Preserving Primates

11 days - from $6220

Discover East Africa's primates in their natural habitats and help to conserve their species This is a collection of fascinating primate experiences like none other, as we explore Rwanda and Uganda. Against the backdrop of the spectacular Virunga volcanoes in the Parc National des Volcans, we undertake two treks: one to visit families of mountain gorillas and one to seek out the rare Golden Monkeys. An extra day in this area affords the opportunities of an additional trek to another gorilla family or an escorted trek to the site of the old research station where Dian Fossey spent several years. On this trek you will also see the grave of Dian Fossey and the graves of the many gorillas that were killed during her time there, including that of her favourite gorilla, Digit.

In Uganda we also take two primate treks, starting with a gorilla trek in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and then undertaking a very special, full day chimpanzee habituation experience. On this very unique day we spend time with the rangers of Kibale Forest National Park and a chimpanzee family to gradually habituate the apes to the presence of humans. This is an incredible opportunity and an experience that you will always remember. Whilst in Uganda we visit Queen Elizabeth National Park, where we come face to face with an abundance of other African animals, including hippos, buffaloes and crocodiles. As an extra highlight we spend time with some researchers of the Uganda Wildlife Authority Chimpanzee Project (formerly Jane Goodall Institute) to learn about the threats to the primate populations of Africa and the steps being taken to preserve the various species. Your participation on the tour will directly contribute to this very valuable and incredibly important and ongoing mission.

Highlights

• Chimpanzee Trekking
• Golden Monkey Trekking
• Gorilla Trekking in Parc National des Volcans
• Rwanda Genocide Memorial
• Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
• Safari through Queen Elizabeth National Park

Itinerary:

Day 1: (Fri) Arrive Kigali and transfer to hotel.2: Morning Kigali city tour and visit to Genocide Memorial. Afternoon transfer to Ruhengeri (Musanze).3: Gorilla trek in Parc National des Volcans.4: Optional second gorilla trek or walk to Dian Fossey's grave.5: Trek with the golden monkeys. Travel to Kisoro, Uganda.6: Drive to Bwindi. Optional afternoon forest and waterfall walk.7: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.8: Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Afternoon launch trip on the Kazinga Channel.9: Visit Uganda Wildlife Authority Chimpanzee Project. Education session. Learn about snare removal programs. Continue on to Kibale. Afternoon forest walk (time permitting).10: Full day habituating a chimpanzee family with national park rangers.11: Drive to Entebbe where tour ends on arrival (Mon).
Included: An experienced English-speaking local leader, arrival transfer, transport, accommodation, meals, game activities, two gorilla trekking permits, one golden monkeys trekking permit, one full day chimpanzee habituation permit, entrance, park and and conservation fees.
Not Included: Airport departure taxes, visas, meals unless specified in the itinerary, insurance, laundry, any optional tours or activities during free time, tips and items of a personal nature.
Meals: 10 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 10 dinners
National Parks: This trip includes 2 days in Parc National des Volcans, 1 day in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, 1 afternoon in Queen Elizabeth National Park and 1 day in Kibale National Park.
Valid From: 12 Jan 08
Valid Until: 31 Dec 69
Starts/Ends: Kigali to Entebbe, Uganda
Trip Reference: PFPP