22 days Uganda adventure safari holiday is a 22 days Uganda safari vacation tour that brings you the best of Uganda’s top safari destinations with unforgettable activities as you drive through the Central, Eastern, Northern, Western and Southern regions of this magnificent country. Starting and ending in Kampala, this immersive adventure is destined to be a trip of a lifetime.
Kick-off your adventure east in Jinja, to see the source of the Nile. Experience the thrills of whitewater rafting and bungee jumping at the source of the Nile, the place where the world’s longest river exits Africa’s largest lake to begin its long journey to the Mediterranean. Continue east and hike to the Sipi Falls on the slopes of Mt Elgon.
Drive northeast to the Kidepo Valley National Park to see the unique unspoiled landscape and an incredible variety of wildlife like Elephants, Buffalos, Lions, Leopards, Cheetahs, Giraffes, Zebras, Hyenas, Ostriches, and more. Also, undertake a cultural encounter with the Karamajong tribal people.
Move southwest to Murchison Falls National Park, the largest Uganda safari park which is home to the world’s most powerful waterfalls, the Nile River, and 76 mammal species including the Big 5 and Rothschild’s giraffes. Undertake a game drive in the savannah plains, the Nile River launch cruise, and a hike to the top of the falls.
Visit Kabwoya Reserve before moving to Kibale National Park for a whole day Chimpanzee Habituation Experience. Travel to Semuliki and enjoy a nature walk before heading to the Rwenzori Mountains National Park for a 2-day adventure hike. Move to Queen Elizabeth National Park for game drives to see the rare tree-climbing lions and a host of other mammals. Enjoy a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, home to the world’s largest concentration of hippos.
Continue to the mighty Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park for a gorilla trekking adventure. Encounter Uganda’s birdlife, monkeys, and butterflies while hiking through the thick jungle with an experienced local tracker in search of these majestic creatures. From Bwindi, go relax at magical Lake Bunyonyi before moving to Lake Mburo National Park for a game walking safari and night game drive. End this amazing 22 days Uganda adventure with relaxation on the beautiful shore of Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake.
You Can Book Or Customize This Epic 22 Days Uganda Safari Adventure At An Affordable Price.
Discover the Central, Eastern, Northern, Western & Southern regions of the Pearl of Africa
Mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
Spend a full day with chimps in the unique Chimpanzee Habituation Experience in Kibale
Whitewater rafting and bungee jumping adventures at the Source of Nile River in Jinja
Game drives in Kidepo Valley, Murchison Falls, & Queen Elizabeth National Parks
Boat cruises along the historic Nile River & the famous Kazinga Channel
Search for the rare tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Game walking safari & night game drive in Lake Mburo National Park
Hike to the Sipi Falls, Rwenzori Mountains, Sempaya hot springs, & to the top of the Murchison Falls.
Relaxation in Kidepo, along the banks of the Nile and on the shore of Lake Victoria
Meet the locals and explore Karamajongo’s indigenous cultures around Kidepo
The Uganda Equator crossing experience at Kayabwe
Day 1 & 2: Jinja – Source of the Nile River
Day 3: Sipi Falls Area – Mount Elgon
Day 4, 5 & 6: Kidepo Valley National Park
Day 7 & 8: Murchison Falls National Park
Day 9: Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve
Day 10 & 11: Fort Portal – Kibale National Park Area
Day 12: Semuliki National Park & Kasese
Day 13, 14 & 15: Rwenzori Mountains & Queen Elizabeth National Park
Day 16 & 17: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Day 18: Lake Bunyonyi
Day 19: Lake Mburo National Park
Day 20: Entebbe
Day 21: Lake Victoria
Day 22: Departure
Day 1: Drive to Jinja− Source of the Nile River for white-water rafting & bungee jumping
Day 2: Relax along the banks of River Nile in Jinja
Day 3: Travel to Sipi Area & hike to Sipi falls on the slope of Mount Elgon.
Day 4: Undertake a scenic drive to Kidepo Valley National Park
Day 5: Enjoy a morning game drive in Kidepo & an afternoon Karamojong Community tour
Day 6: Relax in Kidepo. Optional game drive or Mount Morungole hike to meet the Ik people.
Day 7: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park with sightseeing en route
Day 8: Morning game drive, afternoon Nile launch cruise to the bottom of the falls & hike to the top of Murchison Falls.
