6-Day Uganda Gorilla Habituation and Wildlife Safari – Queen Elizabeth National Park and Bwindi

The 6-Day Uganda Gorilla Habituation and Wildlife Safari combines two of Uganda’s most remarkable wildlife destinations into one unforgettable African adventure. This carefully designed journey takes you from the beautiful shores of Lake Victoria to the wildlife-rich savannah plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park before continuing to the ancient rainforest of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for an extraordinary Gorilla Habituation Experience.

Unlike conventional Uganda wildlife safaris that concentrate exclusively on game viewing, this adventure combines traditional African wildlife encounters with an extended opportunity to observe endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. You will enjoy guided game drives across the Kasenyi Plains, a scenic boat cruise along the famous Kazinga Channel and four hours with a semi-habituated mountain gorilla family in the Rushaga sector of Bwindi.

6-Day Uganda Gorilla Habituation and Wildlife Safari

Day	Activities	Accommodation
Day 1	Arrival at Entebbe International Airport Uganda and Drive to the Hotel for Relaxation After a Long Flight	Lake Victoria Hotel or Green Valley Guest House
Day 2	Morning Road Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park (6 Hours Drive) and Have Afternoon Guided Game Drives in Kasenyi Plains	Twin Lakes Safari Lodge or Elephant Hab Lodge
Day 3	Enjoy Guided Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise in Queen Elizabeth National Park	Twin Lakes Safari Lodge or Elephant Hab Lodge
Day 4	Morning Road Transfer from Queen Elizabeth National Park to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Rushaga Sector) – 6 Hours Drive and Afternoon Relaxation at the Lodge	Four Gorillas Lodge or Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
Day 5	Enjoy Mountain Gorilla Habituation Experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Rushaga Sector) Spend 4 Hours with the Gorillas and Afternoon Batwa Cultural Experience	Four Gorillas Lodge or Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
Day 6	Morning Road Transfer from Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Rushaga Sector) to Entebbe International Airport for an Evening Flight Back Home	None

Tour Quotation Based on 3-Star Safari Holiday

Number of People	Solo Traveller	2 People	4 People	6 People
Rate Per Person	USD 5,472	USD 4,344	USD 3,873	USD 3,716

Furthermore, this 6-Day Uganda Gorilla Habituation and Wildlife Safari introduces you to the cultural heritage of southwestern Uganda through a Batwa cultural experience. The combination of wildlife, rainforest exploration and traditional community activities creates a deeper understanding of Uganda’s natural and cultural attractions.

Deks Africa Safaris & Tours Ltd organises this safari for international travellers seeking an enriching Uganda adventure within a relatively short period. With comfortable accommodation, experienced safari guides and carefully planned transportation, the itinerary provides an opportunity to explore Uganda’s remarkable biodiversity while supporting responsible wildlife tourism.

Whether you are a wildlife photographer, conservation enthusiast, adventurous couple or first-time African safari traveller, the 6-Day Uganda Gorilla Habituation and Wildlife Safari offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the country’s extraordinary natural heritage.

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe International Airport and Hotel Transfer

Welcome to Uganda – The Pearl of Africa

Your 6-Day Uganda Gorilla Habituation and Wildlife Safari begins with your arrival at Entebbe International Airport. Upon completing immigration and luggage collection, a professional representative from Deks Africa Safaris & Tours Ltd welcomes you and transfers you to your hotel.

Entebbe lies along the northern shores of Lake Victoria, the largest tropical lake in the world. Its relaxed atmosphere, green surroundings and lakeside scenery provide a pleasant introduction to Uganda after an international flight.

Depending on your arrival time, you can enjoy a relaxed afternoon at your hotel or explore selected attractions around Entebbe. The Uganda Wildlife Conservation Education Centre offers opportunities to learn about Uganda’s wildlife conservation efforts, while the Entebbe Botanical Gardens provide beautiful lakeside walking trails and opportunities for birdwatching.

Accommodation and Relaxation in Entebbe

Your accommodation options include Lake Victoria Hotel or Green Valley Guest House, depending on your preferred comfort level and availability.

