Ultimate Uganda Safari

  • Uganda

Trip Overview

Embark on this comprehensive 18-day Uganda Safari, designed to take you through the heart of Uganda’s stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, and incredible wildlife. From the Source of the Nile to the majestic mountain gorillas of Bwindi, this journey covers almost all major game parks in Uganda, making it perfect for checking off your bucket list. Experience the thrill of white-water rafting in Jinja, marvel at the breathtaking Sipi Falls, immerse yourself in the culture of the Karamoja people, and enjoy unforgettable safaris in some of Africa’s best national parks. This is the ultimate adventure for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.


 

Is This Tour for Me?

  • Travel Style: Classic
    All of the highlights, culture, access, and I-can’t-believe-we-did-that moments, all at a great price.
  • Service Level: Standard
    Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with private transport.
  • Physical Rating: 4 – Demanding
    Some high-altitude hikes or more strenuous activities, but accessible to most healthy travelers.
  • Trip Type: Small Group
    Small group experience; Max 14, avg 10.
  • Age Requirement: 15+
    All travelers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Check Your Visa Requirements

Before booking, use our super-handy entry requirements guide to make sure you’ve got all the right documents to enter and travel through the countries on your adventure. Check out our Entry Requirements guide!

Itinerary

1

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Jinja

Arrive at Entebbe Airport before 4 pm. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your professional tour driver-guide who will warmly welcome you to Uganda. From Entebbe, embark on a journey to Jinja, the source of the Nile. Along the way, you’ll pass through the bustling roadside market of Namawojjolo, the lush Mabira Forest, and extensive tea and sugarcane plantations. Arrive in Jinja, check in at The Haven Eco River Lodge, and enjoy a leisurely evening by the Nile.

  • Accommodation: The Haven Eco River Lodge
  • Meals: Dinner
  • Travel Time: Approximately 4 hours
  • Main Destination: Jinja (Town)
2

Day 2: Morning Rafting and Afternoon Visit to the Source of the Nile, Transfer to Sipi Falls

Start your day with an adrenaline-pumping white-water rafting experience on the Nile, an unforgettable adventure. After lunch, visit the source of the Nile, where the world’s longest river begins its journey. After these exciting activities, embark on a scenic drive to Sipi Falls in Kapchorwa, passing through the beautiful eastern Uganda countryside. Check in at Rafiki Lodge Sipi and spend the evening at leisure.

  • Accommodation: Rafiki Lodge Sipi
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Travel Time: Approximately 5-6 hours
  • Main Destination: Sipi Falls (Highlight)
3

Day 3: Sipi Falls Walk and Coffee Tour

After breakfast, embark on a guided hike to explore the stunning Sipi Falls, a series of three waterfalls. The hike takes approximately 2½ – 3 hours and offers breathtaking views of the falls and the surrounding landscapes. In the afternoon, enjoy a coffee tour where you’ll learn about the journey of coffee from seed to cup. Return to the lodge for a relaxing evening.

  • Accommodation: Rafiki Lodge Sipi
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Main Destination: Sipi Falls (Highlight)
4

Day 4: Transfer to Moroto and Visit Tepeth Community

Enjoy breakfast and then transfer to Moroto via Soroti. Moroto is located at the foot of Mount Moroto and offers a glimpse into the lives of the indigenous Karamojong and Tepeth communities. Arrive around midday, have lunch, and then visit the Tepeth community to learn about their traditional hunter-gatherer lifestyle. The Tepeth, considered the first inhabitants of Karamoja, offer a fascinating look into a unique culture.

  • Accommodation: Kara-Tunga Safari Camp
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Travel Time: Approximately 5 hours
  • Main Destination: Moroto (Karamoja)
5

Day 5: Travel to Kidepo Valley NP, Game Drive

Set off early for Kidepo Valley National Park, one of Africa’s most spectacular parks. Arrive in time for lunch, followed by an afternoon game drive in the Narus Valley. Look out for herds of buffaloes, elephants, zebras, lions, and other wildlife. The park’s rugged savannah landscapes offer a unique safari experience.