Day 9: Relax at the Lodge, afternoon departure to Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve in Albert Rift Area
Day 10: Transfer from Kabwoya Reserve to Kibale Forest National Park.
Day 11: Undertake a whole day Chimpanzee Habituation Experience (CHEX).
Day 12: Drive to Semuliki National Park, hike to Sempaya hotsprings & transfer to Kasese
Day 13 & 14: Rwenzori Mountains hike
Day 15: Morning game drive in Kasenyi sector, afternoon Kazinga Channel boat cruise & evening game drive along the Channel track in Queen Elizabeth NP.
Day 16: Travel Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Do an en-route game drive in Queen Elizabeth NP’s Ishasha sector in search of tree climbing lions
Day 17: Mountain Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park & relax at the lodge
Day 18: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi & relax.
Day 19: Drive to Lake Mburo National Park & settle for a night game drive
Day 20: Enjoy a game walking safari in Lake Mburo Park & drive to Entebbe.
Day 21: Relax on the shores of Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake.
Day 22: Departure through Entebbe International Airport
Enjoy breakfast at around 6.00 am and then depart Kampala city for Jinja, Uganda’s adventure capital. Jinja is a large historical town of Uganda famed for the source of the Nile, one of the most iconic places in Africa – the point at which the Nile River exit Lake Victoria to begin an epic 6650km journey north to the Mediterranean Sea.
On your way to Jinja, drive through impressive landscapes of the Kampala city outskirts before entering into the sugarcane plantations at Lugazi, the forested lands of Mabira. On arrival check-in the lodge and at around 9.00 am, get onto the rafts to undertake a challenging white water rafting adventure along the historic Nile River. Raft in the company of expert guides who are at your rescue in case the waters push you off the raft. The crowd cheers from the locals on the river bank enjoying the free sights of your struggle with waters will make you part of the community.
White-water rafting adventure goes for a half-day after which you relax a little and then connect to the bungee jumping site for an afternoon bungee jumping experience. You’re tied with the latex rubber in the ankles that allows you to slope for over 44m down the waters of the Nile from the cliff safely. Enjoy the great adventure with the wind rushing through your air, the views of the cliff, and the views of the sky which combine to generate a lasting experience. Retire for relaxation, dinner, and overnight.
The Highlight Of The Day: – Half-Day White-Water Rafting Adventure Along The Historic Nile River.
Luxury/Upmarket: – Wild waters Lodge/ Haven Lodge Jinja
Mid-range/Moderate: – 2 Friends Hotel Jinja/Haven Lodge Jinja
Budget/Basic: – Source of the Smile Guesthouse
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Drive distance & time: Approx. 80km or 2-3 hours
This day is dedicated to your relaxation in the tranquil environment listening to the flowing waters of the Nile – the longest river in the world. Have your breakfast at around 9.00 am and take a rest in your lush eco-friendly room, private balcony, or the lush garden setting the body just like new! The sumptuous meals served according to your preference also add spice to the experience.
The Highlight Of The Day: – Relaxation Along The Banks Of The World’s Longest River In Jinja.
Luxury/Upmarket: – Wild waters Lodge/ Haven Lodge Jinja
Mid-range/Moderate: – 2 Friends Hotel Jinja/Haven Lodge Jinja
Budget/Basic: – Source of the Smile Guesthouse
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Enjoy your breakfast at 7.00 am and then embark on a 198km (4-5hours) drive to Sipi Falls Area. The drive is rewarding and we’ll pass through amazing landscapes of Eastern Uganda, rice fields, sugarcane plantations, busy roadside markets, and quiet rural villages, where you get a real sense of what life is like here.
Arrive at Sipi and settle for lunch at the lodge. In the afternoon, embark on a guided 3-hour hike to the main Sipi waterfall to marvel at this magnificent 99m-high fall, the last in a series of three pretty waterfalls formed by the Sipi River as it cascades downhill from the upper slopes of Mount Elgon into the Kyoga Basin. The waterfall is surrounded by beautiful walking trails, lush green hills and offers breathtaking water drop and the surrounding physical and human landscape generate a remarkable state of excitement and memories.
Besides nature in abundance, your Sipi falls hike can include a tour of a small local coffee-producing farm. This is the perfect time to pick up some high-quality Ugandan coffee to take home to your friends and family. Retreat from the activity for relaxation, dinner, and overnight.
