Overview
The 16 days trip starts and ends at Entebbe International Airport bringing you up close to the beautiful Ugandan cultures, the mystical craters, the thundering Murchison Falls, meeting eye on eye with the closest man cousins the mountain gorillas and chimpanzees feeding your mind with beautiful memories and amazing sunsets surely giving you lasting mark of adventure.
Highlights
- Trek to view on of the rearrest birds in the world (shoebill)
- Enjoy the amazing view of East African Savanah
- Travel through largest and oldest park in Uganda
16 DAYS
The first day of your exciting journey begins with an arrival at the Entebbe International Airport, Uganda. Upon arrival, you will meet by one of our guides, who is easily identifiable by a sign bearing the name "Tooro Hills".
Once you are at the airport, your guide will drive you from the airport to your hotel in Entebbe. This is a short drive with a duration of about 10 minutes.
Depending on time and date of arrival, you can visit the Ndere Cultural Centre in Ntinda, Kampala, for a 3-hour immersive evening of Ugandan music, dance, and cultural storytelling. Main shows occur on Wednesdays and Fridays (7–10 pm) and Sundays (6–9 pm).
Enjoy dinner, BBQ, and performances covering various Ugandan tribes in an open-air amphitheater. (Optional activity not included in the cost)
ACCOMMODATION: BEST WESTERN PREMIER ENTEBBE
MEAL PLAN: BED & BREAKFAST
In the morning, a delicious breakfast awaits you at the hotel to recharge your batteries embark on your safari kicking off with the visit to Mabamba wetland.
Mabamba Wetland is one of Uganda's important birding areas. It covers about 24.24 km2 and consists mainly of ferns, papyrus, water lilies and other grasses around its shallow waters. It is an ideal habitat for various species of waterbirds, most of which can be spotted during a bird-watching excursion. This wetland is home to more than 260 species of birds, making it an incredible place for bird watching, with the opportunity to observe, among others, annual migratory birds, as well as the rare shoebill storks.
Afterwards, you will lunch and drive to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. On the way, you will enjoy the beauty of the Ugandan landscape as you make your way to this unique sanctuary in the region.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is the one of the places in Uganda where you can have a close encounter with white rhinos in their natural habitat (7,000 hectares of land). Arrival in Ziwa, check into the hotel where you will have time to relax and unwind. Later, dinner awaits you at the hotel restaurant where you can enjoy a delicious meal in a cozy atmosphere.
ACCOMMODATION: ZIWA RHINO LODGE (ROOMS)
MEAL PLAN: FULL BOARD
After breakfast, the adventure begins with a walk-in search of the impressive rhinos that inhabit the sanctuary. An experienced guide will lead you along safe paths as you try to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
After tracking, you will transfer to Murchison Falls National Park.
Murchison Falls National Park lies at the northern end of the Albertine Rift Valley, where the sweeping Bunyoro escarpment tumbles into vast, palm-dotted savanna. First gazetted as a game reserve in 1926, it is Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area.
The park is bisected by the Victoria Nile, which plunges 45m over the remnant rift valley wall, creating the dramatic Murchison Falls, the centerpiece of the park and the final event in an 80km stretch of rapids. The mighty cascade drains the last of the river’s energy, transforming it into a broad, placid stream that flows quietly across the rift valley floor into Lake Albert.
Upon arrival at the park, we will start our tour at the breathtaking Murchison Falls, where the Nile River narrows and cascades into a spectacular waterfall.
ACCOMMODATION: PAKUBA SAFARI LODGE
MEAL PLAN: FULL BOARD
In the morning, you will immerse in the beauty of African nature with a morning safari in Murchison Falls National Park, where you will have the opportunity to spot the "Big Four" in their natural habitat. You will experience the thrill of seeing lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards.
After you will have lunch and later go for boat cruise to the bottom of the falls along the Victoria Nile and your guide will help spot aquatic wildlife and birds on the river banks.
After the boat cruise, you will have a short game drive as you drive back to the lodge. Enjoy a delicious dinner that will conclude your day filled with emotions in the heart of African nature.
ACCOMMODATION: PAKUBA SAFARI LODGE
MEAL PLAN: FULL BOARD
You’ll have an early breakfast and set off for an unforgettable adventure with a boat trip down the Nile to the delta 4-5 hours, approximately 20km trip downstream from Paraa to the Lake Albert a home to rare wetland birds including shoebill and papyrus endemic species.
Return to the lodge for lunch and later in the evening, go for a night game drive that will give you an opportunity to see the nocturnal animals.
ACCOMMODATION: PAKUBA SAFARI LODGE
MEAL PLAN: FULL BOARD
After breakfast, we will transfer to Kibale National Park. It's a car journey of approximately 8-9 hours. You will enjoy the landscapes and make stops along the way if needed.
Once we arrive at the accommodation, we will check in, and enjoy dinner and a well-deserved rest in the comfortable facilities.
