Uganda · Safari

8-Day Uganda Safari with Gorilla Trekking and Murchison Falls

8 Days Round trip from Uganda Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Track endangered rhinos on foot at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary en route to Murchison Falls
  • 02 Witness the thunderous Murchison Falls from both land and boat for dramatic photo opportunities
  • 03 Spot iconic animals including elephants, lions, giraffes, leopards, buffaloes, antelopes, hippos, and crocodiles
  • 04 Cruise along the Nile and Kazinga Channel, observing aquatic life and vibrant bird species
  • 05 Trek chimpanzees in Kibale Forest, known for its high primate population and rich biodiversity
  • 06 Visit the Kasenyi Plains and Ishasha sector, famous for their large predators and tree-climbing lions
  • 07 Trek through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to encounter endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat

Embark on an 8-day safari across Uganda's most iconic national parks. Track rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, explore Murchison Falls National Park on game drives and a boat cruise, and continue to Kibale Forest for chimpanzee trekking. Search for wildlife in Queen Elizabeth National Park, including the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha, before concluding with a once-in-a-lifetime mountain gorilla encounter in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Spend one hour observing the gorillas in their natural habitat.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 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
Languages English, French, German

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Transfer to Murchison Falls via Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

  • Meet your safari guide at your hotel or designated location in the morning.
  • Drive to Murchison Falls National Park with a stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

  • Track rhinos on foot with a ranger guide.

  • Enjoy a hot lunch en route.

  • Continue the journey to Murchison Falls National Park.

  • Arrive at the lodge in the evening for check-in, dinner, and overnight stay.

2
Day 02

Game Drive and Nile Boat Cruise in Murchison Falls

  • Wake up early for a morning game drive near the Albert and Victoria Nile.
  • Look out for elephants, giraffes, lions, antelopes, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, and various bird species.

  • Return to the lodge for lunch.

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

  • Spot hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and birds such as African fish eagles.

  • Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

3
Day 03

Scenic Transfer to Kibale National Park

  • Have breakfast and check out of the lodge.
  • Drive southwards to Kibale National Park.

  • Enjoy lunch along the way.

  • Observe the changing landscapes and possible bird species during the drive.

  • Arrive at the lodge near Kibale in the evening.

  • Check in for dinner and overnight stay.

4
Day 04

Chimpanzee Trekking and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth

  • Have an early breakfast and transfer to the park headquarters for a trekking briefing.
  • Join a ranger guide to track chimpanzees in Kibale Forest.

  • Spot other primates such as black-and-white colobus monkeys, baboons, and L'Hoest's monkeys.

  • Return to the lodge for lunch or have a packed lunch.

  • Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park in the afternoon.

  • Arrive at the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

5
Day 05

Kasenyi Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Cruise

  • Enjoy an early morning game drive in the Kasenyi Plains.
  • Look for lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, Ugandan kobs, warthogs, and various antelopes.

  • Return to the lodge for lunch.

  • In the afternoon, take a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel.

  • Observe hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species such as bee-eaters and herons.

  • Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

6
Day 06

Transfer to Bwindi via the Ishasha Sector

  • After breakfast, check out and begin the journey to Bwindi.
  • Drive through the Ishasha sector, known for its tree-climbing lions.

  • Enjoy a scenic drive through terraced hills and forested areas.

  • Arrive at your lodge near Bwindi for check-in, dinner, and overnight stay.

7
Day 07

Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

  • Have an early breakfast and prepare for the gorilla trekking experience.
  • Transfer to the park headquarters for briefing and group allocation.

  • Trek through the forest with a ranger guide to locate a gorilla family.

  • Spend one hour observing the gorillas in their natural habitat.

  • Return to the lodge after the trek for relaxation.

Enjoy dinner and overnight stay.

8
Day 08

Return to Entebbe

  • Enjoy a relaxed breakfast in the morning.
  • Begin the drive back to Entebbe with a stop for lunch en route.

  • Arrive in the afternoon and proceed to your hotel or be dropped off at Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary rhino tracking, Murchison Falls boat cruise from Paraa, Kazinga Channel cruise, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest gorilla trek

Where this trip takes you

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary rhino tracking, Murchison Falls boat cruise from Paraa, Kazinga Channel cruise, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest gorilla trek

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Uganda 6 cities · 8 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Gorilla permits (one per person, non-resident)
  • Chimp permits (one per person, non-resident)
  • All accommodations (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
  • Roundtrip 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 increases in taxes and/or park fees
  • Some meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
  • Tips (tipping guideline: US$10.00 per person per day)
  • International flights (from/to home)

What to bring

  • Neutral-colored attire such as khaki, beige, or olive to blend with the environment and avoid attracting insects.

  • Long-sleeved shirts and trousers to protect against sunburn and insect bites.

  • Lightweight layers with moisture-wicking fabrics for daytime, plus a fleece or jacket for cooler evenings.

  • A waterproof jacket or poncho, especially useful during the rainy seasons of March to May and October to November.

  • Swimwear for lodges that offer swimming facilities.

  • Modest clothing to respect local customs and avoid revealing outfits in public areas.

  • Sturdy hiking boots for nature walks and uneven terrain.

  • Comfortable walking shoes suitable for game drives and casual strolls.

  • Sandals or flip-flops for relaxing at lodges.

  • Insect repellent with DEET for protection against mosquitoes and insects.

  • High SPF sunscreen and lip balm to guard against the equatorial sun.

  • Sufficient personal medications and prescription drugs.

  • A basic first aid kit with plasters, antiseptic, and common remedies.

  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes for maintaining hygiene during excursions.

  • A daypack for carrying daily essentials on treks and drives.

  • Binoculars for enhancing wildlife and birdwatching experiences.

  • A camera with extra batteries or a power bank to capture memorable moments.

  • A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during outdoor activities.

  • A flashlight or headlamp, useful in areas with limited lighting.

  • A travel adapter with the UK-style Type G plug used in Uganda.

  • A valid passport and visa complying with Uganda's entry requirements.

  • A yellow fever vaccination certificate, required for entry.

  • Copies of travel insurance details, including the policy number.

  • Your safari itinerary and booking confirmations in both digital and print formats.

  • Avoid camouflage clothing, as it is illegal in some countries and may cause issues.

  • Pack light and use available laundry services at lodges.

  • Maintain a respectful distance from wildlife and follow your guide's instructions.

Know before you go

  • Wear lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and trousers in neutral colors to protect against insects and sun exposure.

  • Avoid bright colors and camouflage patterns, as they may disturb wildlife or cause misunderstandings.

  • Pack sturdy, waterproof hiking boots suitable for forest treks and uneven terrain.

  • Bring a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection, gloves for trekking, and a rain jacket for unexpected showers.

  • Carry a high-quality camera, binoculars for wildlife viewing, and a flashlight or headlamp for use at lodges with limited lighting.

  • Include insect repellent with DEET, high SPF sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit for health and safety.

  • Ensure you have the necessary vaccinations, including yellow fever, as required for entry into Uganda.

  • Consult your healthcare provider about anti-malarial medication before travel.

  • Help protect mountain gorillas and chimpanzees by maintaining a safe distance, wearing masks if requested, and following all guidelines from your guide.

  • Budget approximately $3,400 to $3,800 per person for an 8-day mid-range private safari, which typically includes permits, accommodation, meals, and transport.

  • Visit during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February for the best trekking and wildlife viewing conditions.

  • Book in advance during peak months to secure permits and preferred accommodations.

  • Prepare thoroughly to enjoy a safe, immersive, and unforgettable safari experience in Uganda's diverse ecosystems.

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 8 days finish where they began, in Uganda.

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