The Highlight Of The Day: – Hiking To The Spectacular Sipi Falls On The Slopes Of Mount Elgon.
Upmarket/Luxury: – Sipi River Lodge
Midrange/Standard: – Mbale Resort Hotel
Budget/Basic: – Kapkwai Forest Cottages/Sipi River Lodge
Meal Plan: – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Drive distance & time: – Approx. 198km or 4-5 hours
Enjoy breakfast at around 8.30 am and then undertake a scenic unforgettable drive to Kidepo. Drive through the remarkable northern Uganda landscapes extensive plains dotted with Manyattas (homesteads) of the local Karamojong people. Have lunch along the way and then continue to Kidepo arriving in the evening for relaxation dinner and overnight.
The 1,442km2 Kidepo Valley NP in the far northeast ranks among Africa’s finest wilderness, yet it is seldom visited, allowing a primeval wilderness vibe. The vegetation of Kidepo is eye-catching grassland and savannah that spread into horizons beyond the eye can see. The park hosts over 77 mammal species including a healthy population of Lions, Elephants, Buffalos, Leopards, Giraffes, Zebras, Hyenas, Elands, and Hartebeests plus many species which cannot easily be seen elsewhere in Uganda such as Cheetahs, Bat-eared foxes, Black-backed jackals, Aardwolf, Caracals, Greater and Lesser Kudus. There are also plenty of birds exclusive to this park and with over 475 species on the checklist including the Common ostrich.
Besides the exceptional wildlife safari experience and superb scenery, this Uganda safari park is another great spot for cultural tours in Uganda especially for those who would like to see the Karamajong and Ik peoples plus other great tribes.
The Highlight Of The Day: – The Unforgettable Scenic Drive Through The Remarkably Scenic Landscapes Of Northern Uganda To Kidepo Valley NP.
Upmarket/Luxury: – Apoka Safari Lodge/Adele Lodge
Meal Plan: – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Drive time: – Approx. 526km or 7-8 hours
After breakfast at 7.00 am, embark on a 3-4 hours photographic game drive along the trails of the Kidepo Valley NP. The vast open savannah plains of this park make it easy to spot animals. Expect to explore the Narus Valley in the south sector of Kidepo. Animals you can expect to see include Buffalos, Elephants, Lions, many Zebras, Giraffes, Hartebeest, and Reedbucks. There are also Cheetahs, Leopards, Aardwolves, Bat-eared foxes, and caracals. A variety of waterbirds can also be seen in Narus including African Jacana, yellow-billed stork, white-faced whistling duck, and various herons and egrets plus other Kidepo specials such as Clapperton’s francolin, rose-ringed parakeet, Abyssinian ground hornbills, bateleur, Meyer’s parrot, and superb starling.
Retire from the activity and return to the lodge for relaxation and lunch. In the afternoon, you take on a visit to the Lorokul community, located just outside Kidepo to explore the cultural heritage of the Karimojong nomadic pastoralists, one of Uganda’s most distinctive tribes. Karamojongs are well known for their love for cattle and cattle rustling and their resistance to the trappings of the modern world. They take a lot of pride in their culture and customs, harbor foreign interference and with their traditional lifestyle, and view new trends in life, travel, education, technology, dress, fashion, housing, medicines, religion, and several others as unnecessary inconvenience.
You explore their traditions, the Manyattas, the arts and crafts, the Kraal and the grazing field, and traditional performances before retreating to the lodge for relaxation, dinner, and overnight.
The Highlight Of The Day: – The Morning Game Drive In Kidepo Valley National Park.
Upmarket/Luxury: – Apoka Safari Lodge/Adele lodge
Midrange/Standard: – Nga’moru Wilderness Camp/Adele Lodge/Kidepo Savannah Lodge
Budget/Basic: – Apoka Rest Camp/Kidepo Savannah Lodge
Meal Plan: – Lunch & Dinner
This is a free day dedicated to your intense relaxation in Kidepo. Wake up for breakfast at around 9.00 am. You can opt to include a game drive. A visit to the Ik community can also be organized to give you a rare insight into this tribe of people with less than 10,000 members and is seen as endangered for its future existence as they attempt to eke out a living high in the Morungole Mountain. The Ik are believed to have migrated from Ethiopia and first settled in Kenya and migrated to what is now Kidepo Valley National Park.
