Uganda · Safari

9-Day Uganda Budget Safari with Gorillas, Chimps and Lake Bunyonyi

9 Days Round trip from Entebbe Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Track white rhinos on foot at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
  • 02 Search for wildlife in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Park
  • 03 Experience gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
  • 04 Go chimpanzee tracking in Kalinzu Forest
  • 05 Cruise to the bottom of Murchison Falls on the River Nile
  • 06 Look for Ishasha's famous tree-climbing lions
  • 07 Walk through Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for birding and monkey viewing
  • 08 Relax by the scenic shores of Lake Bunyonyi

This 9-day budget safari offers a compact yet rewarding introduction to Uganda's remarkable wildlife and landscapes. Explore carefully selected parks and sanctuaries that increase your chances of encountering the Big Five, beginning with rhinos and continuing through some of the country's finest safari destinations. Along the way, experience unforgettable primate encounters with gorillas and chimpanzees, enjoy game drives and boat cruising, and end your journey with a stay at Lake Bunyonyi, one of Africa's most beautiful lakes.

After the briefing, you will be distributed into groups of eight and led by a park ranger into the forest, where you will spend one hour with the gentle giants.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 9 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Entebbe, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kibale National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Lake Bunyonyi
Languages English, French, German

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Entebbe and Hotel Transfer

Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by our representative from Big Apes Africa Safaris, who will transfer you to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may choose to have a detailed briefing about your travel itinerary, or go through the details the following morning.

2
Day 02

Transfer to Murchison Falls via Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Today, you will drive west to one of Uganda's most loved national parks. Along the way, you will take a walking safari to track the white rhinos and stop for lunch en route.

Before heading to the lodge, drive to the top of Murchison Falls. You can take a walk to the bottom of the falls and enjoy the amazing views. This is the most scenic part of the park, and Murchison Falls is the most powerful waterfall in the world.

3
Day 03

Morning Game Drive and Boat Trip to Murchison Falls

Today, you will have an early morning game drive. You will have an opportunity to search for elephants, hartebeests, antelopes, and many different birds. On a good day, you may be able to see lions and a leopard in a single drive.

After lunch, you will explore the River Nile up to the bottom of the falls, where the 1951 film Queen of Africa was shot. In the evening, you can choose to take an extra game drive or simply relax.

4
Day 04

Transfer to Kibale via the Top of the Falls

Today, you will drive to the top of the falls. After enjoying this magnificent spot, proceed south to the jungle of Kibale. You will have lunch along the way.

After the long drive, you can choose to relax at the lodge or take a guided walk through the community.

5
Day 05

Bigodi Wetland Walk and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth

Today begins with a Bigodi Swamp walk, which offers some of the finest birding and monkey viewing in Uganda. This 4.5 km circuit gives you an opportunity to see forest and swamp specials, as well as a good number of monkeys.

Afterward, you will be transferred to Queen Elizabeth National Park for a game drive in search of wildlife. Lunch will be taken en route.

6
Day 06

Chimp Tracking in Kalinzu, Boat Cruise, and Game Drive

After breakfast, drive to Kalinzu Forest, managed by the National Forest Authority, where you will do chimpanzee tracking.

After chimpanzee tracking, you will have a UWA boat cruise followed by a game drive. You have a chance to see elephants, lions, leopards, and many more animals.

7
Day 07

Ishasha Game Drive and Transfer to Bwindi

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Bwindi National Park. On the way, you will drive through Ishasha, the southern sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, which is famous for its tree-climbing lions.

After the drive, you will immediately proceed to Bwindi, with lunch along the way.

8
Day 08

Gorilla Tracking and Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi

After an early breakfast, you will drive to the briefing point in the forest of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to be enlightened about your adventure with the mountain gorillas. You are advised to carry enough drinking water and a lunch box.

At a cost of 15 US dollars, you can get a porter to carry your bag and give you a hand on slippery or steep parts of the forest. After the briefing, you will be distributed into groups of eight and led by a park ranger into the forest, where you will spend one hour with the gentle giants. Rain gear is important, considering that Bwindi is a tropical rainforest.

Later, you will be transferred to Lake Bunyonyi, where you can take a swim in Uganda's most beautiful lake or take a walk to enjoy nature and explore the surrounding communities.

