Safari overview
Embark on a mesmerizing 10-day adventure like no other with our Exclusive Gorilla and Chimps Trekking, Big 5, and Nature Sighting Safari! Delve into the heart of Africa’s most iconic landscapes and wildlife havens, immersing yourself in the natural wonders that await. Discover the rare and majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat during thrilling gorilla trekking excursions. Witness the intimate moments of these gentle giants as they go about their daily routines, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with our closest primate relatives. Venture into the dense forests to track the playful chimpanzees, observing their lively antics and social interactions up close. Experience the thrill of encountering the Big 5 – lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos – in their untamed wilderness, capturing unforgettable moments of these magnificent creatures in action.
From the vibrant bird life to the diverse flora and fauna, each day of this exclusive safari promises new and exciting nature sightings that will leave you in awe of the beauty and diversity of Africa’s wildlife.
After indulging in a delicious breakfast, your Ugandan adventure commences as you journey northwest toward Masindi and the expansive Murchison Falls conservation area. This vast expanse is a tapestry of breathtaking landscapes, from the sweeping grassland acacia savannah in the north to the lush tropical forests in the south.
Your first stop is a nature walk at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, a vital breeding project dedicated to the preservation of the endangered white rhinos in Uganda. Here, amidst the sanctuary’s natural habitat, you’ll have the extraordinary opportunity to observe these majestic creatures up close as they roam freely. Enjoy a delightful lunch at the sanctuary’s restaurant before continuing your journey to the national park.
Arriving at Murchison Falls, be prepared to be awestruck by the sheer power and beauty of nature as you visit the top of the falls. Watch in wonder as the mighty river Nile cascades through a narrow canyon, creating a spectacle of thunderous water against the backdrop of the Albertine Rift Valley.
Finally, check into your lodge where you’ll be treated to a sumptuous dinner and a restful overnight stay, surrounded by the tranquility of the wilderness. Reflect on the day’s adventures and anticipate the wonders that await you in Murchison Falls National Park.
Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge
Meal plan: Half board
Start your day bright and early at 6 am with a steaming cup of coffee and a quick snack to fuel your body for an exciting adventure ahead. Grab your packed breakfast, hop into your safari vehicle, and kick off the morning with an exhilarating game drive safari in Murchison Falls National Park. The early hours offer prime opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife, including elusive nocturnal creatures and predators like lions, leopards, and hyenas in their active state before retreating to their dens.
As you navigate through the park, keep your camera ready to capture sightings of antelopes, giraffes, buffaloes, and hippos among other herbivores. Murchison Falls National Park is renowned for its population of Nubian Giraffes, ensuring you a remarkable encounter with these majestic creatures. Your knowledgeable safari guide will provide insights into the diverse wildlife species you encounter, enhancing your safari experience.
After a break for breakfast, continue your game drive until midday before returning to your lodge for relaxation and lunch. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic 3-hour boat cruise along the Nile River, starting from Paraa and cruising upstream towards the majestic falls. Marvel at the sight of Nile crocodiles, hippos, and a variety of aquatic bird species along the riverbanks. Keep your eyes peeled for land mammals such as elephants and buffaloes quenching their thirst in the river. Later in the evening, start your evening game drive and this will specifically be based at searching for the big predators of the park search as Lions, Leopard, hyenas. Then return for your lodge to relax, have dinner and an overnight.
Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge
Meal plan: Full board
After breakfast at your accommodation, drive to the top of the falls (if you didn’t hike) where you will have spectacular view of the falls before departing for Kibale NP. Else, depart right away (after breakfast) for Kibale Forest National Park. The drive is incredibly scenic, passing through villages, lush green countryside and hills dotted with tea plantations which characterize this part of Uganda. Kibale NP is popular for its primates like the chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, grey cheeked mangabeys and red tailed monkeys. On your chimpanzee trails, these are regularly seen swinging in the forest trees and others feeding on the wild fruits. You will reach and do little but check into your accommodation where you will have dinner and the overnight rest.
Accommodation: Kibale Forest Camp.
Full Board
Embark on an exhilarating chimpanzee trekking adventure in the lush forests of Uganda. After enjoying a hearty breakfast, head to the park’s information center for a vital briefing on chimpanzee trekking protocols, ensuring the safety of both visitors and the chimpanzees. As you delve into the forest, keep a keen eye out for chimpanzees and other captivating wildlife such as L’Hoest monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and forest elephants. The park’s rich avian diversity further enhances the enchanting forest experience.
Uganda’s abundant wildlife offers a unique opportunity to observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat year-round. Kibale National Park, home to over 1500 chimpanzees, stands as a premier destination for chimpanzee trekking worldwide. The forest trek to locate the chimpanzees may vary from 30 minutes to 4 hours, depending on their foraging patterns. Upon encountering these remarkable primates, spend an hour observing, photographing, and learning from experienced park guides before receiving a certificate of completion at the park information center.
After your lunch, You will have an opportunity to go for a community walk in Bigodi for experiences like African homesteads, Banana bonga products, chimpanzee robusta coffee experience, traditional healers/doctors, handcraft making (ladies weaving baskets and cultural dances), cultural weddings, iron smith, and milking experiences. As the day draws to a close, retreat to your booked lodge for a delightful dinner and a peaceful overnight stay, filled with memories of cultural exploration and scenic wonders.
Accommodation: Kibale Forest Camp.
