Overview
This 10-day Uganda wildlife safari is a journey through some of the most diverse and captivating landscapes in Africa. From the thunderous Murchison Falls to the lush Kibale Forest, the expansive savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park, and the dense, mystical forests of Bwindi, each day offers unique experiences and unforgettable encounters with wildlife. The opportunity to track chimpanzees and gorillas in their natural habitats is a rare privilege, and the beauty of Uganda’s scenery and the warmth of its people add depth to this adventure. As you depart, you’ll carry with you not just photographs, but also the profound memories of close encounters with some of the world’s most extraordinary animals and the vibrant, living landscapes they inhabit.
Tour Highlights
- Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe
- Day 2: Entebbe to Murchison Falls National Park
- Day 3: Morning game drive and afternoon boat cruise
- Day 4: Murchison Falls to Kibale Forest National Park
- Day 5: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest
- Day 6: Kibale to Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Day 7: Game Drives and Tree Climbing Lions
- Day 8: Queen Elizabeth to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Day 9: Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi
- Day 10: Departure
Day to Day Detailed Itinerary
Your Uganda wildlife safari adventure begins as you touch down at Entebbe International Airport. Entebbe, situated on the shores of Lake Victoria, welcomes you with its lush greenery and vibrant birdlife. After clearing customs, you will be greeted by your safari guide who will transfer you to your hotel. Take this day to relax and recover from your journey. Depending on your arrival time, you might explore the nearby Entebbe Botanical Gardens or the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre, which houses rescued animals and offers a preview of Uganda's rich biodiversity. Dinner will be at your hotel, allowing you to savor your first taste of Ugandan cuisine. Accommodation options: Protea hotel by Marriot, Onomo Hotel, Papyrus Guest House (Budget)/ Kampala Serena/ No.5 Boutique Hotel (Luxury).
After an early breakfast, you will embark on a scenic drive to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda's largest national park. The journey will take you through the lush landscapes of central Uganda, offering glimpses of rural life and the chance to see diverse bird species along the way. Enroute you will visit the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary where you will track the Rhinos on foot. The activity lasts for about 2hours and thereafter, drive to Masindi town where you will have your lunch. Embark on the journey to Murchison falls. On arrival, you will proceed with the visit to the top of the falls where you will witness the Nile River squeezing through a narrow gorge and dropping down with a thunderous roar. Continue and check in to the lodge for relaxation, dinner and overnight stay.
Accommodation options: Paraa safari lodge(luxury), Pakuba safari lodge (Mid-range), Park side safari (Budget).
Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch and Dinner
Your first full day in Murchison Falls National Park begins with an early morning game drive. As dawn breaks, you will set out to explore the park's savannah landscapes, home to elephants, lions, giraffes, buffaloes, and antelopes. With luck, you might also spot elusive leopards. After the game drive, return to the lodge for a late breakfast and lunch. In the afternoon, you will go on 2:00pm boat cruise on the Nile River. This cruise is a highlight, providing close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and a myriad of bird species. The cruise will take you to the base of the dramatic Murchison Falls, where the Nile squeezes through a narrow gorge and plunges with tremendous force. Return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
After breakfast, you'll set off for Kibale Forest National Park, known for its primate diversity. The drive will take you through the scenic Albertine Rift Valley, with views of rolling hills, tea plantations, and traditional Ugandan villages. You'll have a packed lunch en route and several opportunities to stretch your legs and take photos. Arrive at Kibale in the late afternoon and check into your lodge nestled in the rainforest. Enjoy a leisurely evening and dinner at the lodge, with the sounds of the forest creating a serene backdrop.
Today is dedicated to tracking Kibale's famous chimpanzees. After an early breakfast, you'll head to the park headquarters for a briefing on chimpanzee tracking. Accompanied by experienced guides, you'll venture into the forest in search of these fascinating primates. As you trek through the dense foliage, your guides will share insights about the forest's ecology and the habits of its inhabitants. Once you locate the chimpanzees, you'll have an hour to observe and photograph them as they feed, play, and interact. After this exhilarating experience, return to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, you can explore the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-run conservation area home to diverse bird species, monkeys, and other wildlife. Dinner and overnight will be at your lodge.
After breakfast, you'll depart for Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda's most popular safari destination. The drive will take you through the stunning crater lakes region, with stops for panoramic views and photo opportunities. Upon arrival at Queen Elizabeth, check into your lodge and have lunch. In the afternoon, you'll embark on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a waterway that connects Lake George and Lake Edward. This cruise offers exceptional wildlife viewing, with large herds of elephants, buffaloes, hippos, and numerous bird species congregating along the shores. Return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Your day begins with an early morning game drive in the Kasenyi plains, a prime location for spotting lions, Uganda kobs, warthogs, and various bird species. The morning hours are ideal for wildlife activity, and with your guide's expertise, you'll have excellent chances of memorable sightings. After the game drive, return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast and some relaxation. In the afternoon, you'll drive to the southern Ishasha sector of the park, renowned for its unique tree-climbing lions. Keep your eyes peeled as you search for these magnificent cats lounging in the branches of fig trees. This area also offers sightings of topi, buffaloes, and other wildlife. Return to the lodge in the evening for dinner and a night of rest.
After breakfast, you'll set off for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to over half of the world's remaining mountain gorillas. The journey takes you through the picturesque landscapes of southwestern Uganda, with its terraced hills and vibrant local communities. You'll arrive at Bwindi in the afternoon and check into your lodge, located at the edge of the forest. After lunch, you can take a guided nature walk or visit a nearby Batwa pygmy community to learn about their traditional way of life. Dinner will be at the lodge, where you can prepare for the next day's gorilla tracking adventure.
The pinnacle of your Uganda safari is the gorilla tracking experience. After an early breakfast, you'll head to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla tracking etiquette and safety. You'll then be assigned to a group and set off into the forest with experienced guides and trackers. The trek can be challenging, navigating through dense vegetation and steep terrain, but the reward is indescribable. When you finally encounter a gorilla family, the experience is awe-inspiring. You'll have an hour to observe and photograph these gentle giants as they go about their daily lives. After this life-changing experience, return to the lodge for lunch and some relaxation. In the afternoon, you can explore more of the forest on a nature walk or simply unwind at the lodge. Your final dinner will be a celebration of your incredible journey through Uganda's wilderness.
Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some time in the morning for a final walk or visit to a local craft market. After breakfast, your guide will transfer you back to Entebbe, where you can reflect on the memories and adventures of the past nine days. If time permits, you might explore more of Entebbe or simply relax by the lakeside before your flight home.
Tour Includes & Excludes
The Tour Includes
- Park entry fees and all activities included on the itinerary,
- chimp trekking permits
- Gorilla Trekking
- Boat Cruise
- 4X4 Safari vehicle
- Accommodation and meals
The Tour Excludes
- Visas
- International Flights
- Items of Personal Nature, Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
- Tips and Gratuity