17 Days Primates & Uganda Natural History

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by our representatives and transferred to Kampala, where you will settle in at the Ndere Centre. In the evening, immerse yourself in a spectacular concert of Ugandan drumming and dancing, accompanied by a delicious evening meal that introduces you to the vibrant local culture.

Activity: Cultural Dance
Accommodation: Fairway Hotel
Meal Plan: Half Board

After a hearty breakfast, embark on an exploration of the historical and cultural treasures of the Buganda Kingdom. Visit the revered Kasubi Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage site that serves as the final resting place for the Kings of Buganda. Continue to the Kings’ Palace at Lubiri, the heart of Buganda’s parliamentary heritage, and then marvel at the Kabaka’s Lake—a man-made wonder dug by King Mwanga in pre-colonial times. In the afternoon, delve into Uganda’s fascinating past at the Uganda National Museum, where artifacts and exhibits narrate the story of the nation.

Activity:  Cultural Tour
Accommodation: Sky Resort Hotel
Meal Plan: Full board

Start your day with breakfast before driving to the Naggalabi Coronation Site, where the traditional kings of Buganda are appointed. Here, you will gain deep insights into the authentic culture and traditions of the Buganda tribe. After lunch, visit the historic Wamala Tombs, where you will learn about Ssekabaka Ssuna of Buganda—a legendary figure whose legacy is preserved through ancient relics believed to hold his spirit.

Activity: Cultural Tour
Accommodation: Sky Resort Hotel
Meal Plan: Full board

Today, discover the political, social, and economic history of Uganda through a tour of Kampala’s key landmarks. Explore the Independence Monument, the iconic clock tower, Makerere University, and other significant sites that capture the evolution of Uganda from colonial times to the present day.
Activity: Cultural Tour
Accommodation: Sky Resort Hotel
Meal Plan: Full board

Rise early to beat the morning traffic and set off for Sezibwa Falls—a culturally significant site for the Baganda. Your guide will share the legends and historical importance of this mystical waterfall. Continue your journey through lush sugar cane and tea plantations, enjoy lunch at the source of the mighty Nile, and take a brief tour of Jinja town before settling in for the night.

Activity: Nature Walk
Accommodation: Havens Lodge
Meal Plan: Full board

Delve deeper into the history of Jinja, the first industrial town of Uganda. Wander through streets lined with ancient buildings and historical landmarks that reflect the city’s legacy from the Arab traders to the colonial era. Your guide will ensure you gain a comprehensive understanding of Jinja’s cultural and historical significance.

Activity: Historical Tour
Accommodation: Havens Lodge
Meal Plan: Full board

After an early breakfast, travel deep into eastern Uganda to the historic town of Mbale, once renowned as the cleanest city in the country. Explore various historical sites around the town center, including the Semi Kakungulu and Wanale trails, which reveal the rich heritage and resilient spirit of the local communities.

Activity: Cultural Tour
Accommodation: Sipi Heritage Lodge
Meal Plan: Full board

Drive through rolling hills and verdant landscapes to the majestic Sipi Falls, perched 1800 meters above sea level. Marvel at the Sipi River as it cascades over the foothills of Mount Elgon, forming a series of awe-inspiring waterfalls. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided walk to all three falls, taking in the breathtaking views and the lush, coffee-producing hills surrounding the area. Overnight, enjoy the simplicity and comfort of a self-contained cottage with stunning valley vistas.

Activity: Scenic Drive / Cultural Tour / Agricultural Tour
Accommodation: Sipi Heritage Lodge
Meal Plan: Full board

Journey northeast to the prehistoric Nyero rock paintings, found in three ancient rock shelters. These enigmatic paintings depict animals, concentric circles, and canoes, offering a window into the lives of the people who once thrived in this region. The tour concludes with a visit to the palace of the traditional chief, known as the Emorimori, before returning to Mbale for the night.

Activity: Scenic Drive
Accommodation: Soroti Hotel
Meal Plan: Full board

After a leisurely breakfast, you will be transferred back to Kampala, arriving early in the afternoon. Enjoy the vibrant energy of the city, and if you wish, explore its lively nightlife—the city of smiles and the place where Africa never sleeps.

Activity: Scenic Drive
Accommodation: Masheda Palm Resort
Meal Plan: Full board

Today, travel to western Uganda and the charming town of Fort Portal, known as the tourism capital of Uganda. Your first stop is the Nakayima Tree, a historic site turned traditional worship place that once served as a fortress for a Bunyoro king during colonial battles. Arrive in Fort Portal in the late afternoon, check into your hotel, and soak in the magnificent views as day turns to night.

Activity: Cultural Tour
Accommodation: Mountains Of the Moon Hotel
Meal Plan: Full board

After breakfast, visit the Toro Kingdom palace and several cultural sites, including the burial tombs of fallen kings. Learn about the history, language, and customs of the Toro Kingdom. In the afternoon, explore the Amabere Caves with their stunning stalactites and stalagmites, then enjoy a short hike along volcanic hills, wetlands, and crater lakes. Return to your hotel in Fort Portal, where you can choose to take an evening stroll or sample the local nightlife.

Activity: Cultural Tour
Accommodation: Chaninga Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Full board

Depart for Semuliki National Park and enjoy a nature walk along the famous hot springs. Visit both the female (Nyasimbi) and male (Bitente) hot springs, where you can witness the natural steam used for boiling plantains. Next, embark on a half-day Batwa Heritage Trail, guided by indigenous Batwa who share their traditional songs, folklore, and a rich history of survival. After this immersive experience, transfer back to Fort Portal for the night.

Activity: Cultural Tour
Accommodation: Chimpanzee Guest House
Meal Plan: Full board

Travel to Kibale Forest National Park, the home to the highest number of primate species in the world. In the morning, join an exciting chimpanzee tracking expedition, where you may encounter these fascinating primates along with other monkey species. After lunch, take a guided swamp walk in Bigodi to observe unique forest species and enjoy the sounds of the wild.

Activity: Chimpanzee Tracking
Accommodation: Chimpanzee Guest House
Meal Plan: Full board

Begin your day in Queen Elizabeth National Park with an early morning game drive through its diverse ecosystems. In the afternoon, relax on a serene boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, where you will witness an abundance of hippos, elephants, and birdlife. This experience offers a unique perspective on the park’s dynamic environment before you return to your lodge.

Activity: Scenic Drive, Boat Cruise, Game Drive
Accommodation: Enganzi Lodge
Meal Plan: Full board

Wake early for a packed breakfast and set out on a comprehensive game drive across the park. Track a variety of wildlife including elephants, buffalos, lions, waterbucks, and leopards. Visit Lake Katwe—known as the salt lake—and interact with a local women’s community group, where you can support their craft by purchasing unique souvenirs. After an action-packed day, return to your lodge for a restful evening.

Activity: Game Drive / Community Tour
Accommodation: Mweya Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Full board

After breakfast, your driver and guide will transfer you back to Kampala, marking the end of this unforgettable safari adventure.

Activity: Departure
Accommodation: None
Meal Plan: Half board