Uganda · Wildlife Safari

10-Day Uganda Wildlife Safari with Gorilla and Chimpanzee Tracking

10 Days Round trip from Entebbe Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Explore Murchison Falls National Park with a game drive and a hike to the top of the falls
  • 02 Cruise the Victoria Nile and Kazinga Channel to spot hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes, and birdlife
  • 03 Track habituated chimpanzees in the tropical rainforest of Kibale National Park
  • 04 Look for the unique tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park
  • 05 Trek in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to almost half of the world's mountain gorilla population
  • 06 Meet the Batwa community and unwind by the scenic shores of Lake Bunyonyi

Embark on a 10-day wildlife safari through Uganda, beginning with a city tour of Kampala before heading to Murchison Falls, Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Parks. Along the way, enjoy game drives, boat cruises on the Victoria Nile and Kazinga Channel, chimpanzee tracking, and the unforgettable experience of gorilla trekking. The journey also includes cultural encounters with the Batwa community, a chance to look for the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha, and time to unwind amid the beautiful scenery of Lake Bunyonyi.

Spend an unforgettable hour in the presence of these magnificent creatures, observing their behaviour and interactions in their natural habitat.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 10 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Not applicable
Cities Kampala, Entebbe, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kibale National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Victoria, Lake Bunyonyi
Languages English, French, German, Italian, Spanish, Swahili

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Entebbe and Kampala City Tour

  • Upon your arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be greeted by your guide, who will take you to Cassia Lodge in Kampala. Cassia Lodge offers stunning panoramic views of Kampala city and Lake Victoria, providing the perfect introduction to Uganda's natural beauty.
  • After settling into your accommodation, you will embark on a guided city tour of Kampala, visiting cultural landmarks such as the Uganda Museum and Independence Monument, as well as bustling markets where you can experience the local way of life.
  • Enjoy dinner at a traditional Ugandan restaurant before returning to Cassia Lodge for an overnight stay.
2
Day 02

Journey to Murchison Falls National Park

  • After breakfast, you will begin your journey towards Murchison Falls National Park in northwestern Uganda.
  • The drive offers scenic views of the countryside and rural villages along the way, providing insight into daily life in Uganda.
  • Upon reaching Murchison Falls National Park, you will check into your accommodation within the park boundaries, immersing yourself in the area's natural beauty.
  • Spend the evening relaxing and preparing for the wildlife adventures to come.
3
Day 03

Game Drive, Victoria Nile Cruise, and Murchison Falls Hike

  • Start the day with an early morning game drive through Murchison Falls National Park, led by experienced guides who will help you spot various wildlife species, including elephants, giraffes, lions, and more.
  • Return to your lodge for breakfast before embarking on a boat cruise along the Victoria Nile.
  • The boat cruise takes you to the base of the majestic Murchison Falls, offering opportunities to see hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species.
  • Disembark at the foot of the falls for a short hike to the top, where you will witness the powerful rush of water as the Nile River squeezes through a narrow gorge before plunging in a spectacular cascade.
  • After the boat cruise, return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
4
Day 04

Transfer to Kibale National Park

  • Today, you will travel to Kibale National Park, known for its dense tropical rainforest and population of habituated chimpanzees.
  • The journey takes you through scenic landscapes, including tea plantations and rolling hills.
  • Upon arrival at Kibale National Park, you will check into your accommodation near the park entrance, surrounded by lush forest.
  • Spend the evening relaxing and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere of the rainforest.
5
Day 05

Chimpanzee Tracking and Bigodi Swamp Nature Walk

  • Rise early for an exhilarating chimpanzee tracking experience in Kibale National Park.
  • Accompanied by experienced guides and trackers, you will trek through the forest searching for habituated chimpanzee families, observing these fascinating primates in their natural habitat.
  • After the trek, return to your lodge for breakfast before embarking on a guided nature walk through Bigodi Swamp, a nearby wetland area.
  • The swamp walk offers opportunities to see a variety of bird species, as well as other wildlife such as monkeys and bushbucks.
  • Learn about the importance of wetland conservation and the efforts of the local community to protect this valuable ecosystem.
  • Return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay, reflecting on the day's adventures in the rainforest.
6
Day 06

Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

  • After breakfast, you will depart for Queen Elizabeth National Park in western Uganda.
  • The drive takes you through scenic countryside and rural communities, with opportunities to see traditional homesteads and agricultural practices.
  • Upon reaching Queen Elizabeth National Park, you will check into your accommodation within the park boundaries, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Spend the evening relaxing and enjoying the sights and sounds of the park.
7
Day 07

Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

  • Begin the day with an early morning game drive through Queen Elizabeth National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife and picturesque landscapes.
  • Your experienced guide will navigate the park's network of tracks and trails, providing opportunities to see iconic African animals such as lions, elephants, buffaloes, and more.
  • Return to your lodge for breakfast and some leisure time to relax and refresh.
  • In the afternoon, embark on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway that connects Lake Edward and Lake George.
  • The boat cruise offers close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species, including African fish eagles, kingfishers, and pelicans.
  • Enjoy the tranquil scenery and wildlife sightings as you glide along the channel, with knowledgeable guides on hand to provide insights into the park's ecosystem and wildlife.
  • After the cruise, return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay, recounting the day's adventures in the wilderness.
8
Day 08

Transfer to Bwindi via Ishasha Sector

  • After breakfast, depart for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to almost half of the world's population of endangered mountain gorillas.
  • En route, pass through the Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, known for its unique tree-climbing lions. Keep your eyes peeled for these elusive predators resting in the branches of fig trees.
  • Continue your journey to Bwindi, enjoying scenic views of the rolling hills and lush vegetation.
  • Upon reaching Bwindi, check into your accommodation near the park entrance, nestled amidst the forest.
  • Enjoy the evening relaxing and prepare for the next day's gorilla-tracking adventure.
9
Day 09

