Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 8-day safari adventure through Uganda, a land teeming with breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and thrilling wildlife encounters. Starting and ending in Kampala, this journey takes you deep into the western region of Uganda, home to iconic national parks, lush forests, and rare primates.
Your adventure begins at Lake Mburo National Park, a gem covering 371 km², where you’ll encounter dazzling herds of zebras, graceful antelopes, buffaloes, warthogs, and aquatic life like hippos and crocodiles along the lake’s shores. The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, hosting over 332 bird species. Continue to the enchanting Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, sanctuary of the majestic mountain gorillas. This ancient rainforest is a biodiversity hotspot, home to over 340 gorillas, 120 mammal species, 400 plant species, 346 bird species, and 202 butterfly species – a true Eden for nature lovers.
Next, explore the legendary Queen Elizabeth National Park, where the open savannah is alive with elephants, tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector, buffaloes, waterbucks, hippos, crocodiles, and chimpanzees. With over 600 bird species, it is one of Africa’s most diverse birding destinations. Enjoy epic game drives, tranquil boat cruises, and scenic nature walks. Your journey concludes in Kibale National Park, celebrated as the primate capital of East Africa. This lush rainforest shelters 13 species of primates, including chimpanzees, white and black colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, vervet monkeys, and more. It’s also a haven for over 300 species of birds.
Tour Highlights
- Day 1: Wildlife Viewing in Lake Mburo National Park
Begin your adventure with a scenic drive from Kampala to Lake Mburo, home to zebras, antelopes, warthogs, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles, and over 300 bird species. Enjoy a game drive and take in the serene savannah landscape. - Day 2: Journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for Gorilla Safari
Head southwest through the breathtaking highlands to Bwindi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the ultimate gorilla trekking destination. - Day 3: Gorilla Trekking & Cultural Encounters in Bwindi
Embark on an unforgettable gorilla trekking expedition and spend a magical hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat. Later, engage with the local Batwa or Bakiga communities for an enriching cultural experience. - Day 4: Travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park via Ishasha
Transfer through the scenic Ishasha sector, famed for its rare tree-climbing lions. Enjoy en route wildlife sightings and the beautiful countryside. - Day 5: Game Drive & Boat Cruise on the Kazinga Channel
Experience an early morning game drive through the Kasenyi plains, spotting elephants, buffalo, lions, and antelopes. In the afternoon, cruise along the Kazinga Channel, teeming with hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife. - Day 6: Game Drive & Transfer to Kibale National Park
Start with a game drive and visit the panoramic Baboon Cliff for stunning park views. Later, journey north to the lush forests of Kibale. - Day 7: Chimpanzee Trekking & Bigodi Wetland Walk
Trek into Kibale’s rainforest for an exhilarating chimpanzee tracking experience. In the afternoon, explore the Bigodi Wetlands, rich in birdlife, monkeys, and vibrant community tourism. - Day 8: Return to Kampala
Reflect on a week of awe-inspiring adventures as you make your way back to Kampala, concluding your extraordinary safari through Uganda.
Itinerary
Day 1: Kampala to Lake Mburo National Park – Wildlife Viewing & Scenic Stops
Your safari adventure begins with a morning pick-up at 7:00 AM from Kampala by your expert driver-guide. En route to Lake Mburo National Park, you’ll enjoy two enriching stops: one at Mpambire Drum Makers Village, known for its traditional craftsmanship, and another at the Uganda Equator Line, perfect for unique photos and souvenir shopping. Arrive at the park in time for lunch at your lodge, nestled in the serene savannah landscape.
In the afternoon, venture out on your first game drive through Uganda’s smallest savannah park, teeming with wildlife. Look out for zebras, impalas, warthogs, buffaloes, and a wide variety of birds. The park’s rolling hills and acacia woodlands offer a picturesque backdrop to your experience. Return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay, surrounded by the sounds of the wild.
Accommodation:
- Luxury: Mihingo Lodge
- Mid-Range: Kigarama Wilderness lodge
- Budget: Eagle’s Nest Lodge
Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – Gateway to the Gorillas
After an early breakfast, depart at 6:30 AM for a scenic drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places in the world for mountain gorilla trekking. The journey takes you through Mbarara and the picturesque southwestern countryside, where terraced hills and banana plantations paint the landscape in vibrant hues.
Upon arrival in Bwindi, check in at your selected lodge and take the rest of the day to relax and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of the rainforest. This is your time to unwind and mentally prepare for one of the most profound wildlife encounters on Earth – meeting the endangered mountain gorillas up close. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.
Accommodation:
- Luxury: Buhoma Lodge
- Mid-Range: Silverback Lodge
- Budget: Buhoma Community Campground
Meal Plan: Full Board (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Day 3: Mountain Gorilla Trekking & Community Walk – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at 6:30 AM, then transfer to the Bwindi Park Headquarters for your gorilla trekking briefing. At 8:00 AM, embark on your adventure into the misty rainforest with expert park rangers. The trek, which can range from 2 to 8 hours, leads you deep into the dense forest where you’ll meet the majestic mountain gorillas. Remember to take along a walking stick and hire a porter if you need assistance with luggage. The highlight of your trek is a one-hour opportunity to observe and interact with these incredible creatures in their natural habitat.
