JustExplorers website logo image
0

3 Spots Left

Uganda – Primates & Shoebills

Nature Safari of 10 days in Uganda among the forests of Bwindi, Kibal And Mgahinga, in search of mountain gorilla, chimpanzee, golden monkey and the elusive shoe-shaped beak. An exclusive tour between Trekking with primates And photographic birdwatching, ideal for those looking for a safaris in uganda complete and authentic.

Share

gorilla-bwindi-trekking-photographic-workshop-uganda

Uganda – Primates & Shoebills

Days

From December 5th to 15th

Max participants

4-7 participants

Price

 2.500,00

5990€

3 Spots Left

Destination

In the green heart of Uganda, between volcanic mountains, impenetrable forests and protected wetlands: a journey in search of the continent's rarest primates and species.

This itinerary will take us to discover three of the most extraordinary natural areas in Africa. Starting from the Kibale National Park, considered the world capital of primates, where over 1,500 chimpanzees live in the wild.

We will continue towards the mythical Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO heritage site and refuge for almost half of the world's population mountain gorilla. Here two days of trekking await us, dedicated to observing and photographing these giants, among the branches shrouded in fog and the deep silence of the forest.

Finally we will explore the suggestive Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, where among the bamboo forests we will search for the expressive golden monkey, and the marshes of Mabamba, one of the best habitats to spot the legendary shoe-shaped beak, among reeds, fog and absolute silence.

An itinerary built to offer primate sightings, great photographic encounters and total immersion in Uganda's biodiversity.

Dates and participants

Duration

10 days and 9 nights

Dates

From December 5th to 15th

Number of participants

4-7 participants

Activity details

Overnight stay and meals

All overnight stays in double tents

breakfast lunch dinner

Photographic activities

Difficulty

🟡 Medium

Preparation and equipment

Trekking is planned but porters are available for backpacks

Modality

Trekking and Boat Safari

Costs and Tour leader

Tour leader

Sharon Vanadia

Starting from

5990€

Payment

€2,500 to purchase all permits in advance. The balance must be paid 90 days before departure.

Learn more about your experience

This experience is designed for those who wish to live an authentic experience, in close contact with primates and endemic birdlife of UgandaThe days will be marked by trekking, transfers and photo sessions immersed in the tropical forest, always accompanied by Qualified local guides and a professional photographer.

After the first night in Entebbe, we will start the exploration with the trekking of the chimpanzee in Kibale Forest, then moving south towards Bwindi, where they await us two days gorilla trekking among the most exciting in Africa.

We will then reach the volcanic area of Mgahinga Park, habitat of the golden monkey, and we will conclude the tour with a magical canoe excursion in the Mabamba Swamp, in search of the incredible shoebill.

A complete itinerary for those seeking biodiversity, trekking and moments of true connection with nature.

The activities

Travel in Uganda with Just Explorers It means immersing yourself in some of East Africa's most exciting ecosystems, where every outing is a close encounter with nature at its most authentic. The journey unites adventure, observation And photograph on a complete itinerary that will take you through the rainforests, large savannas and tropical lakes of the country.

The heart of the experience will be the two treks dedicated to mountain gorillas, intense and profound moments, in which you can closely observe the behaviors of these extraordinary primates. Added to these are a trek with chimpanzees, dynamic and engaging, and an outing in the Mgahinga National Park to meet the golden monkeys, a rare and fascinating species that lives only in this region. The adventure will then continue in the wetlands of the Mabamba Swamp, where we will look for the famous shoe-shaped beak, one of the most emblematic birds of the continent.

Each activity will be led by official rangers And expert local guides, true connoisseurs of the forest, its tracks and its sounds. A professional photographer It will always be by your side to help you read the light, interpret scenes, improve composition and capture intense images even in complex environments like the equatorial jungle.

The pace of the journey is designed to maintain a natural balance Between challenging trekking sessions and regenerating breaks at the lodges, you can enjoy each experience with clarity, enthusiasm, and without rushing. Days can be adapted based on sightings, weather conditions, and the group's needs, always maintaining the quality and care that distinguishes Just Explorers.

A trip like this is not just a safari: it is a total immersion in landscapes, in the sounds and in the emotions of equatorial Africa. An experience to be lived and photographed, without compromise.

Traveling as a couple?

Sharing a safari makes the experience even more special.

