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Tour Overview
This 15-day Uganda Wildlife Safari offers an enriching and unforgettable journey through Uganda’s most famous national parks and conservation areas. The safari perfectly blends adventure, wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, and cultural experiences. Starting and ending in Entebbe, the journey covers the rolling savannahs, misty tropical rainforests, and wetland ecosystems of Uganda, giving you a chance to see the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino), trek rare primates like gorillas and chimpanzees, and explore Uganda’s rich biodiversity.
From the calm shores of Lake Mburo to the dense jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and from the wide plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park to the thunderous Murchison Falls, this safari is crafted for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts who want to see the best of Uganda in two weeks.
Experience Uganda’s Breathtaking Wildlife and Birding Safaris
When it comes to immersing yourself in Uganda’s stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and vibrant avian species, look no further than Bird Uganda Safaris. Our Uganda Wildlife and Birding Safaris provide a unique opportunity to discover the enchanting world of Uganda’s untamed nature. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on an immersive journey through Uganda’s pristine wilderness, its captivating wildlife, and its magnificent birdlife.
Uganda Wildlife Safaris: Discovering Nature’s Hidden Treasures
Uganda, often called the “Pearl of Africa,” is a treasure trove of unparalleled natural beauty. From the towering Rwenzori Mountains in the west to the serene shores of Lake Victoria in the east, Uganda’s diverse landscapes set the stage for an unforgettable safari adventure. At Bird Uganda Safaris, we are dedicated to offering you a once-in-a-lifetime journey through Uganda’s extraordinary wildlife and birding paradises.
This tour will take you on an epic adventure through the savannah of Lake Mburo National Park, the highland forest of Bwindi, the home of the mountain gorilla, and a unique collection of birds known as Albertine rift endemics. Then you’ll cross the grasslands of Queen Elizabeth National Park before heading north to the home of our closest cousins, the chimpanzees in Kibale National Park.
After that, you’ll go to Murchison Falls National Park before finishing at the rhino sanctuary, which is the only location in Uganda where you may see rhinos in their native environment.
Tour Highlights
Arrival and Warm Welcome at Entebbe International Airport
Your unforgettable Ugandan safari adventure begins with a warm reception upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport. As you step off the plane, you are greeted by the warm tropical breeze and our friendly safari guide, who will be with you throughout your journey. After a brief introduction, you’ll be transferred to your accommodation where you can unwind after your flight and prepare for the adventures ahead.
Game Drives in Lake Mburo, Queen Elizabeth, and Murchison Falls National Parks
Experience thrilling game drives across Uganda’s most iconic national parks. In Lake Mburo National Park, expect close encounters with zebras, impalas, elands, and shy leopards as you navigate through the acacia woodlands and open savannahs.
In Queen Elizabeth National Park, the famed Kasenyi Plains offer some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities, where lions stalk the Uganda kob, and herds of elephants and buffalo roam freely. Keep your camera ready for tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha Sector.
Then, in Murchison Falls National Park, enjoy classic African safari scenes as giraffes stride across the grasslands, elephants feed near the water, and lions lie in wait for unsuspecting prey. The park is teeming with wildlife and rewards every game drive with new and unforgettable sightings.
Gorilla Trekking in the Ancient Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Delve deep into the lush and misty jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, one of the most biologically diverse rainforests on earth and home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Embark on a guided gorilla trekking experience where you’ll navigate through thick undergrowth and hilly terrain in search of a habituated gorilla family. Spend a magical hour observing these majestic primates in their natural habitat – watching their social interactions, playful infants, and the powerful silverbacks. This is a truly humbling and life-changing experience.
Chimpanzee Tracking in the Primate-Rich Kibale Forest
Step into the emerald canopy of Kibale Forest National Park, the primate capital of East Africa. Join expert trackers on an immersive journey to locate wild chimpanzees, our closest genetic relatives. Listen to their calls echoing through the forest, and witness their fascinating behavior up close – from grooming to feeding to swinging energetically from tree to tree. Along the way, spot other primate species such as red-tailed monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and black-and-white colobus monkeys, making this a paradise for primate lovers.
