Uganda · Safari

15-Day Uganda Gorilla Trekking and Wildlife Safari with Nile Cruises

15 Days Round trip from Uganda Hard pace
Witness the African wildlife
Witness the African wildlife
Witness the African wildlife
Embark on a fun jeep safari

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Experience thrilling gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
  • 02 Enjoy a Nile boat safari to the dramatic base of Murchison Falls
  • 03 Discover diverse wildlife on game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park
  • 04 Explore birdlife and primates on a nature walk in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary
  • 05 Relax at picturesque Lake Bunyonyi, known for its scenic islands

Embark on a 15-day safari through Uganda's breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unique cultural encounters. This journey combines gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, chimpanzee trekking in Kibale, classic game drives in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Lake Mburo National Parks, and scenic boat safaris on the Nile, Kazinga Channel, and Lake Mburo. Along the way, enjoy birdlife in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary and Lake Bunyonyi, rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, and comfortable midrange or luxury accommodation options throughout your adventure.

Embark on a 15-day safari through Uganda's breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unique cultural encounters.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 15 Days
Tour type Shared
Activity level Hard
Accommodation Included · Luxury
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Yes
Cities Entebbe, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kibale National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Lake Victoria, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Lake Bunyonyi
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Entebbe and Welcome to Uganda

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, a guide will transfer you to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore the Entebbe Botanical Gardens or relax on the shores of Lake Victoria.

Accommodation:

  • Midrange: 2 Friends Beach Hotel
  • Luxury: Serena Lake Victoria Resort
2
Day 02

Ziwa Rhino Tracking and Murchison Falls

Depart early for Murchison Falls National Park, stopping at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for rhino tracking. After lunch, continue to the park and visit the top of the falls for stunning views.

Accommodation:

  • Midrange: Pakuba Safari Lodge
  • Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge
3
Day 03

Game Drive and Nile Boat Safari

Enjoy a morning game drive in the park's northern section, home to lions, elephants, giraffes, and leopards. In the afternoon, take a boat safari to the base of Murchison Falls, where the Nile squeezes through an 8-meter gorge.

Accommodation:

  • Midrange: Pakuba Safari Lodge
  • Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge
4
Day 04

Scenic Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park

After breakfast, drive south to Kibale Forest National Park, famous for chimpanzee trekking. The journey offers scenic views of the Albertine Rift Valley.

Accommodation:

  • Midrange: Chimpanzee Forest Lodge
  • Luxury: Kyaninga Lodge
5
Day 05

Chimpanzee Trekking and Bigodi Wetland Walk

Embark on an early morning chimpanzee trekking adventure, followed by a nature walk in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, known for its birdlife and primates.

Accommodation:

  • Midrange: Chimpanzee Forest Lodge
  • Luxury: Kyaninga Lodge
6
Day 06

Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, enjoying a game drive en route. Relax at your lodge before an evening game drive.

Accommodation:

  • Midrange: Elephant Hab Lodge
  • Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge
7
Day 07

Kasenyi Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Cruise

Start with a game drive in Kasenyi Plains, home to predators and antelope species. Later, take a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, famous for hippos, crocodiles, and birds.

Accommodation:

  • Midrange: Elephant Hab Lodge
  • Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge
8
Day 08

Ishasha Sector and Tree-Climbing Lions

Drive to the Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, known for tree-climbing lions. Enjoy an afternoon game drive.

Accommodation:

  • Midrange: Enjojo Lodge
  • Luxury: Ishasha Wilderness Camp
9
Day 09

Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Head to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to half of the world's mountain gorillas.

Accommodation:

  • Midrange: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
  • Luxury: Buhoma Lodge
10
Day 10

Gorilla Trekking Adventure

Embark on a thrilling gorilla trekking adventure. Spend an hour observing a habituated gorilla family before returning to the lodge.

Accommodation:

  • Midrange: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
  • Luxury: Buhoma Lodge
11
Day 11

Lake Bunyonyi and Scenic Island Views

Travel to Lake Bunyonyi, known for its scenic islands and rich birdlife. Enjoy canoeing or relaxing at your lodge.

Accommodation:

  • Midrange: Birdnest @ Bunyonyi
  • Luxury: Arcadia Lodge
12
Day 12

Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park

Drive to Lake Mburo National Park for a sunset game drive and a night game walk.

Accommodation:

  • Midrange: Rwakobo Rock
  • Luxury: Mihingo Lodge
13
Day 13

Game Drive and Lake Mburo Boat Safari

Enjoy a morning game drive, followed by a boat safari on Lake Mburo. Spot hippos, crocodiles, and birds.

Accommodation:

  • Midrange: Rwakobo Rock
  • Luxury: Mihingo Lodge
14
Day 14

Return to Entebbe via the Equator

Drive back to Entebbe with a stop at the Equator for photos and souvenir shopping.

Accommodation:

  • Midrange: 2 Friends Beach Hotel
  • Luxury: Serena Lake Victoria Resort
15
Day 15

Departure and Final Craft Market Visit

Depending on your flight schedule, visit local craft markets before your airport transfer.