They were cattle herders however due to cattle raids from Karamojongs they gave up cattle herding for subsistence farming, goat keeping, and honey production. These tribal people became famous in 1972 when British-American anthropologist Colin Turnbull published his book “The mountain people” in which he described the IK people he comes across as people who did not love. However, a visit to the IK village will disapprove that, they love, welcoming and Turnbull simply got it wrong.
The Highlight Of The Day: – Relaxation In The Pristine Wilderness Of Kidepo Valley National Park
Upmarket/Luxury: – Apoka Safari Lodge/Adele lodge
Midrange/Standard: – Nga’moru Wilderness Camp/Adele Lodge/Kidepo Savannah Lodge
Budget/Basic: – Apoka Rest Camp/Kidepo Savannah Lodge
Meal Plan: – Lunch & Dinner
Have your breakfast at around 8.30 am and undertake a scenic drive 347km (7-8 hours) drive Murchison Falls National Park, the largest of all 10 Uganda national parks at 3,840km2 blessed with the world’s most powerful waterfall, the Nile River over 76 species of mammal including 4 of iconic Africa’s Big Five and 451 species of birds including the incredible Shoebills.
On your journey to Murchison Falls NP, traverse the northern Uganda landscapes including the former fighting grounds of the Kony’s LRA rebels in Kitgum and Gulu. Arrive in the evening, check-in your accommodation, relax, have dinner, and overnight.
The Highlight Of The Day: – A Scenic Drive Through The Flat Plains Of Northern Uganda To Murchison Falls Park.
Upmarket/Luxury: – Paraa Safari Lodge/Bakers Lodge
Moderate/Mid-range:- Pakuba Safari Lodge/Murchison River Lodge
Basic/Budget: – Red Chilli Rest Camp/Hornbill Bush Lodge
Meal Plan: – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Drive distance & time: – Approx. 347km or 7-8 hours
After breakfast at 6.30 am, undertake on 3-4 hours game drive in the northern sector, a very scenic section of the park with rolling savanna grassland dotted with impressive stands of Borassus palms, acacia trees, riverine woodland, a variety of mammals, and unique birds. Search for Elephants, Lions, Buffalos, Leopards, Rothschild’s Giraffes, Hyenas, Patas Monkeys, Oribi, Warthogs, Hartebeests, Waterbucks, Hippos, Uganda Kobs and much more. Also look out for special bird species including Shoebills, Abyssinian ground hornbills, Secretary birds, Goliath Herons, Squacco herons, Grey-crowned cranes, Saddle-billed stork, Denham’s bustard, Kingfishers to name just a few.
Retreat from the activity and return to the lodge for relaxation and lunch. After lunch, transfer to Paraa Jetty for an afternoon boat cruise on the historic Nile River to the bottom of the Murchison falls which starts at 2 pm. This is one of the highlights of this 22 days Uganda adventure safari. It is not only recreations but also offers a great chance to watch crocodiles gliding along the surface, with pods of submerged hippos breaking the surface of the still water as they peep up to catch a glimpse of you, elephants and buffalos quenching their thirst at the river banks along with a variety of waterbirds Goliath herons, Saddle bellied stork, African jacana, Squacco heron, African fish eagles, and the iconic shoebills.
On arrival at the bottom of the falls, embark on the hike to the top of the Murchison Falls. These falls are arguably the world’s most powerful! They’re not very big or wide like some you may have seen before but think of the world’s longest river which is 50 meters wide squeezing through a narrow cleft of up to 7 meters and fall 45 meters down. Return to the lodge for relaxation, dinner, and overnight.
The Highlight Of The Day: – The Afternoon Boat Cruise On The Nile To The Bottom Of Murchison Falls And The Hike To The Top Of The Falls.
Upmarket/Luxury: – Paraa Safari Lodge/Bakers Lodge
Moderate/Mid-range:- Murchison River Lodge/Pakuba Safari Lodge
Basic/Budget: – Hornbill Bush Lodge/Red Chilli Rest Camp
Meal Plan: – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at around 9.40 am. Around midday, settle for lunch, then check out the lodge and undertake a very scenic drive south to the Albertine Rift area, marked with spectacular steep escarpments, the extensive rift valley flats, and fantastic views of Lake Albert. On arrival, check-in at your lodge in the incredibly scenic Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve and has superb views over Lake Albert and the surroundings. It is a perfect halfway stop between Murchison Falls NP and our next amazing park, Kibale. Undertake an evening game drive in the reserve as we enjoy the wildlife and sunset views over the lake and rolling hills.
