Gorillas & Chimpanzees in the Mist!

Not to mention lions, elephants, hippos, crocodiles and so much more!

In 2018 we’ll finally journey to the heart of Africa to witness and photograph our beautiful primate cousins among the dazzling beauty of Uganda! This adventure has been on our travel club’s bucket list for years and we’re thrilled to have crafted this off-the-path itinerary from scratch at an unbeatable price! We’ll stay in amazing lodges within breathtaking national parks among the home of mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, numerous monkey species, elephants, hippos, tree-dwelling lions, crocodiles & exotic birds (just to name a few…)! 

AND DON’T FORGET to check out our awesome 5 Day Extension Below for more chimp encounters at Kibale National Park “Primate Capital of the World”, volcanoes, & Murchison Falls National Park. 

Please e-mail us for the day by day itinerary (joinus@photoflytravel.com)

* 7 night/8 Day Uganda Gorilla Safari

* All Inclusive (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Everyday) 

* 1 Complimentary Massage 

* Gorilla Trekking Permit INCLUDED (600.00 USD Value!)

* Luxury Jungle Safari Lodges & Boutique Waterfront Lodges

* Domestic Airfare INCLUDED: Entebbe → Kihihi /  Kasese →Entebbe

* Private, expert safari guides & vehicles throughout

Uganda

Deservedly dubbed the Pearl of Africa, Uganda is located in the Great Lakes Region in central Africa and boasts an ecological diversity that rivals many larger countries. Here, Eastern Savannah meets West African jungle offering visitors incredible diversity with its multitude of varying ecosystems. Bordered by the Rwenzori Mountains (often called the Mountains of the Moon, the 3rd highest in Africa), the Virunga Mountains, and Africa’s largest lake, Lake Victoria, it’s a beautiful country bursting with bird- and wildlife.

In no other African destination can one see a comparable variety of primates with so little effort – not just the great apes but also more than ten monkey species. And, if Uganda will have primate enthusiasts grinning with satisfaction, it will havebirdwatchers doing cartwheels. Uganda is, by far, the smallest of the four African countries in which more than 1,000 bird species have been recorded and it is particularly rich in western rainforest specialists – in practical terms, undoubtedly the finest bird watching in Africa!

* Entebbe, Gateway to the Gorillas: While there isn’t a whole lot to do in Entebbe, it’s Uganda’s major gateway into the country so we’ll stay overnight here on arrival at a highly rated hotel minutes from the airport, on the shores of Lake Victoria, the largest in Africa! The next day we’re back to the airport for our flight to Kihihi, the area where Bwindi National Park & her Gorillas await…

Bwindi National Park (3 Nights)

For most, the jungle in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is the highlight where coming face to face with endangered Mountain Gorillas in their natural habitat is one of the most profound wildlife encounters you will ever experience. Located in south western Uganda on the edge of the Great Rift Valley, Bwindi is considered the most diverse forest in Uganda, home to over 120 mammals, 345 species of birds, 200 species of butterflies, and 160 species of trees. The park contains almost one half of the world’s population of the endangered Mountain Gorilla, making it an extremely valuable conservation site!

* Bwindi Luxury Safari Lodges:  Due to the intimate nature of this type of jungle safari, we’ll be staying between the only two luxury lodges within the national park just a few minutes apart. At both properties, we’ll be treated to 3 delicious meals prepared fresh daily from local produce, offering a balance of international and local cuisine. All alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are also included throughout!

Buhoma Lodge: Ten comfortable cottages have been carefully built from local materials. Each suite has a private veranda and enormous windows, allowing guests spectacular and uninterrupted views of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Parks forest canopy.

Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge: Eight bandas (bungalows) overlook the forest canopy, each with a private terrace from which we can watch & photograph birds and monkeys in the tree tops of Bwindi.

* Gorillas Face to Face: Coming face to face with mountain gorillas is a rare wildlife encounter & lifetime experience!  Expert guides and trackers will accompany us on an early morning trek into the dense rainforest on the mountain slopes. Mountain gorillas are extremely rare, with only an estimated 880 remaining in the wild. The opportunity to come within a few yards of these magnificent apes, sharing in their daily lives and photographing their day-to-day activities is an experience we’ll never forget! (*A 2nd trek opportunity will be available on our last day in Bwindi National Park) 

* Gorilla trekking can often be a strenuous activity with treks ranging from 30 minutes up to four-six hours, at high altitudes. Tracking in the Bwindi forest requires stamina and can often take most of the day. Mountain gorillas are wild animals, thus sightings cannot be guaranteed. However, viewing success rates are about 98%! 