Full board
After a satisfying breakfast in Kibale National Park, your journey continues to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s second largest park. Nestled amidst the stunning Rwenzori Mountain range and bordered by serene Lake Edward and Lake George, Queen Elizabeth boasts diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. Expect encounters with classic big game, ten primate species including chimpanzees, and over 600 bird species across its sprawling savannah. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely lunch before embarking on an afternoon boat safari along the iconic Kazinga Channel. Glide through tranquil waters, spotting hippos, elephants, crocodiles, and myriad bird species. After the safari, return for a delicious dinner and a peaceful overnight stay, surrounded by the enchanting wilderness. Tomorrow holds more adventures in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Accommodation: Buffalo Safari Lodge
Full Board
Begin your day with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee, gearing up for an unforgettable adventure in the wilderness. Embark on an exhilarating game drive across Kasenyi plains, spotting majestic Cape Buffaloes, graceful Elephants, quirky Warthogs, elegant Waterbucks, and iconic Uganda Kob. Keep watch for elusive Lions, cunning Hyenas, and stealthy Leopards, along with myriad bird species soaring above. After a morning of thrilling wildlife encounters, enjoy a leisurely lunch before delving into Katwe community’s salt mining activities on Lake Edward and Katwe Salt Lake. Learn about traditional salt mining techniques from a knowledgeable local guide. As dusk approaches, set out for an evening game drive in Kasenyi plains, where wildlife thrives amidst the golden hues. Spot Cape Buffaloes, Elephants, Warthogs, Waterbucks, Uganda Kob, Lions, Hyenas, Leopards, and a variety of birds. End your day with the captivating sight of wildlife under the setting sun before returning to your lodge for a peaceful overnight stay.
Accommodation: Buffalo Safari Lodge.
Full Board
Wake up with the first light of dawn and savor a delicious breakfast to fuel your day of adventure. Today, your journey leads you to the Ishasha sector, renowned for its unique inhabitants—the legendary tree-climbing lions. With anticipation running high, embark on a captivating morning game drive through the rugged terrain, keeping your eyes peeled for these elusive felines as they perch majestically atop the ancient fig trees.
As the golden rays of the sun illuminate the landscape, immerse yourself in the beauty of the wilderness and the thrill of the hunt for these iconic creatures. With each twist and turn of the trail, you’ll be filled with excitement, eagerly awaiting the sight of these remarkable lions in their natural habitat.
After an exhilarating morning of wildlife exploration, return to your accommodation for some well-deserved rest and relaxation. Indulge in a leisurely lunch, savoring the flavors of the local cuisine, and take time to unwind amidst the tranquil surroundings.
As you reflect on the morning’s adventures, let the anticipation build for the wonders that await you in the afternoon. With memories of the majestic tree-climbing lions fresh in your mind, prepare for the next chapter of your safari journey, filled with the promise of new encounters and unforgettable experiences.
Accommodation: Topi Safari Lodge
Full Board
Wake up to a hearty breakfast, then set off for an unforgettable journey to Bwindi National Park. Feel the anticipation grow as you approach the lush forests and misty mountains. Guided by experienced rangers, venture deep into the park to encounter the majestic mountain gorillas. Prepare for an awe-inspiring adventure amidst nature’s wonders.
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Camp.
Full Board
Prepare for an extraordinary mountain gorilla trekking experience by waking up early and donning the recommended attire: long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, waterproof hiking shoes, a waterproof jacket, a round hat, and heavy-duty gloves to combat the unpredictable forest weather. After breakfast and packing your lunch, meet your safari guide and head to the park information center for a comprehensive pre-trek briefing. Learn about the dos and don’ts, expectations, and code of conduct during the gorilla trek.
Grouped with eight individuals, you will be assigned a specific gorilla family to track, accompanied by armed rangers and a knowledgeable guide. Venture deep into the forest, following trails in search of the mountain gorillas. The trek duration typically ranges from 45 minutes to 6 hours, depending on the gorilla family’s location and movements. Be mentally and physically prepared for the challenging terrain and consider your fitness level when selecting a gorilla family to track.
As you explore, encounter diverse wildlife such as forest elephants, primates, and endemic bird species, with your guide providing insights into the rich ecosystem. Upon meeting the gorilla family, enjoy a mesmerizing hour observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Respect their space, avoid direct eye contact with the dominant silverback, and maintain a calm demeanor if confronted. After this intimate encounter, receive your trekking certificate as a token of appreciation for contributing to gorilla conservation.
After a rewarding morning, return to your lodge for a leisurely lunch and relaxation before the afternoon’s cultural immersion with the Batwa Pygmies. Step back in time as you engage with this ancient community, learning about their traditional way of life, ancestral customs, and profound connection to the forest. Participate in immersive cultural experiences, including traditional dances, storytelling sessions, and hands-on activities that provide insight into the Batwa’s heritage and their harmonious relationship with nature. It’s a journey of discovery and cultural exchange that will deepen your appreciation for Uganda’s rich and diverse heritage. Drive back to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay
Accommodation: Bakiga Lodge
Full Board
Enjoy your early breakfast then checkout and then hit the road to Entebbe airport for your flight out w ith an en route lunch at Kayabwe Equator which gives you an opportunity to take photos on the equator monument and water experience.
Meal plan Breakfast/Lunch
Package price includes:
l Park fees(For non-residents)
l Gorilla permits(One per person, non-resident) ($800)
l Chimp permits(One per person, non-resident) ($250)
l All activities(Unless labeled as optional)
l All accommodation(Unless listed as upgrade)
l A professional driver/guide
l All transportation(Unless labeled as optional)
l All Taxes/VAT
l Roundtrip airport transfer
l Meals(As specified in the day-by-day section)
l Drinking water(On all days)
Safari excludes;
l Entry visas and flights
l Items of personal nature/tips/laundry
l Personal insurance