The 87 sq. km Kabwoya lacks predators, but good numbers of antelopes, some African Buffalo, Common Warthog, monkeys, baboons, and hippos. Over 450 species of birds have been recorded in the reserve including Grey Parrot, Crowned Eagle, Black Bee-eater, Mountain Masked Apalis, and Grauer’s Warbler, Handsome Spurfowl, Rwenzori Turaco, Dusky Crimsonwing, and many more. Retreat from the activity for relaxation, dinner, and overnight.
The Highlight Of The Day: – The Magical Views Of The Albertine Rift Escarpment And Evening Game Drive In The Scenic Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve.
Accommodation: – Lake Albert Lodge
Meal Plan: – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Drive distance & time: – Approx. 120km or 4 hours
Have enough time to enjoy your sleep and the lodge. The soothing late breakfast at around 9.30 am awaits you and a bush breakfast arrangement can be organized as well. Then pack your bags and set off southwards. You’re slowly heading for Kibale Forest National Park. Enjoy some serious sightseeing along the way. Reach Fort Portal town, another scenic area of Uganda, and have a late lunch. Fort Portal is home to the Royal Palace of the Kingdom of Tooro, it is an important commercial area too, as it is in the heartland of the tea-growing area of Uganda. After which you continue to Kibale
The 795km2 Kibale National Park hosts the highest diversities and concentrations of primates in Africa. It is a natural habitat for 13 species of primates including over 1500 chimpanzees, Black-and-white colobus monkeys, Uganda red-colobus monkeys, Grey-cheeked mangabey, Red-tailed monkeys, Vervet monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, Blue monkeys, Pottos, and Bushbabies. The park contains a total of 70 mammal species, 375 species of birds, and 250 species of colorful butterflies
You reach your accommodation in the evening and settle in. Here you get seduced by forest smells and sounds, spot primates swinging through the trees, and observe rare birds and beautiful butterflies fluttering around. A magical place indeed! Have a relaxation, dinner, and overnight. Tomorrow another exciting, adventurous Chimpanzee Habituation Experience awaits!
The Highlight Of The Day: – An Adventurous Hike To Amabere Cave And The Scenic Fort Portal Crater Lake Field.
Luxury/Upmarket: – Ndali Lodge/Crater Safari Lodge/Primate Lodge Kibale
Midrange/Standard: – Kibale Forest Camp/Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse/Turaco Tree Tops
Budget/Basic: – Kibale Forest Camp/Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse
Meal Plan: – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Drive distance & time: – Approx. Approx. 240km or 4-5 hours
After a hearty breakfast at around 6.00 am, connect to Kanyanchu Visitor Centre to catch up with a briefing by the researcher on how you’re expected to conduct yourself while in the forest when you locate the chimp. This unique whole-day Chimpanzee Habituation Experience offers a great opportunity to watch and interact with these intelligent great apes from dawn to dusk. From Kanyanchu, accompany researchers into the forest in search of a Chimp community that is less accustomed to human presence than those visited on the chimp trek. You have a great opportunity to learn a lot more about chimps as you watch them leaving their overnight nests between 6:00 – 6:30 am before feeding, copulating, hunting, breastfeeding, resting, patrolling, and displaying until it is time to build new nests at around 7.00 pm.
Following and viewing them is both challenging and exciting involving exploring other forest wonders including other primates, unique birds, colorful butterflies, and different plant species. Once chimps are located, watch them carry out their day-to-day activities including feeding, hunting, patrolling their territory, resting, and caring for the young ones.
This habituation experience is the best way to get incredible photographs of the chimps. It allows you to get close enough to identify individuals by their distinct markings and personalities and learn more about their group dynamics. And by taking part in a Chimpanzee Habituation Experience, you’re playing a crucial role in the conservation efforts of the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Habituating the chimps to the presence of humans is an important way for researchers to learn more about them within their natural habitat, without changing their behavior. The more we learn about these incredible primates, the better we can protect them.
You retreat from the activity at around 7 pm to connect back to the starting point and then to the lodge for relaxation, dinner, and overnight.
The Highlight Of The Day: – The Full-Day Adventurous Chimpanzee Habituation Encounter In Kibale Forest.