This itinerary is perfect even for those who don't take photographs and simply want to experience an authentic safari In Africa. Activities follow the same pace as traditional tourist safaris, but with more relaxed schedules, longer stops, and a special focus on wildlife observation.

Anyone accompanying a photographer will never feel out of place: the beauty of African landscapes, close encounters with wildlife, and the thrills of the bush are experiences that captivate anyone.

For the double bookings (couples or friends sharing a room) are available dedicated discounts.

Contact us to receive the offer reserved for your travel dates.

Our Lodges

During our tour in Uganda we will stay in structures selected for their strategic position, tranquility and integration with the natural environment.

TO Kibal, we will stay in a structure surrounded by greenery, a few kilometers from the national park, with spacious rooms, a restaurant and a view of the tea plantations.

TO Bwindi, we will be hosted in a lodge located close to the trekking trail, ideal for gorilla trekking: a place surrounded by forest, with welcoming rooms, panoramic terraces and a relaxing atmosphere after the intense experience in the bush.

In the area of Kisoro, for the golden monkey, we will sleep in a historic hotel, with large rooms, a garden and a view of the Virunga mountains.

TO Masaka, we will have a simple but functional structure, useful as an intermediate stop before the last excursion.

Finally, the night at Entebbe It will be in a comfortable guest house, ideal for relaxing after the trip and concluding the tour in peace.

With Just Explorers you can count on a small group, professional guidance and all the assistance you need before, during and after the trip.

Detailed plan

Find out how the days will unfold and which activities make up the experience

Day 1 – Arrival in Entebbe

Individual arrival at Entebbe International Airport at any time of day. Major international airlines operate daily flights to Europe and the Middle East, with arrivals generally occurring between the morning and afternoon.

Upon exiting the airport, meet your local guide and transfer to your guest house, located near Lake Victoria.

Entebbe is a quiet, green, and orderly town, overlooking the shores of Africa's largest lake. The climate is mild thanks to the altitude (about 1,100 meters), and the tropical vegetation is a first taste of the environment that will characterize the journey.

The day is intentionally light to allow time to recover from the flight and adjust to the time zone.

Dinner at the hotel and overnight stay.

Day 2 – Entebbe > Kibale National Park

After breakfast, depart west towards the Kibale region.

The transfer (about 6–7 hours of actual driving) crosses the central part of the country, offering an interesting overview of Ugandan rural life: banana plantations (matoke), cassava fields, roadside markets and small lively villages.

As you approach Fort Portal, the landscape gradually changes: more pronounced hills, tidy tea plantations and, on clear days, distant glimpses of the Rwenzori Mountains.

Lunch en route and arrival in the afternoon near the Kibale Forest, one of the most important tropical ecosystems in East Africa.

Check-in, time to settle in and dinner.

Day 3 – Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest

Wake up early and transfer to the park briefing point.

Kibale is known as one of the areas with the highest concentration of primates in Africa: in addition to chimpanzees, red colobus monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, L'Hoest monkeys and other species live here.

The trek takes place within a semi-deciduous rainforest, with trees that can exceed 40–50 meters in height. The duration varies depending on the group's assigned location.

Once the chimpanzees are located, we spend an hour in their presence, observing natural behaviors such as grooming, territorial vocalizations, and interactions between adults and juveniles.

Return to the lodge for lunch.

In the afternoon, there will be free time to relax or take an optional excursion to the local crater lakes, volcanic basins that offer interesting views of the surrounding hills.

Dinner and overnight stay.

Day 4 – Kibale > Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

After breakfast, departure towards the southwest for Bwindi park (Rushaga sector). The transfer (6–7h) includes breaks and lunch. Arrival in the afternoon, check-in, trekking briefing and dinner.

Day 5 – First Gorilla Trek

Early breakfast and transfer to park headquarters for group assignment.

Trekking to reach the gorillas can vary greatly depending on the assigned family and their movements in the forest. In general, the walk can last from 20 minutes up to about 4–5 hours round trip, excluding the hour spent with the gorillas.

During the excursion you will be provided a packed lunch, which will be consumed during the trek.

The route follows uneven forest paths, with steep uphill and downhill sections. However, to make the experience more accessible, it is possible to hire a local porters (about 20 USD) who can help carry your backpack or camera equipment, making the walk much easier and more enjoyable. With the support of porters, trekking is generally doable for anyone with a minimal habit of walking.