Gorilla Tracking, Batwa Experience, and Lake Bunyonyi

  • Today marks the highlight of your safari as you embark on a gorilla tracking expedition in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
  • After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a pre-trek briefing, where you will receive critical information about gorilla behaviour, safety guidelines, and conservation efforts.
  • With experienced guides leading the way, trek through the dense forest searching for a habituated gorilla family. The trek can vary in duration and intensity depending on the location of the gorillas, but the experience is always rewarding.
  • Spend an unforgettable hour in the presence of these magnificent creatures, observing their behaviour and interactions in their natural habitat. Gorilla tracking is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that offers a profound connection with nature and a deeper understanding of these critically endangered animals.
  • After the trek, participate in Batwa cultural experiences, learning about the traditional lifestyle and cultural heritage of the Batwa pygmy community.
  • Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, the Switzerland of Africa, and check into your accommodation overlooking the scenic lake.
  • Spend the evening relaxing by the lakeshore, enjoying optional activities such as canoeing, swimming, or birdwatching.
10
Day 10

Return to Kampala or Entebbe

  • After breakfast at Lake Bunyonyi, bid farewell to the tranquil surroundings and begin your journey back to Kampala.
  • Enjoy scenic countryside views as you travel through southwestern Uganda, passing by rolling hills, terraced farmland, and local villages.
  • Upon reaching Kampala, you may opt to be dropped off at your accommodation or directly at Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight.
  • Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and memories created during your 10-day safari adventure in Uganda, from thrilling wildlife encounters to scenic landscapes and cultural discoveries.
  • As you depart, carry with you the awe-inspiring beauty of Uganda's diverse ecosystems, the richness of its wildlife, and the warmth of its people, leaving you with lasting memories of an unforgettable journey in the heart of Africa.
Murchison Falls, Victoria Nile, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Lake Bunyonyi

Where this trip takes you

Murchison Falls, Victoria Nile, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Lake Bunyonyi

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Entebbe 8 cities · 10 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Accommodation: 9 nights in selected lodges and hotels
  • Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided daily
  • Transportation: Private 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for game viewing, airport transfers, and all ground transportation
  • Activities:
    • City tour of Kampala (Day 1)
    • Game drives in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Ishasha sectors
    • Boat cruises on Victoria Nile and Kazinga Channel
    • Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park
    • Gorilla tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
    • Guided nature walks and cultural experiences with the Batwa community
    • Scenic drives and sightseeing en route
  • All entrance fees to national parks and reserves are included in the itinerary
  • Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking permits
  • Professional guide: services of an experienced English-speaking safari guide throughout the trip
  • Bottled water during the safari

What's Not Included

  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Items of a personal nature, such as souvenirs, phone calls, and laundry
  • Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks outside of meal times
  • Additional snacks or meals not included in the itinerary
  • Optional activities: hot air balloon safaris, additional cultural experiences, or other activities not listed in the itinerary
  • Travel insurance: comprehensive travel insurance, including medical coverage, trip cancellation, and evacuation, must be arranged by the traveller
  • Gratuities and tips
  • Any additional accommodation before or after the safari
  • Extra transport requests not included in the itinerary

What to bring

  • Lightweight, long-sleeve shirts for sun protection and to help prevent insect bites
  • Long pants, ideal for game drives and evening activities
  • A hat and sunglasses to protect against the sun
  • Warm layers for cooler evenings and mornings
  • A rain jacket, as weather can be unpredictable
  • Comfortable hiking boots for tracking chimpanzees and gorillas
  • Casual clothes for city tours and relaxation
  • Binoculars
  • A camera and spare batteries
  • A travel adapter
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • Insect repellent
  • A water bottle
  • A day pack for carrying essentials during day trips and activities
  • Personal medications
  • A first aid kit
  • Anti-malarial medication
  • Your passport
  • Your visa
  • Your travel insurance details
  • Cash and credit cards
  • A notebook and pen
  • Ziplock bags

Know before you go

  • Ensure you are up to date on recommended vaccinations, such as yellow fever, hepatitis A, and hepatitis B. Malaria prophylaxis is also advised.
  • Obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and evacuation.
  • A visa is required for entry into Uganda. It can be obtained online through the Uganda e-Visa system or upon arrival at the airport.
  • Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking permits are included in the package, but availability is limited, and permits must be secured well in advance.
  • Accommodations are selected for comfort and quality, but some lodges may be remote and offer basic amenities.
  • Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking can be physically demanding. Ensure you are healthy and capable of walking long distances through rugged terrain.
  • Uganda's weather can be variable. Prepare for warm days, cool mornings, and possible rain. Pack accordingly and be prepared for weather changes.
  • The local currency is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). Carry some cash for personal expenses and tips, though major cards are accepted in most places.
  • Be mindful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting communities and cultural sites. Respect wildlife and follow your guide's instructions.
  • Follow the safety guidelines provided by your guide when encountering wildlife. Maintain a safe distance and avoid feeding animals.
  • A deposit is typically required to secure your booking. Ensure you understand the payment schedule and cancellation policy.
  • Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your departure date.
  • While some lodges offer Wi-Fi, connectivity can be limited in remote areas. Prepare for possible periods of limited communication.
  • Inform the safari provider of any dietary restrictions or medical conditions ahead of time to ensure appropriate arrangements.

Logistics

Meeting & route

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

Your 10 days finish where they began, in Entebbe.

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Starting from

USD 3,410 /person
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Estimated room rates

Single Room $3,410.00 — $4,650.00
Double Sharing $3,410.00 — $4,620.00

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