“Possibly one of the best trips I’ve ever taken! Uganda was beautiful, our time with the chimpanzees and gorillas was a once in a lifetime experience, and the accommodations were awesome!” -Nancy Frank
Uganda is a land where ancient forests hide the secrets of our closest primate relatives—from chimpanzees swinging through the canopy to mountain gorillas that call the Impenetrable Forest home. On Cheesemans’ Ecology Safaris primate safaris, guests journey deep into the lush landscapes of Kibale National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, trekking through misty jungles to see wild primates in their natural habitats, unfiltered and raw in their beauty.
Trip Highlights:
- Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park, home to 1,500 chimps and 12 other primate species.
- Three gorilla treks in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, encountering critically endangered mountain gorillas.
- Immersive cultural experiences, including a visit to a local village and a women’s empowerment initiative.
- Spectacular birdwatching, with chances to see Albertine Rift endemics and colorful forest species.
- Luxury lodges nestled in the heart of the jungle, offering serene settings and unforgettable views.
- Expert-guided trekking adventures, navigating through some of Africa’s most pristine rainforests.
Arrival in Uganda: Entebbe’s Warm Welcome
Upon arrival in Entebbe, guests are welcomed with the vibrant greenery and warm hospitality that define Uganda. A peaceful stay at a comfortable lodge near Lake Victoria provides a chance to unwind and prepare for the adventures ahead. Over a delicious meal, excitement builds as travelers discuss the experiences awaiting them in the heart of Africa.
Kibale National Park: Into the Realm of the Chimpanzees
A Journey into the Jungle
A scenic transport guests to Kibale National Park, one of East Africa’s most biodiverse regions. This rainforest is home to 13 species of primates, including red colobus monkeys, olive baboons, and the charismatic L’Hoest’s monkey. But the true highlight is the chance to track wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
Tracking the Chimps: An Unforgettable Encounter
With an early morning start, trekkers venture into the dense jungle, guided by expert trackers who listen for telltale calls echoing through the trees. Suddenly, the group hears a deep pant-hoot, a signal from a nearby chimpanzee troop. As they move closer, the canopy comes alive—juvenile chimps swing effortlessly from branch to branch, while others groom each other or forage along the forest floor.
Spending time with these intelligent, social primates offers an intimate glimpse into their world. Watching them interact, communicate, and care for one another is both humbling and exhilarating—a powerful reminder of our shared evolutionary past.
© Scott Davis
© Scott Davis
© Scott Davis
© Scott Davis
© Scott Davis
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: A Pilgrimage to the Mountain Gorillas
A Mystical Landscap – Nestled in the heart of Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a realm of towering trees, tangled vines, and mist-covered hills. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Africa’s oldest and most ecologically rich forests, sheltering nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. It’s also the destination for gorilla trekking in Uganda.
Gorilla Trekking: The Ultimate Wildlife Encounter – Each morning, guests set out with expert guides to track one of Bwindi’s habituated gorilla families. The trek can be challenging—steep trails, thick vegetation, and muddy terrain make for an adventurous journey—but the reward is beyond words.
As the group approaches a clearing, the guide signals to stop. A massive silverback sits just ahead, his watchful gaze surveying his family. Nearby, a mother gently cradles her infant, while young gorillas playfully tumble through the undergrowth.
For one magical hour, guests observe these incredible primates up close, watching them forage, interact, and move with a quiet grace that defies their enormous size. It’s an experience that leaves an indelible mark, a reminder of how fragile yet powerful these creatures are—and why their conservation is so important.
Beyond the Gorillas: Exploring Bwindi’s Wonders
Between treks, guests have the opportunity to explore the cultural and ecological wonders of Bwindi. Some choose to visit Ride 4 a Woman, a community-driven initiative supporting local women through sustainable craftmaking. Others take a guided waterfall hike, keeping an eye out for colorful birds and, if lucky, the elusive pangolin.
Evenings at Bwindi Lodge are a time for reflection—stories shared around a crackling fire, the sounds of the jungle humming in the background, and the lingering awe of the day’s encounters.
The Journey Home: A Changed Perspective
As guests depart Uganda, they carry more than just photographs—they leave with a deep connection to the wild places and creatures they encountered. Seeing chimpanzees and mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is not just a wildlife experience—it’s a profound, humbling reminder of our place in the natural world.
Your Next Adventure Awaits!
Unforgettable Uganda safaris are just one of the many ways Cheesemans’ Ecology Safaris brings travelers face to face with the world’s most extraordinary primates. Whether tracking orangutans in Borneo, spotting lemurs in Madagascar, or embarking on another East African adventure, your next great wildlife encounter is waiting.
👉 Start planning your next primate safari today:
Cheesemans’ Primate Expeditions.
Join the Adventure:
Discover the Untouched Wilderness of Bhutan
Bhutan, the mystical “Land of the Thunder Dragon,” is a haven of towering Himalayan peaks, lush valleys, and centuries-old monasteries. For nearly three weeks, our guests embarked on an unforgettable expedition, immersing themselves in Bhutan’s spectacular birdlife, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. From the revered Black-necked Cranes of Phobjikha Valley to the iconic Tiger’s Nest Monastery, each day was a new chapter in a journey woven with natural wonder and spiritual heritage.
