12 Day Best of Uganda Safari

After breakfast, head out on an exciting 4 to 5-hour journey to Murchison Falls National Park in Northwestern Uganda. Along the way, stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to track the endangered white rhinos in their natural habitat.

Continue to Masindi for lunch before driving to Murchison Falls National Park, where you’ll be treated to the sight of the thunderous Murchison Falls, where the mighty Nile River squeezes through a narrow gorge.

Accommodation:

• Mid-range: Pakuba Safari Lodge

• Meal Plan: Full Board

Start your day with a morning game drive in Murchison Falls National Park, where you’ll encounter elephants, lions, giraffes, buffaloes, hartebeest, and possibly leopards. The park is teeming with wildlife, making it a great place for a safari.

After the game drive, return to the lodge for a break and lunch before heading out for the afternoon launch cruise along the Nile to the base of the falls. The boat safari offers a unique view of hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species, as well as the chance to witness the breathtaking power of Murchison Falls from the river.

Accommodation:

• Mid-range: Pakuba Safari Lodge

• Meal Plan: Full Board

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Kibale Forest National Park, home to over 13 primate species, including the famous chimpanzees. As you travel, enjoy the picturesque views of the rolling hills and villages along the way. Upon arrival, enjoy dinner and relax at your lodge.

Accommodation:

• Mid-range: Primate Lodge

• Meal Plan: Full Board

After breakfast, head to the Kanyanchu Visitor Center for your chimpanzee trekking experience. You’ll be assigned to a small group, and with the help of an expert guide, you’ll venture into the forest to track these fascinating primates. The trek lasts 2 to 3 hours, and once you find the chimpanzees, you’ll have one hour to observe their behavior in the wild.

In the afternoon, enjoy a peaceful nature walk through the Bigodi Wetland, a great spot for birdwatching and spotting more primates.

Accommodation:

• Mid-range: Primate Lodge

• Meal Plan: Full Board

Following breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park. The drive is highlighted by views of the majestic Rwenzori Mountains in the distance. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and have lunch. Later, embark on an afternoon boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, which links Lake Edward and Lake George. The channel is home to hippos, crocodiles, and many bird species.

Accommodation:

• Mid-range: Elephant Hab Lodge

• Meal Plan: Full Board

Today, enjoy an early breakfast and head out on a morning game drive in the park’s Kasenyi plains. This area is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, Uganda Kobs, and buffaloes, as well as lions and leopards if you’re lucky.

After lunch, head to the Ishasha Sector, known for its tree-climbing lions. This is a rare and exciting sight, making this part of the safari especially memorable.

Accommodation:

• Mid-range: Topi Lodge Ishasha

• Meal Plan: Full Board

After breakfast, depart for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in southwestern Uganda. The journey is scenic, passing through the beautiful Kigezi Highlands and terraced hills. Upon arrival, you may choose to take part in a community walk to visit the Batwa people, the original forest inhabitants, and learn about their history and way of life.

Accommodation:

• Mid-range: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

• Meal Plan: Full Board

Today is the highlight of your safari—the gorilla trek in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing. You will be assigned to a habituated gorilla family and set off with a small group and your guide to track the gorillas through the forest. The trek can take between 2 to 6 hours, but once you find the gorillas, you’ll have one hour to observe and photograph these incredible creatures.

After your trek, return to your lodge to rest, have dinner, and reflect on this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Accommodation:

• Mid-range: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

• Meal Plan: Full Board

After breakfast, transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, known as the “place of many little birds.” This scenic, tranquil lake is ideal for a canoe excursion to explore its islands and enjoy birdwatching. Take in the breathtaking views and enjoy the serenity of one of Uganda’s most picturesque spots.

Accommodation:

• Mid-range: Bunyonyi Overland Resort

• Meal Plan: Full Board

After breakfast, drive to Lake Mburo National Park, with a stop at the Igongo Cultural Centre for lunch and a chance to learn about the culture of western Uganda. Upon arrival, enjoy an afternoon boat cruise on Lake Mburo and an exciting game drive in the park, home to zebras, buffaloes, giraffes, and various bird species.

Accommodation:

• Mid-range: Mburo Safari Lodge

• Meal Plan: Full Board