Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe and Transfer to Kampala
Welcome to Uganda! Upon your arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by your guide and transferred to your hotel in Kampala, Uganda’s vibrant capital. The drive offers a glimpse into the lively city life and the lush green landscapes that characterize the region. After checking into your comfortable hotel, take the evening to relax and adjust to your new surroundings. Enjoy a welcome dinner featuring local cuisine, setting the stage for the exciting bird watching and wildlife adventures that lie ahead.
Day 2: Explore Mabamba Swamp for Shoebill Storks
After a hearty breakfast, embark on a journey to Mabamba Swamp, a renowned bird-watching hotspot. This swampy area is famous for its elusive Shoebill Stork, a prehistoric-looking bird with a distinctive shoe-shaped bill. Board a canoe and glide through the tranquil waterways, scanning the reeds and papyrus for these remarkable birds. Along the way, you’ll also have the chance to see other bird species like the Blue Swallow and the Malachite Kingfisher. Return to Kampala in the afternoon and enjoy a leisurely evening exploring the city’s markets and landmarks.
Day 3: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
After breakfast, check out of your hotel and set off for Murchison Falls National Park, one of Uganda’s most celebrated wildlife reserves. The drive takes you through picturesque rural landscapes, with opportunities to see traditional Ugandan villages along the way. Arrive at Murchison Falls National Park in the afternoon and check into your lodge, offering stunning views of the Nile River. After settling in, embark on an afternoon game drive to get your first taste of the park’s diverse wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and lions. Enjoy dinner at the lodge and relax in the serene environment.
Day 4: Game Drive and Boat Cruise on the Nile
Start your day with an early breakfast before heading out for a thrilling game drive through Murchison Falls National Park. The park’s varied landscapes, from savannah to dense forest, are home to an impressive array of wildlife, including buffaloes, hippos, and various antelope species. After the game drive, return to your lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, embark on a boat cruise along the Nile River, offering spectacular views of Murchison Falls and the chance to spot wildlife such as crocodiles, hippos, and numerous bird species, including the African Fish Eagle. Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and relaxation.
Day 5: Visit the Top of Murchison Falls and Transfer to Kibale Forest
After breakfast, take a short drive to the top of Murchison Falls, where the Nile River forces its way through a narrow gap in the rocks, creating a dramatic waterfall. Enjoy breathtaking views and the thunderous roar of the falls. Afterward, check out of your lodge and begin your journey to Kibale Forest National Park. The drive offers scenic views of Uganda’s lush landscapes. Arrive in Kibale in the late afternoon and check into your lodge, nestled on the edge of the forest. Enjoy a leisurely evening and dinner at the lodge, preparing for the primate adventures ahead.
Day 6: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest
Today’s adventure takes you into the heart of Kibale Forest for chimpanzee tracking. After breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing on tracking procedures. Accompanied by experienced guides, trek through the forest in search of chimpanzees, observing their playful behavior and complex social interactions up close. After your chimpanzee encounter, return to your lodge for a relaxing lunch. In the afternoon, you may choose to explore the forest further on a guided nature walk or visit a nearby village to experience local culture. Return to the lodge in the evening for dinner and relaxation.
Day 7: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After breakfast, check out of your lodge and travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park, known for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. The drive takes you through scenic terrain, offering views of the Rwenzori Mountains and the park’s varied ecosystems. Arrive in Queen Elizabeth in the afternoon and check into your luxurious lodge, offering panoramic views of the park’s savanna and wetlands. After settling in, enjoy an afternoon game drive to explore the park’s diverse habitats and spot wildlife such as elephants, buffaloes, and a variety of bird species. Return to the lodge in the evening for a gourmet dinner and a relaxing night.
Day 8: Boat Cruise on the Kazinga Channel and Game Drive
Begin your day with a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake Edward and Lake George. The cruise provides excellent opportunities to see hippos, crocodiles, and a wide range of bird species, including the African Jacana and the Great White Pelican. After the cruise, return to your lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, embark on a game drive to explore different areas of the park and search for additional wildlife. Return to the lodge in the evening for a delightful dinner and a peaceful night under the stars.
Day 9: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
After breakfast, check out of your lodge and set off for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, one of Uganda’s most iconic national parks. The drive takes you through beautiful landscapes and rural areas, offering glimpses of traditional life. Arrive in Bwindi in the afternoon and check into your luxury lodge, which offers breathtaking views of the dense forest. Spend the evening relaxing at the lodge, enjoying a sumptuous dinner, and preparing for the exciting gorilla trekking experience that awaits.
Day 10: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Today is the highlight of your safari—gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing on trekking protocols. With the guidance of expert trackers, trek through the dense forest in search of a habituated gorilla family. Spend up to an hour observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, marveling at their social interactions and gentle nature. After the trek, return to your lodge for a luxurious lunch and some relaxation. In the afternoon, you may choose to visit a local community to learn about traditional Ugandan culture or enjoy the lodge’s amenities. Dinner will be served at the lodge, allowing you to reflect on your incredible gorilla encounter.
Day 11: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
After breakfast, check out of your lodge and travel to Lake Bunyonyi, a serene and picturesque lake surrounded by lush hills. The drive offers scenic views of Uganda’s beautiful landscapes. Arrive at Lake Bunyonyi in the afternoon and check into your lodge, which provides stunning views of the lake and surrounding scenery. After settling in, enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the lake, exploring its islands and taking in the tranquil environment. Return to the lodge for a delightful dinner and a peaceful evening by the water.
Day 12: Bird Watching and Cultural Experience at Lake Bunyonyi
Start your day with a bird-watching excursion around Lake Bunyonyi. The lake is home to a variety of bird species, including the African Harrier-Hawk and the Common Waxbill. Enjoy the opportunity to observe these birds in their natural habitat. After the bird-watching adventure, return to your lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, take part in a cultural experience, such as a visit to a local village or traditional dance performance. Return to the lodge in the evening for a final gourmet dinner, savoring the last night of your luxurious safari.
Day 13: Transfer Back to Entebbe and Departure
After breakfast, check out of your lodge and begin your journey back to Entebbe. The drive offers one last chance to enjoy the scenic beauty of Uganda’s landscapes. Upon arrival in Entebbe, check into a hotel for a brief rest and enjoy lunch. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to explore Entebbe’s attractions or do some last-minute shopping. Your guide will transfer you to Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight. As you leave, you’ll carry with you cherished memories of Uganda’s breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, and luxurious safari experiences.
Day 14: Optional Day for Relaxation or Additional Activities
For those with an extra day, this optional day offers a chance for relaxation or additional activities. You could choose to enjoy a leisurely day at your hotel, indulge in spa treatments, or explore more of Entebbe’s attractions. Alternatively, you might participate in additional bird-watching excursions or cultural activities to enrich your safari experience further. This extra day allows you to fully immerse yourself in Uganda’s natural beauty and vibrant culture before your departure.