After checking in, enjoy some relaxation before the beginning of your wildlife adventure. Your guide can also brief you about the following day’s journey, including the route to Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Accommodation: Lake Victoria Hotel or Green Valley Guest House

Day 2: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park and Kasenyi Plains Game Drive

Scenic Journey to Uganda’s Wildlife Kingdom

After breakfast, depart Entebbe for Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most celebrated wildlife destinations. The drive takes approximately six hours, depending on traffic, road conditions and stopovers.

As you travel towards western Uganda, the landscape gradually changes from busy urban surroundings to open countryside, agricultural communities and rolling green hills. You will pass traditional trading centres and rural settlements that reveal different aspects of everyday Ugandan life.

Along the way, enjoy scenic views of the countryside and occasional stops for refreshments and photography. Your guide will introduce you to the region’s geography, wildlife conservation and cultural heritage.

Afternoon Game Drive in Kasenyi Plains

Upon reaching Queen Elizabeth National Park, continue to your lodge for check-in and lunch. Later in the afternoon, embark on a guided game drive across the Kasenyi Plains.

The Kasenyi sector offers excellent opportunities to encounter several iconic African wildlife species. Its open savannah grasslands support large populations of Uganda kob, which attract predators such as lions.

During your game drive, you may encounter African elephants, buffaloes, warthogs, antelopes and various bird species. With a little luck, you may also spot lions resting in the grasslands or moving through the plains in search of prey.

The Kasenyi Plains provide an exciting introduction to traditional African wildlife viewing and an excellent opportunity for photography.

Accommodation in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Your accommodation options include Twin Lakes Safari Lodge or Elephant Hab Lodge.

Both properties provide access to the park’s wildlife attractions and beautiful surrounding landscapes.

Accommodation: Twin Lakes Safari Lodge or Elephant Hab Lodge

Day 3: Queen Elizabeth National Park Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

Morning Wildlife Exploration

Begin your day with an early breakfast before heading into Queen Elizabeth National Park for another guided game drive.

Early morning offers excellent opportunities to observe wildlife as animals become active during the cooler hours. Your guide will explore selected game-viewing areas while helping you identify different species and understand their behaviour.

Queen Elizabeth National Park protects an impressive range of habitats, including savannah grasslands, wetlands, crater lakes, woodlands and tropical forests. This ecological diversity supports elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, lions, leopards and numerous bird species.

During the morning drive, pay attention to the smaller details of the ecosystem as well. Different antelope species, colourful birds and fascinating plant communities contribute to the park’s exceptional biodiversity.

Afternoon Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

After lunch and some relaxation, proceed to the Kazinga Channel for one of the most rewarding wildlife activities in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

The Kazinga Channel connects Lake Edward and Lake George, creating an important aquatic habitat for numerous wildlife species. A guided boat cruise provides an excellent opportunity to observe animals gathering along the water’s edge.

You can expect to see large concentrations of hippos resting in the water, Nile crocodiles along the banks, elephants approaching the channel to drink and buffaloes grazing near the shoreline.

The channel also attracts numerous waterbirds, including African fish eagles, pelicans, kingfishers, herons and cormorants.

Unlike a conventional game drive, the boat cruise offers a different perspective of Uganda’s wildlife. You can photograph animals from the water while enjoying beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Cultural Experiences Around Queen Elizabeth National Park

Beyond wildlife viewing, the communities surrounding Queen Elizabeth National Park offer opportunities to explore local traditions and everyday life.

Depending on your lodge location and available time, you can arrange visits to nearby fishing communities, local craft initiatives and cultural groups. Visitors can learn about traditional fishing activities, local food preparation, music, dance and community livelihoods.

These encounters provide valuable insights into the relationship between conservation, tourism and the communities living around the park.

Accommodation: Twin Lakes Safari Lodge or Elephant Hab Lodge

Uganda Wildlife Safari

Day 4: Transfer from Queen Elizabeth National Park to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Journey to the Mountain Gorilla Forest

After breakfast, leave Queen Elizabeth National Park and travel towards Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in southwestern Uganda.