9
Day 09

Return to Entebbe via the Equator

After your beautiful stay at Lake Bunyonyi, you will drive back to Entebbe to embark on your journey back home. You will have an opportunity to cross the Equator and do some souvenir shopping.

Should you feel that you need to stay a little longer or do an extra activity, this is possible at an extra cost.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Murchison Falls National Park and the River Nile, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park gorilla forest, Lake Bunyonyi shores

Where this trip takes you

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Murchison Falls National Park and the River Nile, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park gorilla forest, Lake Bunyonyi shores

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Entebbe 7 cities · 9 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

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

What to bring

Essential Clothing & Footwear

For Gorilla & Chimpanzee Trekking (Bwindi & Kibale):

  • Waterproof hiking boots: sturdy, ankle-supporting boots are crucial for navigating muddy and steep trails.
  • Gardening gloves: protect your hands from thorny vegetation and provide better grip during treks.
  • Rain jacket or poncho: rainfall can be unpredictable, so a waterproof layer is essential.
  • Long-sleeved shirts and trousers: opt for neutral colors to blend with the environment and protect against insects.
  • Face mask: wearing a mask helps prevent the transmission of human illnesses to primates.

For Savannah & Game Drives (Queen Elizabeth & Murchison Falls):

  • Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing: ideal for warm days and to avoid attracting insects.
  • Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses: protect against the sun during open-vehicle game drives.
  • Swimwear: some lodges offer pools, so pack accordingly.

Gear & Accessories

  • Daypack: a waterproof backpack to carry essentials during treks.
  • Binoculars: enhance wildlife viewing, especially for birdwatching.
  • Camera with extra batteries and memory cards: capture unforgettable moments and ensure you have backups.
  • Flashlight or headlamp: useful for early morning starts or navigating camps at night.
  • Reusable water bottle: stay hydrated while reducing plastic waste.

Health & Hygiene

  • Insect repellent: a DEET-based repellent is effective against mosquitoes and other insects.
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF: protect your skin and lips from sunburn.
  • Personal medications and first aid kit: include essentials like antiseptics, band-aids, pain relievers, and any prescription medications.
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes: maintain hygiene during treks and in remote areas.

Documents & Essentials

  • Passport and visa: ensure your passport is valid for at least six months and obtain the necessary visa.
  • Gorilla and chimpanzee permits: required for trekking activities; carry printed copies.
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate: mandatory for entry into Uganda.
  • Travel insurance documents: covering medical emergencies and trip cancellations.
  • Local currency (Ugandan shillings): for tips, souvenirs, and small purchases.

Additional Tips

  • Avoid camouflage clothing: it is associated with the military and is discouraged in Uganda.
  • Pack light: use soft-sided luggage for easier transport in safari vehicles.
  • Respect local customs: dress modestly, especially during community visits.

By packing thoughtfully, you'll be well prepared to fully enjoy the diverse experiences that Uganda's national parks offer. Safe travels!

Know before you go

Essential Tips Before You Go

Permits and bookings

  • Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking require permits that should be booked well in advance due to limited availability.

Health and safety

  • Consult your doctor about vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis.
  • Carry insect repellent and a basic first aid kit.

Packing essentials

  • Lightweight, long-sleeved clothing for protection against insects.
  • Sturdy hiking boots for trekking.
  • Rain jacket and waterproof backpack.
  • Binoculars and camera with extra batteries.

Cultural etiquette

  • Respect local customs and dress modestly.
  • Ask for permission before photographing people.

Travel logistics

  • Road conditions can be challenging; a 4WD vehicle is recommended.
  • Domestic flights are available for certain segments to reduce travel time.

Accommodation options

Uganda offers a range of accommodations from luxury lodges to budget-friendly camps:

  • Murchison Falls National Park: Baker's Lodge offers riverside luxury with views of the Nile.
  • Kibale National Park: Crater Safari Lodge provides comfort near the park's entrance.
  • Queen Elizabeth National Park: Kyambura Gorge Lodge combines modern amenities with stunning views.
  • Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge offers luxury at the edge of the forest.

Embarking on this safari offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience Uganda's diverse ecosystems and wildlife. Proper preparation will help ensure a safe and unforgettable adventure.

Logistics

Meeting & route

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

Your 9 days finish where they began, in Entebbe.

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