Overview
This Uganda adventure combines thrilling wildlife encounters, unforgettable primate tracking, cultural immersion, and scenic wonders. Journey from the historic landmarks of Kampala to the mighty River Nile in Jinja, experience the thunderous Murchison Falls, trek chimpanzees in Kibale, meet the Batwa pygmies of Semuliki, and encounter the majestic mountain gorillas of Bwindi. Along the way, enjoy scenic drives, boat cruises on wildlife-rich waterways, and cultural interactions with Uganda’s diverse communities. This safari offers an in-depth exploration of Uganda’s most iconic national parks and hidden gems—ideal for travelers seeking a profound connection with Africa’s people, primates, and untamed beauty.
Itinerary
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you’ll be met by your safari guide and transferred to your hotel in Kampala—either Serena Hotel, Humura Hotel, or Holiday Express Hotel. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a short guided tour of Kampala’s key historical landmarks. Dinner and overnight stay in Kampala.
After breakfast, drive east to Jinja, stopping at scenic viewpoints en route. Visit the legendary source of the Nile—Africa’s longest river—and explore the culturally rich Bujagali Falls area. Enjoy storytelling and local myths surrounding the falls before returning to Kampala for dinner and overnight at Holiday Express Hotel.
Depart early for Murchison Falls National Park. Stop for lunch in Masindi town or enjoy a picnic in Kaniyo Pabidi Forest. Enter the park through Kichumbanyobo Gate and visit the Top of the Falls for spectacular views of the Nile as it squeezes through a narrow 7-meter gorge. Overnight at Red Chilli Rest Camp.
Start your day with a sunrise game drive on the northern bank of the Nile, spotting giraffes, buffaloes, antelopes, and more. After a late breakfast and lunch, embark on a boat safari to the base of Murchison Falls. Look out for crocodiles, hippos, and a wide array of birds including the rare shoebill stork. Dinner and overnight at your lodge.
Today’s drive takes you through picturesque countryside toward Fort Portal. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided nature walk to the Mahoma Waterfall and along the crater lake rim, passing local farms and cultural sights. Dinner and overnight at Ndali Lodge, Primate Lodge, or Mantana Luxury Tented Camp.
Head to Kibale National Park for a morning chimpanzee tracking adventure. The forest is home to 13 primate species and over 335 bird species. Look out for L’Hoest’s monkeys, red colobus, bush babies, and diverse birdlife. Dinner and overnight at Primate Lodge, Ndali Lodge, or Rujuni Guest House.
Drive to the Semuliki Valley for a full-day excursion. Visit the Sempaya Hot Springs and spend time in Batwa pygmy villages for a unique cultural interaction. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the forest before returning to Fort Portal. Overnight at your previous lodge.
After breakfast, visit the Royal Tombs and interact with the Burungu community to experience traditional Tooro music and dance. After lunch, transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you’ll stay at Mweya Safari Lodge, Jacana Safari Lodge, or Kitandara Hippo Camp.
Enjoy a morning game drive through the Kasenyi plains in search of lions, elephants, kobs, and more. After lunch, take a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, renowned for its large hippo and bird populations. Evening birding walk along the shores. Overnight at your lodge.
Drive south through the Ishasha sector, known for its iconic tree-climbing lions. Continue to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Dinner and overnight at Buhoma Lodge, Lake Kitandara Tented Camp, or Gorilla Forest Camp.
After an early briefing, venture into the forest for the once-in-a-lifetime experience of gorilla trekking. Once located, you’ll spend up to one hour observing the gentle giants in their natural habitat. Return to your lodge for a well-deserved rest.
After breakfast, drive through the rolling highlands to Lake Mburo National Park. Enjoy a boat ride on the lake followed by an evening game drive to see zebras, impalas, elands, and possibly leopards. Dinner and overnight at Rwonyo Rest Camp.
Return to Entebbe and transfer by boat to Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary on Lake Victoria. Watch the rescued chimps from the viewing platform during feeding time. Return to the mainland and overnight at Central Inn or Bomma Guesthouse.
After breakfast, transfer to Entebbe International Airport for your outbound flight.
Inclusions
Includes
- Chimpanzee tracking permit
- Gorilla Permit
- All park entry fees and conservation charges
- All accommodation
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary
- 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- English-speaking safari guide
- Bottled drinking water during road travel
- Airport transfers
Excludes
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel and medical insurance
- Personal expenses (laundry, tips, souvenirs)
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Optional activities not included in the main itinerary
FAQs
The trip includes moderate to strenuous activities such as chimpanzee and gorilla trekking which involve hiking on uneven forest terrain for 2–6 hours. Good mobility and general fitness are recommended.
he best times are during Uganda’s dry seasons: December to February and June to August. These months offer better trekking conditions and clearer wildlife viewing opportunities.
Expect to see mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and over 1,000 species of birds, including the rare shoebill and African fish eagle.
Yes. Uganda is a safe and welcoming destination for tourists. All tours are guided by experienced professionals who prioritize your safety throughout the journey.
You’ll engage with Batwa pygmies near Semuliki, visit Toro royal tombs, and enjoy traditional dances and storytelling with local communities.You’ll engage with Batwa pygmies near Semuliki, visit Toro royal tombs, and enjoy traditional dances and storytelling with local communities.
