9 Days Cultural and Wildlife Safari in Uganda

Overview

Uganda, known as the Pearl of Africa, offers one of the most diverse and unique safari experiences on the continent. This 9-day cultural and wildlife safari takes you off the beaten path, from the iconic Sipi Falls to the rich cultural traditions of the Karamojong people, and into the untamed beauty of Kidepo Valley National Park. Along the way, you’ll encounter Uganda’s famed wildlife, from rhinos to giraffes, in some of the country’s most secluded parks.

Travel Plan

• 01

  Day 1: Arrival and Journey to Sipi Falls via Jinja

  Your adventure begins upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport or from your hotel, where you’ll be greeted by our professional guide and driver. After a short briefing, we embark on a scenic drive to Sipi Falls, located on the foothills of Mount Elgon. En route, we’ll stop in Jinja, the adrenaline capital of East Africa. Here, you’ll enjoy a short but fascinating boat trip to the Source of the Nile, where Lake Victoria meets the Nile River, the world’s longest river. This is a great opportunity to soak in the history and beauty of this natural wonder.

  Afterward, we continue to Sipi Falls, a serene area known for its impressive three-tiered waterfalls. Upon arrival in the late afternoon, you’ll check into your lodge with incredible views of the falls and the surrounding coffee plantations. Relax and enjoy the tranquil ambiance of rural Uganda as you prepare for the next day’s adventure.

  Overnight at a lodge near Sipi Falls.

• 02

  Day 2 : Discover Sipi Falls – Hiking and Coffee Experience

  After breakfast, the day kicks off with a hiking tour around the Sipi Falls area. You’ll trek through picturesque landscapes, passing small local villages, farmlands, and forested areas as you make your way to the different levels of the falls. Each tier offers breathtaking views and perfect spots for photography. The entire area is a hiker’s paradise, with trails that wind through lush greenery, offering fresh air and stunning panoramas.

  Post-hike, you’ll indulge in a coffee experience, a highlight of this region. Sipi is famous for producing some of Uganda’s finest Arabica coffee. The coffee tour will take you from the coffee garden, where you’ll learn about the growing process, to the final cup. You’ll participate in roasting and grinding the beans before enjoying a freshly brewed cup of coffee, rich in flavor and steeped in tradition.

  For the more adventurous, there’s an optional abseiling activity available at one of the falls’ cliffs. This exhilarating experience lets you descend alongside the waterfall, offering a thrill and a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape.

  Overnight at a lodge near Sipi Falls.

• 03

  Day 3: Drive to Moroto – Gateway to Karamoja

  After breakfast, we embark on a drive towards Moroto, a town nestled at the edge of the Karamoja region. This area is home to the Karamojong people, a semi-nomadic tribe known for their rich cultural heritage. The drive is scenic and gives you a glimpse of northern Uganda’s untouched landscapes.

  You’ll arrive in Moroto in the afternoon, where you’ll have the chance to explore the town or simply relax at your lodge. Moroto acts as the gateway to an unforgettable cultural experience with the Karamojong people.

  Overnight in Moroto.

• 04

  Day 4: Karamoja Cultural Experience

  Today, you’ll immerse yourself in the Karamoja culture, one of the last authentic tribal experiences in East Africa. The Karamojong are pastoralists who have preserved their traditional way of life, living in small thatched huts known as “Manyattas.” During your visit, you’ll learn about their unique customs, from traditional dance to cattle herding practices. The Karamojong have a deep connection to their livestock, which plays a central role in their daily lives.

  You’ll also participate in activities like bead-making and traditional crafts and experience a typical day in the life of this remarkable tribe. This cultural encounter is not only educational but also a moving reminder of the diversity and depth of Uganda’s heritage.

  Overnight in Moroto.

• 05

  Day 5: Journey to Kidepo Valley National Park

  After a hearty breakfast, we set off for the wild frontier of Kidepo Valley National Park, located in the far northeast of Uganda. This remote park is often described as Uganda’s best-kept secret, offering a true wilderness experience. The park’s isolation means it’s not crowded, allowing for a peaceful safari adventure. As you drive through open savannahs and rugged hills, you’ll get a sense of the untouched beauty of this region.

  Upon arrival in Kidepo, you’ll settle into your lodge and spend the rest of the evening at leisure, perhaps enjoying the sunset over the vast expanse of the park.

  Overnight at a lodge in Kidepo Valley National Park.

• 06

  Day 6: Game Drives in Kidepo Valley National Park

  Kidepo is known for its dramatic landscapes and incredible wildlife sightings. Start your day with an early morning game drive. This park is home to a wide range of animals, including elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and buffalo. It is also one of the few places in Uganda where you can spot cheetahs and ostriches. The game drives offer endless opportunities for wildlife photography and up-close encounters with these majestic creatures.

  In the afternoon, after a break at your lodge, you’ll embark on another game drive, this time exploring different areas of the park. The scenery is ever-changing, and Kidepo’s tranquility is unmatched by any other park in Uganda.

  Overnight at a lodge in Kidepo Valley National Park.

• 07

  Day 7: Travel to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

  On Day 7, you will journey from Kidepo to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. This sanctuary is the only place in Uganda where you can see white rhinos in the wild, as rhinos are currently being reintroduced into the country. The drive is long but rewarding, offering views of Uganda’s northern landscapes.

  Upon arrival at Ziwa, you’ll check into your accommodation and prepare for tomorrow’s close encounter with these magnificent creatures.

  Overnight at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

• 08

  Day 8: Rhino Tracking and Return to Entebbe

  Today, you’ll set out on a rhino tracking experience, walking through the sanctuary with a trained guide who will take you within a safe distance of the rhinos. This up-close encounter is a unique chance to observe these endangered animals in their natural habitat, an experience that will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of your safari.

  After rhino tracking, we embark on the journey back to Entebbe, marking the end of this incredible 9-day adventure. You’ll have the opportunity to reflect on your experiences, from cultural insights to breathtaking wildlife encounters, as we head back towards the airport.

• 09

  Day 9: Departure from Entebbe

  As your 9-day cultural and wildlife safari comes to a close, we hope you leave Uganda with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Safe travels!

  END OF TRIP.