  • Accommodation: Kidepo Savannah Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Travel Time: Approximately 5-6 hours
  • Main Destination: Kidepo Valley National Park
6

Day 6: Morning Game Drive and Karamojong Community Visit

Begin your day with a sunrise game drive to catch the early morning wildlife activity. Return to the lodge for lunch, and in the afternoon, visit the Karamojong community to learn about their culture and way of life. The Karamojong are known for their cattle-keeping culture, traditional dances, and unique manyattas (homesteads).

  • Accommodation: Kidepo Savannah Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Main Destination: Kidepo Valley National Park
7

Day 7: Morning Nature Walk and Afternoon Game Drive

This morning we will have breakfast and then move out to explore the African savannah on foot. Accompanied by an armed ranger-guide, you will venture along dry river beds, over rocky outcrops, and through bushland to track the resident wildlife. In the afternoon, return to the Narus Valley for more wildlife viewing. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

  • Accommodation: Kidepo Savannah Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Main Destination: Kidepo Valley National Park
8

Day 8: Transfer to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Nature Walk

Set off early for Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, a conservation effort that has successfully reintroduced rhinos to Uganda. The sanctuary is home to over 22 southern white rhinos. Upon arrival, check in and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, embark on a guided nature walk to explore the sanctuary, spotting various wildlife and learning about the conservation efforts.

  • Accommodation: Ziwa Rhino & Wildlife Ranch
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Travel Time: Approximately 6-7 hours
  • Main Destination: Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch
9

Day 9: Rhino Tracking and Transfer to Murchison Falls NP

After breakfast, join a guided rhino tracking experience on foot. Then, transfer to Murchison Falls National Park, where you’ll visit the top of the falls. Here, the Nile is channeled through a narrow gorge and plunges 45 meters, creating a spectacular sight. The thunderous roar and the mist from the falls provide a dramatic and unforgettable experience.

  • Accommodation: Ikorom Safari Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Travel Time: Approximately 3-4 hours
  • Main Destination: Murchison Falls National Park
10

Day 10: Full Day in Murchison Falls NP

Spend the day exploring Murchison Falls National Park. Enjoy a morning game drive to spot lions, giraffes, elephants, buffaloes, and more. After lunch at the lodge, embark on a boat trip to the base of the falls, where you’ll see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. The boat trip offers a unique perspective of the falls and the surrounding wildlife.

  • Accommodation: Ikorom Safari Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Main Destination: Murchison Falls National Park
11

Day 11: Transfer to Kibale Forest NP

After a relaxed breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Kibale Forest National Park, known for its population of chimpanzees. The journey takes you through picturesque villages and tea plantations. Kibale is home to 13 primate species, including the red colobus monkey, L’Hoest’s monkey, and the grey-cheeked mangabey.

  • Accommodation: Chimpanzee Forest Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Travel Time: Approximately 7 hours
  • Main Destination: Kibale National Park
12

Day 12: Bigodi Wetlands and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth NP

In the morning, explore the Bigodi Wetlands, a haven for birdwatchers and home to several primate species. The Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity, including the great blue turaco and a variety of butterflies. After lunch, transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park and go for a game drive to see elephants, buffaloes, and possibly lions.

  • Accommodation: Irungu Forest Safari Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Travel Time: Approximately 2-3 hours
  • Main Destination: Queen Elizabeth National Park
13

Day 13: Morning Game Drive and Boat Trip

Start the day with a morning game drive in the Kasenyi plains, known for its abundant wildlife, including lions, elephants, and Uganda kobs. In the afternoon, take a boat trip on the Kazinga Channel, a 32-kilometer-long natural channel connecting Lake George and Lake Edward. The channel is home to one of the world’s largest concentrations of hippos, as well as crocodiles, buffaloes, and a variety of water birds.

  • Accommodation: Irungu Forest Safari Lodge
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Main Destination: Queen Elizabeth National Park
14

Day 14: Drive to Ishasha Sector and Transfer to Bwindi

After breakfast, head to the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its unique tree-climbing lions. These lions are often seen lounging in the branches of fig trees, an unusual behavior that provides a picturesque and memorable safari experience. The chance of spotting these lions stands at about 60-70%, but they can sometimes be elusive. Aside from the lions, Ishasha is home to a variety of wildlife including elephants, buffaloes, and numerous antelope species. After the game drive, continue to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Arrive at the lodge, check in, and spend the evening at leisure.