Luxury/Upmarket: – Crater Safari Lodge/Kyaninga Lodge/Primate Lodge Kibale
Midrange/Standard: – Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse/Kibale Forest Camp/Turaco Tree Tops
Budget/Basic: – Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse/Kibale Forest Camp
Meal Plan: – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Full day Chimpanzee Habituation Experience in Kibale
After a relaxed breakfast at around 9.30 am, undertake a 78km (2-5 hours) scenic drive to Semuliki, a 220km² forest park on the floor of the Great Rift Valley, harboring some intriguing wildlife including Forest buffalos, Forest Elephants, Water chevrotain, Zenker’s flying mice, Pygmy antelope, Chimpanzees, De Brazza’s monkey, Olive baboons, Mona monkeys, Grey-cheeked mangabeys, Black-and-white colobus and Red-tailed monkeys. Birders come to see more than 440 bird species, particularly the central African species, such as the Congo serpent eagle.
Upon arrival in Semuliki, hike to Sempaya hot springs. There are two hot springs – the “male” hot spring is known as Bitente and the “female” hots spring, the geyser is called Nyansimbi. The geyser spouts up to 2 meters into the air from an opening in a low salt sculpture. The emerging water has a temperature of over 100 °C and the surrounding pools are hot. You can boil some plantain or eggs to have picnic bites. From Semuliki, drive back to Fort Portal and then connect to Kasese on the foot of the Rwenzori Mountains. Retire for relaxation, dinner, and overnight.
The Highlight Of The Day: – The Hike To Sempaya Hot Spring In Semuliki National Park.
Luxury/Upmarket: – Equator Snow Lodge
Midrange/Standard: – Sandton Hotel Kasese
Meal Plan: – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Drive distance & time:
Have breakfast at around 6.00 am, transfer to Nyakalengija trailhead to start the 2-day Rwenzori Mountain hiking adventure. Explore the legendary mountain of the moon as noted by Ptolemy in 150AD. The Rwenzori is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Africa’s highest mountain range, rising to 5,109m above sea level with snowcapped peaks despite its closeness to the world’s main latitude – the Equator. It is greatly known for its impressive flora which has been described as Africa’s “botanical big game” including charismatic giant lobelias, rampant groundsels, tree heathers, everlasting flowers, and all manner of colorful lichen and deep moss.
The sights of the peaks can be viewed at a distance, the sights of glaciers flowing down the mountain are beautiful not forgetting the savannah landscapes of Queen Elizabeth National Park, the rift valley lakes of George and Edward, and Kasese town below. Sleeping on the mountain is an adventure encounter of its own. The following day, you hike a little and then embark on the descent back to the starting point from where you will undertake a 1-hour drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park for relaxation, dinner, and overnight.
The Highlight Of The Days: – Adventure Hike On Africa’s Highest Mountain Range
Accommodation at Rwenzori: – Mountain hut
Accommodation in Queen Elizabeth Park
Upmarket/Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge/Mazike Valley Lodge/Katara Lodge
Midrange/Standard: Enganzi Game Lodge/Bush lodge/Kasenyi Safari Camp
Budget/Basic: Pumba Safari Cottages/Park View Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Enjoy breakfast at 6.00 am and then embark on a 3-4 hours game drive in the classic savannah plains of the Kasenyi sector in search of Elephants, Buffalos, Lions, Leopards, Hyenas, Waterbucks, Bushbucks, Warthogs, Giant forest hogs, Uganda kobs, Hippos, and various smaller creatures. This section, apart from the great wildlife, is also one of the prettiest in the park, especially in the golden light of the morning.
While a major attraction for you is of course the mammals, birding within Queen Elizabeth is superb. You spend some time ticking a good number of special species including Grey-crowned crane, Red-throated spurfowl, Yellow-throated longclaw, White-backed vulture, White-headed vulture, Long-crested Eagle, Black-bellied bustard, African Skimmer, and Brown Snake Eagle, to name just a few. Return to the lodge for relaxation and lunch.
In the afternoon, drive to Mweya Jetty for another remarkable, unforgettable activity planned; the 2-hour boat trip on the 40 Kazinga channel which flows between Lakes George and Edward. One of the world’s densest concentrations of hippo lives here, as well as large numbers of elephants, crocodiles, and water birds like African Open-billed, Yellow-billed, and Saddle-billed Storks; Water Thick-knee and Pelicans. Retreat from the activity and do a game drive along the channel track as you connect to the lodge for relaxation, dinner, and overnight.
