Uganda wilderness safari
Uganda Safari

10-Day Uganda Wilderness Safari

Entebbe - Murchison Falls - Kibale - Queen Elizabeth - Bwindi. Ten days exploring the magnificent wilderness of the Pearl of Africa.

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Uganda wilderness safari

Entebbe - Murchison - Kibale - Queen Elizabeth - Bwindi

10-Day Uganda Wilderness Safari

Grand Uganda Circuit 10 Days / 9 Nights Entebbe / Entebbe 2-8 guests 4x4 Safari Land Cruiser

Introduction

Ten days to explore the magnificent wilderness of the Pearl of Africa. From the thunderous Murchison Falls to the misty gorilla highlands, this safari offers an ultra-detailed journey through every major Ugandan ecosystem. Track rhinos on foot at Ziwa, trek with chimpanzees in Kibale, cruise the Kazinga Channel, and spend a life-changing hour with mountain gorillas in Bwindi.

10 Days
Duration
Uganda
Destination
1 Country
Countries
Mid-range
Accommodation
2-8
Group Size
Jun-Sep, Dec-Feb
Best Time
Moderate
Difficulty
Gorilla Trek
Safari Type
Entebbe
Starting Point
Entebbe
Ending Point
English
Language
4x4 Safari
Transport
Full Board
Meals

Why This Safari?

Ultimate Gorilla Experience

Track mountain gorillas in Bwindi - one of the most profound wildlife encounters on Earth. A once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Unmatched Biodiversity

From rhinos at Ziwa to chimps in Kibale, tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth to over 600 bird species.

Photographer's Paradise

Dramatic waterfalls, misty forests, savannah plains, and intimate primate encounters - every day brings a new frame.

Iconic Landscapes

The Nile thundering through a 7m gorge, the Kazinga Channel teeming with hippos, and the ancient Bwindi forest.

Expert Local Guides

Our experienced Ugandan guides bring decades of knowledge, ensuring you see more and understand deeper.

Conservation Focus

Every booking supports Uganda's national parks and local communities. Travel with purpose.

Tour Highlights

Detailed Itinerary

Each day is carefully crafted to maximise your wildlife encounters while ensuring comfort and relaxation. Below you will find a complete breakdown of every day, from morning game drives to evening sundowners at your lodge.

Day 1

Welcome to the Pearl of Africa - Arrival and Transfer

Full Day Transfer: 30-60 min Accommodation: Kampala/Entebbe Lodge Meals: Dinner

Your grand 10-day wilderness expedition begins with a warm welcome at Entebbe International Airport, a lush peninsula on the shores of Lake Victoria. Our professional safari guide will meet you and provide a detailed briefing of the journey ahead. A short transfer takes you to your hotel in Entebbe, where the humid tropical air and the symphony of lake birds provide a tranquil introduction to Uganda.

Morning: Arrive at Entebbe International Airport (EBB). Clear immigration and collect your luggage. Your professional driver-guide will be waiting outside the arrivals hall holding a sign with your name. Entebbe sits on the shores of Lake Victoria, Africa's largest lake by surface area.
Afternoon: Transfer to your hotel in Kampala or Entebbe (30-60 minutes). Depending on your arrival, enjoy a sunset walk along the botanical gardens or the lake shore, watching the local fishermen bring in their catch. The humid tropical air and symphony of lake birds provide a tranquil introduction to Uganda.
Evening: Dinner is served at the lodge, where you can rest and prepare for departure into the wild tomorrow morning. Your guide will provide a comprehensive briefing on the adventure ahead and check your trekking gear.
Airport Transfer Lake Victoria Welcome Briefing
Day 2

Tracking Giants - Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary & Murchison Falls

Full Day Drive: ~4 hrs Accommodation: Murchison Falls NP Lodge Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After an early breakfast, we begin our journey northwards into the heart of the wild. Our first major stop is the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where you will experience the adrenaline-pumping thrill of tracking white rhinos on foot with expert rangers. After lunch, we continue into Murchison Falls National Park, stopping at the Top of the Falls to witness the entire Nile River squeezed through a tiny 7-meter gap, plunging with thunderous force into the gorge below.