  • Accommodation: Ride 4 a Woman Guesthouse
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Travel Time: Approximately 5 hours
  • Main Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
15

Day 15: Bwindi Forest Walk and Transfer to Ruhija Sector

Begin the day with a guided forest walk along the waterfall trail in Bwindi. This trail offers a perfect way to experience the depth of this “impenetrable” forest, with sightings of beautiful waterfalls, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and a variety of birds. The walk usually takes about 2-3 hours. After the walk, transfer to the Ruhija sector of Bwindi in preparation for the next day’s gorilla trekking. Spend the rest of the day relaxing at the lodge.

  • Accommodation: Broadbill Forest Camp
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Travel Time: Approximately 2 hours
  • Main Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
16

Day 16: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing at 7:30 AM on the dos and don’ts during gorilla trekking. At 8:00 AM, embark on the trek into the dense forest. The trekking can take anywhere from 2 to 8 hours, depending on the movement of the gorillas. Once you locate a gorilla family, you will have the unique opportunity to spend one hour observing these gentle giants up close—a truly humbling and emotional experience. After the trek, return to the lodge for some relaxation. In the late afternoon, you can opt for a community visit to the Batwa people, who will share their rich cultural heritage and traditions with you.

  • Accommodation: Broadbill Forest Camp
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Main Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
17

Day 17: Transfer to Lake Mburo NP and Game Drive

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before setting off for Lake Mburo National Park. This park is smaller but teeming with wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, impalas, elands, buffaloes, and the elusive leopards. Arrive and check in at the lodge. Later in the afternoon, go for a game drive to explore the park’s diverse landscapes and spot its abundant wildlife. Optionally, you can go on a night game drive to see nocturnal animals like bush babies, leopards, and hyenas.

  • Accommodation: Eagle’s Nest Camp
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Travel Time: Approximately 5 hours
  • Main Destination: Lake Mburo National Park
18

Day 18: Morning Walking Safari and Return to Entebbe

Start the day with an early morning walking safari, offering a unique opportunity to get close to wildlife such as zebras, giraffes, and antelopes in the company of an armed ranger-guide. After the walk, return to the lodge for breakfast and check out. Embark on the journey back to Entebbe, with a stop at the Equator for photos and souvenir shopping. Arrive in Entebbe in the late afternoon and proceed to the airport for your departure flight.

  • Accommodation: Not included (End of tour)
  • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
  • Travel Time: Approximately 4 hours
  • Main Destination: Entebbe International Airport

 

Inclusions

  • Tour Type:
    • Small Group Tour
    • Suitable for solo travelers, couples, and small groups
    • Can start any day (subject to availability)
    • Customizable itineraries

    Accommodation:

    • Mid-range to Budget lodges and tented camps
    • Selected lodges provide comfortable amenities and stunning views
    • All accommodations include private bathrooms and hot showers

    Meals:

    • All meals included (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
    • Special dietary requirements catered to upon request

    Transportation:

    • 4×4 safari vehicles with pop-up roofs for game viewing
    • Transfers from and to Entebbe International Airport
    • Road transfers between destinations

    Activities & Highlights:

    • White-water rafting on the Nile in Jinja
    • Hiking to Sipi Falls and coffee tour in Kapchorwa
    • Cultural visits to Tepeth and Karamojong communities in Moroto
    • Game drives in Kidepo Valley, Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Lake Mburo National Parks
    • Rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
    • Boat trips on the Nile and Kazinga Channel
    • Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
    • Nature walks in Kibale Forest and Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary
    • Walking safaris in Lake Mburo NP

    Wildlife Viewing:

    • High chance of seeing the Big Five: lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinos
    • Special encounters with mountain gorillas and chimpanzees
    • Abundant birdlife and diverse primates in various parks
    • Unique tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector

    Other Inclusions:

    • Park entrance fees
    • Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits
    • Professional English-speaking driver-guide
    • Drinking water during transfers and game drives

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