Overview
Embark on an extraordinary journey across Uganda’s most iconic national parks and hidden gems. This 13-day adventure is tailor-made for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and intrepid explorers seeking a deeper connection with Africa’s wilderness. Your safari begins with rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, followed by the thunderous spectacle of Murchison Falls, Uganda’s largest and most dramatic waterfall. In Kibale Forest, trek through lush greenery in search of playful chimpanzees, and later, explore the savannah plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park—home to elephants, hippos, and the legendary tree-climbing lions of Ishasha.
The experience peaks in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where you’ll embark on a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking adventure. From there, travel to Lake Mburo for serene boat rides and game viewing before concluding in Jinja, the adventure capital of East Africa, where the Nile begins its legendary journey. Every moment of this itinerary is designed to immerse you in Uganda’s rich biodiversity, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cultures, making it a trip of a lifetime.
Tour Highlights
- Encounter Endangered Rhinos
Begin your adventure with a thrilling tracking experience at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, home to Uganda’s only wild rhinos. - Marvel at the Power of Murchison Falls
Witness the mighty Nile plunge through a narrow gorge during a breathtaking boat safari and rewarding game drive in Murchison Falls National Park. - Chimpanzee Trekking in the Primate Capital
Explore the lush rainforest of Kibale National Park, renowned for its high concentration of chimpanzees and other primates. - Wildlife Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Discover diverse ecosystems and spot iconic species—including elephants, hippos, and the famous tree-climbing lions of the Ishasha Sector. - Unforgettable Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
Journey deep into the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for an intimate, once-in-a-lifetime encounter with endangered mountain gorillas. - Scenic Game Viewing in Lake Mburo National Park
Enjoy guided game drives and peaceful boat safaris on Lake Mburo, surrounded by acacia-dotted savannahs. - Adventure at the Source of the Nile
Conclude your safari with heart-pounding activities in Jinja, East Africa’s adrenaline capital and the source of the world’s longest river.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Kampala, Uganda!
Your unforgettable journey begins with a warm welcome in Uganda’s capital, Kampala, or the lakeside town of Entebbe. Settle in and relax as you take in the serene views of Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa. This is your moment to unwind and gear up for the adventures to come.
Accommodation:
- Mid-Range: Cassia Lodge
- Budget: Airport Guest House
Meal Plan: All meals included (Premium beverages not included)
Day 2: Rhino Tracking & the Majesty of Murchison Falls
Begin your day with an unforgettable stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where you’ll track endangered white rhinos on foot—an intimate and rare wildlife experience. Continue your journey to the iconic Murchison Falls, where the mighty Nile River crashes through a narrow 7-meter gorge with breathtaking force, creating a dramatic and thunderous spectacle. It’s nature’s raw power at its finest.
Accommodation:
- Mid-Range: Fort Murchison—A comfortable mid-range lodge just outside Murchison Falls National Park
- Bamboo Village Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: All meals included (Premium beverages not included)
Day 3: Sunrise Game Drive & Iconic Nile Boat Safari
Start your day with an exhilarating morning game drive across the savannah—keep your eyes peeled for lions, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and more in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic boat cruise along the Nile, gliding past pods of hippos, lurking crocodiles, and a front-row view of the thunderous Murchison Falls.
Accommodation:
- Mid-Range: Fort Murchison—A comfortable mid-range lodge just outside Murchison Falls National Park
- Bamboo Village Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: All meals included (Premium beverages not included)
Day 4: Journey to the Primate Capital – Kibale Forest
Travel through Uganda’s lush countryside toward the enchanting Kibale Forest, known as the Primate Capital of East Africa. This tropical paradise is home to over 13 primate species and welcomes you with serene landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Accommodation:
- Mid-Range: Kibale Forest Camp—Mid-range eco-lodge nestled near the forest
- Chimpanzee Forest Lodge – Kibale
- Bweza Kibale Lodge
Meal Plan: All meals included (Premium beverages not included)
Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking & Bigodi Wetland Encounter
Venture deep into the forest for an exciting chimpanzee tracking experience—watch as these intelligent primates swing through the treetops and interact playfully. In the afternoon, explore the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a haven for monkeys, rare birds, and vibrant community conservation initiatives.