* Optional 2nd Gorilla Trek permit not included (600.00 USD)  

* Optional Batwa Pygmies Encounter: Discover the “Caretakers of the Primeval  Bwindi Forest” 5,000 year-old-culture’s traditions and learn how these native tribal inhabitants  survived in the forest as hunter-gatherers – what they ate, how they hunted, the plants & herbs they used, and how they dance, sing & socialize. Best of all, our visit helps assist these communities in need with an additional source of income!

* Optional Guided Rainforest Walk: Unique adventure with an Uganda Wildlife Authority guide to hike along the trails and enjoy the forest flora (400 species of plants) & fauna such as black & white colobus monkeys, red colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabey, L’Hoest’s monkeys, antelopes, elephants, and 350 species of birds.. A popular choice is our 3-4 hour hike to a beautiful waterfall.

* Optional Experience Bwindi Tea: Discover the various methods of tea growing and taste some of the co-ops finest. The fields and landscape are as beautiful and interesting as the process we’ll get to learn about firsthand!

Queen Elizabeth National Park (3 Nights)

Surrounded by the magical Rwenzori Mountains, Queen Elizabeth NP is truly natures wonderland with stunning vista’s and landscapes as far as the eye can see. To the east lie the guardians of the birthplace of mankind, the Great Rift Valley hills, and, in the distance, the Mountains of the Moon (Rwenzoris). The meandering Kazinga Channel flows endlessly between the two giant lakes: Lake George and Lake Edward, providing a vital water source for a plethora of flora and fauna, including chimpanzees, tree-climbing lions, elephants, cape buffalo, hippos, and flamingos (among 612 species of birds!).

* Mweya Safari Lodge:  Located on a peninsula within the heart of the Queen Elizabeth National Park, Mweya Safari Lodge is surrounded by the magical Rwenzori Mountains aptly described as the “Mountains of the Moon”. Dine indoors in the elegant, formal dining room or outside on the veranda where the setting is enhanced by spectacular panoramic views across the Kazinga Channel.  Our deluxe rooms have a simple safari atmosphere with a level of comfort that will not disappoint, together with superior furnishings and large windows showing panoramic views of the Kazinga Channel.  The room is perfectly situated to view the picturesque Lake George and Lake Edward.  We can view the Rwenzori Mountains while sitting on the balcony watching the warthogs graze!

* Chamburu Gorge Chimpanzee Trekking:  The forest is alive with noise – chimpanzees can be quite active and may move quickly through the forest canopy…or, if we’re lucky, we may find them resting or eating near the forest floors. It’s an exhilarating walk in beautiful scenery!  The gorge is a pristine area where one large troupe of chimpanzees reside, together with resident game that wander into the area (including elephant, buffalo, antelope, and other small species). An amazing day awaits full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences and lots of photographs!

* Kazinga River Safari: Enjoy a leisurely boat safari along the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park. We may encounter herds of elephant, buffalo, antelope, families of warthog, large groups of hippo, and crocodiles basking on the shore! Kazinga’s shores are also a haven for numerous birds so there will be endless images to capture everywhere we look! Not to mention, the cruise provides a spectacular view of the beautiful Mweya Peninsula and life in local fishing villages set along the banks.

* In Search of Tree Climbing Lions: While on a safari game drive, we’ll scout for the famous tree-climbing lions of the Ishasha region within Queen Elizabeth NP. They like to rest in large fig trees in this remote southern extremity of the park. Tree-dwelling lions prey on the Topi, Uganda Kob, and (if feeling confident!) Cape Buffalo which graze Ishasha’s beautiful acacia studded savanna.

* Optional Explosion Crater Adventure: Dozens of extinct volcanoes of a particularly violent type known as ‘explosion craters’ dot western Uganda. They earned their name because the eruptions were so violent that rather than piling debris around their vents like some volcanoes, they spewed ash and rock far and wide! We’ll take a short drive to this region of the park to learn about this fascinating geological phenomenon and get some awesome photos. 

* Optional Hot Air Balloon Ride & Bush Breakfast: There is nothing quite like witnessing the beauty of Queen Elizabeth National Park from the air. The stunning surroundings, wildlife, and unique perspective is unparalleled. Not to mention the incredible photographs to be taken from above! 