Morning: Early breakfast followed by a scenic 4-hour drive north to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary (170 km). The landscape transitions from urban Kampala to rolling countryside. At Ziwa, embark on a guided walking safari with an armed ranger to track white rhinos on foot - walking just meters from a multi-ton rhino is a humbling experience. Ziwa is also home to over 300 bird species.
Afternoon: Continue driving north to Murchison Falls National Park (another 1.5 hours). Stop at the Top of the Falls to witness the Nile forced through a 7-metre-wide gorge, plunging 43 metres with tremendous force. This is a sensory explosion of mist, sound, and raw power. Photography and guided commentary included.
Evening: Check in at your lodge inside Murchison Falls NP. Enjoy dinner under the African stars. Many lodges offer views over the Nile River - request a river-facing room. Packing tip: bring a warm layer as evenings near the river can be cool.
Rhino Tracking Murchison Falls Photography Spot
Day 3

The Great Savannah Game Drive & Victoria Nile Boat Safari

Full Day Game Drive: 3-4 hrs Boat Cruise: 2 hrs Accommodation: Murchison Falls NP Lodge Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We rise before dawn for an early game drive in the northern savannah. This is the golden hour for predators; our guide will track lions, leopards, and hyenas as they return from their hunts. In the afternoon, we board a boat for a safari up the Nile, passing massive pods of hippos and giant Nile crocodiles basking on the banks. The boat takes us to the base of the falls, providing a unique perspective from below.

Morning: Early morning tea or coffee at 6:00 AM, then depart for a 3-4 hour game drive across the northern bank of the Nile. The landscape is a mosaic of life with thousands of Rothschild's giraffes, Cape buffalos, and massive elephant herds. Search for lions, leopards, and hyenas with your expert guide. Photography tip: morning light is ideal for wildlife photography between 7:00-9:00 AM.
Afternoon: Return to the lodge for lunch. At 2:00 PM, board a 2-hour boat cruise from the Paraa jetty to the base of Murchison Falls. Observe hundreds of hippos, enormous Nile crocodiles basking on sandbanks, elephants drinking at the water's edge, and prolific birdlife including the rare shoebill stork, African fish eagle, and colourful kingfishers.
Evening: Sundowner drinks at the lodge terrace overlooking the Nile River. Watch the sunset over the river as the animals come down to drink. Dinner and overnight in Murchison Falls NP.
Big Game Safari Boat Safari Nile Nile Crocodiles Birding Hotspot
Day 4

Scenic Rift Valley Traverse to Kibale Forest

Full Day Drive: ~5 hrs Accommodation: Kibale Area Lodge Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is a day of spectacular geographical transitions. As we drive south from Murchison, we traverse the western arm of the Great Rift Valley with breathtaking views over Lake Albert and the distant mountains of the Congo. We pass through Fort Portal, nestled in the shadow of the Rwenzori Mountains, surrounded by lush tea plantations. We arrive at the edge of Kibale National Park in the evening.

Morning: Breakfast at the lodge at 7:00 AM. Depart for a scenic 5-hour drive south through western Uganda. The road offers breathtaking viewpoints over the blue waters of Lake Albert and the distant mountains of the Congo. Pass through rural villages and verdant tea plantations stretching across rolling hills.
Afternoon: Stop at Fort Portal, the "Switzerland of Africa," for panoramic views of the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains - the legendary Mountains of the Moon. The landscape transforms into lush, rolling tea plantations, an emerald-green carpet as far as the eye can see. Continue to Kibale Forest National Park and check into your lodge.
Evening: Guided nature walk around the lodge grounds. The scents of the evergreen rainforest begin to surround you as nocturnal wildlife emerges. Dinner and overnight in the Kibale area.
Scenic Drive Uganda Rift Valley Fort Portal
Day 5

Primate Capital Encounters - Chimpanzee Tracking

Full Day Tracking: 2-4 hrs Bigodi Walk: 1.5 hrs Accommodation: Kibale Area Lodge Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Kibale is the primate capital of the world, housing 13 species in its dense canopy. After a briefing, we enter the forest to find our closest relatives: the habituated chimpanzees. Listening to their pant-hoots echoing through the high canopy and watching them interact is a deeply engaging experience. In the afternoon, we visit the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for a community-led nature walk.