The drive takes approximately six hours, depending on your lodge location, road conditions and stopovers. Along the way, you will enjoy spectacular views of Uganda’s western highlands, traditional villages, cultivated hillsides and rural landscapes.

The journey introduces you to a different natural environment as the open savannah gradually gives way to forested mountains and cooler highland scenery.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park protects one of the world’s most important habitats for endangered mountain gorillas. Its ancient rainforest supports an extraordinary variety of wildlife, including forest elephants, monkeys, butterflies and numerous bird species.

Arrival in the Rushaga Sector

Your destination is the Rushaga sector, located in the southern part of Bwindi. Rushaga plays an important role in Uganda’s gorilla tourism industry and offers access to the exclusive Gorilla Habituation Experience.

Upon arrival, transfer to Four Gorillas Lodge or Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge, depending on your booking and accommodation preference.

Both lodges provide a convenient base for exploring the Rushaga area. Their surroundings offer beautiful views of the forested hills and rural communities that characterise southwestern Uganda.

Spend the afternoon relaxing, enjoying the scenery and preparing for your following day’s adventure.

Your safari guide will also explain the Gorilla Habituation Experience, the early morning briefing arrangements and the recommended equipment for forest trekking.

Cultural Experiences Around Rushaga

The Rushaga region offers more than mountain gorilla encounters. Visitors can explore nearby communities, discover traditional agricultural practices and participate in cultural activities.

Local experiences may include traditional dance performances, community walks, coffee experiences and visits to craft-making groups.

These activities provide an opportunity to understand the cultural identity of the communities surrounding Bwindi while supporting local livelihoods through responsible tourism.

Accommodation: Four Gorillas Lodge or Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

Day 5: Bwindi Gorilla Habituation Experience and Batwa Cultural Tour

The Ultimate Gorilla Habituation Adventure in Uganda

Today marks the main highlight of your 6-Day Uganda Gorilla Habituation and Wildlife Safari.

After an early breakfast, transfer to the Rushaga park headquarters for registration and a briefing from Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. The briefing introduces you to the forest environment, wildlife safety guidelines and the procedures governing the Gorilla Habituation Experience.

Unlike ordinary gorilla trekking, which allows visitors one hour with a habituated gorilla family, Gorilla Habituation provides up to four hours with a semi-habituated group.

After the briefing, join experienced trackers, researchers and park guides as they lead you into the rainforest to locate your assigned gorilla family.

Four Hours with Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi

The Gorilla Habituation Experience provides an exceptional opportunity to observe mountain gorillas while conservation teams gradually familiarise them with human presence.

As you explore the forest, you may encounter different stages of gorilla behaviour, including feeding, resting, grooming, playing and family interactions.

The dominant silverback plays an important role in maintaining group structure and protecting family members. Meanwhile, mothers care for their infants, while younger gorillas explore their surroundings and interact with other members.

Spending four hours with the gorillas offers additional time to appreciate their intelligence, social relationships and natural behaviour.

For wildlife photographers, the extended encounter creates valuable opportunities to capture the gorillas in their natural environment. Nevertheless, all visitors must follow the instructions of the guides, maintain the required viewing distance and respect wildlife health regulations.

Understanding Bwindi Gorilla Habituation and Conservation

Bwindi Gorilla Habituation forms an important part of Uganda’s mountain gorilla conservation efforts.

The habituation process involves regular visits by trained researchers and trackers who gradually introduce selected wild gorilla families to human observers. This careful process helps the gorillas become accustomed to human presence without disrupting their natural behaviour.

The experience also provides an opportunity to understand the conservation work that protects these endangered primates and their rainforest habitat.

Your participation contributes to Uganda’s regulated gorilla tourism industry, which supports conservation management and surrounding communities.

Afternoon Batwa Cultural Experience

After completing your gorilla adventure, return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. Later in the afternoon, enjoy a guided Batwa cultural experience.

The Batwa people have a longstanding historical connection with the forests of southwestern Uganda. Their traditional knowledge includes forest survival skills, medicinal plants, hunting practices, music, storytelling and traditional crafts.

During the cultural visit, you can discover aspects of Batwa heritage through demonstrations, guided interpretation and traditional performances.