This 15-day Uganda safari offers an immersive experience in diverse landscapes, with encounters ranging from gorilla trekking to Nile safaris. Enjoy top-tier accommodations and expert-guided excursions in the heart of East Africa.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park gorilla forest, Kazinga Channel wildlife waterway, Murchison Falls National Park Nile gorge, Lake Bunyonyi island-dotted lake

Where this trip takes you

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park gorilla forest, Kazinga Channel wildlife waterway, Murchison Falls National Park Nile gorge, Lake Bunyonyi island-dotted lake

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Uganda 9 cities · 15 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Accommodation (midrange and luxury options)
  • Park entry fees (gorilla permits, chimpanzee trekking, game drives, boat safaris)
  • Transport (4x4 safari vehicle with fuel and driver-guide)
  • Meals (full board at lodges)
  • Activities (game drives, boat cruises, cultural experiences)
  • Gorilla permits
  • Chimpanzee permits
  • Lion tracking
  • Batwa visit
  • Boat trip
  • Rhino tracking

What's Not Included

  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Gratuity
  • Laundry
  • Extra meals

What to bring

For a 15-day Uganda safari, packing the right gear ensures comfort and enhances your experience. Here's a list of essential items to bring:

Clothing & Footwear

  • Lightweight, breathable clothes in neutral colors (avoid bright colors for game drives)
  • Long-sleeved shirts and trousers for protection against insects
  • A warm jacket or fleece for cool mornings and evenings
  • Waterproof rain jacket (essential for Bwindi and Kibale forests)
  • Comfortable hiking boots for gorilla trekking and forest walks
  • Sandals or casual shoes for relaxation at the lodge
  • Hat or cap to shield against the sun

Travel Documents & Essentials

  • Valid passport with at least six months before expiration
  • Ugandan visa (apply online or at entry points)
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate (required for entry)
  • Travel insurance covering medical emergencies and trip cancellations
  • Copies of important documents (keep digital copies too)

Safari & Photography Gear

  • Binoculars for wildlife viewing
  • Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
  • Power bank and universal travel adapter
  • Small flashlight or headlamp for evening use
  • Waterproof bag to protect electronics from rain and dust

Health & Personal Care

  • Anti-malaria medication and insect repellent with DEET
  • Sunscreen with high SPF and lip balm
  • Personal first aid kit (pain relievers, band-aids, antiseptic wipes)
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
  • Prescription medication (if applicable)

Gorilla & Chimpanzee Trekking Essentials

  • Gardening gloves (for holding onto vegetation)
  • Energy snacks and water bottle
  • Walking stick (provided at the park, but you can bring your own)
  • Lightweight backpack for carrying essentials

Miscellaneous Items

  • Notebook and pen for journaling
  • Swimsuit (some lodges have pools)
  • Cash in small denominations (for tipping and shopping)
  • Reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste

Know before you go

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable adventure, here are key things to know before your Uganda safari:

1. Visa & Entry Requirements

  • Most travelers need a Ugandan visa, which you can apply for online via the Uganda eVisa system.
  • A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry.
  • The East Africa Tourist Visa allows travel to Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda on a single visa.

2. Best Time to Visit

  • Uganda is a year-round safari destination, but the best time is June to September and December to February (dry seasons).
  • The wet seasons (March to May and October to November) make trekking more challenging but offer lush landscapes and fewer tourists.

3. Gorilla & Chimpanzee Trekking Permits

  • Gorilla trekking permits cost $800 per person and must be booked in advance due to high demand.
  • Chimpanzee trekking permits cost $250 per person in Kibale Forest.
  • A reasonable level of fitness is required, as trekking can take 2-6 hours through dense forests.

4. Wildlife & Safety Precautions

  • Uganda is home to the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos) and over 1,000 bird species.
  • Always listen to your guide, especially during game drives and trekking.
  • Keep a safe distance from wild animals, and never feed them.
  • Malaria is present in Uganda, so take anti-malaria medication and use insect repellent.

5. Money & Payments

  • The official currency is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX), but US dollars (2009 or newer notes) are widely accepted.
  • Credit cards are accepted at some lodges, but carry cash for remote areas.
  • Tipping is appreciated:
    • Guides: $50-$100 per day
    • Trackers and porters: $10-$30 per trek
    • Lodge staff: $15-$30 per day

6. Packing & Clothing

  • Pack lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors for game drives.
  • Bring a warm jacket for chilly mornings and evenings.
  • Sturdy hiking boots are essential for trekking.
  • A rain jacket is necessary, especially for Bwindi and Kibale.

7. Transportation & Road Conditions

  • Most safaris use 4x4 safari vehicles with pop-up roofs for game viewing.
  • Some roads, especially in parks, can be bumpy and dusty - prepare for long drives.
  • Domestic flights are available to reduce travel time, especially to Bwindi, Kidepo, and Murchison Falls.

8. Local Culture & Etiquette

  • Uganda is a friendly country, and greetings are important in local interactions.
  • Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites.
  • Always ask permission before photographing people.

9. Health & Medical Considerations

  • Get travel insurance covering medical emergencies and evacuation.
  • Carry a first aid kit with basics like pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, and prescription medication.
  • Drink bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues.

10. Connectivity & Communication

  • Local SIM cards (MTN Uganda & Airtel) provide affordable internet and calls.
  • Wi-Fi is available at most lodges but can be slow in remote areas.

Logistics

Meeting & route

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

Your 15 days finish where they began, in Uganda.

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