Wild Uganda: Chimp Tracking, Lake Mburo Game Drives, and Kazinga Channel Boat Safari

Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa,” offers some of the most diverse and intimate wildlife experiences in East Africa. For travelers seeking adventure beyond the crowds, a journey through Kyambura Gorge, Lake Mburo National Park, and the Kazinga Channel provides a unique mix of chimpanzee tracking, wildlife-filled boat cruises, scenic game drives, and guided nature walks.

This safari is perfect for first-time visitors, families, couples, and seasoned wildlife enthusiasts, offering unforgettable encounters with primates, zebras, hippos, and hundreds of bird species — all in accessible and carefully curated reserves.

Discover Kyambura Gorge: Trekking with Chimpanzees

Known as the “Valley of the Apes,” Kyambura Gorge is a forested canyon within Queen Elizabeth National Park. It is home to habituated chimpanzees, offering travelers a rare chance to observe these intelligent primates in their natural habitat.

What to Expect on Chimpanzee Tracking

Guided treks lasting 2–4 hours, depending on chimpanzee movement
Observations of chimps feeding, grooming, and interacting socially
Opportunities to see other primates and forest birds along the gorge

Tips for a Safe and Rewarding Trek

Wear sturdy shoes and comfortable clothing
Carry water, snacks, and insect repellent
Be prepared for muddy and uneven terrain

Expert tip: Early morning treks increase your chances of seeing chimps active and playful.

Explore Lake Mburo National Park: Game Drives and Nature Walks

Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda’s smallest savannah park, offers intimate wildlife encounters. It is the only park in Uganda with a significant population of zebras, along with impalas, topis, elands, and warthogs.

Game Drives: Close Encounters with Wildlife

Slow-paced drives allow for personalized wildlife experiences
Exceptional opportunities for photography, birdwatching, and observation of rare species
Predators like leopards and hyenas are occasionally sighted

Nature Walks: Birds, Flora, and Hidden Corners

Explore wetlands, forest patches, and lakeshores
Spot over 300 bird species, including African fish eagles and kingfishers
Learn about local flora, medicinal plants, and the ecosystem

Highlight: Guided walking safaris make Lake Mburo suitable for all ages and traveler types, from families to solo nature enthusiasts.

Recommended 5-Day Uganda Safari Itinerary: Kyambura Gorge, Lake Mburo & Kazinga Channel

Day 1 – Arrival and Shoebill Tracking

Arrive in Uganda and transfer to Mabamba Swampfor a shoebill stork tracking experience, one of East Africa’s most unique birds.
Evening at your lodge with a briefing about your upcoming safari adventure.

Day 2 – Lake Mburo Game Drives and Night Drive

Morning transfer to Lake Mburo National Park.
Afternoon game drivespotting zebras, impalas, topi, and elands.
Optional evening/night driveto see nocturnal wildlife like bushbucks, aardvarks, and civets.

Day 3 – Nature Walks and Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

Early morning guided nature walkin Lake Mburo to explore birds, flora, and smaller wildlife.
Afternoon transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park, followed by a Kazinga Channel boat cruiseto observe hippos, crocodiles, and abundant waterbirds.

Day 4 – Game Drive and Chimpanzee Tracking

Morning game drivein Queen Elizabeth NP for elephants, lions, and buffalo.
Afternoon chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge, witnessing primates in their natural forested habitat.

Day 5 – Optional Chimp Add-On or Early Morning Game Drive

Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy:
- An extra chimp tracking sessionfor wildlife enthusiasts, or
- An early morning game drivefor final sightings.
En route back to Entebbe, stop at the Equator linefor photo opportunities and local experiences.
Transfer to Entebbe Airportfor your onward flight home.

Tips for Travelers

Shoebill tracking:Best in the early morning; bring binoculars and waterproof clothing.
Night drives:Bring a flashlight and camera for nocturnal wildlife sightings.
Chimpanzee trekking:Moderate hiking; wear comfortable shoes and insect repellent.
Stopovers at the Equator:Great for photos and learning about local geography.

Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise: Wildlife on the Water

The Kazinga Channel, linking Lake Edward and Lake George, is one of Uganda’s most wildlife-rich waterways. A boat cruise provides a different perspective of the ecosystem.

What You’ll See

Large pods of hippos and Nile crocodiles
Dense populations of waterbirds, storks, and kingfishers
Elephant herds and other wildlife coming to drink

Best Times for Wildlife Viewing

Early morning or late afternoon for active wildlife and softer photography light
Calm water provides stunning reflections for photography and observation

Optional Add-On Activities

Enhance your safari with additional activities around Lake Mburo:

Canoeing on the lake for quiet wildlife observation
Horseback safaris, a unique way to explore the park
Cultural visits to local communities to learn about traditional lifestyles

These options allow you to customise your safari experience based on interests and pace.

Practical Tips for Your Uganda Safari

Best months: June–September and December–February for dry, easier trekking
Private vs. group safari: Private safaris offer flexibility and comfort
Clothing: Neutral colors, layered clothing, sturdy shoes
Guides: Experienced guides enhance both wildlife spotting and cultural understanding

Who Should Visit

This safari caters to a wide range of travelers:

Families wanting safe, accessible wildlife experiences
First-time safari visitors looking for a manageable, multi-experience itinerary
Couples and honeymooners seeking intimate wildlife encounters
Nature enthusiasts and photographers wanting diverse scenery and rare species

FAQs: Lake Mburo & Kyambura Gorge Safari

How long is chimp tracking in Kyambura Gorge?
Trek duration is typically 2–4 hours, depending on the movement of the chimpanzees.

Is Lake Mburo suitable for children?
Yes, the park is small, safe, and walking/nature activities are family-friendly.

What wildlife can I see on the Kazinga Channel?
Hippos, crocodiles, elephants, waterbirds, and occasional predators are common.

Can this safari be combined with gorilla trekking?
Absolutely. Many travellers combine Kyambura & Lake Mburo with Bwindi Impenetrable Forest gorilla treks.

Plan Your Safari with Wild Compass Africa

Wild Compass Africa specializes in custom, private safaris across Uganda and East Africa. From chimp tracking in Kyambura Gorge to game drives, boat cruises, and guided nature walks, we design itineraries that fit your interests, pace, and comfort — ensuring a memorable and personalized wildlife adventure.