Afterward, return to your lodge to unwind and enjoy lunch. In the evening, take a community walk to interact with local people, such as the Batwa community. Here, you’ll gain insight into their traditional lifestyle and rich cultural heritage. Return to your lodge for a peaceful dinner and overnight stay.
Accommodation:
- Luxury: Buhoma Lodge
- Mid-Range: Silverback Lodge
- Budget: Buhoma Community Campground
Meal Plan: Full Board (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Day 4: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park via the Ishasha Sector
Enjoy an early breakfast before setting off on your journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park, passing through the Ishasha sector, renowned for its tree-climbing lions. The drive offers stunning views of the Ugandan savannah, and upon arrival at the park, you’ll check in at your lodge and enjoy a hearty lunch. Afterward, head out for a late afternoon game drive, where you’ll have the chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, waterbucks, and elusive lions. The park’s rich birdlife will also be a treat for birdwatchers.
As the day winds down, return to your lodge for a delicious dinner and a restful night. Queen Elizabeth offers not only spectacular wildlife viewing but also unparalleled scenic beauty, making this day one of the highlights of your adventure.
Accommodation:
- Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge
- Mid-Range: Kyambura Gorge Lodge
- Budget: Bush Lodge
Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Game Drive & Boat Cruise on the Kazinga Channel
Begin your day bright and early with breakfast at 6:00 AM to kick off a thrilling morning game drive through the vast plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park. This early excursion offers prime opportunities to see morning risers like lions, elephants, buffaloes, and kobs as they emerge from the night. The cool morning hours are ideal for capturing stunning moments of wildlife. After your game drive, return to the lodge for lunch, then prepare for a spectacular afternoon boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel.
The Kazinga Channel is teeming with life, from hippos and crocodiles to a wide variety of birds like the malachite kingfishers and pink-backed pelicans. The boat cruise offers an intimate perspective of wildlife along the water’s edge, making it one of the park’s most captivating experiences. Afterward, return to your lodge for dinner and a relaxing overnight stay.
Accommodation:
- Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge
- Mid-Range: Kyambura Gorge Lodge
- Budget: Bush Lodge
Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Morning Game Drive, Visit to Baboon Cliff & Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
Enjoy a delicious breakfast before setting out on your final morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park. This drive offers one last chance to spot the park’s incredible wildlife. Along the way, visit the scenic Baboon Cliff, a high vantage point that offers panoramic views of the vast savannah and crater lakes – perfect for memorable photos. After soaking in the views, return to the lodge for lunch and prepare for your journey northwards.
In the afternoon, depart for Kibale Forest National Park, Uganda’s premier destination for chimpanzee trekking. The scenic drive, which takes approximately 2 to 3 hours, winds through beautiful countryside dotted with tea plantations and small villages. On arrival, check into your lodge, unwind, and enjoy a relaxed evening with dinner as you prepare for the primate adventures that await.
Accommodation:
- Luxury: Crater Safari Lodge
- Mid-Range: Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse
- Budget: Kibale Forest Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 7: Chimpanzee Trekking & Bigodi Wetland Walk – Kibale Forest
Wake up to the sounds of the forest and enjoy an early breakfast before heading to the Kibale National Park headquarters for a safety briefing led by professional rangers. At around 8:00 am, begin your exciting chimpanzee trekking adventure. Accompanied by an experienced guide, you’ll trek through lush tropical forest in search of our closest relatives, the chimpanzees. Once found, you’ll spend an unforgettable hour observing their behavior, playfulness, and interactions in their natural habitat. Along the way, keep an eye out for other primates such as L’Hoest’s monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, bush babies, and grey-cheeked mangabeys, as well as a wide variety of bird species.
Return to the lodge for lunch and some relaxation before heading out for a peaceful walk through the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary in the afternoon. This community-run eco-tourism project is teeming with biodiversity, including the Great Blue Turaco, otters, bush pigs, baboons, and more. You’ll also have the opportunity to interact with the local people, gaining insights into their daily lives, traditions, and conservation efforts. After your enriching day, return to the lodge for dinner and a restful overnight stay.
Accommodation:
- Luxury: Crater Safari lodge
- Mid-Range: Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse
- Budget: Kibale Forest Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 8: Return to Kampala or Entebbe – Journey Ends
After a hearty breakfast, begin your journey back to Kampala or Entebbe, marking the end of your incredible Ugandan safari adventure. The scenic drive through Mubende offers panoramic views of rolling hills, farmlands, and bustling roadside markets. This is a great time to reflect on the unforgettable memories made during your 8-day wildlife and primate safari across Uganda’s most iconic national parks.
Stop for lunch en route in Mubende before continuing the drive to your drop-off point. Your guide will either take you to your accommodation in Kampala or transfer you to Entebbe International Airport for your flight home. This marks the conclusion of your once-in-a-lifetime journey through Uganda – the Pearl of Africa.
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch
END OF SAFARI