Combing Tree Climbing Lions with Gorilla Trekking in Uganda. Uganda is one of the most diverse safari destinations on the continent. It is a country blessed with stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, welcoming people, and unique adventure opportunities. Among its most remarkable safari experiences are encounters with the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha in Queen Elizabeth National Park and gorilla trekking in the misty forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Combining these two incredible adventures in one itinerary offers travelers a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience that blends the thrill of the African savanna with the mystery of the tropical rainforest.
This article explores how to combine tree-climbing lions with gorilla trekking in Uganda, the best routes, park highlights, ideal itineraries, and useful travel tips.
The Tree-Climbing Lions of Ishasha
While lions are known as the kings of the savanna, only a few populations in Africa have mastered the rare skill of climbing trees. In Uganda, this unique phenomenon occurs in the Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, located in the park’s southern region. These majestic cats can often be seen lazily resting on the sturdy branches of large fig and acacia trees — an unusual and breathtaking sight for visitors.
There are several theories behind this rare behavior. Some wildlife experts suggest that the lions climb trees to escape the heat and biting insects on the ground, while others believe it gives them a better vantage point for spotting prey or keeping an eye on their territory. Whatever the reason, watching these lions draped across branches in the afternoon sun is a sight that leaves a lasting impression on every safari enthusiast.
The Ishasha plains themselves are a spectacle of natural beauty, featuring open savanna dotted with fig trees, seasonal rivers, and abundant wildlife. Apart from the famous tree-climbing lions, the area is home to large herds of Uganda kob, elephants, buffaloes, topis, warthogs, and several bird species.
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Just a few hours’ drive from Ishasha lies Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, one of the most iconic destinations in Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Bwindi is home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, making it one of the best places on Earth to encounter these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi is a truly life-changing experience. The trek involves hiking through dense rainforest, guided by expert rangers who track the gorilla families. Once you find them, you spend an hour observing the gorillas as they feed, play, and interact — an intimate experience that leaves many visitors speechless.
Bwindi is divided into four main trekking sectors: Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo. Each offers unique trekking routes, accommodation options, and gorilla families to track. The park also supports community tourism, giving visitors opportunities to meet the Batwa people, Uganda’s indigenous forest dwellers, and learn about their ancient way of life.
Why Combine Tree-Climbing Lions with Gorilla Trekking
Combining these two wildlife encounters gives travelers a complete and diverse Ugandan safari. You experience both the open grasslands and savanna landscapes of Queen Elizabeth National Park and the dense tropical forests of Bwindi. It’s an opportunity to see Africa’s “Big Five” species along with one of the rarest primates in the world.
Moreover, the two destinations are conveniently located close to each other — only about 3 to 4 hours apart by road. This makes it easy to combine them within a 5 to 7-day itinerary without spending long hours driving between parks. You can begin your adventure in Queen Elizabeth National Park, spotting elephants, buffaloes, hippos, and tree-climbing lions, before heading south to Bwindi for an unforgettable gorilla trek.
This combination also showcases Uganda’s exceptional biodiversity. While Ishasha represents the beauty of the savanna ecosystem, Bwindi reveals the wonders of the rainforest. Together, they capture the very essence of Uganda’s nickname — the Pearl of Africa.
Suggested Itinerary: Tree-Climbing Lions and Gorilla Trekking Safari
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe or Kampala
Arrive in Uganda and transfer to your hotel in Entebbe or Kampala. Depending on your arrival time, you can relax or explore attractions like the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre or Lake Victoria shores.
Day 2: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park. The journey takes about 6–7 hours, passing through beautiful countryside, tea plantations, and rolling hills. Upon arrival, enjoy a game drive through the park’s northern section, where you may spot elephants, antelopes, and buffaloes.
Day 3: Game Drive in Ishasha – Tree-Climbing Lions
Head to the Ishasha Sector in the southern part of the park, the famous home of the tree-climbing lions. A morning or afternoon game drive gives you the best chance to spot these incredible predators lounging in trees. You’ll also see other wildlife, including topis, warthogs, and hippos along the Ishasha River. Overnight in one of the lodges near Ishasha.
Day 4: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After breakfast, drive from Ishasha to Bwindi, a journey of about 3 hours through scenic hills and local communities. Arrive in time for lunch and a relaxed afternoon at your lodge, preparing for the gorilla trek the next day.
Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
Today is the highlight of your safari. After an early breakfast, attend a briefing at the park headquarters before setting out on your gorilla trek. The hike may take between 2 to 6 hours depending on the gorilla group’s location. Once you encounter the gorillas, you’ll spend one magical hour with them. Later, return to your lodge to rest and share stories around a campfire.
Day 6: Return to Kampala or Entebbe
After breakfast, begin your journey back to Kampala or Entebbe, arriving in the evening. Optionally, you can extend your trip to Lake Bunyonyi for relaxation or continue to another national park.
Other Activities to Combine with the Trip
While the combination of tree-climbing lions and gorilla trekking forms the core of the itinerary, there are several other activities you can include to enhance your experience:
- Boat Cruise on the Kazinga Channel: In Queen Elizabeth National Park, a boat ride along the Kazinga Channel offers incredible sightings of hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and various birds.
- Community and Cultural Tours: Visit the Batwa community near Bwindi to learn about their traditional forest lifestyle and cultural dances.
- Nature Walks and Bird Watching: Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth are home to over 600 bird species, making them a paradise for birders.
- Chimpanzee Tracking in Kyambura Gorge: You can add a short chimpanzee tracking experience in the Kyambura Gorge within Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Best Time to Visit
Uganda’s climate allows for travel year-round, but the best time to combine tree-climbing lions and gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons — from June to September and December to February. During these months, roads and trekking trails are more accessible, and wildlife viewing is easier. However, since gorilla trekking permits are limited, it’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season.
Accommodation Options
Both Ishasha and Bwindi offer a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets.
- In Ishasha: Ishasha Wilderness Camp, Enjojo Lodge, and Savannah Resort are popular choices.
- In Bwindi: Options include Buhoma Lodge, Mahogany Springs, Gorilla Mist Camp, and Rushaga Gorilla Camp.
Each offers comfortable rooms, warm hospitality, and beautiful views of the surrounding wilderness.
Travel Tips
- Book Gorilla Permits Early: Gorilla trekking permits in Uganda cost around USD 800 and are limited to a small number per day.
- Carry Proper Gear: Good hiking boots, rain jackets, gloves, and long trousers are essential for trekking.
- Stay Hydrated and Fit: Trekking can be challenging; physical fitness helps make it enjoyable.
- Follow Ranger Instructions: Always maintain a safe distance from gorillas and avoid flash photography.
- Use a 4×4 Safari Vehicle: Roads to Ishasha and Bwindi can be rough, especially in the rainy season.