Morning: Early breakfast at the lodge at 6:00 AM. Head to the Kanyanchu Visitor Centre for a briefing, then enter Kibale Forest with your guide for chimpanzee tracking. Walk through the tropical rainforest (795 sq km) in search of habituated chimp families. Kibale is home to over 1,500 chimpanzees - the highest concentration in East Africa. You may also encounter red-tailed monkeys, L'Hoest's monkeys, and grey-cheeked mangabeys.
Afternoon: Return to the lodge for lunch. At 2:00 PM, visit Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for a guided community walk. This pristine wetland is a biodiversity hotspot home to red colobus monkeys, black-and-white colobus, over 200 bird species including the great blue turaco, and spectacular butterflies. All while learning about local conservation efforts.
Evening: Relax at the lodge. Dinner and overnight in the Kibale area, surrounded by the sounds of the tropical forest at night.
Chimpanzee Trekking Bigodi Wetland Primate Photography
Day 6

Into the Savannah Plains - Queen Elizabeth NP

Full Day Drive: ~3 hrs Accommodation: Queen Elizabeth NP Lodge Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We leave the forest and head south towards Queen Elizabeth National Park, crossing the Equator and entering the rift valley plains. We arrive in time for an evening game drive through the crater lakes region, where dormant craters have become beautiful lake-filled basins. Watching the sun set over these mirrored waters, with elephants and kobs grazing on the banks, is a peaceful and beautiful experience.

Morning: Breakfast at 7:00 AM and check out from Kibale. Enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive south towards Queen Elizabeth National Park. The journey crosses the Equator and enters the rift valley plains, offering spectacular views of the Rwenzori Mountains on clear days.
Afternoon: Arrive at Queen Elizabeth NP (1,978 sq km) and check in at your lodge overlooking the savannah. Enjoy lunch with views over the park. Take some time to relax - many lodges have swimming pools overlooking the savannah. Queen Elizabeth is Uganda's most popular national park, named after Queen Elizabeth II during her 1954 visit.
Evening: Evening game drive through the crater lakes region, where dormant volcanic craters have become beautiful lake-filled basins. Watch the sun set over these mirrored waters with elephants and Uganda kobs grazing on the banks. Return to the lodge after dark for dinner.
Evening Game Drive Crater Lakes Elephant Sightings
Day 7

Predator Tracking & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

Full Day Game Drive: 3 hrs Boat Cruise: 2 hrs Accommodation: Queen Elizabeth NP Lodge Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Our morning starts in the Kasenyi plains, the primary hunting ground for the park's lion prides. With your expert guide, we track the Kings of the Jungle and perhaps catch a leopard in a thicket. In the afternoon, we embark on a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, a 32 km natural waterway boasting one of the world's highest concentrations of hippos. Watching elephants come down to the water's edge just meters from our boat is a quintessential African highlight.

Morning: Early morning game drive (6:30 AM departure) along the Kasenyi Track, the prime predator-viewing area of Queen Elizabeth NP. The savannah is alive with Uganda kobs, waterbucks, and warthogs. Search for lions and leopards with your experienced guide. The Kasenyi plains offer some of the best big cat photography in Uganda.
Afternoon: Lunch at the lodge. At 2:00 PM, board a 2-hour boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel. This 32 km natural channel connecting Lake Edward and Lake George has the highest concentration of hippos in the world - over 5,000 individuals. Witness elephants drinking and bathing at the shoreline, buffalo wading in the shallows, and a stunning variety of waterbirds.
Evening: Return to the lodge for dinner. An optional night game drive (available at extra cost) offers the chance to spot nocturnal wildlife such as leopards, porcupines, and genet cats. Night drives use a spotlight with a red filter to avoid disturbing wildlife.
Big Cat Search Kazinga Channel Elephants at Shore Waterbird Photography
Day 8

Legend of the Tree-Climbing Lions & Drive to Bwindi

Full Day Drive: ~4 hrs total Accommodation: Bwindi Area Lodge Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We head to the remote southern sector of the park, known as Ishasha, world-famous for lions that lounge in fig and sycamore trees to escape the heat. After a game drive through Ishasha, we ascend into the misty Kigezi Highlands and reach the edge of the ancient Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to half of the world's mountain gorillas.