The Highlight Of The Day: – An Amazing Wild Boat Cruise Along The Spectacular Kazinga Channel.
Meal Plan: – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Have your breakfast at 8.30 am and set off on a 4-7 hours’ drive south to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Before leaving Queen, enjoy a short game drive in the Ishasha Plains in search of the plain’s well know tree-climbing lions. After seeing these brilliantly adapted creatures, exit the park and travel through the rolling hills of southwestern Uganda as you make your way to the lodge for relaxation, dinner, and overnight.
Despite its rather forbidding name, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a tropical forest wonderland. It has been declared World Heritage Site by UNESCO because of its breathtaking natural beauty and unique ecological significance. Covering 321 km², the rugged landscape features dense jungle, cascading waterfalls, sparkling mountain streams, deep valleys, and steep ridges.
Bwindi is world-renowned for excellent gorilla trekking opportunities, harboring nearly half of the Mountain Gorillas on Earth. Aside from the majestic Mountain Gorillas, there are other drawcards including over 120 mammal species, 10 species of primates, over 350 species of bird to spot, 1000 species of flowing plants, and a variety of colorful butterflies.
The Highlight Of The Day: – Encountering The Rare Tree-Climbing Lions In Ishasha Sector Of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Luxury/Upmarket: – Gorilla Forest Camp/Buhoma Lodge/Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
Mid-range/Moderate: – Gorilla Valley Lodge/Bakiga Lodge/Silverback Lodge
Budget/Basic: – Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge/Buhoma Community Rest Camp
Meal Plan: – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Drive Distance & time: – Approx. 130-220km or 4-7 hours
Today, experience what some people define as a life-changing event: a meeting with the gentle giants of Bwindi of Impenetrable Forest! Wake up very early in the morning (at around 6.00 am). Have a hearty breakfast, pack your lunch and then embark on a short drive to the respective park headquarter where you meet the expert local ranger guides. At 8.00 am, the guides give an informative briefing on how the gorilla trekking experience is conducted.
After the briefing, embark on a trek to find the gorillas. A Gorilla trek in the dense forest of Bwindi is relatively difficult and needs some stamina. It usually takes 2- 6 hours and may reach altitudes of almost 2000m above sea level.
The forest also can sometimes be wet, muddy, and uncomfortable, but the sheer thrill in coming across a habituated family group of gorillas, dominated by a giant male Silverback, more than outweighs any difficulty. An adult male can weigh up to 220kg and reach 6 feet in height but gorillas are placid and gentle; watching their movements are like seeing a mirror image of yourself.
Contact time with gorillas is limited to one hour but coming face to face with a family of mountain gorillas is indeed a life-changing experience that will be etched on your mind forever. After your one hour with the gorillas, return to the starting point and connect to the lodge for relaxation, dinner, and overnight.
The Highlight Of The Day: – The Face-To-Face Encounter With The Gentle Mountain Gorillas Of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Park.
Luxury/Upmarket: – Gorilla Forest Camp/Buhoma Lodge/Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
Mid-range/Moderate: – Gorilla Valley Lodge/ Bakiga Lodge/Silverback Lodge
Budget/Basic: – Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge/Buhoma Community Rest Camp
Meal Plan: – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
After breakfast at around 8.30 am, depart to Lake Bunyonyi, the second deepest lake in Africa. The drive itself is very scenic through the fascinating Kigezi Highlands, small villages, coffee and banana plantations, and rolling hills. Upon arrival, check in to your lodge and relax at the lake.
At your discretion, you can engage in Island hopping or canoe paddle to explore the little lake blessed with 29 emerald Islands. Explore the legendary Bucuranuka or Upside down Island which is believed to have buried a group of male revelers who refused to share their abundant stock of beer with an old lady who had embarked on a canoe to join them. Unfortunately for the drinking party, the woman was a sorceress.
She returned to her canoe, paddled a safe distance away, and then used her magical powers to overturn the island-drowning everybody in the party and then flip it back the right way up as if nothing had happened.
You can also visit the Akampane/Punishment Island when unmarried girls who became pregnant would be exiled. Here, they faced one of two possible fates. Any man who did not own sufficient cows to pay for an untainted bride was permitted to fetch the disgraced girl from the island and make her his wife. Failing that, the girl would usually starve to death.