* As always this entire trip will be amazing for photography and one *photographer will be on hand to help those who want to learn more about using their camera’s, composing better images, etc. (*PhotoFly Travel Club adventures are laid back when it comes to photography. They are not workshop style based tours and you do not need to be an avid photographer to join. All are welcome!)

* All Ground & Water Transfers Included 

* International airfare not included but we’re happy to help you find the best flights as always. (Flying in & out of Entebbe International Airport (EBB) 

* Travelers to Uganda who want to participate in the gorilla & chimpanzee trek (s) should be in very good physical condition, without any heart problems, and prepared to spend strenuous days in humid rain forests, steep terrain, and high altitude hiking. Those who prefer to stay back can participate in any of the other safaris & activities available and all other included adventures during our tour while in Bwindi & Queen Elizabeth NP.

* Please note there is a 500.00 USD price reduction on the below trip cost for anyone who does not want to participate in the gorilla trek (s). 

* Don’t forget to e-mail us for the daily itinerary of our Uganda Gorilla Safaris at joinus@photoflytravel.com

Uganda All Inclusive Extension (Optional)

Primates, Volcanos, & Waterfalls!

Kibale National Park “Primate Capital of the World” & Murchison Falls National Park

It would be a shame to miss this off the path extension to our incredible Uganda Gorilla Safari! Continue onto the Volcano studded Kibale National Park, known as the “Primate Capital of the World” where chimp sitings have a 90% success rate! We’ll finish at Murchison Falls National Park teeming with exotic game animals including elephants, lions, leopards, cape buffalo, and a variety of antelope. Aside from the great safaris, the real highlight is what the park is named after, Murchison Falls; where the longest river in Africa, the Nile, forces its way through a narrow opening and falls over 140ft down into a beautiful lake! This extension is also all inclusive with delicious meals and drinks included throughout. 

Please e-mail us for the day by day itinerary (joinus@photoflytravel.com)

* 4 night/5 Day Luxury Uganda Extension

* All Inclusive (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Everyday) 

* 2 Chimp Trekking Permits INCLUDED (300.00 USD Value!)

* Luxury Jungle Safari Lodges & Boutique Waterfront Lodge right on the Nile River

* Domestic Airfare INCLUDED:  Kasese → Murchison Falls

* Private, expert safari guides, trekking rangers, & vehicles throughout

Kibale National Park (2 Nights)

Kibale National Park could well qualify as the primate capital of the world, being home to 13 species of primates, as well as a host of other wildlife. Chimpanzee trekking here can be exciting – as unlike their cousins the Gorillas, chimpanzees tend to be more active and often keep moving through the forest canopies, so you may find yourself following a family through dense jungles! Of course sightings cannot be guaranteed as they are wild animals, but the chances of seeing them are very good. 

* Kibale Luxury Safari Lodges:  Due to the intimate nature of this type of jungle safari, we’ll be staying between two of the premiere luxury lodges within Kibale National Park. At both properties, we’ll be treated to 3 delicious meals prepared fresh daily from local produce, offering a balance of international and local cuisine.

* Kyaninga Lodge:  Perched on the rim of an ancient volcanic crater lake with spectacular views of the Mountains of the Moon in the distance, Kyaninga Lodge offers the ultimate luxury experience of one of Uganda’s most beautiful locations. 8 beautifully appointed thatched cabins with their private terraces overlook the lake and mountains.

Ndali Lodge: Stands on the rim of an extinct volcano which, since its demise, has filled with water to become the breathtaking Lake Nyinambuga – 250 acres in size and 130 meters deep. 8 cottages face west, offering a panoramic view of the spectacular “Mountains of the Moon”. Each cottage has a private veranda perfect for watching the sun setting behind the Rwenzori Mountains, the snow-capped peaks of which are clearly visible on a clear day. 

* Chimpanzees Face to Face: Two treks allow us maximum opportunity to encounter our closest relatives which share 98% of ourDNA. Chimps move quickly, so we need to be quick if we hope to ‘catch’ them on camera. Though chimpanzees are the most sought after primate by photographers and tourists,Chimpanzee are the primate most sought after by visitors, we should also look out for black and white colobus, red tailed monkeys, and grey cheeked mangabey!

* Chimpanzee trekking can often be a strenuous activity with treks ranging from two-three hours. Tracking in the Kibale forest requires stamina, agility, good balance, and the abilityto move quickly to keep up with chimp families.  Chimpanzees are wild animals, thus sightings cannot be guaranteed. However, viewing success rates are about 90%! 