Accommodation:
- Mid-Range: Kibale Forest Camp—Mid-range eco-lodge nestled near the forest
- Chimpanzee Forest Lodge – Kibale
- Bweza Kibale Lodge
Meal Plan: All meals included (Premium beverages not included)
Day 6: Into the Wild—Journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Depart for Uganda’s most celebrated savannah reserve, Queen Elizabeth National Park. Your scenic drive will take you past ancient crater lakes and the majestic Rwenzori Mountains. Upon arrival, enjoy a tranquil boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, famed for its rich concentration of hippos, elephants, and birdlife.
Accommodation:
- Mid-Range: Buffalo Safari Lodge—Mid-range lodge near Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Kazinga Wilderness Safari Camp
- Engiri Game Lodge & Campsite
Meal Plan: All meals included (Premium beverages not included)
Day 7: Safari Expedition & Tree-Climbing Lions of Ishasha
Begin the day with a sunrise game drive across the Kasenyi Plains, where lion prides, elephants, antelope, and buffalo roam free. In the afternoon, head to the Ishasha sector—home to Uganda’s famous tree-climbing lions, often seen lounging in the branches of fig trees.
Accommodation:
- Mid-Range: Buffalo Safari Lodge—Mid-range lodge near Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Kazinga Wilderness Safari Camp
- Engiri Game Lodge & Campsite
Meal Plan: All meals included (Premium beverages not included)
Day 8: Scenic Highlands Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Travel south through the breathtaking Kigezi Highlands, often called the “Switzerland of Africa,” with panoramic views of terraced hills and traditional villages. Arrive in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and sanctuary to nearly half the world’s mountain gorilla population.
Accommodation:
- Mid-Range: Rushaga Gorilla Camp – Charming lodge near the forest edge
- Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
- Gorilla Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: All meals included (Premium beverages not included)
Day 9: Gorilla Trekking—A Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounter
Step into the mystical jungle on an unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure. Track a habituated gorilla family, and once found, spend a magical hour observing their behavior, a humbling and awe-inspiring experience. In the afternoon, opt for a cultural visit to the nearby Batwa community.
Accommodation:
- Mid-Range: Rushaga Gorilla Camp – Charming lodge near the forest edge
- Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
- Gorilla Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: All meals included (Premium beverages not included)
Day 10: Scenic Journey to Lake Mburo National Park
Depart on a picturesque drive to Lake Mburo National Park, with a cultural stop at a local museum en route. Arrive in time for a serene boat safari on Lake Mburo, where you’ll glide past pods of hippos, basking crocodiles, and an array of vibrant birdlife. The park’s mix of savannah, woodland, and wetland provides a refreshing contrast to Uganda’s larger reserves.
Accommodation:
- Mid-Range: Rwakobo Rock—an eco-lodge perched on a rocky outcrop with sweeping park views
- Kigarama Wilderness Lodge
- Kigambira Safari Lodge (Luxury)
Meal Plan: All meals included (Premium beverages not included)
Day 11: Safari, Equator Stop & Transfer to Jinja
Begin with a morning game drive in Lake Mburo for a chance to spot zebras, elands, impalas, and more. Continue your journey eastward with a fun photo stop at the Equator Line, where you can also browse local craft shops. Arrive in Jinja, Uganda’s adventure capital, by evening.
Accommodation:
- Mid-Range: 2 Friends Guest House—Stylish lakeside retreat with a relaxing ambiance
Meal Plan: All meals included (Premium beverages not included)
Day 12: Adrenaline & Adventure at the Source of the Nile
Embrace adventure as you plunge into a full-day white-water rafting expedition on the legendary River Nile. Not into rafting? Opt for kayaking, quad biking, tubing, or a sunset cruise. Spend the evening unwinding in Jinja, known for its colonial charm and riverside cafés.
Accommodation:
- Mid-Range: 2 Friends Guest House—Stylish lakeside retreat with a relaxing ambiance
Meal Plan: All meals included (Premium beverages not included)
Day 13: Farewell, Uganda—Return to Entebbe
Depending on your flight schedule, we’ll arrange a smooth transfer to Entebbe International Airport. Reflect on your unforgettable Ugandan adventure. Need more time? Optional post-tour accommodation and extensions can be arranged to suit your travel needs.
Meals & Drinks: Breakfast included (Other meals at own arrangement, depending on flight)