Name: 9 Day Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking Safari and Yoga Holiday in Uganda
Brand: Namaste Yoga Safari Namibia
Price: 6021 USD
Availability: InStock

Accommodation

You will be staying at various locations and lodges in Uganda - all with stunning views of the forest - nature in its true form.

Day 1: 2 Friends Beach Hotel
Days 2 and 3: Pakuba Safari Lodge
Days 4 and 5: Turraco Treetop
Days 6 and 7: Bakiga Lodge
Day 8: Rwakobo Rock

Please note that accommodations might change (subject to availability) but the Namaste Yoga Safari Namibia team will inform you if there are any changes. Changes will be similar to accommodation.

Program

Mountain gorillas are on the critically endangered list, making them the rarest primates in the entire world. There are just over a thousand mountain gorillas left in the world, and half of them are found in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where you will be trekking these gentle giants.

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is possible all year round, but the best time to visit Uganda is during its two dry seasons: between December and February, and between June and August when conditions are particularly good for trekking to see mountain gorillas and chimpanzees.

Most regions of Uganda, apart from the dry area in the north, have an annual rainfall of between 1,000 mm and 1,500 mm. Heavy rain between March and May and between September and November.

Nothing in nature can be guaranteed, but there isn’t much news about people not encountering them on their trek in Uganda. The park sends out its trackers before anyone starts with their morning trek, and then stays in contact with the guides via radio and GPS, informing them where they should go.

You only hаvе аn hour to ѕреnd with the gorillas once you find them. You can then sit down quietly and simply еnjоу being in their рrеѕеnсе. You are allowed to take photos and videos, just not with a flash.

Mountain gorillas in the wild are not considered dangerous, as long as you follow the tracker's protocols, they will be comfortable with you in their surroundings. Although dominant and strong, mountain gorillas are gentle and shy. The mountain gorillas that trekkers are able to visit have also become habituated to the presence of humans. The habituation process takes close to two years, and habituated gorillas in particular are considered safe to be around.

Highlights

Drive through 5 national parks for a chance to see elephant, buffalo, giraffe, lion, hyena, leopard and much more!
Short hike along the Nile River to see the world’s most powerful waterfalls
Boat cruise at Murchison Falls offering an array of wildlife and common sightings include crocodile and hippo
Admire the world’s last population of mountain gorillas in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Set out on foot to trek Gorilla and Chimpanzee. There are just over a thousand mountains gorillas left in the world, and half of them are found in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Beautiful accommodations and yoga sessions amongst these unique landscapes

Yoga

Yoga sessions depends on the day’s activities and travel time. Since most mornings start quite early due to all the amazing activities on offer and also the best time to view wildlife, most yoga sessions will be in the afternoon.

Sessions are a combination of pranayama, Yin, slow flows, Dynamic Vinyasa flows, Hatha and guided meditations. The sounds of the surrounding forests promises a calming and meditative state that will benefit beginners to experienced students. They supply blocks and straps on all of their yoga holidays in Uganda, but please bring your own mat.

Itinerary

Day 1: Entebbe - Arrival and transfer to the hotel

Upon your arrival at Entebbe Airport, you'll be greeted and transported to your sanctuary. Find solace and unwind as you settle into your accommodation, allowing the tranquility to wash over you after your journey.

Settle in and perhaps even join one of the activities on offer: Sunset boat cruise on Lake Victoria, shoebill experience, Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary founded by Jane Goodall, botanical gardens or a Boda Boda tour (bike tour) to Kampala, Uganda’s Capital. At dinner, you'll explore the enticing itinerary for the upcoming days.

Brace yourself for an early morning awakening, as tomorrow beckons you to Murchison Falls National Park for an enchanting rendezvous with wildlife. Get ready to embrace the serenity and adventure that lie ahead on this transformative adventure.

Accommodation: 2 Friends Beach Hotel

Day 2: Transfer to Murchison Falls - Wildlife game viewing and yoga

Hope you are ready for this amazing adventure to start as you will head to Murchison Falls National Park. The driving time to Murchison Falls is about 5 hours and what a beautiful scenic drive it is. The lodge, Pakuba Safari Lodge, is in the Murchison Falls National Park overlooking the spectacular Nile River. Once entering the park, your safari starts!

