20-Day Luxury Uganda Safari with Gorilla Trekking and Balloon Ride

20 Days Round trip from Entebbe Moderate pace
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The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Tracking endangered mountain gorillas in the misty forests of Bwindi
  • 02 Float above Murchison Falls National Park on a hot air balloon safari
  • 03 Track wild rhinos on foot at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary with expert rangers
  • 04 Cruise Lake Victoria and the Kazinga Channel on private boat safaris

This extraordinary 20-day luxury safari is a carefully curated journey through Uganda's most spectacular landscapes, wildlife reserves, rainforests, mountains, and lakes. Designed for discerning travelers seeking exclusivity, comfort, and authentic African experiences, this expedition combines world-class safari adventures with elegant accommodation, private guided excursions, fine dining, and seamless luxury transfers. From tracking endangered mountain gorillas in the misty forests of Bwindi to floating above the savannah in a hot air balloon over Murchison Falls National Park, every day offers a new chapter of discovery, all while traveling in a luxury 4x4 safari vehicle with a professional private guide.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 20 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Included · Luxury
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Yes
Cities Entebbe, Fort Portal, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kibale National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Rwenzori Mountains National Park, Lake Victoria, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Lake Bunyonyi

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

VIP Arrival in Entebbe and Lakeside Welcome

  • Arrival: Entebbe International Airport - warmly welcomed by your personal safari concierge and professional guide

  • Briefing: Enjoy chilled refreshments and a personalized briefing

  • Transfer: 15-20 minutes from Entebbe International Airport - board your luxury air-conditioned transfer vehicle

  • Hotel: An elegant lakeside resort overlooking the shimmering waters of Lake Victoria

  • Leisure: Relax beside the lake, enjoy spa facilities, or watch the sunset paint the sky in shades of gold and crimson

  • Luxury Experience: VIP airport meet and greet

  • Luxury Experience: Private luxury transfer

  • Luxury Experience: Lake Victoria sunset views

  • Luxury Experience: Gourmet welcome dinner

  • Overnight: Luxury Lakeside Resort, Entebbe

2
Day 02

Entebbe Botanical Gardens and Private Sunset Cruise

  • Breakfast: After a leisurely breakfast
  • Activity: Explore the historic Entebbe Botanical Gardens with your private guide
  • Wildlife: Search for colorful birds, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and vervet monkeys
  • Activity: Private luxury boat - exclusive sunset cruise on Lake Victoria
  • Drinks: Sip champagne
  • Transfer: Short private transfers within Entebbe
  • Luxury Experience: Private guided botanical tour
  • Luxury Experience: Champagne sunset cruise
  • Luxury Experience: Premium lakefront dining
  • Overnight: Luxury Lakeside Resort
3
Day 03

Rhino Tracking and Journey to Murchison Falls

  • Departure: Depart Entebbe in your luxury safari vehicle and travel north through Uganda's beautiful countryside
  • Activity: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary - wild rhinos can be tracked on foot, accompanied by expert rangers
  • Lunch: After lunch, continue through scenic landscapes and traditional villages toward Murchison Falls National Park
  • Arrival: Arrive at your luxury lodge overlooking the Nile River in time for sunset cocktails
  • Transfer: Approximately 5-6 hours including scenic stops
  • Luxury Experience: Private luxury road transfer
  • Luxury Experience: Guided rhino tracking
  • Luxury Experience: Sunset overlooking the Nile
  • Overnight: Luxury Safari Lodge
4
Day 04

Murchison Falls Safari and Nile Boat Expedition

  • Activity: Rise early for an exclusive game drive across the vast northern savannahs of Murchison Falls National Park
  • Wildlife: Search for lions, Rothschild's giraffes, elephants, buffaloes, hyenas, and antelopes
  • Activity: Luxury boat safari along the Victoria Nile toward the base of the mighty Murchison Falls
  • Wildlife: Hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and aquatic birdlife
  • Luxury Experience: Private safari game drive
  • Luxury Experience: Premium wildlife photography opportunities
  • Luxury Experience: Luxury Nile cruise
  • Overnight: Luxury Safari Lodge
5
Day 05

Hot Air Balloon Safari and Bush Breakfast

  • Transfer: Before sunrise, transfer to the balloon launch site
  • Activity: Hot air balloon safari - ascend into the skies and enjoy aerial views of wildlife moving below
  • Wildlife: Buffaloes, giraffes, elephants, and antelopes
  • Breakfast: Upon landing, a beautifully prepared bush breakfast awaits in the heart of the wilderness
  • Leisure: The afternoon is reserved for relaxation at your luxury lodge
  • Luxury Experience: Hot air balloon safari
  • Luxury Experience: Champagne bush breakfast
  • Luxury Experience: Exclusive wilderness experience
  • Overnight: Luxury Safari Lodge
6
Day 06

Scenic Transfer to Kibale Forest

  • Transfer: Travel southwest through rolling hills, traditional farming communities, tea estates, and lush tropical landscapes
  • Sightseeing: Fort Portal Tourism City - views of the Rwenzori Mountains and crater lakes
  • Arrival: Arrive at an exclusive forest lodge nestled beside Kibale National Park
  • Transfer: Approximately 7-8 hours with premium sightseeing stops
  • Overnight: Luxury Forest Lodge
7
Day 07