Murchison Falls National Park (2 Nights)

Uganda’s largest National Park, where four of the “big five” (Cape buffalo, elephant, lion, and leopard) can be witnessed & photographed, is even more well known for the natural phenomenon where the Nile River explodes through a narrow gorge and cascades down to become a placid river whose banks are thronged with hippos, crocodiles, waterbucks, & buffaloes. The diverse landscapes are characterized by savannah, riverine forest, and woodland making it the perfect home for elephants, giraffes, hartebeests, oribis, Uganda kobs, chimpanzees, and tons of bird species!

* Paraa Safari Lodge:  Overlooking the Nile River on a remarkable journey from its source at Lake Victoria to join Lake Albert, the lodge is perfectly situated to experience the thunderous falls nearby and embark on amazing game drives. Paraa offers a unique blend of comfort, relaxation, and adventure. Each of the rooms is a haven of style and serenity, complete with a balcony and private bathroom, and are perfectly situated to view the swimming pool as well as the Nile river beyond.

* Nile Delta Cruise Safari:  We embark on a boat safari into the Victoria Nile Delta and cruise downstream home to a wide variety of wetland and papyrus endemic bird species, including the elusive shoebill stork. Enjoy the the constantly changing scenery as we wind our way to Lake Albert. The journey offers a unique opportunity to spot & photograph rarely found birds and animals including hippos, elephants, and large crocodiles from the water’s perspective. 

* Cruise to the Bottom of Murchison Falls: This cruise takes us to the head of Fajao Gorge, at the base of Murchison Falls. The park’s most popular attraction since the 1950s, here is where the force of the mighty Nile River narrows to flow through a tiny 22 ft gap, and then plummets down 140 ft to the vast gorge below. The power of the falls and the scenic views from their base are breath-taking and a blast to photograph. *An optional drive to the top of the falls to photograph from a different perspective will also be available, time pending &additional costs may apply. 

* Safari Game Drive: Drive through the scenic Buligi area west of Paraa to the Delta Point (where the Victoria Nile passes through the Northern tip of Lake Albert to become the Albert Nile). In addition to the beautiful landscapes, we’ll expect to see & photograph elephant, buffalo, giraffe, Jackson’s hartebeest, and oribi. If we’re lucky, a lion and maybe even a leopard might come out to say hello and pose for the camera! 

* Optional Ziwa Rhino Tracking: Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch is the proud home of the only wild rhinos in Uganda. The Rhino re-introduction project is managed by the Rhino Fund Uganda and Uganda Wildlife Authority. This is the only place where we will be able to see rhinos in the wild. The sanctuary is home to 15 southern white rhinos and trained rangers will expertly guide us through the expedition. Experience this one of a kind opportunity to observe & photograph the rhinos at a very close but safe distance!  The sanctuary is also home to a range of other wildlife including uganda kobs, reed bucks, oribis, rich bucks, hippos, and crocodiles. *Additional cost applies

* As always this entire trip will be amazing for photography and one *photographer will be on hand to help those who want to learn more about using their camera’s, composing better images, etc. (*PhotoFly Travel Club adventures are laid back when it comes to photography. They are not workshop style based tours and you do not need to be an avidphotographer to join. All are welcome!)

* All Ground & Water Transfers Included 

* Domestic Airfare INCLUDED:  Kasese → Murchison Falls

* International airfare not included but we’re happy to help you find the best flights as always. (Flying in & out of Entebbe International Airport (EBB) 

* Travelers to Uganda who want to participate in the chimpanzee trek (s) should be in very good physical condition, without any heart problems, and prepared to spend strenuous days in humid rain forests, steep terrain, and high altitude hiking. Those who prefer to stay back can participate in any of the other safaris & activities available and all other included adventures during our adventure.

* Don’t forget to e-mail us for the daily itinerary at joinus@photoflytravel.com

Join Us! 

Cancellation Policy & Refunds

*There is a $100.00 administrative fee for all cancellations. Cancellations made 90 days or more prior to departure are fully refundable except for the $100 fee. Cancellations less than 90 days prior to departure date will receive no refund of full amount due. No refunds on unused portions of the tour. After airline tickets are issued, airline cancellations are per the airline’s policy and are usually non-refundable and changeable with a fee plus new ticket price.

*Hotels subject to change based on availability

CST # 2101181-40