Key Experiences from the Bhutan Trip
- Spotted the rare Black-necked Cranes in the breathtaking Phobjikha Valley
- Hiked to the legendary Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched on a dramatic cliffside
- Explored Jigme Dorji National Park, home to exotic birds and elusive wildlife
- Journeyed through Dochu La Pass for stunning Himalayan panoramas
- Witnessed the critically endangered White-bellied Heron along pristine rivers
- Experienced Bhutanese culture with visits to ancient dzongs and monasteries
- Discovered the vibrant birdlife of Thrumsingla National Park, from hornbills to pheasants
“The length of the trip gave us time to travel the whole country. The combination of birding and cultural aspects was excellent and the guides fulfilled both roles to a ‘T’.
Hishey was an excellent guide and his positive attitude was contagious. Sharing meals with his family on several occasions was also a welcoming feature.” -Candy McManiman
Setting Off for Bhutan
The adventure began with flights to Bangkok, Thailand, where guests enjoyed a restful night before their early morning departure to Bhutan. Anticipation ran high as they prepared to explore one of the world’s most pristine and remote destinations.
Paro to Thimphu
Flying into Paro International Airport was an adventure in itself. As the aircraft maneuvered through the towering Himalayas, guests marveled at the snow-capped peaks before descending into Bhutan’s lush valleys. Upon arrival, they were warmly welcomed by their expert guide, Hishey Tshering, a seasoned birder with a deep passion for Bhutan’s biodiversity.
The scenic drive to Thimphu, Bhutan’s capital, offered the first glimpses of the country’s natural beauty—rolling hills, fluttering prayer flags, and traditional Bhutanese architecture. That evening, guests settled into their cozy hotel, savoring a traditional welcome meal and a briefing on the incredible journey ahead.
Exploring Bhutan’s Natural and Cultural Wonders
Thimphu & Jigme Dorji National Park
In Thimphu, guests explored Bhutanese culture through visits to a traditional paper-making workshop and a weaving center, where artisans preserved ancient techniques. At the takin reserve, they encountered Bhutan’s national animal, a peculiar goat-antelope hybrid found only in the Eastern Himalayas.
A day trip to Jigme Dorji National Park, Bhutan’s second-largest protected area, provided thrilling birding experiences, with sightings of the Crested Kingfisher and Rufous-bellied Woodpecker. Lucky visitors even spotted the elusive Yellow-rumped Honeyguide, a species uniquely adapted to feeding on rock bee honeycombs.
Central & Eastern Bhutan – Diverse Habitats and Rich Culture
Traveling eastward, guests ventured deeper into Bhutan’s wilderness, passing through Trongsa, Bumthang, Mongar, and Zhemgang—each region offering unique landscapes and birding opportunities.
In Trongsa, they explored Bhutan’s largest dzong, an architectural masterpiece overlooking a dramatic gorge. Continuing into Bumthang, guests wandered through blue pine forests teeming with Himalayan Griffons, Rosefinches, and Rufous-breasted Accentors. Lucky observers caught glimpses of the golden langur, an endemic primate found only in Bhutan and parts of India.
In Zhemgang, the group explored pristine subtropical forests, home to the Fire-tailed Myzornis, Blue-bearded Bee-eaters, and Golden Babblers. Encounters with the black giant squirrel and yellow-throated marten added excitement to the journey. Night drives in Thrumsingla National Park provided opportunities to spot elusive nocturnal species, including the leopard cat.
Phobjikha Valley – The Sacred Land of Cranes
Paro Valley & Tiger’s Nest Monastery
The journey concluded in Paro Valley, a region rich in history and wildlife. A drive up to Chele La Pass (nearly 13,000 feet) rewarded guests with panoramic mountain views and excellent birding opportunities.
A highlight of the trip’s finale was the hike to Tiger’s Nest Monastery (Paro Taktsang), an architectural marvel perched on a cliffside at over 10,000 feet. The trail wound through pine forests teeming with Assam macaques, offering a rare glimpse into Bhutan’s thriving ecosystem.
November 23 – 24: Farewell to Bhutan
With hearts full of memories, guests bid farewell to Bhutan, flying from Paro back to Bangkok. As the Himalayan peaks faded into the distance, they carried home stories of rare cranes, ancient monasteries, and encounters with Bhutan’s extraordinary wildlife—a journey unlike any other.
Your Next Adventure Awaits!
Bhutan and India share deep cultural and ecological connections, from the sacred Himalayan landscapes to the incredible biodiversity of their national parks. Just like Bhutan, India offers a mix of breathtaking mountain scenery, vibrant wildlife, and rich traditions. Guests who enjoyed Bhutan’s natural wonders will find India’s national parks equally captivating, with opportunities to spot tigers, elephants, and an astonishing array of bird species.