You may also learn about the community’s relationship with the forest, the changes brought by conservation policies and the importance of community participation in sustainable tourism.

This experience adds a meaningful cultural dimension to your 6-Day Uganda Gorilla Habituation and Wildlife Safari.

Accommodation: Four Gorillas Lodge or Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

Day 6: Return Transfer to Entebbe International Airport

Departure from Bwindi to Entebbe

Enjoy an early breakfast before beginning your return journey to Entebbe International Airport.

The drive from the Rushaga sector to Entebbe takes approximately 9–11 hours, depending on road conditions and stopovers. Your driver-guide will select a suitable route and arrange necessary refreshments along the way.

As you travel through southwestern Uganda, enjoy your final views of the beautiful highlands, agricultural communities and changing countryside.

Travellers should arrange evening international departures with sufficient time for the long road transfer and airport check-in. Depending on flight schedules, an additional overnight stay in Entebbe may provide a more comfortable arrangement.

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, your guide assists with the final transfer arrangements, marking the end of your 6-Day Uganda Gorilla Habituation and Wildlife Safari with Deks Africa Safaris & Tours Ltd.

Best Time to Book a 6-Day Uganda Gorilla Habituation and Wildlife Safari

Uganda offers gorilla habituation experiences throughout the year. Nevertheless, seasonal weather conditions can influence trekking comfort and road travel.

June to September: These months generally offer relatively drier conditions, making them popular for wildlife safaris and forest trekking.

December to February: Another favourable period for visiting Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Park, with generally lower rainfall.

March to May and October to November: These months generally experience heavier rainfall. However, the forests become lush and green, creating beautiful scenery for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Since Bwindi is a tropical rainforest, rain can occur during any month. Therefore, appropriate clothing, waterproof hiking boots and preparation remain essential throughout the year.

What to Pack for Your 6-Day Uganda Gorilla Habituation and Wildlife Safari?

Preparing the right equipment helps you enjoy both savannah wildlife viewing and rainforest trekking.

Essential items include:

Waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support.
Long-sleeved shirts and lightweight hiking trousers.
Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
Gardening gloves for navigating forest vegetation.
Comfortable safari clothing in neutral colours.
A camera with spare batteries and memory cards.
Binoculars for wildlife and birdwatching.
Insect repellent and sunscreen.
Reusable drinking water bottle.
Personal medication and basic first-aid supplies.
A small backpack for daily excursions.
A walking stick and local porter can also make the Gorilla Habituation Experience more manageable, particularly on steep or muddy forest trails.

Book Your 6-Day Uganda Gorilla Habituation and Wildlife Safari with Deks Africa Safaris & Tours Ltd

The 6-Day Uganda Gorilla Habituation and Wildlife Safari brings together two extraordinary wildlife experiences within one carefully planned African adventure.

From the open savannah plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park to the ancient rainforest of Bwindi, this journey introduces you to Uganda’s remarkable biodiversity, conservation heritage and cultural traditions.

Enjoy guided game drives, discover the wildlife-rich Kazinga Channel, spend four unforgettable hours with mountain gorillas and connect with the Batwa community through an enriching cultural experience.

Deks Africa Safaris & Tours Ltd specialises in organising memorable Uganda wildlife safaris, gorilla trekking adventures and tailor-made East African holidays. Our team assists with gorilla habituation permits, accommodation, transportation and professional safari arrangements.

Contact Deks Africa Safaris & Tours Ltd today to reserve your 6-Day Uganda Gorilla Habituation and Wildlife Safari and experience the extraordinary wildlife treasures of the Pearl of Africa.

6-Day Uganda Gorilla Habituation and Wildlife Safari Inclusions and Exclusions

Safari Inclusions

Airport transfers on arrival and departure.
Private 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof.
Services of an English-speaking professional driver-guide.
Fuel for all itinerary activities and road transfers.
1 night’s accommodation in Entebbe.
2 nights’ accommodation in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
2 nights’ accommodation in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Meals as specified in the accommodation arrangements.
Uganda Gorilla Habituation Experience permit (USD 1,500 per person, subject to applicable rates).
Four-hour mountain gorilla habituation experience in Bwindi.
Queen Elizabeth National Park entrance fees.
Guided game drives in Kasenyi Plains.
Kazinga Channel boat cruise.
Batwa cultural experience.
All planned activities mentioned in the itinerary.
Bottled drinking water during safari drives.
All applicable vehicle and driver-guide park fees.
Government taxes and applicable tourism levies.