Bwindi hosts almost half of the world's mountain gorilla population. The time spent in their presence is strictly regulated and always takes place under the supervision of park rangers.

After returning to the lodge, time for rest and relax after the intense trekking experience.

Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge.

Day 6 – Second Gorilla Trekking

Early breakfast and transfer to park headquarters for group assignment.

Trekking to reach the gorillas can vary greatly depending on the assigned family and their movements in the forest. In general, the walk can last from 20 minutes up to about 4–5 hours round trip, excluding the hour spent with the gorillas.

During the excursion you will be provided a packed lunch, which will be consumed during the trek.

The route follows uneven forest paths, with steep uphill and downhill sections. However, to make the experience more accessible, it is possible to hire a local porters (about 20 USD) who can help carry your backpack or camera equipment, making the walk much easier and more enjoyable. With the support of porters, trekking is generally doable for anyone with a minimal habit of walking.

Bwindi hosts almost half of the world's mountain gorilla population. The time spent in their presence is strictly regulated and always takes place under the supervision of park rangers.

After returning to the lodge, time for rest and relax after the intense trekking experience.

Dinner and overnight stay at the lodge.

Day 7 – Bwindi > Kisoro

Relaxing morning with the possibility of participating in optional activities, such as visiting some local communities, to discover more about the life and traditions of this region.

Subsequently transfer to Kisoro, in the area of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (about 2 hours), a spectacular volcanic region at the foot of the Virunga Mountains.

Arrival at the lodge, lunch and time to rest.

In the afternoon it will be possible to carry out a scenic drive around the lakes of the region, admiring the volcanic landscapes and surrounding countryside, or simply relaxing at the lodge and preparing for the golden monkey trekking scheduled for the next day.

Dinner and overnight stay.

Day 8 – Golden Monkey Trekking in Mgahinga

After breakfast, transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, located in the Ugandan part of the Virunga mountain range.

The park is characterized by bamboo forests and volcanic landscapes. The altitude and vegetation differ from Bwindi, offering a more open environment.

Golden monkey trekking is generally more dynamic than that of gorillas: these primates move quickly among the bamboo and are particularly active in the morning hours.

The area is also home to other species such as the duiker and several varieties of mountain birds.

Return to the facility in the afternoon and free time to rest.

Dinner and overnight stay.

Day 9 – Kisoro > Masaka

Departure after breakfast for the long transfer to Masaka (approximately 7 hours of actual driving).

The road crosses the southern part of the country, passing through hills, farmland, and rural villages. It's a day's drive, but it allows you to observe the diversity of Uganda's landscape.

Stops planned for lunch and technical breaks.

Arrival in the afternoon/evening at the guest house.

Dinner and overnight stay.

Day 10 – Mabamba Swamp and departure

Early morning departure for Mabamba Swamp, a RAMSAR designated wetland along the northern shore of Lake Victoria.

The excursion takes place by boat and traditional canoe through papyrus canals. In addition to searching for shoebills, you can observe other species of aquatic birds, including kingfishers, herons, and fish eagles.

After the activity I return to Entebbe.

Arrival at the airport is expected in the afternoon (generally by 4:00 PM). It is recommended to book flights departing after 6:30 PM.

Transfer organized according to flight schedule.

Which flights to buy:

Day 1 – Arrival in Entebbe The day of arrival does not include any scheduled activities. Flights of the main airlines (Qatar Airways, Emirates, KLM, Turkish Airlines) generally land in the morning or afternoon. It is also possible to arrive the day before and stay overnight in a partner guest house.

Day 10 – Depart Entebbe The tour will end with the return to Entebbe in time to catch an evening flight. It is recommended to book flights departing from 18:00 onwards.

Important note: Before purchasing any flight, we ask you to send the complete schedule (dates, times and flight numbers) to Just Explorers support so as to verify its compatibility with the program.

Tour leader. Find out who will accompany you on the tour

Sharon Vanadia

Born in Rome in 1994, she showed a strong sensitivity towards nature from a young age. Graduated in Biological Sciences and specialized in Biodiversity and Ecosystem Management, she became a professional photographer. He leads nature workshops and tours around the world, combining his passion for biology with nature photography. With years of experience in the field, she is followed internationally for her work and dedication to nature conservation.

