Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe and Transfer to Kampala
Your Ugandan adventure begins with a warm welcome at Entebbe International Airport. After clearing customs, you’ll be greeted by your Ripple Safaris guide and transferred to Kampala, Uganda’s vibrant capital. The drive from the airport provides a first glimpse of the bustling city life and verdant landscapes. Upon arrival in Kampala, you’ll check into a comfortable hotel where you can freshen up and relax. In the afternoon, explore the city’s highlights, such as the Uganda Museum or the bustling markets of Owino, where you can experience local life and cuisine. Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant before settling in for a restful night’s sleep, preparing for the safari adventures that lie ahead.
Day 2: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
After an early breakfast, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest protected area. The journey takes you through picturesque countryside, with opportunities to see rural villages and diverse landscapes. Arriving at the park in the afternoon, you’ll be greeted by the roar of the mighty Murchison Falls, where the Nile River forces its way through a narrow gorge. Check into your lodge, which offers stunning views of the falls and the surrounding savanna. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing dinner as you listen to the sounds of the wilderness and anticipate the thrilling wildlife experiences that await you.
Day 3: Game Drive and Boat Cruise in Murchison Falls
Today is packed with exciting wildlife encounters. After breakfast, set out for an early morning game drive in Murchison Falls National Park, where you’ll search for the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. The park’s diverse habitats, from savanna grasslands to riverine forests, offer excellent opportunities for spotting these iconic animals. In the afternoon, enjoy a relaxing boat cruise along the Nile River to the base of Murchison Falls. This river safari provides fantastic views of hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. Keep your camera ready for breathtaking shots of the falls and the surrounding wildlife. Return to your lodge for dinner and a chance to recount the day’s adventures with fellow travelers.
Day 4: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
After breakfast, you’ll begin your journey to Kibale Forest National Park, renowned for its exceptional primate diversity. The drive takes you through scenic landscapes and rural Ugandan communities, providing insight into local life. Arriving at Kibale in the afternoon, you’ll check into your lodge, nestled on the edge of the lush forest. The evening is yours to relax and enjoy the tranquil environment. Perhaps take a short walk in the vicinity of the lodge or simply unwind with a drink as you anticipate the upcoming chimpanzee tracking adventure.
Day 5: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest
Prepare for an exhilarating day of chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest, home to over 1,500 chimpanzees. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing on chimpanzee tracking protocols. Accompanied by expert guides, you’ll trek through the dense forest in search of these fascinating primates. The trek can be physically demanding, but the reward of encountering chimpanzees in their natural habitat is extraordinary. Observe their complex social interactions and playful behavior as they swing through the trees. After the tracking experience, return to your lodge for a well-deserved lunch and some relaxation. In the afternoon, you may opt for a nature walk or visit a nearby community to learn about local traditions and customs.
Day 6: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Today, you’ll travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park, known for its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife. The drive takes you through picturesque landscapes, including the scenic Rwenzori Mountains. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and enjoy lunch with views of the park’s stunning scenery. In the afternoon, embark on a game drive to explore the park’s varied habitats, from savanna plains to lush wetlands. Look out for elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and the park’s famous tree-climbing lions. Return to your lodge in the evening, where you can enjoy dinner and reflect on the day’s wildlife encounters.
Day 7: Boat Cruise on the Kazinga Channel and Departure
On your final day, enjoy a memorable boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake Edward and Lake George. The cruise offers excellent opportunities to see a variety of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and an array of bird species. The channel is a hotspot for wildlife activity, providing close-up views of animals as they come to the water’s edge. After the cruise, return to your lodge for a leisurely breakfast and check out. You’ll then be transferred back to Entebbe, where you’ll have time for a final meal or some last-minute shopping before your flight. As you depart, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories of Uganda’s stunning wildlife and diverse landscapes.
