Itinerary

1. 8-Day Pearl of Africa Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi & Lake Bunyonyi Escape

   Day 1: Arrival Entebbe Airport-Kampala City:                                                                                           Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our professional guide. You will then be transferred to Cassia Lodge in Kampala, enjoying a comfortable drive with scenic views along the way. Upon arrival, check in and relax at the lodge before enjoying a delicious dinner and overnight stay.

   •Main destination: Kampala City

   •Accommodation: Cassia Lodge. Mid-Range Resort located near Kampala City.

   •Meals & drinks: Breakfast & Dinner included. drinking water (Lunch & Other drinks not included).

   Day 2: Kampala-Queen Elizabeth National Park                                                                                                 

   After breakfast, depart Kampala for a scenic journey westward, passing through expansive papyrus swamps, lush farmlands, and dense tropical forest as you traverse the Nile Delta region toward Fort Portal. The drive offers beautiful views of rural life, crater lakes, tea plantations, and the dramatic rise of the Ruwenzori Mountains—often referred to as the “Mountains of the Moon.” Enjoy a relaxed lunch stop in Fort Portal, a charming town set amid rolling green hills. Thereafter, continue to Queen Elizabeth National Park, arriving in time for late afternoon en-route game drive. As the sun sets over the savannah, keep watch for elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, warthogs, and a variety of birdlife against the backdrop of open plains, crater lakes, and distant mountain silhouettes. Proceed to your lodge for dinner and overnight at Enganzi Safari Lodge.

   •Main destination: Queen Elizabeth National Park

   •Accommodation: Enganzi Safari Lodge. Luxury Lodge located in Queen Elizabeth NP.

   •Meals & drinks: All meals included & drinking water (Other drinks not included

   Day 3: Queen Elizabeth National Park-Game Drives & Launch Cruise:                                                                                           Enjoy early morning game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, the best time to encounter a wide variety of wildlife, including iconic predators such as lions and elusive leopards, alongside numerous plains game species. The park is a world-class birding destination, with over 500 recorded species, earning it a reputation as a true haven for bird-watchers. Notable sightings include the black bee-eater, more than 11 species of kingfishers, and an impressive diversity of falcons, eagles, and other raptors. Recognized as one of Uganda’s greatest natural treasures, Queen Elizabeth National Park is designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve for Humanity. It lies dramatically within the western arm of the Great Rift Valley, bordered by Lakes George and Edward and linked by the scenic Kazinga Channel. After lunch, embark on a memorable two-hour launch cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a wildlife-rich waterway renowned for its dense populations of hippos, large herds of buffalo, and elephants gathering along the shores. This leisurely cruise provides exceptional opportunities for photography, bird watching, and close-range game viewing amid spectacular landscapes. As the day draws to a close, return to your lodge for dinner and a comfortable overnight stay at Enganzi Safari Lodge. 

   •Main destination: Queen Elizabeth National Park

   •Accommodation: Enganzi Safari Lodge. Luxury Lodge located in Queen Elizabeth NP.

   •Meals & drinks: All meals included & drinking water (Other drinks not included

   Day 4: Queen Elizabeth-Primate Walk & Game Drives - Bwindi National Park

   Rise very early and depart with packed lunches for a Guided Primate walk in the spectacular Kyambura Gorge, often referred to as the “Valley of Apes.” Descend into the lush forested gorge with an experienced ranger in search of the habituated chimpanzees, while also encountering other primates, birds, and unique plant species within this dramatic landscape. After the walk, continue south to the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, renowned for its rare tree-climbing lions. Enjoy afternoon game drive across the open savannah and fig-tree-dotted plains as you search for these iconic predators alongside buffaloes, elephants, and antelopes. Thereafter, proceed to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a scenic drive of approximately two hours through rolling hills, rural villages, and terraced farmlands. Arrive in the ancient, mist-covered rainforest of Bwindi, home to the endangered mountain gorillas and a rich diversity of wildlife, including blue and red-tailed monkeys. The forest is dense, emerald-green, and crisscrossed by clear streams. Dinner and overnight stay at Engagi Lodge – Bwindi

   •Main destination: Queen Elizabeth National Park – Bwindi National Park

   •Accommodation: Engagi Lodge Bwindi. Luxury Lodge located near Bwindi NP.