Boat Cruises on the Kazinga Channel and the Nile River to the Delta
Enjoy relaxing and scenic boat cruises on two of Uganda’s most iconic waterways. In Queen Elizabeth National Park, a boat trip along the Kazinga Channel provides an unbeatable opportunity to observe elephants, buffaloes, hippos, and crocodiles at the water’s edge, while flocks of birds fill the skies and line the shores.
Later, in Murchison Falls National Park, cruise along the mighty Nile River towards the dramatic base of Murchison Falls – the world’s most powerful waterfall. Another option takes you downstream to the Nile Delta, a tranquil birding paradise and ideal spot for observing shoebill storks and other water-loving species.
Forest Walks and Bird Watching in Bwindi
Discover the smaller wonders of the rainforest with guided forest walks in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. These walks offer the chance to slow down and observe the incredible biodiversity that makes this park so unique – from colorful butterflies and rare forest plants to exotic bird species like the African green broadbill, blue flycatcher, and great blue turaco. The melodies of birdsong echo through the forest, making it a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.
Visit to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for Rhino Tracking
Before heading to Murchison Falls, enjoy a special stop at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – the only place in Uganda where you can track wild rhinos on foot. Accompanied by professional guides and rangers, follow the trails of these magnificent creatures as they roam freely in the bush. Learn about their behavior, conservation efforts, and the plans to eventually reintroduce them into Uganda’s national parks.
Cultural Encounters and Scenic Drives Through Uganda’s Countryside
This safari also immerses you in the heart of Uganda’s cultural and scenic beauty. Along the way, engage with local communities through cultural visits that may include traditional dance performances, village walks, handicraft markets, and storytelling sessions. These interactions provide authentic insight into the customs, beliefs, and daily life of Uganda’s diverse ethnic groups.
As you travel from park to park, enjoy panoramic drives through rolling hills, tea plantations, lush forests, crater lakes, and expansive savannahs – a photographer’s dream and a true celebration of the Pearl of Africa’s natural splendor.
Itinerary Details
Day-by-day
Day 1: Arrival in Uganda – Entebbe International Airport
You will arrive at Entebbe International Airport, where our friendly safari guide will be waiting to welcome you. After a short briefing about your safari adventure, you will be transferred to your hotel or guesthouse in Entebbe for dinner and relaxation. Take this time to rest and prepare for the journey ahead.
Accommodation: Hotel in Entebbe
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Travel to Lake Mburo National Park – Game Drive at Sunset
After breakfast, begin your journey southwest toward Lake Mburo National Park. The drive takes about 5–6 hours, passing through rural villages, rolling hills, and traditional cattle farms. You’ll make a stop at the Equator for photos and optional souvenirs before proceeding to the park. On arrival, check in to your lodge and head out for a sunset game drive where you may spot zebras, impalas, elands, topis, and buffaloes.
Accommodation: Lodge in Lake Mburo NP
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Full Day Exploration of Lake Mburo National Park
Spend the entire day exploring Lake Mburo National Park. Start with an early morning guided walking safari to see animals up close in their natural habitat—one of the few places in Uganda where you can do this. Later, take a boat cruise on Lake Mburo to see hippos, crocodiles, and water birds. In the afternoon, enjoy another game drive through the park’s open plains and wooded savannahs.
Accommodation: Lodge in Lake Mburo NP
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Today, you’ll drive through the scenic countryside toward the southwestern highlands, home to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The road winds through hilly terrain, banana plantations, and terraced gardens. Upon arrival, check in to your lodge located near the forest. Bwindi is one of the most biologically diverse areas on Earth and home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.
