Seeing the Gorillas, Chimpanzees or Golden Monkeys is a huge highlight for anyone. We have never had a guest whose expectations were not exceeded when witnessing these amazing animals up close. Rwanda is a hotspot for these excursions and due to this some of the pricing there has become prohibitive even to the most discerning high networth client. Uganda has always offered a fantastic gorilla trekking alternative, and as such there are some very exciting new properties there.
Rwanda became a power house for the gorillas for a number of reasons but not least because the logistics in Rwanda are very easy – Kigali is serviced by almost every international airline, and followed by an incredibly scenic drive (3 hours) to the Volcanoes National Park, you can begin your gorilla trekking safari. Rwanda is also a peaceful and friendly country – which prides itself on its immense stability since the awful events of the genocide in 1994. Rwanda is also one of the cleanest countries in Africa, with weekly litter picking maintained by every single person – it’s beautifully pristine and immaculately looked after. It’s an impressive stay all round.
We have so many luxury properties in this country but Wilderness Bisate, Wilderness Sabyinyo and Singita Kwitonda certainly deserve a mention due to the incredible conservation and community ethics they take pride in, and orchestrate effectively – a stay at any of these properties gives back hugely to the local community.
Our favourite property in Uganda is currently is Erebero Hills in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – opening in 2026 this luxury property will provide a modern stay for those wishing to keep things chic, yet still have that intimate feel of a small lodge. The property will have just 8 eco friendly suites with panoramic forest views, a swimming pool and spa treatments. Your indoor and outdoor showers also provide a lovely level of luxury that guests find is a highlight, not to mention each suite having its own huge bathtub with a view – perfect for unwinding aching muscles after an exhilarating gorilla trek.
Our favourite Chimpanzee property still remains Greystoke Mahale in Tanzania, in the far West on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. Half beach half safari lodge there is just something about the location of this property that blows you away. The white sandy beaches, the turquoise lake waters, the tropical rainforest climbing up behind your room – its all incredibly magical. The chimpanzee experience here is second to none and you can fill your days with trekking, followed by canoeing or boating on the lake. The atmosphere is no shoes, no frills, no worries – yet you’ll eat delicious food and be hosted by some of the best guides in Tanzania.
Any safari which involves primates comes with a hefty price tag too, quite rightly this kind of experience is ranked as one of the highest on most peoples bucket lists. This, and because of the remote locations of primates, means the price tag is much higher than anything else in Africa – but you certainly get what you pay for and this experience remains one of the most life changing one could ever have.
Contact us now to start planning your dream primate safari – we have options for everyone, but be prepared to travel – like all the best places in Africa the primates take some travel to reach.
