12 Days Best of Uganda Safari

Overview

12 Days Best of Uganda safari adventure that showcases the very best of Uganda, offering a perfect blend of thrilling wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural experiences. From the bustling streets of Entebbe to the tranquil waters of Lake Bunyonyi, this itinerary provides a comprehensive exploration of Uganda’s most iconic destinations, including Jinja, Murchison Falls, Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi, and more. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a wildlife enthusiast, or a culture buff, this journey promises memories that will last a lifetime.

Travel Plan

• 01

  Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe and Transfer to Jinja

  Your journey begins with your arrival at Entebbe, where you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to Jinja, a town famously known as the source of the Nile. The drive to Jinja offers picturesque views of Uganda’s lush landscape, setting the tone for your adventure. Upon arrival, you’ll check in at 2 Friends Guest House, a charming accommodation known for its comfort and hospitality. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Source of the Nile, where the world’s longest river begins its journey to the Mediterranean Sea. This is a tranquil and historically significant site, offering a peaceful start to your safari.

• 02

  Day 2 : Rafting on the Nile

  On this day, prepare for an adrenaline-packed experience as you take on the Nile River with a rafting expedition. The Nile’s rapids are world-renowned, providing both novice and seasoned rafters with a thrilling adventure. As you navigate the white waters, you’ll be surrounded by stunning scenery, with the riverbanks teeming with birdlife. After an exhilarating day on the water, return to the comfort of 2 Friends Guest House to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures.

• 03

  Day 3: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park

  You will journey to Murchison Falls National Park, one of Uganda’s largest and most spectacular parks. The drive will take you through the beautiful Ugandan countryside, giving you a glimpse of rural life. Upon arrival at the park, you’ll visit the top of Murchison Falls, where the Nile River explodes through a narrow gorge and plunges into the river below, creating one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world. This awe-inspiring natural wonder is a highlight of the trip. You’ll spend the night at Pakuba Lodge, offering stunning views of the Nile and the surrounding wilderness.

• 04

  Day 4: Game Drive and Boat Trip in Murchison Falls

  The day begins with an early morning game drive in Murchison Falls National Park. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and antelopes. The early morning is the best time to spot these animals as they are most active during this time. After the game drive, return to the lodge for breakfast and some relaxation. In the afternoon, you’ll embark on a boat trip to the bottom of Murchison Falls. The boat ride offers a unique perspective of the falls and the opportunity to see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species up close. The day ends with a peaceful evening at Pakuba Lodge.

• 05

  Day 5: Transfer to Kibale National Park

  After breakfast, you’ll leave Murchison Falls and head to Kibale National Park, known as the “Primate Capital of the World.” The drive is long but scenic, passing through small towns and villages, tea plantations, and lush forests. Upon arrival at Kibale, you’ll check in at Tree Tops, an eco-friendly lodge nestled in the forest. The rest of the day is yours to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

• 06

  Day 6: Chimpanzee Tracking and Bigodi Swamp Walk

  This day is dedicated to one of the most exciting experiences in Uganda – chimpanzee tracking. Kibale National Park is home to over 1,500 chimpanzees, and you’ll have the chance to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat. The trek can be challenging, but the reward of watching chimpanzees swing through the trees and interact with each other is unforgettable. In the afternoon, you’ll explore the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary on a guided walk. This community-run sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 200 species recorded, as well as a variety of primates. After a day of adventure, return to Tree Tops for a well-deserved rest.

• 07

  Day 7: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

  On Day 7, you’ll transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most popular savannah reserve. The drive will take you through the crater lakes region, a picturesque area dotted with volcanic lakes and rolling hills. Upon arrival at the park, you’ll check in at Buffalo Safari Lodge, a comfortable lodge located near the park’s entrance. The rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore the lodge’s surroundings.

• 08

  Day 8: Game Drive and Boat Trip on the Kazinga Channel

  The day begins with a morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, and numerous antelope species. The game drive offers the best chance to spot these animals in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, you’ll take a boat trip on the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway that connects Lake Edward and Lake George. The channel is famous for its high concentration of hippos and crocodiles, as well as the many bird species that can be seen along its banks. After a full day of wildlife viewing, return to Buffalo Safari Lodge for the night.

• 09

  Day 9: Transfer to Bwindi via Ishasha

  After breakfast, you’ll transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The journey takes you through the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you’ll have the chance to see the famous tree-climbing lions. These unique lions are often found lounging in the branches of fig trees, providing a rare photo opportunity. Upon arrival in Bwindi, you’ll check in at Rushaga Gorilla Camp, your base for the next two nights.

• 10

  Day 10: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

  Day 10 is the highlight of your safari – gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. This challenging but rewarding experience involves trekking through dense forest to find a family of mountain gorillas. Once you find them, you’ll spend an hour observing these incredible creatures as they go about their daily lives. Watching the gorillas up close is a truly humbling experience and one that you’ll remember for the rest of your life. After the trek, return to Rushaga Gorilla Camp to relax and reflect on the day’s adventure.

• 11

  Day 11: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi

  After breakfast, you’ll transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, Africa’s second deepest lake, known for its stunning scenery and numerous islands. Upon arrival, you’ll check in at Bird’s Nest, a charming lodge overlooking the lake. In the afternoon, you’ll take a boat trip to explore some of the lake’s 29 islands, each with its own history and significance. The peacefulness of Lake Bunyonyi provides a perfect end to your Ugandan adventure.

• 12

  Day 12: Transfer to Kigali and Departure

  On the final day of your safari, you’ll transfer to Kigali, Rwanda’s capital city. Upon arrival, you’ll embark on a city tour, visiting places like the Kigali Genocide Memorial and local markets. This tour provides insight into Rwanda’s history and culture, rounding off your trip with a deeper understanding of the region. After the city tour, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your departure flight.

  END OF TRIP.