Safari Exclusions

International flights to and from Uganda.
Uganda entry visa fees.
Travel insurance.
Personal expenses.
Alcoholic and premium beverages.
Additional drinks outside the agreed meal arrangements.
Tips and gratuities for the driver-guide, lodge staff, rangers and porters.
Porter fees during gorilla habituation trekking.
Laundry services.
Optional activities not included in the itinerary.
Additional accommodation before or after the safari.
Early check-in or late check-out charges.
Personal shopping and souvenirs.
Telephone calls and internet expenses where charged.
Medical expenses and personal medication.
Any expenses arising from unforeseen circumstances beyond the tour operator’s control.

Related Africa Safaris & Tour Holidays

Stephanie

A reliable and professional tour operator for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience We recently booked a 3-day gorilla trekking experience with Deks Safari’s from Kigali to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and we would highly recommend this company. With so many tour operators to choose from, Deks Safari’s truly stands out through their personal approach, excellent communication, and professional organisation. From our very first contact, Samuel was easily reachable by email and WhatsApp. He responded quickly to our questions, provided clear information, and made sure that everything was arranged perfectly. Deks Safari’s organised all the important details, including transfers, gorilla permits, and additional experiences such as a visit to a local community and a beautiful boat trip on Lake Bunyonyi. Thanks to their excellent preparation, we could fully enjoy our trip without having to worry about the practical arrangements. Our driver and guide was also excellent. They spoke good English, was professional, friendly, and always willing to help whenever needed. We are satisfied with the service provided by Deks Safari’s and would definitely recommend them to anyone planning a gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda. A trustworthy local tour operator that truly cares about creating a memorable and worry-free experience for its guests.

Legends accessories

Amasing 23 day africa safari holiday Amazing 23 days in Africa with Deks Tours We planned a family safari in africa connecting from uganda to rwanda, kenya, victoria falls, and botswana game drives in chobe with Deks tours. what i can tell you is, the whole trip was exceptional. Samuel our tour guide was so engaging and helping, he was so swift at replies to each question we asked. and from the time we started planning the trip, samuel helped us so much to plan the best itinerary of all time. meaning our guides in different countries, they were all detailed at guiding. Jame in Uganda took us to chimpanzee tracking and gorilla trekking in bwindi forest, wooow it was amasing and physical. Don Sailor in Kenya was equally exceptional on our game drives in Masai mara reserve and lake nakuru. we witnessed the great migration at mara river, it was amasing seeing millions of animals crossing the river. we continued to Victoria falls in Zaimbabwe for another another, the boat cruise, nature walk at the vic falls, and the helicopter experience was a different experience. I assure you we visited all the four highlights of africa as Samuel promised. Lionel on the other side of Botswana took us to chobe for game drives and boat cruise and later drove to Okavango delta for the mokoro experience, this was another experience beyond expectation. the whole team at deks safaris and tours is engaging and really exceptional in planning africa trips. Thanks Samuel, Thanks to all the Guides who made the whole experience amasing, we really look forward to visiting again. Thanks

baba m

Exceptional Experience in Uganda Exceptional Experience in Uganda I planned a safari to see the gorillas and chimps in Uganda on our 7 days trip with my wife Rinah, but all was amazing. Samuel our planner was so quick at answering questions, and he arranged the whole trip from the time we landed at entebbe airport to trekking the chimpanzees and gorillas, he was so helping. we added on a day in queen elizabeth for game drives and boat cruise on kazinga channel, after chimpanzee trekking, our guide Jamal was so detailed in everything and he was helping. We highly recommend deks africa safaris and tours for travelers planning to visit uganda and or East Africa as a whole. Thank you samuel and Jamal for the great experience.

