Uganda · Safari

10-Day Uganda Safari with Gorillas, Chimps, Big Five and Cruises

10 Days Round trip from Uganda Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Witness the powerful Murchison Falls where the Nile crashes through a narrow gorge
  • 02 Experience a classic game drive in Murchison Falls National Park to spot elephants, lions, giraffes, and more
  • 03 Enjoy a boat cruise along the Nile River with views of crocodiles, hippos, and diverse birdlife
  • 04 Trek chimpanzees in Kibale Forest, home to the highest concentration of primates in Uganda
  • 05 Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
  • 06 Cruise on Lake Mburo and spot zebras, antelopes, hippos, and rare birds like the Shoebill Stork
  • 07 Visit the Uganda Equator for a symbolic photo stop and cultural souvenirs on your return to Entebbe

Embark on a captivating 10-day Uganda safari journey through the country's most iconic national parks, including Murchison Falls, Kibale Forest, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi Impenetrable, and Lake Mburo. Experience thrilling wildlife encounters with Africa's Big Five, track endangered white rhinos, chimpanzees, and majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitats, and enjoy game drives across savannah plains. Scenic boat cruises on the Nile and Kazinga Channel, along with cultural immersions in local communities, round out this unforgettable adventure.

Embark on a captivating 10-day Uganda safari journey through the country's most iconic national parks, including Murchison Falls, Kibale Forest, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi Impenetrable, and Lake Mburo.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 10 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Entebbe, Mbarara, Hoima, 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, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Languages English, French, German

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Transfer to Murchison Falls via Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

  • Begin your journey at 8:00 AM with a transfer from Entebbe to Murchison Falls National Park.
  • Visit the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to track endangered white rhinos on foot.

  • Stop for lunch in Masindi town.

  • Continue to the park, entering through Budongo Forest.

  • Spot baboons, monkeys, and warthogs along the forested road.

  • Check in at your lodge and enjoy dinner.

  • Relax and watch for nocturnal wildlife around the lodge.

2
Day 02

Savannah Game Drive and Nile River Cruise

  • Embark on an early morning game drive across the savannah.
  • Look out for lions, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and antelopes.

  • Return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast.

  • In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise to the base of Murchison Falls.

  • Witness the powerful falls and spot hippos, crocodiles, and colorful birds.

  • Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

3
Day 03

Scenic Transfer to Kibale Forest via Hoima

  • Depart after breakfast for Kibale Forest National Park.
  • Drive through scenic landscapes, tea plantations, and the Albertine Rift.

  • Stop for lunch en route in Hoima or Fort Portal.

  • Arrive in the evening and check in at your lodge.

Enjoy dinner and relax.

4
Day 04

Chimpanzee Tracking and Crater Lakes Exploration

  • Head into Kibale Forest in the morning for chimpanzee tracking.
  • Observe chimpanzees along with other primates and birds.

  • Return for lunch and a short rest.

  • In the afternoon, visit the Amabere Ga'Nyinamwiru Caves and nearby crater lakes.

  • Learn about the cultural legends and natural beauty of the area.

  • Return to your lodge for dinner.

5
Day 05

Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

  • After breakfast, drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park.

  • Enjoy views of the Rwenzori Mountains along the way.

  • Arrive at your lodge and have lunch.

  • In the evening, join a community canoe ride on Lake George.

  • Learn about local fishing practices and cultures.

  • Return to the lodge for dinner.

6
Day 06

Kasenyi Plains Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Cruise

  • Start with an early morning game drive in the Kasenyi Plains.
  • Spot Uganda kobs, lions, elephants, and buffaloes.

  • Return to the lodge for breakfast and lunch.

  • In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel.

  • View hippos, crocodiles, and numerous birds up close.

  • Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

7
Day 07

Ishasha Wildlife Viewing and Transfer to Bwindi

  • Depart after breakfast and drive through the Ishasha sector.
  • Look out for the famous tree-climbing lions.

  • Spot topis, buffaloes, and other savannah wildlife.

  • Continue to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

  • Arrive in the evening and check in at your lodge.

Enjoy dinner and rest.

8
Day 08

Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

  • Begin with an early breakfast and head to the park headquarters.
  • Join a briefing before starting the gorilla trek.

  • Trek through dense forest to find your assigned gorilla family.

  • Spend up to one hour observing mountain gorillas.

  • Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation.

  • Enjoy your final dinner in the forested highlands.

9
Day 09

Transfer to Lake Mburo and Boat Cruise

  • Have breakfast and depart for Lake Mburo.
  • Arrive in time for lunch at your lodge.

