Planning a Uganda safari in December? If you’re looking for a short, exciting, and well-rounded holiday experience, our 5 Days Uganda Safari Tour in December offers the perfect blend of wildlife encounters, gorilla trekking, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this itinerary is ideal for travelers who want to experience the best of Uganda in just under a week.
Let’s explore why this is one of the best Uganda safari tours in December and what you can expect on each day of your unforgettable adventure.
Why Choose December for a 5-Day Safari in Uganda?
December is one of the best months to visit Uganda. It falls within the short dry season, which brings pleasant weather, clear skies, and excellent wildlife viewing conditions. The festive atmosphere also adds magic to your safari—imagine ending your year surrounded by elephants, gorillas, and the natural beauty of the Pearl of Africa!
🔗 Also read: Best Uganda Safaris in December
Summary of the 5 Days Uganda Safari in December
Safari Highlights:
- Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest
- Game Drives & Boat Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
- Scenic drives through Uganda’s countryside
Destinations Covered:
- Kibale Forest National Park
- Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Kibale Forest – The Primate Capital
Your safari begins with a warm welcome from our professional driver-guide in Entebbe or Kampala, followed by a scenic drive west to Kibale Forest National Park, home to 13 primate species including the famous chimpanzees.
Activities:
- Optional stop at local markets or tea plantations
- Check-in at your lodge near Kibale
- Brief relaxation and safari briefing
Day 2: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale – Transfer to Queen Elizabeth NP
After an early breakfast, head into the forest for an exhilarating chimpanzee tracking experience. Kibale is one of the best places in Africa to see these intelligent and playful primates in their natural habitat.
Afternoon Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most biodiverse park.
Activities:
- 2–4 hours of chimpanzee tracking
- Optional Bigodi Wetland community walk
- Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Sunset views of the Rwenzori Mountains
🔗 Explore more on Chimpanzee Trekking Uganda
Day 3: Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Safari – Transfer to Bwindi
Start your day with an exciting game drive in the Kasenyi Plains, where lions, elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes roam freely. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat safari on the Kazinga Channel, a hotspot for hippos, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species.
After the boat cruise, you’ll begin your drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home of the mountain gorillas.
Activities:
- Morning game drive
- 2-hour Kazinga Channel boat cruise
- Transfer to Bwindi with scenic views along the way
🔗 Looking for shorter trips? See our 3 Days Gorilla Safari
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi – A Life-Changing Experience
The highlight of your 5-day Uganda safari is here! After a briefing by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, head into the dense rainforest with expert guides in search of one of Bwindi’s habituated gorilla families. The experience is emotional, inspiring, and truly unforgettable.
Activities:
- Gorilla trekking (2–6 hours depending on the group’s location)
- One hour of face-to-face interaction with gorillas
- Optional: Community tour or cultural dance performance in the evening
🔗 Read more about Gorilla Trekking Uganda in December
Day 5: Return to Kampala or Entebbe – End of Safari
After a relaxed breakfast, begin the scenic drive back to Kampala or Entebbe, arriving in the evening. Optional stopovers include the Equator crossing for photos and souvenir shopping.
Activities:
- Road transfer (8–9 hours)
- Lunch en route
- Drop-off at the airport or your hotel
What’s Included in This Safari Package?
- 4 Nights’ Full Board Accommodation
- All park entry fees and activities mentioned
- 1 Gorilla permit ($800)
- 1 Chimpanzee permit ($250)
- All transfers in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Professional English-speaking guide/driver
- Bottled water throughout the safari
What to Pack for Your December Uganda Safari
- Long-sleeved shirts and trousers (for forest activities)
- Hiking boots and gloves (for gorilla trekking)
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
- Lightweight rain jacket (short showers possible)
- Binoculars and camera with extra batteries
- Travel documents (passport, yellow fever card)
Travel Tips for Your December Safari
- Book early: December is peak season, especially for gorilla permits and top lodges.
- Travel insurance is essential, especially for trekking.
- Let us know your dietary preferences or medical needs in advance.
- Plan for festivities: Add a Christmas or New Year dinner with a local twist!
Why Book Your December Safari With Cymo African Safaris?
At Cymo African Safaris, we specialize in authentic and affordable Uganda safari holidays, with a personal touch. We’re based in Uganda, so we understand the terrain, the seasons, and how to create truly memorable travel experiences.
- We secure gorilla permits quickly
- Use experienced driver-guides
- Provide customizable itineraries at no extra cost
- Offer 24/7 customer support before and during your trip
Final Thoughts
The 5 Days Uganda Safari Tour in December is ideal for those who want to experience the thrill of gorilla trekking, the beauty of African wildlife, and the serenity of Uganda’s landscapes—all in one unforgettable trip. With limited spaces for gorilla trekking and high December demand, now is the perfect time to secure your booking and start your adventure.
🔗 Also see our 10 Days Budget Safari with Gorillas and Best 7 Day Uganda Safari for Couples