ACCOMMODATION: CHIMPANZEE FOREST LODGE
MEAL PLAN: FULL BOARD
After breakfast, you will drive to Semuliki National Park approximately 1 hour drive for nature walk to explore the male and female Sempaya hot springs where boiling water bubbles up from deep underground, releasing steam into the forest. These geothermal springs, some reaching temperatures hot enough to boil eggs, offer a dramatic demonstration of the powerful subterranean forces.
Semuliki’s landscapes and biodiversity bear more resemblance to Central Africa than to the rest of Uganda. The Semuliki River, which forms the international boundary with the Democratic Republic of Congo, is a miniature version of the mighty Congo River. Its meandering waters are lined with West African oil palms, and the forest harbors wildlife typically found in Central rather than East Africa.
After proceed to Amabere Ga Nyinamwiru Caves, take a guided walking tour to view the stalactites and stalagmites, hear the local legend, and hike up the adjacent volcanic crater hills for spectacular views.
End the day with a visit to Tooro Palace in Fort Portal enjoying a guided tour learning about the cultural history of the kingdom and panoramic views of Fort Portal town.
ACCOMMODATION: CHIMPANZEE FOREST LODGE
MEAL PLAN: FULL BOARD
In the morning, you will head into the lush rainforest of Kibale for an exciting walk-in search of chimpanzees. Accompanied by one of your expert guides, you will immerse yourself in the search for these fascinating primates, close cousins of humans. It is a unique moment to observe their behavior in their natural habitat, listen to their calls and learn about their daily life.
After the chimpanzee search, you will have a nature walk in Bigodi swamp.
Bigodi wetlands is a birder’s haven you will spot birds found in the wetland like the great blue turaco, papyrus gonolek and many other swamp endemics.
ACCOMMODATION: CHIMPANZEE FOREST LODGE
MEAL PLAN: FULL BOARD
In the morning, after breakfast, you’ll set off to explore the Crater Lakes in Kasenda Sub-county.
After, transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its impressive biodiversity and exciting wildlife sightings. Once there, we will pause in Mweya for a delicious lunch. This is the perfect time to recharge your batteries before continuing on our exciting boat safari.
Afterwards, you will embark on an exciting boat safari on the Kazinga Channel. During this trip, you will be able to admire up close the impressive wildlife that congregates along the banks of the canal, including hippos, crocodiles, elephants and a variety of exotic birds.
In the afternoon, we will return to the lodge, where you will have time to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the surrounding nature. Afterwards, dinner awaits you at the restaurant.
ACCOMMODATION: ACACIA WILDERNESS MWEYA
MEAL PLAN: FULL BOARD
Your day begins with an exciting adventure: a morning safari in Kasenyi Plains North of Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you can closely admire the fascinating African wildlife in its natural habitat like elephants, lions, Ugandan Kobs, warthogs, buffalo, waterbuck and various species of birds, about 620 in total.
After drive to Kyambura gorge viewpoint platform to see the 100-meter-deep green canyon surrounded by savannah.
Have lunch and drive into the Rubirizi district (Bunyaruguru) to explore the twin lakes (Katinda and Mirambi). Enjoy the scenic views of these dramatic, emerald-green crater lakes. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.
ACCOMMODATION: ACACIA WILDERNESS MWEYA
MEAL PLAN: FULL BOARD
Have relaxed breakfast, check out and drive to the Ishasha sector of the park, check in, have lunch and later have an evening game drive in the Ishasha sector.
Ishasha Sector is famous for its tree-climbing lions. These unique predators spend their days lounging on fig trees, scanning the vast savanna plains for prey. This behavior is rare globally, making Ishasha a must-visit for safari enthusiasts
ACCOMMODATION: ENJOJO LODGE
MEAL PLAN: FULL BOARD
The day starts with a delicious breakfast. Afterwards, you head out for a morning game drive. Then departure and transfer to the magical Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
The Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a unique place in the world, known to be home to more than a half of the remaining endangered mountain gorillas.
When we arrive at our destination, check into the lodge, head out for a fascinating cultural tour with the Batwa Experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
This immersive experience offers a unique insight into the lives and traditions of the Batwa Pygmies, the original inhabitants of the forest. Attend demonstrations of traditional Batwa skills, such as fire making and shelter building. The Batwa will also share their ancient stories, songs and traditional dances, providing a rich cultural experience.
In the evening, you will enjoy a delicious dinner at the lodge's restaurant, where you can relax and recharge your batteries for the exciting experiences that awaits you the following day.
ACCOMMODATION: HAVEN LODGE BUHOMA
MEAL PLAN: FULL BOARD
In the morning, you will venture into the mountains to start the exciting tracking of mountain gorillas. It will be a unique opportunity to get up close to these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Accompanied by a professional guide, you will learn about their behavior and conservation while sharing unforgettable moments with them. Additionally, you will enjoy a hike through the mountains, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes that will leave you breathless.
After an exciting and adventure-filled day, head to Lake Bunyonyi a 4-5 hours’ drive.