Relax in comfort before meeting for your first and much-needed outdoor yoga sessions.

Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge

Day 3: Murchison Falls - Morning game drive, afternoon boat cruise, and yoga

Another early start (6:00 a.m.) as today you will head into Murchison Falls National Park for a game drive which will for sure be one of the many highlights of this retreat. Game drives last for about 4 hours, a time to take in the beautiful savannah landscape that is immersed with plenty of life and wonderful scenery.

The park is divided by the Nile River into the south and northern region. The northern part which is largely covered by savannah and woodland supports a lot more volume and variety of animals compared to the southern region which has a bigger chunk covered by forest. For that matter, the game drives are done in the northern area of Murchison Falls.

The early start oﬀers a better chance to find elusive predators such as lions, hyenas, leopards, and jackals because they are still out actively hunting. Explore the game trails towards the Lake Albert delta which is concentrated with big games such as the elephants, buﬀalos, giraﬀes, and various antelopes.

You will be back at the lodge for an early lunch and relaxation. After lunch, you will set out for a 2-hour boat cruise. Boat rides offer an array of wildlife sightings like crocodiles, hippos, lizards, buﬀalos, elephants, and antelopes, usually drinking and cooling oﬀ in the heat of the day by the river banks.

Find and create space on your mat as the sun sets over the Nile River. Tonight’s therapeutic moves will allow you to go inward and become familiar with your body as you link your breath and connect with nature.

Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge

Day 4: Transfer to Kibale Forest - Short hike

Before heading to Kibale National Park, you will stop at Murchison Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa with views of the Nile River, for a quick 40-minute hike. It is also known as the most powerful waterfalls in the world and where the longest river in the world squeezes through a 7-meter gap and then drops down 45 meters.

After arriving at your next accommodation, Turaco Treetop, you will spend the afternoon relaxing before meeting for another much-needed yoga session surrounded by beautiful gardens, tea plantations, and indigenous forest. Life here will seem like a dream as you open your eyes after guided meditation, gazing at the beautiful panoramic vistas of Kibale National Park, ancient crater lakes, and the Rwenzori Mountains. Your body relaxed your mind in a state of absolute peace.

Accommodation: Turaco Treetops

Day 5: Kibale Forest - Chimpanzee trekking and yoga

This morning, you will set out on foot to trek the most threatened primate species, the chimpanzee. Other primates that you could possibly spot here are black and white Columbus monkeys, L’Hoest Monkeys, Grey checked Mangabey, Red tailed monkeys, Bush babies, and Pottos. Many bird species like the Yellow Spotted Nicator, Rumped Tinker Bird, Little Greenbul, Green Breasted Pitta, Crowned Eagle, and Black Bee-eater can also be seen here. Oh, and even elephants can be seen on this trail.

You will return to the lodge for lunch and an afternoon of relaxation. A beautiful sunset yoga session overlooking the stunning crater lakes is in order. Take in the silence and the peacefulness that surrounds you. Another magical day in the forests of Uganda.

Accommodation: Turaco Treetops

Day 6: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest - Afternoon yoga

After breakfast, you are heading to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest which will take you around 4 hours. You will check into Bakiga Lodge, a luxury eco-lodge with amazing views of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and only a few minutes' drive from the Gorilla Trekking meeting point. The lodge is also a non-profit lodge, part of the Bakiga Community Project.

After an outdoor yoga session, you will have dinner, and then relax around the fire. Tomorrow morning calls for an early start as you get to trek the Mountain Gorilla.

Accommodation: Bakiga Lodge

Day 7: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest - Gorilla trekking and afternoon yoga

After an early breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters by 7 a.m. for a briefing about your gorilla trekking experience before setting oﬀ on foot for this remarkable experience of searching for the famous mountain gorillas. The activity takes anything from 2 - 6 hours depending on the movement of the gorillas in the jungle.

The thrill of encountering these humble and gentle giants will make any amount of time spent hiking well worth it. You can also expect to meet a few other forest species such as monkeys, forest elephants, duikers, birds, and many more on this hike.