What's included

All overnight stays in lodges and guest houses as per program
Meals indicated in the itinerary (breakfasts, lunches and dinners on activity days)
All private transfers in 4x4 vehicle with local driver/guide
Professional Italian/English nature photographer for the entire duration of the tour
Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale National Park
2 Gorilla Treks in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
1 Golden Monkey Trek in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Canoe trip in Mabamba Swamp
Complete assistance before, during and after the trip
All entrances to national parks and reserves
Assistance in Italian language
English language support

What is not included

International flight to/from Entebbe
Extra drinks and personal expenses
Health insurance (mandatory)
Tips (optional but recommended)
Cancellation Insurance
Optional Activities

The places you will see during the trip

Discover all the places and views that you can admire during this trip. All the material shown here comes from our trips

Frequent questions

Absolutely not. The trip is open to everyone, and no photography experience is necessary. You can participate as a simple nature lover and experience a complete and well-organized safari, identical to a’traditional tourist experience but with a more leisurely pace and greater attention to animal observation.

If you want, this tour It can also be an opportunity to get closer to nature photography: You'll have a professional photographer by your side, ready to explain techniques and tips in a simple and natural way. Upon request, you can also rent a complete photography kit directly through Just Explorers, so you can enjoy your first experience with the right equipment.

And if you prefer not to take pictures, no problem: Africa, the light, the animals, and the atmosphere of the parks are emotions that can be experienced intensely even just with the eyes... or with a cell phone.

Signing up will be very simple.

Just follow the booking procedure by clicking on “Book Now”. After entering your personal information, you will only be asked to pay a deposit, not the full cost of the trip. Once completed, you will receive a confirmation email and your registration will be officially registered. The balance will be due according to the terms indicated at the top of the page, generally 60 days before departure.

In the days leading up to the trip you will be placed in a dedicated WhatsApp group, useful for receiving quick communications, staying in touch with the support team and interacting directly with your tour leader. You will also be sent a PDF with all the final instructions, including practical information on what to bring, logistical details, and helpful tips to help you prepare for the experience.

Are you a photographer? Here's what we recommend:

To get the most out of your photographic experience, we recommend using reflex, mirrorless or bridge cameras, equipped with objectives among the 50mm and 400mm. This range of focal lengths allows you to obtain sharp images even from variable distances. During trekking, sightings can be even a few meters away, so a 70–200mm it can be perfect.

During the entire trip you will be accompanied by a professional photographer, which will help you get the most out of your equipment: you will receive personalized advice, technical support and suggestions on composition, light and shooting settings. Even beginners will be able to improve their approach to nature photography.


Are you a nature lover without a camera?

No problem! We still recommend that you bring with you a pair of binoculars, ideal for observing primates and birds. You can also record videos or take suggestive pictures with your smartphone: Ugandan nature will give you unforgettable moments, even without a telephoto lens.

To enter Uganda, a visa is required. Electronic Tourist Visa (e-Visa) to be requested online before departure.

AND Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory, to be proven with an international certificate.

Anti-malarial prophylaxis and vaccinations against hepatitis A and typhoid are also recommended. For further details, consult your travel medicine center.

By booking by paying the deposit to the organizers you accept the following clauses:

1. Since this is a pre-registration, the organizer will endeavor to promptly communicate any possible change in the price of the tour, characterized by cost fluctuations. An annual price fluctuation of around 5% is highly likely if booking is made more than one year in advance. in relation to potential changes in prices of ground services (for example changes influenced by fluctuating costs of electricity, fuel and more).
2.⁠ ⁠The price of the entire workshop will be paid via the payment methods offered by the organizer, such as bank transfer, PayPal, credit card or cash according to the procedures and deadlines established by the organizers, taking charge of the transaction costs.
3.⁠ ⁠⁠In the event that the tour does not take place due to the organiser, the entire amount paid will be refunded.
4.⁠ ⁠In case of cancellation for personal reasons of any kind and in any case not dependent on the organizer, the deposit and any other registration fees will be retained as a reimbursement of expenses.
5. In case of cancellation for personal reasons within 60 days of departure, the entire balance of the tour will be required.

By registering, paying the deposit and sending your personal data you again accept clauses 1,2,3,4,5.

Send us a message

We will reply to you by email as soon as possible

More photography tours

What they say about us and our tours

 
Enter the waitlist We will send you an email as soon as the product is available again.

Uganda – Primates & Shoebills

5990€

3 Spots Left