Embark on a transformative 17-day safari that promises an unforgettable journey through Uganda’s diverse wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. This immersive adventure takes you deep into Uganda’s wild heart—from the primate-filled forests of Kibale and the towering peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains to the pristine savannahs of Queen Elizabeth and Lake Mburo National Parks, culminating in an intimate encounter with endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi. Experience heart-pounding game drives, scenic boat cruises, invigorating nature hikes, and compelling community walks, all guided by expert rangers and local specialists.
Embark on a transformative 17-day safari that promises an unforgettable journey through Uganda’s diverse wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. This immersive adventure takes you deep into Uganda’s wild heart—from the primate-filled forests of Kibale and the towering peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains to the pristine savannahs of Queen Elizabeth and Lake Mburo National Parks, culminating in an intimate encounter with endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi. Experience heart-pounding game drives, scenic boat cruises, invigorating nature hikes, and compelling community walks, all guided by expert rangers and local specialists.
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly received by your expert guide who will transfer you to Kitiko Residence Hotel for relaxation and a detailed briefing about your upcoming safari adventure.
Activity: Birding
Accommodation: Masindi Hotel
Meal Plan: Full Board
After a delicious breakfast, embark on a scenic drive through Uganda’s lush countryside towards Kibale National Park, renowned as the primate capital of Africa. A stop for lunch en route allows you to absorb the scenic beauty before you check in at the Chimpanzee Guest House for an overnight stay.
Activity: Chimpanzee Tracking
Accommodation: Chimpanzee Guest House
Meal Plan: Full board
Begin your day with an exhilarating chimpanzee tracking expedition in the heart of Kibale Forest. As you observe black-and-white colobus monkeys, baboons, and red-tailed monkeys in their natural habitat, your connection with Uganda’s wilderness deepens. Later, transfer to the majestic Rwenzori Mountains National Park and settle in at Ihamba Safari Lodge for an overnight stay.
Activity: Nature Walk
Accommodation: Ihamba Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Full board
Prepare for an 8-day hiking adventure through the rugged terrain of the Rwenzori Mountains. Accompanied by expert ranger guides and skilled porters, you will traverse glaciers, ascend verdant slopes, and pass through diverse vegetation zones. Each day promises breathtaking panoramic views and intimate encounters with nature that will leave you in awe of Uganda’s natural splendor.
Day 4: Arrival & Orientation
• Arrive at the Rwenzori base camp and meet your expert ranger guides and porters.
• Settle in and participate in a safety briefing and equipment check.
• Enjoy a short, easy acclimatization hike to begin adjusting to the altitude.
Activity: Mountain Climbing
Accommodation: Tented Camping
Meal Plan: Full board
• Begin the climb along well-marked trails through lush, lower-elevation forests.
• Encounter diverse vegetation as you move higher, with panoramic views of the valley below.
• Learn about the local flora and fauna from your guides.
Activity: Mountain Climbing
Accommodation: Tented Camping
Meal Plan: Full board
- Progress into more rugged terrain with steeper ascents.
- Enter the sub-alpine zone where the landscape starts to shift toward rocky outcrops and early glacial features.
- Enjoy breathtaking views as the environment changes around you.
Activity: Mountain Climbing
Accommodation: Tented Camping
Meal Plan: Full board
- Trek closer to glacial formations, traversing icy paths under the careful supervision of your experienced guides.
- Navigate through a mix of rocky paths and frozen terrain.
- Take time to appreciate the dramatic interplay between glaciers and the surrounding mountains.
Activity: Mountain Climbing
Accommodation: Tented Camping
Meal Plan: Full board
- Challenge yourself with a full day of hiking in the alpine zone.
- Traverse rugged slopes and enjoy uninterrupted panoramic vistas of the peaks.
- Encounter unique high-altitude vegetation and geological features that make the region so special.
Activity: Mountain Climbing
Accommodation: Tented Camping
Meal Plan: Full board
- Continue your journey at high elevations, focusing on exploring the extensive alpine meadows and rocky ridges.
- Absorb the dramatic, ever-changing landscape and capture unforgettable views of the mountain range.
- Experience intimate moments with nature in this serene, untouched environment.
Activity: Mountain Climbing
Accommodation: Tented Camping
Meal Plan: Full board
• Begin a gradual descent, transitioning from the alpine environment back into lower vegetation zones.
• Enjoy a less strenuous pace as you retrace your steps, with opportunities to reflect on your adventure.
• Relish the changing scenery—from stark, high-altitude vistas to lush, green slopes.
Activity: Mountain Climbing
Accommodation: Tented Camping
Meal Plan: Full board
- Complete your descent and return to the base camp.
- Gather for a debriefing session where you share experiences and highlights from the hike.
- Celebrate your successful 8-day adventure amidst the natural splendor of Uganda’s Rwenzori Mountains.
Activity: Mountain Descent Arrival
Accommodation: Elephant Lodge
Meal Plan: Full board
After a memorable descent from the Rwenzori, journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Enjoy a leisurely drive as you transition from mountain vistas to expansive savannahs, where you can relax and prepare for the exciting activities of the coming day. Check in at Enganzi Game Lodge and settle in for the evening.
Activity: Game Drive, Boat Cruise
Accommodation: Enganzi Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Full board
Your day begins with an early morning game drive in the Kasenyi sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, where lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and other wildlife roam freely. In the afternoon, embark on a serene boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, renowned for its dense populations of hippos, crocodiles, and a myriad of bird species. Return to Enganzi Game Lodge for a comfortable overnight stay.
Activity: Game Drive , Boat Cruise
Accommodation: Enganzi Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Full board
After breakfast, set off on a scenic drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a world-renowned sanctuary for endangered mountain gorillas. Upon arrival, take the time to relax and acclimatize as you prepare for the life-changing gorilla trekking experience that awaits the following day. Overnight at Rushaga Gorilla Camp.
Activity: Scenic Drive
Accommodation: Bweza Lodge
Meal Plan: Full board
The highlight of your safari, this day is dedicated to gorilla trekking. After a thorough briefing by park rangers, venture into the dense Bwindi forest to track a gorilla family. Depending on the location, the trek may take anywhere from 2 to 8 hours, culminating in an awe-inspiring hour spent observing these gentle giants in their natural environment. Return to Rushaga Gorilla Camp for dinner and a restful night.
Activity: Gorilla Tracking
Accommodation: Bweza Lodge
Meal Plan: Full board
Depart from Bwindi after breakfast and drive to Lake Mburo National Park. Once at the lodge, relax before embarking on an evening game drive where you will have the chance to spot zebras, impalas, buffaloes, giraffes, and topis in their untamed habitat. Overnight at Rwakobo Safari Lodge.
Activity: Scenic Drive , Game Drive
Accommodation: Eagle's Nest Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Full board
After a hearty breakfast, begin your journey back to Entebbe. Enjoy a final stop at the Equator for lunch, photo opportunities, and souvenir shopping before proceeding to the airport for your departure.
Activity: Departure
Accommodation: None
Meal Plan: Half board
Includes
- English-speaking safari guide/driver
- Travel in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle (extended Land Cruiser) with ample legroom
- All park entrance fees and permits as per the itinerary
- Boat trip fees and game drive fees
- Accommodation as stated in the itinerary (Full Board & Half Board)
- Bottled drinking water in the vehicle
- All meals as per the itinerary
- Round-trip fuel expenses
- En-route lunches where necessary
- Gorilla tracking permit
- Chimpanzee tracking permit
Excludes
- Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, extra activities)
- Tips for your guide and lodge staff
- Soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, and additional drinks
- Personal medical care and travel insurance
- International flights and visa fees