The gorilla trekking time differs based on several factors ranging from terrain, movement of the gorilla families, and strength, and skill of the travelers. The group size is a maximum of 8 guests and you are allowed a maximum of one hour to observe and take photos of the mountain gorillas.

After the mountain gorilla trek, you will head back to Bakiga for a day of relaxation, yoga and reflection.

Accommodation: Bakiga Lodge

Day 8: Lake Mburo - Walking safari

After your morning yoga session, you will head to Lake Mboro for some more wildlife encounters. You have a guided walking safari booked here, but you can opt for a cycling tour or a night drive.

Discover the allure of Rwakobo Rock, an exclusive retreat beckoning you to indulge in the serenity and seclusion of wild Uganda. Embrace this unique opportunity for a rejuvenating escape.

Whether you crave the leisurely delight of lounging in a hammock with an ice-cold drink or seek the thrill of venturing into Lake Mburo National Park for an exhilarating afternoon, this destination offers the perfect blend of relaxation and excitement to suit your desires.

Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock

Day 9: Transfer to Entebbe

Today marks the end of this incredible journey. Take in the last bit of scenery before your transfer to Entebbe which will take around 4 hours, leaving soon after breakfast. If you book your flight for this afternoon, you will be dropped off at the airport in time for your departure flight. If you booked an additional night in Entebbe, you will be dropped off at your chosen accommodation.

Please book your departure flight any time from 8 pm as you are only arriving back in Entebbe around 5 pm.

Notes

Due to trekking through the dense forests in search of chimpanzees and gorillas, and trekking time taking anything from 2-8 hours, a fairly good level of fitness is required. Walking sticks can be hired at the park headquarters if needed.

The driving time between each location can take anything from 7-9 hours. Even though it sounds long, the scenery is just mind blowing and the energy in the car is electric from all the excitement of what is to come!

Included excursions

Hiking the Murchisson Falls

Instructors

Marcel Vosloo

1 Certificate

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Embarked on a journey of self-discovery, their love for yoga blossomed over a decade ago amid the vastness of the world's oceans as a dive instructor. Guided by the currents of life, they returned home to Namibia, curating transformative yoga holidays since 2016. Their unique trips seamlessly blend yoga, safari, and adventure, inviting you to slow down amidst nature's embrace. With small group settings and personal attention, this experience is about you—about reconnecting with your inner self and nature, fostering mindfulness, and embarking on the adventure of a lifetime.

Retreat location

Namaste Yoga Safari Namibia will be teaming up with Uganda Adventure Safaris, accompanied by their professional guide, Chris Ndyabagye, for the duration of the retreat. Chris will be showing you what makes Uganda so special as you hike the Murchison Falls and drive through 5 national parks for a chance to see elephants, buffalos, giraffes, lions, hyenas, and leopards, just to name a few.

You will set out on foot to trek gorillas and chimpanzees, which will for sure be one of the most memorable experiences of your life. This is truly a unique experience as only a few people get to spend time with these beauties.

There are just over a thousand mountain gorillas left in the world, and half of them are found in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where you will be trekking these gentle giants. There are 18 gorilla families that have been habituated for tourism purposes, and 17 of those are tracked in Bwindi. Uganda is also one of the only 3 countries in the world where you can do gorilla trekking.

Locations you will visit

Murchison Falls National Park - day 2 / 3

The park that comprises beautiful savannah landscapes and plenty of wildlife and is divided by the River Nile into the south and northern region. The northern part is largely covered by savannah and woodland, supporting a lot more volume and variety of animals compared to the southern region which has a bigger chunk covered by forest.

The game drives here are done in the northern area of the Murchison Falls and an early start offers a better chance to find elusive predators such as lion, hyena, leopard, and jackal as they are still actively out hunting. Explore the game trails towards the Lake Albert Delta which is concentrated with big game including elephant, buffalo, giraffes, and various antelope.

Boat rides here at the falls also offer an array of wildlife and common sightings including crocodiles, hippos, and lizards. Big game such as buﬀalo and elephant can also be sighted drinking and cooling off the heat by the river banks.

