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Uganda · Safari
The journey
This extraordinary safari is perfect for nature lovers seeking a unique glimpse into Uganda's natural beauty. Travel from Entebbe to Kibale Forest National Park for chimp trekking, continue to Queen Elizabeth National Park for a game drive and a visit to the Kazinga Channel, and then head to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for gorilla trekking. The journey also includes time at Lake Bunyonyi, known for its deep waters and numerous islands, before returning to Entebbe.
Hearing the calls of chimps and seeing them swing through the trees is a one-of-a-kind experience.
From the itinerary
At a glance
Day by day
Early this morning, you arrive - welcome! We will pick you up from Entebbe International Airport and take you to the next stage of your journey.
Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park, where your Ugandan safari starts here and now, surrounded by all of the incredible wildlife that this country has to offer.
Guided by experienced trackers, you'll navigate through lush forests to observe and learn about these intelligent and social animals, our closest relatives.
Hearing the calls of chimps and seeing them swing through the trees is a one-of-a-kind experience.
After the chimp trek, you'll transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park, with an evening game drive through the park.
On your second day in Queen Elizabeth National Park, start with a delicious breakfast, then head out for a game drive in the Kasenyi plains that may lead you to Ugandan kob, Defassa waterbuck, elephants, topi, bushbuck, and many more.
After a hot lunch, head to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Arrive in the evening and wrap up your day with a tasty dinner at your booked lodge. It's a day filled with wildlife, adventure, and nature.
Have an early breakfast and prepare for the gorilla trekking adventure. Make sure to pack your daypack with essentials.
Join a guided group for an unforgettable trek in the forest to see the mountain gorillas. It can take anywhere from 2 to 8 hours, depending on the location of the gorillas. Once you encounter them, you can spend about an hour observing these majestic creatures.
After the trek, transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, known for its deep waters and numerous islands. It provides a tranquil setting for activities such as canoeing, swimming, and birding.
Today, your safari with us comes to an end.
After breakfast at Lake Bunyonyi, check out from the lodge and start your journey back to Entebbe. You will be dropped off at Entebbe International Airport.
Where this trip takes you
Kibale Forest National Park, Kasenyi plains, Lake Bunyonyi's deep waters and numerous islands
The route
The fine print
Essential Documents & Health Items
Passport & Visa: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months and obtain the necessary visa for Uganda.
Yellow Fever Certificate: A mandatory requirement for entry into Uganda.
Travel Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for health, trip cancellations, and emergencies.
Vaccinations & Medications: Consult your doctor about recommended vaccinations and carry personal medications, including anti-malarials.
Clothing & Footwear
Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing: Long-sleeved shirts and pants in khaki, beige, or olive to blend with the environment and protect against insects.
Warm layers: Evenings can be chilly, so pack a fleece or light jacket.
Rain gear: A waterproof jacket or poncho, especially during the rainy seasons.
Sturdy footwear: Comfortable hiking boots for treks and walking safaris; sandals or flip-flops for relaxing at lodges.
Swimwear: For lodges with swimming pools or potential swimming opportunities.
Hat & sunglasses: A wide-brimmed hat for sun protection and UV-protection sunglasses.
Safari Essentials
Binoculars: Essential for wildlife viewing, especially for birdwatching and spotting distant animals.
Camera with extra batteries & memory cards: To capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Daypack: A small backpack to carry daily necessities during excursions.
Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated during your adventures.
Insect repellent: Preferably with DEET to ward off mosquitoes and other insects.
Sunscreen & lip balm: High SPF to protect against the equatorial sun.
Flashlight or headlamp: Useful in areas with limited lighting or during night activities.
Personal Items & Miscellaneous
Toiletries: Biodegradable soap, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, and feminine hygiene products.
First aid kit: Include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
Hand sanitizer & wet wipes: For hygiene on the go.
Travel documents: Photocopies of important documents stored separately from the originals.
Cash: Small denominations in Ugandan shillings for tips and small purchases.
Power bank & universal adapter: To keep your devices charged.
Seasonal Considerations
Dry season (June-August, December-February): Ideal for wildlife viewing; pack lighter clothing but still include warm layers for evenings.
Wet season (March-May, September-November): Lush landscapes and fewer tourists; ensure waterproof gear and quick-drying clothing.
Key facts to clear up first
What's "largest," and how big is it?
The park proper is ~3,893 km⊲; and is Uganda's largest national park.
The wider Murchison Falls Conservation Area (MFCA) - MFNP plus Karuma & Bugungu Wildlife Reserves - is ~5,072 km⊲. (That's the bigger number you’ll sometimes see.)
When to go
Best wildlife viewing: the dry seasons, Dec-Feb and Jun-Sep (sunny, little rain).
Getting there from Kampala
Plan on ~4-6 hours by road (≈305 km) to Paraa, via Masindi and the southern gates (Kichumbanyobo/Masindi South). Northern gates (Tangi/Purongo/Chobe) work too and access good game areas.
Fees & what to book (UWA official 2024-2026)
Park entry (per 24 hours): US$45 (FNR), US$35 (FR), UGX 25,000 (EAC adult).
Launch (boat) trip to the base of the falls: US$30 (FNR).
Hike to Top of the Falls: US$15 (FNR). Viewing platform only: US$10.
Sport fishing permit: US$50/day or US$150/4 days (permit only; entry extra).
UWA's summary page is the most reliable place to confirm last-minute changes before you go.
Must-do activities
Classic game drives (best at first light and late afternoon). North of the Nile usually has denser plains game and predators.
Boat cruise to the base of the falls (wildlife along the banks; runs daily - many boats depart 9:00 & 14:00).
Delta cruise (downstream from Paraa) for wetland birds including the shoebill - often a morning 07:00 departure.
Top of the Falls viewpoints and short hike (allow ~2 hours).
Sport fishing (Nile perch & catfish) with permits as above.
Health, safety & what to wear
Yellow fever: vaccination is required for entry into Uganda; carry your card.
Malaria: Uganda has malaria transmission nationwide; talk to your clinician about prophylaxis and bite avoidance.
Tsetse & biting insects: many safari operators advise avoiding blue/black clothing; choose neutral, lightweight long sleeves/trousers.
Water safety: avoid swimming in the Nile (currents, crocodiles, hippos). Stick to boats with licensed operators, such as UWA and established concessionaires.
Packing checklist (short)
Documents & cash: Passport, yellow-fever card, cards, and some UGX cash for tips/local purchases.
Clothing: Neutral long sleeves/trousers, hat, light rain layer; sturdy shoes if hiking to the top.
Sun & bugs: High-SPF sunscreen, repellent, after-bite, sunglasses.
Gear: Binoculars, camera with dust protection, dry bag for boat trips.
Practical tips
Book activities/permits ahead (boat seats and fishing slots can fill in peak months). Use your lodge or UWA to reserve.
Drive times inside the park can be long on dirt tracks - 4×4 is recommended; start game drives early to beat the mid-day heat.
Shoebill chance is best on the delta cruise; bring binoculars.
Logistics
Your 5 days finish where they began, in Uganda.
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