Lake Bunyonyi is a lava dammed lake found in Kabale District. It derives its name from word “Bunyonyi” translated as a place of many little birds. You will immerse yourself in the serenity of this place while enjoying the breathtaking views that the lake offers.
ACCOMMODATION: ARCADIA LODGE LAKE BUNYONYI
MEAL PLAN: FULL BOARD
After breakfast, you will enjoy a peaceful boat ride around the charming neighboring islands, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the picturesque Lake Bunyonyi region and after you will transfer to the stunning Lake Mburo National Park a 5 hours journey.
Lake Mburo National Park is a compact gem, conveniently located close to the highway connecting Kampala with the parks of western Uganda. It is the smallest of Uganda's savannah national parks and lies beneath ancient Precambrian metamorphic rocks dating back more than 500 million years. It is home to 75 mammal species such as Boehm’s zebras, Impalas, Common elands, Cape buffalo, Defassa waterbuck, African leopard, Hippopotamus, Spotted hyena, Nubian giraffes, Nile bushbuck, Topi and 350 bird species.
Check in to the lodge, head out for community visit immersing yourself in the local culture of traditional Bahima farm. Learn about their cultural traditions and way of life, including the long-horned Ankole cattle, the ghee-making process and a milk tasting.
In the evening, you can relax and recharge in the comfort of your accommodation, where you will also enjoy dinner in the restaurant, rounding off a day full of unforgettable experiences amidst Uganda’s natural beauty.
ACCOMMODATION: RWAKOBO ROCK
MEAL PLAN: FULL BOARD
You begin the day with a morning breakfast, check out and go for an exciting adventure; a walking safari. Immerse ourself in the natural beauty of the region as you explore on foot and discover the local fauna and flora.
After, check out and head to Kampala with a special stopover at the Equator line. It will be a unique opportunity to be in two hemispheres at the same time.
Proceed to Entebbe for dinner and overnight.
ACCOMMODATION: BEST WESTERN PREMIER ENTEBBE
MEAL PLAN: BED & BREAKFAST
In the morning, a delicious breakfast awaits you at the lodge to recharge your batteries and start the day full of energy.
After breakfast, you’ll set off to Bulange building, the seat of the Buganda Lukiiko (Parliament). Visitors can explore the colonial architecture, see where the Kabaka (King) addresses his subjects, and learn about the 56 Buganda clans. Walk the Royal Mile, a historic road connecting the Bulange parliament to the Lubiri Palace. This path is lined with monuments representing the different Buganda clans.
Tour the Lubiri Palace (Kabaka's Palace) in Mengo. Learn about the kingdom’s history and visit the nearby Idi Amin torture chambers, a somber reminder of Uganda's past. Enjoy local Ugandan cuisine (such as Matooke, Luwombo) at Palace.
After lunch, drive to Gaddafi National Mosque and climb the minaret to enjoy a panoramic view of Kampala, admire the beautiful architecture and learn about the history of the mosque, and visit Nakasero Market to experience the hustle and bustle of a local market, where you can see a variety of fresh produce, spices and local delicacies.
Afterwards, head to the Craft Market to buy unique handmade crafts, souvenirs and gifts. It is the perfect place to find traditional Ugandan arts and crafts, so at the end of the safari and depending on your departure time, you will be taken to the airport
MEAL PLAN: HALF BOARD
“End of Safari”
Cost
The Cost Includes
- • SOLO TRAVELLER: $ 10065
- • GROUP OF 2 PAX (DOUBLE/TWIN OCCUPANCY): $ 6840
- • GROUP OF 4 PAX: (DOUBLE/TWIN OCCUPANCY) $ 5550
- • GROUP OF 6 PAX: (DOUBLE/TWIN OCCUPANCY) $ 5120
- • SINGLE GROUP SUPPLEMENT: $ 560
- NOTE:
- Primate permits
- Gorilla tracking will depend on the sector with availability of which the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) grants us permission to carry out the activity. It could be in any of the different sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo, Rushaga, or Mgahinga).
- Accommodations:
- The accommodation offered will be guaranteed once the customer confirms the reservation. If the accommodations are not available, we will proceed to change to others with similar amenities.
- INCLUSIVE:
- • Airport transfers according to the itinerary.
- • Accommodations and meal plan as per the itinerary.
- • Private 4*4 land cruiser (plus fuel).
- • English-speaking guide/driver (also during chimpanzee and gorilla tracking and/or during visits accompanied by a local English-speaking guide).
- • Mineral water during the journey in the car.
- • Cruises, boats, and ferries specified in the program.
- • Entrance fees to parks/permits (gorillas $800 and chimpanzees $300) and activities according to the itinerary. Costs are fixed and established by national parks.
The Cost Excludes
- • International flights.
- • Medical and/or travel insurance.
- • Visa for Uganda.
- • Personal expenses such as beverages (soft drinks, water, wine, beer, spirits...), tips, phone calls, etc.
- • Any other item not included in the itinerary.
