Looking for the perfect 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary? This exceptional safari combines two of Uganda’s most iconic destinations – the misty forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to endangered mountain gorillas, and the savannah plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park, teeming with classic African wildlife. This 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary offers the perfect balance of primate encounters and big game viewing, making it one of the most popular safari routes in Uganda. Afraeka Adventures has designed this 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary for travelers who want to experience the best of both worlds – from tracking mountain gorillas in the dense rainforest to spotting elephants, lions, and hippos on the savannah plains. With expert local guides, comfortable accommodation, and seamless logistics, this is the ultimate Ugandan safari experience.
Quick Facts
- Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights
- Price (USD): From $3,200 per person (depending on accommodation level)
- Start/End Location: Entebbe International Airport (EBB) or Kigali International Airport (KGL), Rwanda.
- Best Time to Go: Dry seasons (June to September & December to February) offer the best trekking and game viewing conditions for this 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary.
- Permits Included: 1 gorilla permit ($800).
- Parks Covered: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park & Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe or Kigali & Transfer to Bwindi
Your 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary begins with a warm welcome at Entebbe International Airport (Uganda) or Kigali International Airport (Rwanda). Your Afraeka Adventures guide will greet you and begin the scenic journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to roughly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The drive from Entebbe takes approximately 8-9 hours with stopovers for lunch and stunning viewpoints. From Kigali, the drive is shorter at 4-5 hours through the beautiful rolling hills of Rwanda and Uganda. Arrive at your lodge nestled on the edge of the impenetrable forest, settle in, and enjoy a delicious dinner while your guide briefs you on the next day’s gorilla trekking adventure. This first day of your 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary sets the stage for the incredible wildlife encounters ahead.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge near Bwindi.
- Meals: Dinner.
- Activity: Evening briefing about gorilla trekking.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
This is the highlight of your 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary. After an early breakfast, you’ll be driven to the park headquarters for a briefing by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. You’ll be assigned to a gorilla family group based on fitness levels. Accompanied by expert rangers and trackers, you’ll venture into the dense, misty forest. The trek can last anywhere from 2 to 8 hours depending on the gorillas’ location. The moment you encounter a family of mountain gorillas, with the dominant silverback leading his troop, is an experience that defies words. You’ll spend a precious hour observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. After the trek, return to your lodge for a well-deserved rest and a hearty lunch. In the afternoon, you can relax or take an optional community visit to learn about the Batwa culture. This day of your 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary is one you’ll cherish forever.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge near Bwindi.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Activity: 1-hour gorilla trekking experience (permit included).
- Optional: Hire a porter for the trek ($20-30, highly recommended).
Day 3: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park with Game Drive
Today, your 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary continues north to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most popular savannah reserve. The drive (approx. 5-6 hours) takes you through the scenic Ishasha sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions – keep your camera ready! Arrive at your safari lodge overlooking the park, and enjoy a private lunch. In the afternoon, embark on a game drive in the Kasenyi plains, looking out for elephants, buffaloes, lions, leopards, and a variety of antelope species. As the sun sets, enjoy a sundowner with your guide, toasting to the incredible diversity of your 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary. Return to your lodge for a sumptuous dinner and a cozy evening by the fire.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge in Queen Elizabeth NP.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Activity: Afternoon game drive and sundowner.
Day 4: Game Drive & Boat Safari on Kazinga Channel
Start early with a morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, tracking the park’s abundant wildlife. After breakfast, enjoy a unique 2-hour boat safari on the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway connecting Lake George and Lake Edward. This boat cruise offers exceptional wildlife viewing – hippos, crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes, and a spectacular array of waterbirds. The boat safari is a photographer’s dream. Return to the lodge for a private lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, you can opt for a guided nature walk or simply enjoy the lodge’s amenities. This day of your 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary is filled with wildlife and wonder.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge in Queen Elizabeth NP.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Activity: Morning game drive & Kazinga Channel boat safari.
Day 5: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi – Relaxation & Boat Ride
Your 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary now heads to one of Uganda’s most beautiful and tranquil destinations – Lake Bunyonyi. The drive (approx. 3-4 hours) takes you through the scenic highlands of southwestern Uganda. Arrive at your lakeside lodge, nestled on the shores of Lake Bunyonyi with stunning views of its 29 islands. Enjoy a private lunch and settle into your suite. In the afternoon, embark on a relaxing boat ride on the lake, exploring some of the islands and learning about their fascinating history. Lake Bunyonyi is bilharzia-free, so you can even take a refreshing swim. Return to your lodge for a sunset cocktail and a gourmet dinner. This day of your 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary is pure relaxation.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge on Lake Bunyonyi.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Activity: Boat ride on Lake Bunyonyi.
Day 6: Departure from Lake Bunyonyi to Entebbe or Kigali
Enjoy a final breakfast at your lakeside lodge, savoring the last moments of your 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary. Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll transfer back to Entebbe (8-9 hours) or Kigali (4-5 hours). A stop for lunch en route provides one last taste of local cuisine. Arrive at the airport in time for your international departure, carrying with you the extraordinary memories of your African adventure. If you wish to extend your 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary, consider adding a few days for birding tours or a visit to Murchison Falls National Park. Your Afraeka Adventures guide will ensure a seamless end to this unforgettable journey.
- Accommodation: Not included (post-safari hotel can be arranged).
- Meals: Breakfast and Lunch.