Accommodation: Lodge near Bwindi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest
Wake up early for one of the most thrilling experiences in Africa – gorilla trekking. After a briefing by the park rangers, head into the dense rainforest with your guide to track a specific gorilla family. Trekking can take 2 to 6 hours depending on the gorilla’s location. Once found, you’ll spend a magical hour watching them in their natural habitat. It’s a powerful and humbling encounter you’ll never forget.
Accommodation: Lodge near Bwindi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Nature Walk and Bird Watching in Bwindi Forest
Today offers a more relaxed pace with a guided nature walk through the Bwindi forest. Learn about the forest’s plants, birds, butterflies, and other small wildlife. The walk may also take you to a local community where you can interact with the Batwa (pygmy) people and learn about their forest-based culture and traditions.
Accommodation: Lodge near Bwindi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After breakfast, drive northwards through the beautiful Kigezi Highlands and the southern Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. If you’re lucky, you might spot the famous tree-climbing lions resting in fig trees. Continue through the park to your lodge, where you’ll enjoy views of the savannah plains and distant crater lakes.
Accommodation: Lodge in Queen Elizabeth NP
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Game Drive & Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel
Start the day with a morning game drive through Kasenyi plains in search of elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, lions, and leopards. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake George and Lake Edward. The channel hosts the highest concentration of hippos in Africa and is excellent for bird watching and photographing animals at close range.
Accommodation: Lodge in Queen Elizabeth NP
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9: Transfer to Kibale National Park – Primate Capital of the World
Depart Queen Elizabeth after breakfast and head to Kibale Forest National Park. This journey offers scenic views of crater lakes, tea plantations, and lush countryside. Kibale is known for its large population of chimpanzees and over 12 other species of primates. Arrive and relax at your lodge, preparing for your chimpanzee adventure.
Accommodation: Lodge near Kibale Forest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest
Today is dedicated to chimpanzee tracking in the dense forests of Kibale. After a briefing at the park headquarters, join your guide and ranger to search for chimpanzees. As you walk through the forest, you may also see other primates like red colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, and grey-cheeked mangabeys. Once you find the chimps, you will observe them for an hour—watching them groom, play, and feed.
Accommodation: Lodge near Kibale Forest
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11: Travel to Murchison Falls National Park
Leave early for a long drive north to Murchison Falls National Park, the largest national park in Uganda. The drive takes you through small towns, roadside markets, and beautiful countryside. Arrive in the park in the evening and check in to your lodge. If time allows, enjoy a short sunset game drive.
Accommodation: Lodge in Murchison Falls NP
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12: Morning Game Drive and Wildlife Viewing
Rise early for a game drive on the northern bank of the park. This area is rich with wildlife, including giraffes, elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, lions, and sometimes leopards. The savannah landscape is dotted with acacia trees and palm-studded grasslands. Return to the lodge for lunch and a short rest.
Accommodation: Lodge in Murchison Falls NP
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 13: Boat Cruise to the Nile Delta
After breakfast, head out for a boat cruise downstream along the Nile River toward the Nile Delta. This cruise offers a chance to see crocodiles, hippos, and a variety of birdlife, including the rare shoebill stork. The scenery is breathtaking, and the calm waters allow you to get close to the wildlife.
Accommodation: Lodge in Murchison Falls NP
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 14: Transfer to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Depart Murchison and travel to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in Uganda where you can see wild rhinos. After check-in and a rest, enjoy a guided walking safari with trained rangers who will lead you close to the rhinos in a safe and respectful way. Learn about rhino conservation and the efforts to reintroduce them to Uganda’s national parks.
Accommodation: Guesthouse near Ziwa
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 15: Return to Entebbe for Departure
On your final day, enjoy breakfast at the sanctuary before driving back to Entebbe. Depending on your flight schedule, you may make brief stops along the way. Arrive at Entebbe International Airport in time for your international departure, marking the end of your 15-day Uganda Wildlife Safari.
Meals: Breakfast
Chat with the expert
Our expert team is dedicated to crafting personalized safari experiences, drawing on years of first hand knowledge to design a journey uniquely tailored to your interests and travel dreams
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