
Tips and gratuities for guides, rangers, and lodge staff
Personal expenses such as alcoholic beverages, laundry, souvenirs, and phone/internet usage
Extra accommodation before or after the safari (can be arranged on request)