Chimpanzee Tracking and Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary

  • Activity: Enter Kibale Forest, often called the Primate Capital of East Africa
  • Activity: Chimpanzee tracking - follow forest trails in search of habituated chimpanzee families, accompanied by expert trackers
  • Activity: Guided nature walk through Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary
  • Notes: Renowned for exceptional birdlife and community conservation initiatives
  • Overnight: Luxury Forest Lodge
8
Day 08

Kasenda Crater Lakes and Fort Portal Discovery

  • Activity: Travel through emerald tea plantations and volcanic landscapes to the spectacular Kasenda Crater Lakes region
  • Activity: Visit panoramic viewpoints overlooking dozens of sparkling crater lakes surrounded by rolling hills and tropical forests
  • Activity: Private guided exploration of Fort Portal Tourism City
  • Transfer: Short scenic drives throughout the region
  • Overnight: Luxury Boutique Lodge
9
Day 09

Rwenzori Mountains Foothills Experience

  • Activity: Journey to the foothills of the legendary Rwenzori Mountains, famously known as the Mountains of the Moon
  • Activity: Explore pristine mountain trails, waterfalls, local communities, and spectacular viewpoints offering vistas of Africa's highest mountain range
  • Overnight: Luxury Mountain Lodge
10
Day 10

Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

  • Activity: Evening game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park
  • Experience: Comfortable drive through open grasslands, acacia woodlands, crater lakes, and scenic savannah landscapes
  • Wildlife: Elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, warthogs, waterbucks, and giant forest hogs
  • Wildlife: Lions and leopards
  • Highlights: Savannah landscapes
  • Highlights: Wildlife viewing
  • Highlights: Sunset safari
  • Overnight: Luxury Safari Lodge
11
Day 11

Morning Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Safari

  • Morning tea: After morning tea
  • Time: 5:00AM - your tour guide will go through the tour itinerary for you
  • Activity: Sunrise game drive through Queen Elizabeth National Park
  • Activity: Return to the lodge for refreshments
  • Activity: Boat safari on the Kazinga Channel, connecting Lake George and Lake Edward
  • Wildlife: Hippos, Nile crocodiles, and elephants
  • Overnight: Luxury Safari Lodge
12
Day 12

Ishasha Sector and Tree-Climbing Lions

  • Transfer: After breakfast, you will be transferred to the southern part of Queen Elizabeth National Park
  • Activity: Game drive through Ishasha Sector
  • Wildlife: Tree-climbing lions
  • Wildlife: Elephants, buffaloes, topi, Uganda kob, hippos, leopards, and numerous bird species
  • Highlights: Tree-climbing lions
  • Highlights: Scenic photography
  • Highlights: Exclusive game viewing
  • Overnight: Luxury Wilderness Camp
13
Day 13

Scenic Transfer from Queen Elizabeth to Bwindi

  • Transfer: Scenic journey from Queen Elizabeth National Park to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
  • Route: Picturesque countryside, rolling hills, local communities, farmland, and changing landscapes
  • Notes: May pass through areas around Ishasha
  • Arrival: Steep green hills, winding roads, and dense tropical vegetation as you approach Bwindi
  • Highlights: Scenic mountain drives
  • Highlights: Luxury forest lodge
  • Highlights: Cultural performances
  • Overnight: Luxury Gorilla Lodge
14
Day 14

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

  • Briefing: After breakfast, you will be briefed by the ranger guides
  • Activity: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
  • Notes: The trek can take several hours, depending on where the gorilla family is located
  • Wildlife: Colorful birds, butterflies, primates, and other signs of forest life
  • Overnight: Luxury Gorilla Lodge
15
Day 15

Batwa Cultural Experience

  • Activity: Batwa Cultural Experience
  • Notes: Learn about the traditions, history, and forest heritage of the Batwa people
  • Guides: Led by local Batwa guides
  • Activities may include: Traditional songs and dances, storytelling, demonstrations of traditional hunting techniques, medicinal plant knowledge, and visits to community sites
  • Highlights: Batwa cultural tour
  • Highlights: Lake Bunyonyi
  • Highlights: Canoe excursion
  • Highlights: Relaxation
  • Overnight: Luxury Retreat
16
Day 16

Lake Bunyonyi Leisure Day

  • Transfer: After breakfast, you will be transferred to Lake Bunyonyi
  • Leisure: Spend the day enjoying the lake at your own pace
  • Optional activities: Canoe or boat ride, explore some of the lake's islands, or relax by the shoreline
  • Optional activities: Guided village walk and interaction with local communities
  • Optional activities: Gentle hike through the surrounding hills
  • Meals: Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation, preparing for the following day's program
  • Highlights: Island exploration
  • Highlights: Kayaking
  • Highlights: Spa treatments
  • Highlights: Fine dining
  • Overnight: Luxury Lakeside Retreat
17
Day 17

Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park

  • Transfer: Scenic road journey toward Lake Mburo National Park
  • Route: Rolling hills, terraced farms, green valleys, and traditional rural communities
  • Stops: Depending on the itinerary and timing, there may be a short stop for refreshments, photographs, or lunch along the way
  • Arrival: Proceed to your lodge for check-in and relaxation, or continue directly with a game drive or another planned park activity
18
Day 18

Lake Mburo Wildlife and Horseback Safari

  • Transfer: After breakfast, you will be transferred to Lake Mburo
  • Activity: Morning game drive - Lake Mburo National Park
  • Wildlife: Zebras, impalas, elands, and Uganda kob; giraffes, buffaloes, and warthogs
  • Wildlife: Leopards and hyenas
  • Activity: Guided horseback safari through the park in the evening
  • Meals: Lunch and supper, then overnight while relaxing
  • Highlights: Zebra encounters and giraffes
  • Highlights: Horseback safari option
  • Overnight: Luxury Safari Lodge
19
Day 19

Equator Experience and Return to Entebbe

  • Stop: Equator crossing for memorable photographs and shopping
  • Highlights: Equator monument
  • Highlights: Local crafts
  • Highlights: Farewell dinner
  • Overnight: Luxury Hotel, Entebbe
20
Day 20

Departure from Entebbe

  • Breakfast: Enjoy a relaxed breakfast
  • Transfer: Private transfer to Entebbe International Airport
  • Highlights: Airport transfer
  • Highlights: VIP departure assistance
  • Highlights: End of an unforgettable luxury journey

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Luxury accommodation throughout
  • Gorilla trekking permit
  • Chimpanzee tracking permit
  • Luxury 4x4 safari vehicle
  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • Airport transfers
  • All park entrance fees
  • Game drives
  • Boat cruises
  • Bottled drinking water
  • Full-board meals during safari
  • Cultural experiences

What's Not Included

  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Optional activities not mentioned
  • Tips and gratuities

What to bring

  • Departure Assistance

    • Private airport transfer and VIP departure assistance are provided on the final day.

    • Confirm international flight check-in requirements with your airline.

  • Sharing Memories

    • Sort and back up photographs and videos immediately after the safari.

    • Share reviews and travel experiences to help future travelers.

  • Conservation Impact

  • Gorilla permits, park fees, and conservation activities directly support wildlife protection and local communities. Visitors are encouraged to continue supporting responsible tourism and conservation initiatives.

  • Follow-Up Services

  • Request digital copies of tour photos taken by guides if available.

  • Tips & Feedback

  • If gratuities were not provided during the tour, guests may leave feedback and appreciation for guides, drivers, lodge staff, and community hosts.

  • Constructive feedback helps improve future luxury safari experiences.

  • This luxury safari is designed for travelers seeking premium accommodation, private guiding, wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, and unforgettable experiences from Entebbe to Bwindi, Lake Bunyonyi, and Uganda's premier national parks.

Know before you go

  • Travel Documents

    • Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond travel dates.

    • Uganda visa is required for most international visitors.

    • Carry printed and digital copies of passports, visas, insurance, and flight details.

    • Gorilla and chimpanzee permits are included in the package and should be carried during tracking activities.

  • Travel insurance is strongly recommended and is not included in the package.

  • Consult your doctor regarding recommended vaccinations and malaria prevention.

  • Carry personal medication in original packaging.

  • Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking involve hiking in forest terrain and require moderate physical fitness.

  • What to Pack

  • Lightweight safari clothing in neutral colors.

  • Long-sleeved shirts and trousers for forest trekking.

  • Waterproof hiking boots.

  • Rain jacket or poncho.

  • Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

  • Insect repellent.

  • Camera with extra batteries and memory cards.

  • Small daypack for excursions.

  • Warm jacket for cool evenings in Bwindi, Lake Bunyonyi, and the Rwenzori region.

  • Currency & Payments

  • Uganda Shillings are widely accepted.

  • Major hotels and lodges accept credit cards, but some rural areas may require cash.

  • Carry small denominations for souvenirs, personal purchases, and gratuities.

  • Gorilla & Chimpanzee Tracking Guidelines

  • Maintain a minimum distance as instructed by park rangers.

  • Do not visit primates if feeling unwell.

  • Flash photography is not permitted.

  • Follow all instructions from Uganda Wildlife Authority guides.

  • Trekking duration can vary from one hour to several hours depending on animal locations.

  • Luxury Safari Experience

  • Travel is conducted in a luxury 4x4 safari vehicle with a professional private guide.

  • Full-board meals, accommodation, park fees, game drives, boat cruises, and cultural experiences are included.

  • International flights, visas, alcoholic beverages, optional activities, and tips are not included.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Entebbe International Airport
Tour start
Entebbe
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 20 days finish where they began, in Entebbe.

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Starting from

USD 18,900 /person
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Estimated room rates

Single Room $21,000.00 — $21,100.00
Double Sharing $19,000.00 — $20,000.00
Triple Sharing $18,900.00 — $18,950.00

When

Travellers

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