Kibale Forest National Park - day 4 / 5

The Kibale Forest National Park is known as one of the best safari destinations in Africa for chimpanzee trekking. There are 13 primate species living within this park, and home to 70 mammal species and 375 species of birds. 351 tree species have been recorded, with some older than 200 years, reaching above 55 meters.

Not only is Kibale one of Africa’s foremost research sites for chimpanzees and other primates found in the park, but also wild pigs, fish species, and Kibale’s lush ecosystem. No wonder it is known as one of Uganda’s most rewarding areas to explore.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest - day 6 / 7

With more than 160 species of trees, the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is known for exceptional biodiversity. Here, you will find various butterfly species, 350 species of birds, and 120 mammal species, which include the colobus monkey and chimpanzee. It is home to almost half of the world’s mountain gorilla population and this is where you will be on foot, trekking these rare and endangered beauties.

Bwindi is the source of five major rivers and is also declared a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site.

Lake Mburo - day 8

On day 8, you will head to Lake Mboro for some more wildlife encounters.

Entebbe - day 9

You will end the tour in Entebbe.

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Food

Uganda’s cuisine is a delicious blend of fresh, locally sourced ingredients with influences from East Africa, India, and British colonial history. In Uganda, the staple food is Matoke (cooking bananas).

Other food crops include cassava (manioc), sweet potatoes, white potatoes, yams, cabbage, onions, pumpkins, tomatoes, beans, peas, and groundnuts (peanuts). Some fruits such as oranges, paw-paws (papayas), lemons, and pineapples, are also grown.

Meat lovers can enjoy grilled chicken, beef, and goat, often served with a flavorful peanut sauce. Freshwater fish like tilapia and Nile perch from Lake Victoria are also popular.

Meals at the lodges will be a variety of local and international cuisine. Breakfasts are typically hearty, featuring eggs, fresh fruits, pastries, and Ugandan coffee or tea. Lunch and dinner may include grilled meats, vegetable curries, fresh salads, and homemade soups.

Many lodges offer buffets or à la carte menus with a fusion of African and Western flavors. Special dietary requests, including vegetarian and vegan options, are usually accommodated with prior notice.

For a true Ugandan experience, try rolex (a chapati rolled with eggs and vegetables), Luwombo (a traditional stew steamed in banana leaves), and the variety of tropical fruits like mangoes, pineapples, and passion fruit. Whether dining at a luxury lodge or a rustic safari camp, food in Uganda is fresh, flavorful, and satisfying.

Please let Namaste Yoga Safari Namibia know if you have any dietary requirements and the team will see if the lodges will be able to assist. But with all the fresh local ingredients, the team is sure everyone’s taste buds will be catered for.

The following meals are included:

Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Drinks

The following drinks are included:

Water

The following dietary requirement(s) are served and/or catered for:

Regular (typically includes meat and fish)
Other dietary requirements on request

If you have special dietary requirements it's a good idea to communicate it to the organiser when making a reservation

Things to do (optional)

Activities are included each day and days will be filled with adventure.

What's included

8 nights accommodation at 5 different establishments
All meals
Refillable water in the car - please bring your water bottle along
Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking plus permit
Safari game drives
Boat cruise
Guided walking safari
Professional guides for all excursions / activities
Yoga teacher / host
Yoga and meditation sessions out in nature
Park fees
Airport pick-up at Entebbe International Airport
Ground transportation and fuel
Welcoming gift

What's not included

International flights
Visa fees
Gratuity
Travel insurance
Optional activities

How to get there

Recommended Airports

EBB

Entebbe International Airport

2 km

Transfer included

Arrival by airplane

Please book your flight to arrive at Entebbe International Airport (EBB). Pick up from Entebbe International Airport (EBB) are included. Airlines flying into Uganda include KLM, Delta, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, South African Airlines, and Egypt Air.

Airport: Entebbe International Airport Airport transfer included: Entebbe International Airport No additional charges. You can request this in the next step.

Cancellation Policy

A reservation requires a deposit of 14% of the total price.
The deposit is non-refundable, if the booking is cancelled.
The rest of the payment should be paid 30 days before arrival.

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