Uganda · Safari

8-Day Uganda Safari to Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi and Lake Bunyonyi

8 Days Round trip from Uganda Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park with chances to see elephants, lions, buffalo, and antelopes
  • 02 Boat safari on the Kazinga Channel with large pods of hippos, crocodiles, and rich birdlife
  • 03 Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to encounter endangered mountain gorillas
  • 04 Scenic relaxation at Lake Bunyonyi surrounded by rolling hills and peaceful islands
  • 05 Diverse landscapes across Uganda, from savannah plains to dense rainforest
  • 06 Opportunities for birdwatching and photography throughout the journey
  • 07 Cultural encounters with local communities near Bwindi and Lake Bunyonyi
  • 08 Comfortable lodges and breathtaking natural scenery throughout the safari

Discover Uganda's highlights on this 8-day Pearl of Africa Escape, combining classic wildlife, primate encounters, and scenic relaxation. Explore Queen Elizabeth National Park with game drives and a Kazinga Channel boat safari, home to elephants, lions, and hippos. Journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience, then unwind at beautiful Lake Bunyonyi, surrounded by rolling hills and tranquil waters, before returning with lasting memories of Uganda's natural beauty.

Discover Uganda's highlights on this 8-day Pearl of Africa Escape, combining classic wildlife, primate encounters, and scenic relaxation.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Kampala, Entebbe, Kabale, Fort Portal, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Rwenzori Mountains National Park, Lake Bunyonyi
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Entebbe and Transfer to Kampala

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, a mid-range resort located near Kampala City.

Meals & drinks: Breakfast and dinner included, plus drinking water. Lunch and other drinks are not included.

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 a 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, a luxury lodge located in Queen Elizabeth NP.

Meals & drinks: All meals included and drinking water. Other drinks are not included.

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, a luxury lodge located in Queen Elizabeth NP.

Meals & drinks: All meals included and drinking water. Other drinks are not included.

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 an 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, a luxury lodge located near Bwindi NP.

Meals & drinks: All meals included and drinking water. Other drinks are not included.

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, a luxury lodge located near Bwindi NP.

Meals & drinks: All meals included and drinking water. Other drinks are not included.

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 and drinking water. Other drinks are not included.

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 and drinking water. Other drinks are not included.

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 service.

Meals & drinks: Breakfast, lunch, and drinking water included. Dinner and other drinks are not included.

Queen Elizabeth National Park savannah, Kazinga Channel waters, Lake Bunyonyi islands and rolling hills

Where this trip takes you

Queen Elizabeth National Park savannah, Kazinga Channel waters, Lake Bunyonyi islands and rolling hills

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Uganda 8 cities · 8 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Costs include:

  • Airport transfers and assistance
  • Accommodation in Kampala on a bed and breakfast basis
  • Accommodation at lodge/hotel on a full-board basis
  • Guided game drives
  • Park fees at Queen Elizabeth NP
  • Kyambura chimpanzee permit
  • Tree-climbing lions fees
  • Community walks at Bwindi
  • Nature walk at Lake Bunyonyi
  • Igongo cultural visits
  • Batwa Pygmies cultural visits
  • Two-hour boat trip along the Kazinga Channel
  • Private transport in a 4x4 Land Cruiser
  • Services of an English-speaking driver-guide
  • One gorilla permit at Bwindi Forest NP
  • Bottled drinking water while trekking and in the vehicle
  • Emergency evacuation medical insurance
  • All taxes on the services quoted above

What's Not Included

Costs exclude:

  • Meals and beverages other than those specified
  • International, regional, and local airfares
  • Airport taxes
  • Passport and visa fees, and service charges for obtaining visas
  • Excess baggage charges levied by airlines
  • Gratuities to driver-guides and other conveyance attendants
  • Laundry and other items of a personal nature, such as drinks and telephone calls
  • Personal and baggage insurance
  • Costs for anything not specifically mentioned in the listing above

What to bring

  • Valid passport and visa for entry into Uganda.
  • Comfortable hiking shoes for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
  • Lightweight clothing, long-sleeved shirts, and long trousers for trekking and game drives.
  • Rain jacket or waterproof gear, as rainforest weather can change quickly.
  • Insect repellent and sunscreen.
  • Personal medications and a small first-aid kit.
  • Camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Know before you go

  • Gorilla trekking permits for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park are limited and must be booked well in advance.
  • Gorilla trekking requires moderate physical fitness and may involve hiking in steep, muddy terrain.
  • The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years.
  • Weather in western Uganda can be unpredictable, especially in rainforest areas.
  • Yellow fever vaccination is required for entry into Uganda.
  • Wildlife sightings in Queen Elizabeth National Park are natural and cannot be guaranteed.
  • Travel insurance covering medical emergencies and trip cancellations is highly recommended.
  • Some lodges around Lake Bunyonyi and Bwindi are in remote areas with limited internet connectivity.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Entebbe, Uganda
Tour start
Uganda
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 8 days finish where they began, in Uganda.

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Starting from

USD 3,347 /person
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Estimated room rates

Single Room $3,347.00 — $6,422.00
Double Sharing $3,347.00 — $4,380.00

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