Greener L

Awesome chimpanzee & gorilla habituation experience with Deks Africa Safaris & Tours! I organized my entire trip to Uganda to see chimpanzees and gorillas with Deks Africa and am very pleased with their service and professionalism. After numerous conversations with Samuel at Deks Africa, it seems they are a medium-sized travel agency based in Kampala operating around different African countries. My guide and driver for the trip - Jamal - promptly picked me up from Entebbe airport for our weeklong trip together. Deks Africa arranged for me to go on a chimpanzee trek in Kibale National Park and also a gorilla trek with mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Both were absolutely fantastic experiences, truly nice in a lifetime moment! The hotel & lodge accommodations that were selected by Deks Africa were spectacular and quite luxurious. And Jamal turned out to not only be a fantastic guide & driver, but he is also highly ethical and very caring, which I really appreciated. For example, we had the opportunity to visit the Batwa (Pigmy) village & community near Bwindi, and Jamal suggested that instead of bringing money or toys that we meet with a 90-yr old elderly member of the Batwa community and bring her a weeks’ worth of groceries and food. The elderly woman was so appreciative and happy, you could tell the visit and groceries made her day special, and this was Jamal’s idea - that’s how ethical and thoughtful that he is. Having Jamal as the guide for my trip to Uganda was almost as special as visiting the chimpanzees and mountain gorillas. When I return to Uganda, I will definitely book with Deks Africa again and ask if Jamal is available as a guide - thank you so much for the unforgettable experiences and memories Deks Africa & Jamal!

Tanaka M

Amazing 7 days trip to Victoria falls Zimbabwe and chobe Botswana trip Exceptional service by deks tours I and my friends booked a 7 day trip to Victoria falls and chobe national Park in Botswana but I can gladly say that these guys are authentic. From the time I started planning to the time I visited, the whole process was seamless. We saw the Victoria falls from stage one to last one and to the bridge, it's really amazing. The game drives in chobe park were so good we saw lions on a hunt, different t heads of elephants and more. Our guide tawana was detailed in everything and I look forward to visiting again hopefully to see gorillas in Uganda through deks tours. I can recommend you to anyone who plans a trip to Africa because of your authenticity. Thanks deks tours, thanks Samuel who made everything too easy for us. he made sure that the money we paid was really put into use.

Yasmeen h

Great experience with a local company Overall we had a great experience. When we were searching out tour companies Deks came up and when compared to all the other ones the price was comparable. We emailed about an itinerary based on our cost, timing and what we really wanted to accomplish and they responded quickly with the information. We decided to support a local company for this trip. We emailed questions before the trip and they were very quick with responses and information. On site the contracted guides/drivers were very good at letting us know what was going to be the activities for the day and next day. The accommodations booked were great and the hotels were very accommodating with any allergies and food preferences. The safari experience were great, we also did Gorilla, chimpanzee and Golden monkey trekking which the company arranged for us. We had jsut booked myself and a friend so it was great we were the only ones in the vehicles. They also arranged local experiences to learn about the culture, people and industries they have. It was an Amazing trip! Only bad thing which they cannot control is the roads are rough. The drivers did their best to navigate the pot holes and bumps and did warn us in advance that the roads were poor.

Gino

Save research time, just book these guys now Dek's Safari was an amazing choice to accommodate our two-person last-minute gorilla and golden monkey New Years treks. The communication to arrange all logistics were extremely professional and responsive. Our accomodations were spectacular. Our driver and guide Dalson was entertaining, knowledgeable, reliable, and handled everything the jungle threw at us. If you're considering multiple tour groups, I'm more than delighted with Dek's so you should just book with them now.