The Highlight Of The Day: – Relax And Chill Out At The Magical Lake Bunyonyi.
Luxury/ Upmarket: – Birdnest @Bunyonyi Resort
Mid-range/ Moderate: – Lake Bunyonyi Rock Resort/Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort
Meal Plan: – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Drive distance & time: – Approx. 55-85 km or 1-3 hours
Have a relaxed breakfast at around 9.30 am and then embark on a 199km about (4-5 hours) drive to Lake Mburo National Park. Make a lunch stop at Igongo Cultural Center 12km from Mbarara after which you transfer to Lake Mburo National Park.
At 7 pm, embark on a 2 hours night game drive in the savannah landscapes of the park with possibilities of exploring nocturnal species such as Hare, Porcupine, Aardvark, White-tailed mongoose, Honeybadger, Side-stripped jackal, Bushpig, Spotted hyena, Serval cat, Genet cat, Civet, Thick – tailed Galago and black galago. You also have chances of viewing the day hunters and grazers having a night’s rest. Retire for dinner and overnight.
The highlight of the day: – Spotting the rare nocturnal creatures in Lake Mburo National Park
Luxury/Upmarket: – Mihingo Lodge
Mid-range/Moderate: – Rwakobo Rock/Arcadia Cottages Mburo/ Mpogo Safari Lodge
Budget/Basic: – Eagles Nest Mburo
Meal Plan: – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Drive distance & time: – Approx. 199km or 4 hours
Enjoy your breakfast at around 6.30 am and then team up with the Uganda Wildlife Authority ranger guide at Rwonyo, setting off to the extensive savannah stretches of Lake Mburo National Park on foot gaining possible views of Burchell’s Zebra, Rothschild’s Giraffe, Cape Buffalos, Common Elands (the world’s second-largest antelope), Impalas (only found here in the whole of Uganda), Defassa waterbucks, Warthogs, and other wild games as the checklist of mammals reach 68 species.
Also look out for several of the park’s 350 bird species such as Red-faced barbets, Bateleur, Grey Crowned Crane, Brown-chested Lapwing, Black-bellied Bustard, Red-headed Lovebird, Ross’s Turaco, Brown Parrot, Green Wood-hoopoe, Common Scimitarbill, Bare-faced Go-away-bird, Red-faced Barbet, White-headed Barbet, Long-tailed Cisticola, Nubian Woodpecker, Red-shouldered Cuckoo-shrike, Finfoot, White-winged Tit and Yellow-breasted Apalis among other birds.
Retreat from the 3-hour activity and embark on the drive to Kampala 240km about 4 hours’ drive. Make a stop at Uganda Equator crossing Kayabwe for photo shoots and water experiments explaining the geographical divide between the north and southern hemispheres that may not be missed.
The highlight of the day: – Walking among the wild mammals of Lake Mburo National Park and the Uganda Equator experience.
Luxury/Upmarket: – Serena Lake Victoria Resort/Protea Hotel Entebbe
Mid-range/Moderate: – 2 Friends Beach Hotel Entebbe/Lake Heights Hotel Entebbe
Budget/Basic: – Acacia Boutique Hotel
Meal Plan: – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Drive distance & time: – Approx. 199km or 4 hours
This is dedicated as a summation day of your safari. Have a relaxed breakfast at around 9.30 am as you enjoy the tranquil environment along the shores of Lake Victoria – the world’s second-largest freshwater lake, the largest in Africa, and the world’s largest tropical lake.
The extensive sandy beaches are well aligned for your recreational experience. An optional speed boat can be arranged to cruise on these waters shared by the three East African countries.
The Highlight Of The Day: – Relaxing On The Shores Of The World’s Largest Tropical Lake.
Luxury/Upmarket: – Serena Lake Victoria Resort/Protea Hotel Entebbe
Mid-range/Moderate: – 2 Friends Beach Hotel Entebbe/Lake Heights Hotel Entebbe
Budget/Basic: – Acacia Boutique Hotel
Meal Plan: – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Drive distance & time: – Approx. 240km or 3-4 hours
Meal Plan: – Breakfast
Drive distance & time: – Approx. 10 km/20km or 30 minutes
Activities & Services of the day:-
End of the 22 Days Uganda Safari Tour Adventure Trip
Cate
Samuel
Robert
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