Morning: Early breakfast at 6:30 AM. Depart for the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth NP (about 2 hours south). Game drive through Ishasha in search of the famous tree-climbing lions lounging in massive fig and sycamore trees. This unique behaviour is rarely seen elsewhere in Africa. Photography tip: use a 200mm+ lens to capture them lounging in the branches.
Afternoon: Picnic lunch in the Ishasha sector overlooking the savannah. Begin the ascent from the savannah into the misty Kigezi Highlands, passing through stunning terraced hillsides that are incredibly fertile. Continue to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.
Evening: Arrive at your Bwindi area lodge by late afternoon. Comprehensive briefing from your lead guide about the gorilla trekking experience scheduled for tomorrow. Enjoy a quiet evening by the fire, reflecting on the savannah adventures and preparing for the gorilla trek. Dinner and early bedtime.
Tree-Climbing Lions Scenic Drive Bwindi Arrival
Day 9

The Ultimate Experience - Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Full Day Trek: 1-5 hrs Gorilla Visit: 1 hr Accommodation: Bwindi Area Lodge Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This is the spiritual heart of your safari. After a vital briefing, you venture into the thick, tangled heart of the Bwindi Forest in search of a habituated gorilla family. When you finally come face-to-face with a family of mountain gorillas, time seems to stop. You spend one profound hour observing the silverback's authority, the mothers' tender care, and the playful juveniles. In the afternoon, we visit the local Batwa community to learn about their ancient forest-dwelling culture.

Morning: Early breakfast at 5:30 AM with packed snacks for the trek. Transfer to the park headquarters at 6:30 AM for a final gorilla trekking briefing by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. Groups of 8 visitors are assigned to specific gorilla families. Enter Bwindi's misty forest with your group, lead guide, trackers, and armed rangers. The trek can take 1-5 hours through steep, dense, and often muddy terrain. Porter services are available for hire (approximately -20).
Afternoon: Once the gorilla family is located, spend one unforgettable hour in their presence. Watch the silverback protect his family, mothers nurse their infants, and juveniles play-fight. The human-like expressions and gentle nature of these massive creatures will leave you forever changed. Trek back to the trailhead. Visit the local Batwa community to learn about their ancient forest-dwelling culture and deep connection to the rainforest.
Evening: Return to the lodge to celebrate your gorilla trekking achievement. Receive a gorilla trekking certificate from the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Enjoy a celebratory dinner and share stories with your trekking group. Overnight in Bwindi.
Mountain Gorillas Forest Trek Once-in-a-Lifetime Permit Included
Day 10

Final Morning & Scenic Return to Entebbe

Full Day Drive: ~6-7 hrs Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Awake to the mist-covered forest and enjoy a final breakfast in the highlands. We begin our return journey, descending through the mountains and passing through the fertile Kigezi region. We stop at the Equator for a final geographical demonstration and some souvenir shopping. We arrive in Entebbe by early evening, where your guide will transfer you to the airport for your departure.

Morning: Awake to the mist-covered forest and enjoy a final breakfast in the highlands at 7:00 AM. Depart Bwindi for the journey back to Entebbe. Descend through the mountains and pass through the fertile Kigezi region with its terraced hillsides and long-horned Ankole cattle.
Afternoon: Stop at the Uganda Equator for a final geographical demonstration - stand with one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and one in the Southern Hemisphere. Browse the souvenir stalls for local crafts. Enjoy lunch en route at a lakeside restaurant. Continue the drive to Entebbe, offering a final chance to admire Uganda's diverse topography and vibrant rural life.
Evening: Arrive in Entebbe (approximately 5:00-6:00 PM). Your guide will transfer you to Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight. End of tour. You leave with a heart full of memories, having explored the very best of Uganda's wilderness from the savannah to the misty rainforests.
Equator Crossing Craft Shopping Airport Drop-off

Destinations You'll Explore

Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park

Uganda's largest national park, where the mighty Nile is forced through a 7-metre gorge, plunging 43 metres with tremendous force. Home to elephants, giraffes, lions, buffalo, and the rare Rothschild giraffe.

Big Four Safari Nile Boat Cruise 450+ Bird Species
Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale Forest National Park

The "Primate Capital of the World," Kibale is home to 13 primate species including habituated chimpanzee families. Its dense tropical forest is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.

Chimpanzee Tracking Tropical Forest 375 Bird Species
Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Uganda's most biodiverse park, famous for its tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector and the Kazinga Channel - a 32 km natural channel with the world's highest concentration of hippos.

Tree-Climbing Lions Kazinga Channel 95 Mammal Species
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to half of the world's remaining mountain gorillas. This ancient rainforest offers the ultimate primate trekking experience in a misty, magical setting.

Mountain Gorillas UNESCO Heritage Gorilla Trekking
Included
  • Professional Guide
  • 4x4 Safari Vehicle
  • Park Entrance Fees
  • Bottled Water
  • Assigned Permits
  • All Meals
  • Accommodation
Excluded
  • International Flights
  • Uganda Visa
  • Personal Expenses
  • Travel Insurance
  • Tips & Gratuities
Transport
  • Travel With 4x4 Safari Vehicle

Uganda Wildlife

Uganda is one of Africa's most biodiverse countries. Here's what you can expect to see.