Simon H

Amazing 14-day holiday experience in Uganda - Highly recommend! Thinking of exceptional, 14 day Uganda trip is beyond compare especially with a reputable company deks tours. We planned a wildlife, chimps and gorilla trekking trip with Samuel in August, and he made sure we had the best experience in the wild. From the time of booking to the time of meeting with our guide Jamal and to doing all the activities, the whole team was engaging and helping. Our trip started with shoebill tracking in Mabamba swamp where we took a canoe. We went to jinja for water rafting on the nile it was really amazing. Proceeding to Murchison falls national park with rhino tracking in ziwa sanctuary. A boat cruise on the Victoria nile was just another thing. The trip extended to kibale forest for chimpanzee tracking and bigodi walk, engaging with the community in bigodi made us feel home. And queen Elizabeth game drives, w spoted a number of lions and the tree climbing lions and a boat cruise on kazinga channel was really fun. The highlight of it all was the encounter face to face with the mountain gorillas in Bwindi forest, these mountain giants made us yearn for more trips in Uganda. A rlaxation at lake bunyonyi was amazing. The whole trip was really arranged well to the maximum and we are to plan another trip with you Samuel and we shall always ask for Jamal as our guide. Thank you so much

Stephanie D

10 Days of Pure Ugandan Magic Experience From Rhinos to Gorillas, and Every Heartfelt Moment in Between From the very first sunrise to the last golden sunset, our 10-day Ugandan safari felt like stepping into a dream — a vivid, living story that unfolded across five incredible national parks. It wasn’t just a trip; it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience that touched our hearts in ways words can hardly describe. My husband and I had chosen Uganda for our honeymoon, and from the moment we met our guide Jamal from Deks Safaris & Tours, we knew we were in the hands of someone special. What followed was ten days of pure wonder, connection, and unforgettable adventure. Our journey took us through Murchison Falls, Kibale Forest, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and Lake Mburo — each destination revealing a new side of Uganda’s soul. The landscapes shifted from rolling savannahs to misty rainforests, each teeming with life and beauty beyond imagination. Everywhere we went, we were welcomed with warm smiles and genuine kindness. Uganda isn’t just beautiful — it feels alive, like the land itself breathes a quiet magic. Our adventure began at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, a place where hope and protection walk hand in hand. Standing just a few meters away from a small herd — seven majestic rhinos, including a playful calf — we could feel the heartbeat of conservation at work. The rangers’ devotion was deeply moving; their gentle whispers, cautious steps, and passionate explanations revealed just how much love and courage go into protecting these endangered creatures. It wasn’t simply an encounter; it was a moment of quiet reverence — a reminder that humans and nature can coexist in harmony when care leads the way. Then came Murchison Falls, and with it, awe in its purest form. Watching the mighty Nile squeeze through a narrow gorge before crashing into the depths below was mesmerizing — raw power and beauty intertwined. At sunset, the falls turned to gold, painting the riverbanks with a warm glow that felt almost sacred. The next day’s boat safari offered a different rhythm of life: hippos lounging in the shallows, buffalo grazing by the water’s edge, and crocodiles basking in the sun. Nature’s orchestra played softly around us — every sound, every ripple, a note in the grand symphony of the wild. Trekking through Kibale Forest in search of chimpanzees was like stepping into another world — alive with rustling leaves, echoing calls, and the occasional burst of laughter from above. It took patience, but the reward was beyond anything we imagined. We found ourselves just a meter away from a calm male chimp, reclining on the forest floor, hands folded behind his head as though posing for the perfect photograph. Around him, others groomed, played, and wandered in their natural grace. It was a tender moment — unfiltered, peaceful, and profoundly human in its familiarity. To be so close, to see their intelligence and emotion reflected back at us, was an experience that lingers in the soul. And then came the moment we had dreamed of for years — the gorilla trek in Bwindi. No words can truly capture the feeling of standing just a few meters from a family of 11 mountain gorillas, watching three playful babies tumble through the vines under their mother’s watchful gaze. The silverback’s deep grunts filled the forest, yet there was no fear — only respect. The rangers guided us gently, their calm confidence mirroring the deep trust they share with these majestic beings. The trek itself was surprisingly manageable — about 30 minutes down the mountain to where the gorillas were feeding. As they moved, we followed quietly, hearts pounding with every step. The forest was alive with light and mist, the air heavy