   •Meals & drinks: All meals included & drinking water (Other drinks not included

   Day 5: Bwindi National Park Gorilla Trekking & Village Walk

   Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before setting out for an 8:00 am trekking briefing with UWA staff. Ensure you carry essentials such as a rain jacket, water, snacks, jungle boots, and your packed lunch for the adventure ahead. Guided by experienced trackers, you will venture into the lush jungle in search of the rare and majestic Mountain Gorillas, an unforgettable wildlife experience. Trekking may take between 2 to 6 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location, but every moment is worth the effort. In the afternoon, enjoy the Buhoma Village Walk, offering an insightful glimpse into the daily lives of communities surrounding Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. This cultural experience allows direct support to locals while showcasing their ingenuity and traditions. Return to your Lodge for dinner and overnight stay at Engagi Lodge - Bwindi

   •Main destination: Bwindi Forest National Park

   •Accommodation: Engagi Lodge Bwindi. Luxury Lodge located near Bwindi NP.

   •Meals & drinks: All meals included & drinking water (Other drinks not included

   Day 6: Bwindi National Park-Lake Bunyonyi Islands                                                                                                              Enjoy an early breakfast before setting off on a scenic drive to Lake Bunyonyi via Kabale, a region fondly referred to as the “Switzerland of Africa.” The journey unfolds through dramatic winding roads, rolling hills, deep valleys, and beautifully terraced highlands, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Along the way, you will encounter vibrant rural life and the warm hospitality of the local communities. Arrive at Lake Bunyonyi, renowned for its tranquil waters, lush green islands, and surrounding misty hills that create one of Uganda’s most picturesque landscapes. The afternoon is reserved for relaxation and gentle sightseeing around your lodge, with opportunities to admire the serene lake, spot birdlife, and enjoy the peaceful natural setting. As evening falls, take in the sunset over the water before dinner and an overnight stay at Bunyonyi Crater Bay Cottages, nestled in this calm and scenic environment. 

   •Main destination: Lake Bunyonyi Island

   •Accommodation: Bunyonyi Crater Bay Cottages. Mid-Range Cottages located at Lake Bunyonyi

   •Meals & drinks: All meals included & drinking water (Other drinks not included

   Day 7: Lake Bunyonyi Islands – Boat Trip Nature Walk – Cultural Visits:

   Enjoy a scenic morning boat excursion on Lake Bunyonyi, gliding across calm waters dotted with lush, terraced islands. Visit several islands for a guided nature walk, where your guide interprets the rich flora, traditional farming practices, and breathtaking viewpoints overlooking the lake’s emerald hills. Continue with a cultural visit to the Batwa Pygmies community, one of Uganda’s oldest indigenous groups, to gain insight into their history, traditional lifestyle, music, and storytelling. The experience offers meaningful cultural exchange while supporting community livelihoods. The afternoon is ideal for leisurely sightseeing and birdwatching, as Lake Bunyonyi hosts numerous bird species such as grey-crowned cranes, herons, egrets, and weavers, making it a haven for bird enthusiasts. Return to the lodge to relax and reflect on the day’s discoveries. Dinner and overnight at Bunyonyi Crater Bay Cottages, set in a tranquil lakeside environment with panoramic views.

   •Main destination: Lake Bunyonyi Island

   •Accommodation: Bunyonyi Crater Bay Cottages. Mid-Range Cottages located at Lake Bunyonyi

   •Meals & drinks: All meals included & drinking water (Other drinks not included

   Day 8: Lake Bunyonyi– Igongo Cultural Center - Kampala/Entebbe

   After breakfast, depart for the return journey to Kampala and onward to Entebbe, enjoying scenic countryside views along the way. Lunch will be taken en route, with a meaningful stop at the Igongo Cultural Centre to gain insight into the rich heritage, traditions, and lifestyle of the Ankole and Bahima people, renowned for their long-horned cattle and pastoral culture. Continue the drive with a visit to the Equator in Uganda, where you will experience this unique geographical landmark and have time for photographs and souvenir shopping. Thereafter, proceed to Entebbe International Airport in time for your evening departure, marking the end of an enriching and memorable Ugandan journey.

   •Main destination: Entebbe International Airport

   •Accommodation: No Accommodation. End of the service.

   •Meals & drinks: Breakfast, Lunch & drinking water (Dinner & Other drinks not included)