4-Day Safaris In Uganda & Gorilla Trekking Trips 2026/2027

One of its most famous safari experiences in Uganda is trekking to see mountain gorillas. You can only find them in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. But gorillas are only the beginning. Uganda’s green rainforests are some of the best places in the world to see wild chimpanzees. Its wide savannahs are home to lions, elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and hippos.

Uganda is also a dream destination for bird lovers. More than 1,080 bird species have been recorded here. These include the rare and strange-looking shoebill stork. The scenery is just as impressive as the wildlife. You move from misty mountains to open plains and peaceful lakes in just a few hours. This variety makes Uganda truly special. Four days may not be enough to see everything.

But it is the perfect amount of time to enjoy the country’s highlights. You can track gorillas, go on a classic game drive, or enjoy a magical experience on the Nile.

Where should I go on a 4-day Uganda Safari?

It depends on what you want to see and do. Your interests should guide your choice. If gorilla trekking is your top priority, head to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in southwest Uganda. These misty forests are home to the largest population of endangered mountain gorillas. For many travelers, this is the highlight of a Uganda safari.

If you prefer a classic Big Five experience without gorillas, Murchison Falls National Park is the best option. The Nile forces its way through a narrow gorge to create one of the most powerful waterfalls on Earth. The surrounding savannah is rich in wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, lions, and leopards.

For a true wilderness experience, consider Kidepo Valley National Park and the wider Karamoja region in the remote northeast. This area feels wild and untouched. You will find wide open plains, rugged mountains, unique cultures, and excellent wildlife viewing.

If you love adventure as much as nature, combine white-water rafting on the Nile near Jinja with a visit to Sipi Falls on the slopes of Mount Elgon. This route offers thrills, scenic hikes, and beautiful landscapes.

Whether you dream of seeing gorillas, searching for big game, exploring remote parks, or chasing adventure, Uganda has the perfect 4-day safari for you.

Can I fit gorilla & chimp treks into a Four day tour?

Yes, it is possible to see both gorillas and chimpanzees in four days. The program will be busy, but it can be done. If you start from Kampala or Entebbe, day one is mostly spent driving.

The journey to Bwindi or Mgahinga takes about 9 to 10 hours. The drive is long but very scenic. On the morning of day two, you go gorilla trekking. This is the highlight of the trip. After the trek, you travel toward a chimpanzee trekking area, either later that day or early the next morning.

The best chimp trekking sites from Bwindi or Mgahinga are Kalinzu Forest Reserve and Kyambura Gorge, both near Queen Elizabeth National Park. Here, you can also enjoy a boat cruise or a short game drive. You may see elephants, buffalo, hippos, lions, and sometimes leopards. This four-day plan works, but it feels rushed. Adding one or two extra days makes the trip more relaxed and enjoyable.

Many travelers now start in Kigali, Rwanda. The drive to Bwindi or Mgahinga is much shorter. Gorilla permits in Uganda also cost less. They are US$800, compared to US$1,500 in Rwanda. This makes Uganda a more affordable choice, without losing any of the magic.

Can I See All of the Big 5 on a 4-Day Uganda Safari?

Yes, with careful planning, you have a strong chance of seeing all five members of the Big Five. The best option is a 4-day safari that combines Murchison Falls National Park with Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch. Ziwa is one of the few places in Africa where you can track white rhinos on foot.

Even a short visit here almost guarantees a sighting. In Murchison Falls, boat trips along the Nile to the base of the falls reveal elephants, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, and many waterbirds. Lions are often seen on game drives north of the Nile. Leopards are more elusive, but you may spot one during a four-day trip.

Queen Elizabeth and Kidepo Valley are also good for seeing lions, elephants, and buffalo. Leopard sightings are less predictable. Ziwa is the only place outside zoos in Uganda where rhinos are reliably seen. It can be included on the way to Kidepo Valley, but combining it with Queen Elizabeth in four days is difficult.

With careful planning, a 4-day safari in Uganda gives you a real chance to see the Big Five while enjoying stunning landscapes and amazing wildlife.

Elephants in Murchsion Falls National Park

What is the best time of year to tour Uganda?

The best time to explore Uganda is during the dry seasons, from June to August and December to February. Roads are easier to drive, wildlife is easier to spot, and trekking in forests is more comfortable.

The main rainy season runs from March to May. Heavy rains can make gorilla and chimpanzee trails slippery and challenging. It can also make some roads harder to navigate. Visiting during the dry months gives you a smoother, more enjoyable safari experience. Wildlife, landscapes, and forest treks are at their best.

What is the best time of year to tour Uganda?

The cost of a 4-day Uganda safari depends on your comfort level and activities. Budget safaris usually range from US$950 to US$1,200 per person.

These trips focus on savannah parks like Murchison Falls, Ziwa, Queen Elizabeth, Kidepo Valley, and Lake Mburo, using campsites or basic lodges. Mid-range safaris to the same destinations, with more comfortable lodges, start around US$1,500 per person. Safari packages that include gorilla trekking in Bwindi or Mgahinga are more expensive because of the US$800 gorilla permit.

Budget gorilla trekking safaris with simple lodges cost between US$1,600 and US$1,900 per person. Mid-range options are over US$2,000. Luxury safaris with private guides, high-end lodges, and domestic flights usually range from US$2,800 to US$4,500 per person. Most safari costs include park fees, accommodation, meals, transport, and professional guides, so planning is easy with no hidden charges. Uganda offers incredible wildlife experiences for every budget—from gorilla trekking to Big Five safaris.