Q1: What makes the Ishasha lions special?

They are among the few lion populations in the world known for regularly climbing trees, a behavior that is unique and spectacular to witness.

Q2: How difficult is chimpanzee trekking?

Moderate. The trek usually lasts 2–5 hours depending on the chimp’s location, with well-maintained forest trails.

Q3: Is this safari suitable for families?

Yes, this itinerary is family-friendly, though chimp trekking is restricted to travelers aged 12 and above.

Q4: What is the best time to see wildlife?

Dry seasons (June–September & Dec–Feb) offer excellent wildlife viewing, though the parks are open year-round.

Q5: Can this trip be customized?

Absolutely. Chimp Trails Africa can tailor this itinerary with luxury upgrades, extra days, or gorilla trekking add-ons.

9-Day Lion Expedition: Tree Climbing Lions & Chimpanzee Tour

Overview

Experience Uganda’s wild beauty on this 9-day expedition, combining tree-climbing lions, chimpanzee trekking, and classic savannah safaris. Journey through the country’s most iconic parks — Murchison Falls, Kibale Forest, Queen Elizabeth, and Lake Mburo — for a diverse and action-packed adventure. Witness lions perched in fig trees, track chimpanzees in lush forests, enjoy game drives on open plains, and cruise along the Nile as you soak in Uganda’s breathtaking landscapes.

This trip offers the perfect blend of big game encounters, unique primate experiences, and scenic wilderness exploration, making it ideal for wildlife lovers and photographers alike.

Highlights

🦁 Spot the famous Tree-Climbing Lions in Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
🐵 Trek Chimpanzees in Kibale Forest — the primate capital of East Africa.
🌊 Boat Safari on the Nile below the powerful Murchison Falls.
🦓 Classic Game Drives in Murchison, Queen Elizabeth & Lake Mburo National Parks.
🐘 Encounter elephants, buffaloes, leopards, giraffes, hippos & countless antelopes.
🦅 Birdwatching opportunities in Uganda’s richest ecosystems.
🧭 Cultural experiences in local communities along the route.
🚙 Scenic drives through Uganda’s changing landscapes.

Itinerary

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This safari takes you through four of Uganda’s top wildlife destinations, starting in Murchison Falls National Park for classic game drives and a thrilling Nile cruise. Continue to Kibale Forest for unforgettable chimpanzee trekking before heading to Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you’ll search for tree-climbing lions in Ishasha. End your journey in Lake Mburo National Park, a peaceful reserve known for zebras, giraffes, and acacia-dotted plains.

Day 01 :

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Transfer to Hotel

Pick up from Entebbe International Airport by a Chimp Trails Africa representative.

Transfer to your hotel, relax, and receive a safari briefing.

Overnight in Entebbe.

Day 02 :

Day 2: Entebbe – Murchison Falls National Park (via Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary)

Early departure for Murchison Falls.

Stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for a guided rhino tracking experience.

Continue to Murchison Falls NP, check into your lodge, and relax by the Nile.

Day 03 :

Day 3: Game Drive & Boat Cruise – Murchison Falls NP

Early morning game drive on the northern savannah plains: expect giraffes, elephants, lions, buffaloes & antelopes.

Afternoon boat cruise on the Nile to the base of the falls — spot hippos, crocodiles & birds.

Optional hike to the top of the falls for stunning views.

Day 04 :

Day 4: Murchison – Kibale Forest National Park

Scenic drive south through tea plantations and rolling hills to Kibale Forest.

Arrive and settle into your lodge surrounded by lush greenery.

Day 05 :

Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking – Bigodi Wetland Walk

Morning chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest with expert rangers.

Afternoon visit to Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for birding and cultural encounters with the local community.

Day 06 :

Day 6: Kibale – Queen Elizabeth National Park (Northern Sector)

Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, passing through crater lakes and scenic landscapes.

Afternoon game drive to spot elephants, buffaloes, and perhaps leopards.

Day 07 :

Day 7: Game Drive & Boat Safari – Queen Elizabeth NP

Morning game drive in Kasenyi plains, famous for lions and Uganda kobs.

Afternoon boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, where hippos, crocodiles, and birds thrive in large numbers.

Day 08 :

Day 8: Ishasha Tree-Climbing Lions – Lake Mburo National Park

Drive to Ishasha sector for a special tree-climbing lion game drive.

Spot lions lounging in fig trees — a rare and iconic sight.

Continue to Lake Mburo National Park for an evening game drive.

Day 09 :

Day 9: Lake Mburo – Entebbe Departure

Morning walking safari or optional boat ride on Lake Mburo to spot hippos and birds.

Drive back to Entebbe with a stop at the Uganda Equator for souvenirs and photos.

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.