- Activity: Scenic drive to the airport.
What’s Included in This 6 Day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari Itinerary
Included:
- Gorilla Permit: One guaranteed gorilla trekking permit per person ($800 value).
- Transport: Private 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for wildlife viewing and photography.
- Fuel: All fuel for the entire safari.
- Accommodation: 5 nights’ stay in mid-range or luxury lodges (as per your chosen package) on a full-board basis.
- Meals: As specified in the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
- Services: Services of an experienced, English-speaking Ugandan guide/driver, as highlighted by Afraeka Adventures commitment to “experienced local guides.”
- Park Entry Fees: All national park entrance fees.
- Bottled Water: Complimentary bottled water throughout the safari.
- Boat Safari: Kazinga Channel boat trip in Queen Elizabeth NP.
- Game Drives: Two game drives in Queen Elizabeth NP.
- Lake Bunyonyi Boat Ride: A relaxing boat ride on Lake Bunyonyi.
Excluded:
- International Flights: Airfare to and from Uganda or Rwanda.
- Visas: Entry visa for Uganda or Rwanda (can be obtained online or on arrival).
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel and medical insurance is mandatory.
- Tips & Gratuities: For guides, lodge staff, and porters during gorilla trekking.
- Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, laundry services, phone calls, and any additional activities not mentioned.
- Alcoholic & Soft Drinks: Beverages at lodges (unless specified).
- Porter Hire: Hiring a porter for gorilla trekking (recommended at $20-30).
- Optional Activities: Community visits, cultural experiences, or extra game drives.
- Flights: Domestic flights (if you prefer to fly between destinations instead of driving).
Why Choose This 6 Day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari Itinerary?
This 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary offers the perfect balance of Uganda’s diverse wildlife experiences. You’ll track mountain gorillas in the misty forests of Bwindi, then explore the savannah plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park, home to the famous tree-climbing lions and abundant wildlife. The itinerary also includes a relaxing stay at Lake Bunyonyi, one of Uganda’s most beautiful and tranquil destinations. This combination of adventure and relaxation makes your 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary truly unforgettable. For a similar experience with chimpanzee tracking, consider our 5 Day Gorilla & Chimpanzee Tracking Itinerary.
Why Choose Afraeka Adventures for Your Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth Safari?
Afraeka Adventures is a trusted local safari guide company based in Uganda, specializing in unforgettable Uganda gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, chimpanzee tracking, birding tours, and tailor-made East Africa adventures. Our team, led by Victoria Kayaga, is passionate about creating authentic safari experiences you’ll remember for a lifetime. With transparent pricing, gorilla permits assistance, and 24/7 travel support, we ensure your 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary is seamless and stress-free. We offer tailor-made safaris for solo travelers, families, and groups, ensuring every detail matches your interests and schedule. Our clients consistently rate us 5/5 on Google for our professionalism, knowledgeable guides, and exceptional service.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 6 Day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari Itinerary
How much does the 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary cost?
The cost of this 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary is from $3,200 per person. This includes the gorilla permit ($800), accommodation, meals, private transport, game drives, boat safari, and guide services. The final cost depends on your choice of accommodation (mid-range vs. luxury) and group size. Contact us for a customized quote.
How fit do I need to be for this safari?
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi requires a moderate to good level of fitness. The trek can last 2-8 hours through steep, mountainous terrain. Queen Elizabeth National Park activities involve game drives and boat safaris, which are less physically demanding. Hiring a porter ($20-30) is highly recommended for gorilla trekking.
What is the best time of year for this itinerary?
The best time for your 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary is during the dry seasons: June to September and December to February. These months offer the best trekking and game viewing conditions.
Do I need a visa for this safari?
Yes, you will need a valid Ugandan visa (and Rwandan visa if arriving via Kigali). The East Africa Tourist Visa ($100) allows multiple entries into Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya for 90 days. Check with your local embassy or Uganda Immigration for the latest requirements.
Can I add chimpanzee tracking to this itinerary?
Yes! Many travelers extend their 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary with chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest National Park. We offer a 5-day gorilla and chimpanzee tracking itinerary that combines both experiences. Let us know your interests.
What should I pack for this safari?
Pack waterproof hiking boots, long-sleeved shirts and trousers, a waterproof jacket, gardening gloves, insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, a camera with extra batteries, a daypack, and warm layers for cool mornings. A walking stick is provided at the park headquarters.
Is this 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary suitable for families?
Yes, for families with children aged 12 and above (minimum age for gorilla trekking). The itinerary includes a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it suitable for families. We can arrange family-friendly accommodation with interconnecting rooms.
How do I book this 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary?
Simply click here to request a free quote or contact our team directly. We’ll check permit availability, confirm your preferred lodges, and handle all logistics. Book at least 3-6 months in advance to secure permits.
Book This 6 Day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari Itinerary Today
Ready to experience the best of Uganda’s wildlife? This 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary offers the perfect combination of gorilla trekking, savannah wildlife, and lake relaxation. Afraeka Adventures specializes in crafting tailor-made safaris – every detail is designed to create an unforgettable, transformative journey.
Click Here to Get a Free Quote & Book Your 6 Day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth Safari
Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to track mountain gorillas and explore Uganda’s savannah! Contact us today to secure your permits and book your preferred accommodation. Our team, led by Tour Operator Victoria Kayaga, is ready to create your dream safari. Book your 6 day Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary now and create memories that will last a lifetime.