Photo Gallery

Location

What Our Travelers Say

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to take this Uganda adventure?

The dry seasons from June to September and December to February offer the best conditions for gorilla trekking and game viewing. However, the park is accessible year-round.

How difficult is the gorilla trekking in Bwindi?

Gorilla trekking can be moderate to strenuous depending on the gorilla family location. The hike can take 1-5 hours through steep, muddy forest terrain. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended, and porters are available to help carry your gear.

Do I need a visa for Uganda?

Yes, most visitors require a Uganda visa. You can apply online for the East Africa Tourist Visa (also valid for Rwanda and Kenya) or a single-entry Uganda visa. Visas are not included in the tour price.

What should I pack for this Uganda safari?

Pack lightweight neutral-coloured clothing for game drives, a rain jacket for the forest, sturdy hiking boots for gorilla trekking, long trousers and long-sleeved shirts (to protect against insects), insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, binoculars, and a camera with extra batteries.

Is the tour suitable for solo travellers?

Yes, solo travellers are welcome. You can join a group tour or book a private trip. Single supplements may apply for private accommodation.

What type of accommodation is included?

Mid-range lodges and tented camps with en-suite bathrooms are included. Upgrades to luxury lodges are available upon request.

Is Uganda safe for tourists?

Yes, Uganda is a safe and welcoming destination for tourists. The safari circuit is well-established with professional guides, secure lodges, and excellent infrastructure. Travel advisories from most governments recognise tourism areas as safe.

Is gorilla trekking worth it?

Absolutely. Spending an hour with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is widely regarded as one of the most profound wildlife experiences on Earth. The permits are limited, making it an exclusive encounter.

What animals will I see on this safari?

You'll see mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, white rhinos, elephants, lions (including tree-climbing lions), buffalo, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, Uganda kobs, and over 600 bird species.

How much does this safari cost?

Please contact us for a personalised quote. Prices vary based on group size, accommodation level, and season. We offer mid-range and luxury options to suit your budget.

What is the accommodation like?

Mid-range lodges and tented camps with en-suite bathrooms, hot showers, and comfortable beds. Upgrades to luxury lodges with swimming pools, spas, and fine dining are available.

Can children join this safari?

Children aged 12+ can join the safari. However, gorilla trekking has a minimum age of 15 years. Family-friendly itineraries can be arranged on request.

How do I book this safari?

You can book by contacting us via WhatsApp, email, or our website booking form. A deposit is required to secure your dates, with the balance due 30 days before departure.

What is the group size?

Our groups range from 2 to 8 guests, ensuring a personalised experience with dedicated attention from your guide.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes, comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory. It should cover medical evacuation, trip cancellation, and personal belongings.

What is the food like on safari?

Full board meals are included, featuring a mix of international and local cuisine. Dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.

Can I extend my stay?

Yes, we can arrange extensions to Lake Bunyonyi, Jinja (Nile source), Rwenzori Mountains, or a chimpanzee habituation experience in Kibale.

What photography equipment should I bring?

A DSLR or mirrorless camera with a 70-200mm or 100-400mm lens is ideal. A smartphone with a good camera works too. Bring extra memory cards and batteries.

Are there vaccination requirements?

Yellow fever vaccination is required for entry. Consult your doctor for malaria prophylaxis, hepatitis A, typhoid, and routine vaccinations.

What is the terrain like for trekking?

Gorilla trekking involves steep, muddy, and densely forested terrain. Chimpanzee tracking is generally easier but still requires walking on uneven ground. Sturdy waterproof hiking boots are essential.

How do gorilla trekking permits work?

Permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and are included in the tour price. They must be booked well in advance as only 8 visitors per gorilla family are allowed per day.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellations made 60+ days before departure receive a full refund. 30-60 days: 50% refund. Less than 30 days: no refund. We recommend travel insurance.

Is the tour eco-friendly?

Yes. We follow responsible tourism practices, support conservation efforts, employ local guides, and minimise environmental impact. A portion of proceeds supports community projects.

What language are the tours conducted in?

All tours are conducted in English. Guides are fluent and knowledgeable about wildlife, culture, and history.

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