  • Take a boat cruise on Lake Mburo to view hippos and aquatic birds.

  • Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

10
Day 10

Return to Entebbe with an Equator Stop

  • After breakfast, begin your journey back to Entebbe.
  • Stop for lunch at Igongo Cultural Center in Mbarara.

  • Visit the Equator in Kayabwe for photos and shopping.

  • Arrive in Entebbe in the late afternoon.

  • Transfer to the airport or your accommodation.

Murchison Falls, Kazinga Channel boat cruise, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Where this trip takes you

Murchison Falls, Kazinga Channel boat cruise, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Uganda 11 cities · 10 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Gorilla permits (one per person, non-resident)
  • Chimp permits (one per person, non-resident)
  • All accommodation (unless listed as an upgrade)
  • All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
  • Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
  • Drinks (as specified in the day-by-day section)
  • All activities (unless labeled as optional)
  • Park fees (for non-residents)
  • A professional driver/guide
  • Round-trip airport transfer
  • All taxes/VAT

What's Not Included

  • International flights (from/to home)
  • Additional accommodation before and after the tour
  • Tips (tipping guideline: US$10.00 per person per day)
  • Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
  • Government-imposed increases in taxes and/or park fees
  • Some meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)

What to bring

  • Valid passport with at least six months' validity beyond travel dates
  • Uganda visa obtained in advance or on arrival, if eligible

  • Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate required for entry

  • Travel insurance documents, including emergency contact details

  • COVID-19 PCR test result or vaccination certificate, as per current regulations

  • Prescription medications and copies of prescriptions

  • Malaria prophylactic medication after consulting a doctor

  • Lightweight neutral-colored clothing such as khaki, beige, or olive

  • Long-sleeved shirts and trousers for protection from sun and insects

  • Lightweight rain jacket or poncho for unpredictable showers

  • Sweater or fleece for chilly mornings and evenings

  • Sturdy waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support

  • Comfortable walking shoes or sandals for use around lodges

  • Gardening or work gloves for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking

  • Gaiters for extra protection and to keep out debris during treks

  • Moisture-wicking socks to reduce the chances of blisters

  • Daypack for carrying essentials on treks and game drives

  • Binoculars for better wildlife viewing

  • Camera with extra memory cards and spare batteries

  • Headlamp or flashlight for areas with limited lighting

  • Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated

  • Sunglasses with UV protection

  • Wide-brimmed sun hat for extra sun coverage

  • Insect repellent, preferably with DEET

  • Sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher

  • Wet wipes and hand sanitizer for hygiene

  • Toiletries, preferably biodegradable products

  • Power adapter compatible with UK-style three-pin plugs

  • Soft-sided luggage for ease of storage in safari vehicles

  • Light packing if planning to use lodge laundry services

  • US dollars in small denominations for tipping and small purchases

  • Modest clothing to respect local cultural customs

  • Reusable shopping bags, as single-use plastic bags are banned in Uganda

Know before you go

  • Secure gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits well in advance.
  • Ensure vaccinations for yellow fever and other recommended immunizations.

  • Bring lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, insect repellent, and a good camera.

  • Carry a basic first-aid kit and any personal medications.

  • June to August and December to February are ideal for wildlife viewing during the dry season.

  • March to May and September to November may present challenges due to muddy trails but offer lush landscapes and fewer tourists.

  • Consider staying at Pakuba Safari Lodge or Baker's Lodge while visiting Murchison Falls.

  • Choose Kibale Forest Camp or Crater Safari Lodge for your stay near Kibale Forest.

  • Stay at Pumba Safari Cottages or Kyambura Gorge Lodge near Queen Elizabeth National Park.

  • Book accommodation at Gorilla Mist Camp or Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge when visiting Bwindi.

  • Select Rwakobo Rock or Mihingo Lodge for your time in Lake Mburo National Park.

  • Look out for elephants, lions, giraffes, and Nile crocodiles in Murchison Falls.

  • Expect to see chimpanzees and a variety of monkey species in Kibale Forest.

  • Watch for tree-climbing lions, hippos, and an abundance of birds in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

  • Encounter mountain gorillas and rich birdlife in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

  • Spot zebras, impalas, and elands in Lake Mburo National Park.

  • Engage experienced local guides for more insightful wildlife and cultural experiences.

  • Respect local customs and communities throughout your journey.

  • Expect limited internet access in remote areas and national parks.

  • Carry some Ugandan Shillings for small purchases, as credit cards may not be widely accepted.

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 10 days finish where they began, in Uganda.

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