Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 10-day safari through Uganda, often called the “Pearl of Africa,” where diverse landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant cultures await. This journey takes you deep into Uganda’s most iconic national parks, from the thunderous Murchison Falls and the primate-filled Kibale Forest to the savannas of Queen Elizabeth and the dense jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Discover close encounters with Africa’s most treasured wildlife, including lions, elephants, and the awe-inspiring mountain gorillas. Whether trekking through rainforests or cruising along the Nile, each day promises new adventures and memories in one of Africa’s most enchanting destinations.
Highlights
- Arrival in Entebbe – Welcome to Uganda!
- Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
- Game Drive and Boat Cruise on the Nile
- Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
- Chimpanzee Tracking and Nature Walk in Bigodi Wetland
- Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Game Drive and Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel
- Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
- Departure from Entebbe
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by your safari guide and transferred to your hotel. Relax and unwind from your journey as you prepare for an exhilarating adventure. Entebbe is a quiet lakeside town with a variety of attractions to offer, including the Botanical Gardens and the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre. Overnight stay at a comfortable hotel in Entebbe.
Start the day with a scenic drive to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest national park. Enjoy the stunning countryside views along the way, with stops for refreshments and photo opportunities. Upon arrival, you’ll visit the top of the falls, where the mighty Nile River squeezes through a narrow gorge before plunging 43 meters down. This natural wonder offers breathtaking views and great photo opportunities. Dinner and overnight at a lodge near the falls.
Experience an early morning game drive through the park’s northern sector, which is home to a rich diversity of wildlife including lions, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, and antelope species. After lunch, embark on an afternoon boat cruise on the Nile River, where you’ll see crocodiles, hippos, and a variety of bird species, including the rare shoebill stork. The boat cruise ends at the base of Murchison Falls, giving you a different perspective of this magnificent waterfall.
Depart Murchison Falls and journey to Kibale Forest National Park, a region celebrated for its dense forest and high concentration of primates. The drive takes you through lush tea plantations, rolling hills, and traditional Ugandan villages. Arrive in Fort Portal, a picturesque town surrounded by beautiful scenery. Overnight at a lodge near the park, setting the stage for the thrilling activities to come.
Today, embark on a chimpanzee tracking adventure in Kibale Forest. Kibale is home to one of the largest populations of chimpanzees in East Africa. Guided by experienced rangers, you’ll navigate through the forest in search of these fascinating creatures and enjoy close encounters as they go about their daily routines. In the afternoon, take a nature walk in the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, known for its rich biodiversity, including birds, monkeys, and other wildlife.
After breakfast, depart for Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most popular safari destinations. The park is famous for its diverse ecosystems, which include savannas, lakes, wetlands, and forests. Upon arrival, you’ll go on an evening game drive in the Kasenyi Plains, where you’ll have the chance to spot lions, elephants, and other savanna animals. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay at a lodge within the park.
Rise early for another game drive in the Kasenyi area, where you may see a variety of animals, including buffaloes, warthogs, and elusive leopards. After lunch, embark on a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway that connects Lake Edward and Lake George. The channel attracts a large number of animals and birds, offering spectacular sightings and photography opportunities of hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and over 600 bird species.
Today, embark on a journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its population of endangered mountain gorillas. The scenic drive takes you through the “Switzerland of Africa,” with terraced hillsides, traditional villages, and lush landscapes. Arrive in Bwindi in the afternoon, where you can relax and prepare for the highlight of your safari—gorilla trekking.
A lifetime experience awaits as you embark on a gorilla trekking adventure. After a briefing by park rangers, set off into the dense forest in search of one of the gorilla families. The trek can take several hours, depending on the location of the gorillas, but the experience of observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat is indescribable. After spending an hour with the gorillas, return to your lodge for relaxation and reflection on this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
After breakfast, embark on a journey back to Entebbe. Depending on your departure time, you may have opportunities to stop at local craft markets to pick up souvenirs or explore some attractions in Entebbe. Upon arrival at the airport, bid farewell to Uganda as you board your flight home, taking with you unforgettable memories of your 10-day safari adventure.
Cost
The Cost Includes
- Accommodation: 9 nights in selected lodges and hotels.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner throughout the safari.
- Transportation: Comfortable 4x4 safari vehicle with a knowledgeable, English-speaking driver-guide.
- Park Entry Fees: All entrance fees to national parks included in the itinerary.
- Activities: Scheduled game drives, chimpanzee tracking, gorilla trekking permit, and boat cruises.
- Guided Tours: Professional guides for chimpanzee tracking, gorilla trekking, and Bigodi Wetland walk.
- Drinking Water: Bottled water provided during drives and excursions.
The Cost Excludes
- International Flights: Airfare to and from Uganda.
- Visa Fees: Entry visa to Uganda.
- Personal Expenses: Tips, souvenirs, alcoholic beverages, laundry, and personal items.
- Optional Activities: Any activities not specified in the itinerary.
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel and health insurance recommended for the entire safari duration.