with the scent of earth and rain. Our group was wonderful, offering helping hands when the climb got steep, especially to one older lady who never stopped smiling despite the challenge. That day, we didn’t just witness wildlife — we shared a moment of life itself, raw and unfiltered. From the misty jungles of Bwindi, we journeyed to the open plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park — a world of golden grasslands, shimmering lakes, and abundant wildlife. It was here we saw two elegant leopards, each a fleeting shadow of beauty slipping through the bush, and later, two majestic tree-climbing lions lounging lazily in the branches of Ishasha’s fig trees. Those sights felt like pure privilege — as though the wilderness had chosen to reveal its secrets just for us. Every drive brought new wonders: herds of elephants crossing the tracks in quiet procession, towers of giraffes silhouetted against the horizon, and the graceful kob moving through the savannah. Uganda’s diversity was astounding — each moment unique, every encounter brimming with life. Our final stop, Lake Mburo National Park, offered a peaceful ending to our journey — a perfect balance of tranquility and gentle adventure. The park’s rolling hills, mirrored lakes, and wandering zebras felt like a soft farewell from the land we had come to love. Here, time slowed, allowing us to absorb everything we had seen and felt over the past ten days. Heartfelt Hospitality – Stays that Felt Like Home Throughout our safari, every lodge we stayed at welcomed us not as guests but as friends. The touches for our honeymoon were thoughtful and heartwarming — flower petals, smiles, and quiet gestures that made every night special. But the highlight of all was our stay at Elephant Hab. Barbara and her team treated us like family, their warmth and care leaving a lasting imprint on our hearts. It wasn’t just service — it was genuine kindness, the kind that makes you feel truly seen and appreciated. We even wrote a separate review for them because they so deeply deserved it. And then there was Jamal — our guide, our guardian, and the person who made this adventure seamless. His calm presence, deep knowledge, and unfailing kindness elevated every moment. Even when we had a tyre issue early in the trip, he handled it effortlessly, ensuring we stayed comfortable and safe. What touched us most was his thoughtfulness — on our final day, he surprised us with one of my photos, printed and block-mounted as a honeymoon gift. That small gesture spoke volumes about who he is — caring, humble, and passionate about what he does. Traveling with him felt like journeying with a friend who truly loves his country. Having traveled through seven African countries, Uganda stands apart — the safest, warmest, and most welcoming of them all. Its beauty isn’t only in its landscapes or wildlife but in its people. Every village we passed was filled with laughter and life; children ran to the roadside waving as we drove by, and strangers stopped to help when we had car trouble, offering tools and smiles without hesitation. There’s a sense of community here — an unspoken bond that connects everyone, locals and visitors alike. Uganda has a heartbeat — steady, strong, and full of joy. It’s a land that embraces you, surprises you, and gently changes you. We came for the gorillas, but we left with so much more: gratitude, connection, and memories we will cherish for a lifetime. Our 10-day honeymoon safari with Deks Safaris & Tours wasn’t just a vacation — it was a story of love, adventure, and discovery written across the heart of Africa. Every moment felt thoughtfully curated, every destination brimming with wonder. We left Uganda with full hearts, endless appreciation, and a deep promise to return one day. Uganda truly is the Pearl of Africa, radiant, soulful, and unforgettable.

Joseph W

Perfect 12 Day Tanzania Uganda Safari with Deks Tours I and my husband Winton booked a 12 day trip to Africa with deks safaris and tours in September but to our surprise all the trip was beyond compare. We first undermined the company because it had few reviews and given it was new, but their service is too professional, authentic and perfect. From the time we started talking to Samuel about the trip to the time of booking the trip, he was really engaging and helping all through the process. And when we landed at Kilimanjaro airport in Tanzania, we met with him in person well presented as a company. Our guide Emma gave us an exceptional 7 day experience in Tanzania, game drives in Serengeti, we spotted a number of cuts, the wildebeests, and a series of other animals. And proceeding to Uganda, where we met our guide Jamal, he made the gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking experience far beyond compare. Face to face with the mountain gorillas in Bwindi forest made us to demand for another trip in Uganda. We really look forward to plan another trip with you guys. And we are to recommend you to any of our friends planning a trip to Africa. Thanks Samuel, Emma, Jamal and the whole Deks Safaris team. From Winton and Ketra

6-Day Uganda Gorilla Habituation and Wildlife Safari – Queen Elizabeth National Park and Bwindi