5 Days mt Gorilla tracking safari starting from gulu city
Day 1: Travel from Gulu City to Murchison Falls National Park with Grime Safaris Gulu
Your 5 Days Gorilla Tracking Safaris starting from Gulu City begins early in the morning by 4:00am as Grime Safaris’ experienced guides will pick you up from Gulu City either from your hotel room or any place of stay.
The journey to Murchison Falls National Park from Gulu City is approximately 182 kilometers and will take around 2 to 3 hours.
Upon arrival at Murchison Falls National Park, the adventure intensifies with an exciting game drive from around 6:30am after clearance at the Tangi Gate by Grime Safaris’ Tour guide.
This Game drive takes you through the northern sector of the park, renowned for its rich biodiversity. As you traverse the rugged terrain, keep your eyes open for elephants feeding among the acacia trees, lions lounging in the shade (although sometimes very rare to see), giraffes gracefully browsing, buffalo herds, and a variety of antelope species.
Murchison Falls, one of Uganda’s most iconic natural features, is famous for the dramatic power of its cascading waters.
Your guide from Grime Safaris will take you to the top of the falls, where you can witness the Nile River narrowing through a 7-meter gorge before plunging 43 meters down, creating a thunderous roar and a spectacular spray of mist. This natural spectacle is not only awe-inspiring but also a vital habitat for numerous bird species, crocodiles, and hippos along the riverbanks.
In the late afternoon at exactly 2:00pm, your journey continues with a boat cruise along the Nile, upstream to the base of Murchison Falls. This cruise provides a unique perspective of the park’s wildlife and birdlife, with opportunities to see hippos, crocodiles, kingfishers, and herons along the riverbanks. The boat ride culminates at the falls’ base, where you can observe the powerful cascade from below, feeling the spray and hearing the roar of the water — an unforgettable experience.
After the cruise, you will be transferred to Masindi town, where Grime Safaris has arranged your dinner, relaxation, and overnight stay. This restful evening allows you to recover from the day’s travel and prepare for the adventures ahead. This will then mark end of Day 1 out of 5 Days Gorilla Tracking Safaris starting from Gulu City with Grime Safaris.
Day 2: Travel Masindi Town to Masaka Town with Grime Safaris Gulu
The following morning, after a hearty breakfast at 5:30am or you may choose packed breakfast, you will set out from Masindi with Grime Safaris guiding the way southward toward Masaka. This leg of the journey covers approximately 340 kilometers and takes around 7-8 hours. As you leave the park behind, the landscape transitions into the highlands and fertile farmland of western Uganda. During the journey, there will be a planned stop for lunch at a local restaurant or picnic site, where you can enjoy traditional Ugandan dishes and refreshments.
The drive offers numerous opportunities for photography and to appreciate Uganda’s diverse geography.
Arriving in Masaka in the late evening, you will check into your hotel, where you can unwind after the long drive. The evening is set aside for relaxation, with dinner served at your hotel.
This peaceful night provides the perfect opportunity to rest and prepare for the next day’s journey toward the mountain gorillas.
End of Day 2 out of 5 Days Gorilla Tracking Safaris starting from Gulu City with Grime Safaris
Day 3: Travel from Masaka to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest with Grime Safaris Gulu
Your adventure takes a significant step forward as you depart early from Masaka. After breakfast, Grime Safaris will escort you on a scenic drive of approximately 8 to 10 hours, covering roughly 375 kilometers to reach Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. The route meanders through rolling hills, lush highlands, and picturesque landscapes characteristic of the Kigezi region, often called the “Switzerland of Africa” for its breathtaking scenery. Along the way, you will make a stop for lunch at a local restaurant or picnic site, allowing you to enjoy Ugandan cuisine amid the natural beauty.
As you approach Bwindi, the terrain becomes more rugged and densely forested. Bwindi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site globally renowned for its mountain gorilla populations and incredible biodiversity.
Upon arrival in the late afternoon, you will check into your lodge or hotel near the park, arranged by Grime Safaris. The lodge’s tranquil setting amidst the rainforest provides an ideal base for the gorilla tracking adventures ahead. The evening can be spent relaxing, soaking in the cool mountain air, and preparing for the early start the next morning.
End of Day 3 out of 5 Days Gorilla Tracking Safaris starting from Gulu City with Grime Safaris
Day 4: Mountain Gorilla Tracking & Community Walks with Grime Safaris
The day begins early with a hearty breakfast at your lodge. Before heading into the forest, you will visit the Uganda Wildlife Authority Visitor Information Center for a briefing. Here, park rangers will provide guidance on gorilla tracking protocols, safety, and conservation efforts. Equipped with this vital information, you will set out on the legendary mountain gorilla trek.
The hike can take anywhere from two to six hours, depending on the movements of the gorilla family you are tracking. The trek involves navigating through dense, lush forests, steep slopes, and sometimes muddy terrain, all while enjoying the lush tropical surroundings.
Once you locate the gorilla family, you are granted a precious one-hour encounter with these critically endangered giants.
Watching the silverbacks, mothers with their infants, and playful juveniles provides a profound connection with nature and wildlife conservation efforts. This encounter offers incredible photo opportunities and a chance to observe their social behaviors in their natural habitat. After the encounter, you will return to your lodge for a late lunch around 1:00 pm, depending on the time spent on gorilla tracking.
In the late afternoon, optional community walks or nature trails are available, arranged by Grime Safaris, allowing you to experience the local culture, learn about conservation projects, and visit nearby villages.
These walks are a wonderful way to understand the local people's lives and the efforts to preserve Uganda’s natural heritage. As evening falls, enjoy a delicious dinner at your lodge, accompanied by the sounds of the rainforest, and relax for the night.
End of Day 4 out of 5 Days Gorilla Tracking Safaris starting from Gulu City with Grime Safaris
Day 5: Return to Gulu or Entebbe with Grime Safaris Gulu
On the final day of your safari, after an early breakfast, you will check out and begin the journey back to Gulu City or Entebbe International Airport, depending on your travel arrangements. The drive from Bwindi to Gulu is approximately 8 to 10 hours, passing through scenic highlands, lush plantations, and rural communities.
Your guide from Grime Safaris will ensure a smooth and comfortable return, sharing insights about Uganda’s landscapes and wildlife along the way. Alternatively, if you prefer a quicker departure, arrangements can be made for a domestic flight from nearby airstrips such as Kihihi or Kisoro directly to Entebbe, saving time and allowing you to catch your international flight.
This safari with Grime Safaris offers an unforgettable experience of Uganda’s rich biodiversity, majestic landscapes, and vibrant local culture. From the powerful Murchison Falls to the awe-inspiring mountain gorillas, every moment is designed to create lasting memories of your 5-day adventure.
End of Day 5 out of 5 Days Gorilla Tracking Safaris starting from Gulu City with Grime Safaris