15 Days classic uganda safari

Embark on a 15-day Uganda Safari that promises an abundance of wildlife encounters, breathtaking scenery, and enriching cultural experiences. The focal points of this safari are the captivating activities of mountain gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking. Beyond these highlights, the journey offers remarkable chances to witness a diverse array of exotic animals, including rhinos, lions, hippos, buffaloes, leopards, elephants, and numerous bird species. Explore the majestic Murchison Falls and the picturesque crater lakes situated in the western and southwestern regions of the country. This expedition is designed to provide an intimate connection with both nature and culture, inviting you to discover Uganda, often referred to as the Pearl of Africa.

Key Safari Experiences:

Rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Wildlife exploration through game drives in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Lake Mburo National Parks
Serene boat cruises in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Parks
Chimpanzee tracking adventure in Kibale National Park
Immersive nature walk in Bigodi Swamp
Scenic exploration of Crater Lakes
Encountering the iconic Tree Climbing Lions of Ishasha
Gorilla tracking expedition in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Enjoying a tranquil boat ride in Lake Mburo National Park
Capturing memorable moments with a photo session at the Equator

Day 1: Arrival to the Pearl of Africa

Upon your arrival, a representative from Africa Moja Safaris will greet you at Entebbe airport and transport you to your hotel in Entebbe. Take in the refreshing breeze from Lake Victoria, the second-largest lake in the world.

Day 2: Rhino Tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Commence your day with an early breakfast and set out for Murchison Falls National Park. This journey unfolds as a magical adventure, featuring a stopover at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to track Rhinos. Your ranger guide will provide a briefing before embarking on the Rhino trek within the sanctuary.

Following this enriching experience and a photo session, depending on your lodge’s location, proceed to the ‘top of the falls.’ Here, witness the River Nile’s forceful passage through a 7-meter gorge, creating a thunderous waterfall. Conclude the day at your chosen lodge.

Travel Time – 4 hours

Day 3: Game Drive and Boat Safari on River Nile

Explore the vast Murchison Falls National Park, the largest in Uganda, through early morning game drives immediately after breakfast. This timing enhances the chances of encountering various animals, particularly predators that tend to be more active in the cooler morning hours. The game drive takes place on the northern bank of the River Nile, offering opportunities to spot giraffes, elephants, hartebeest, buffaloes, leopards, lions, and diverse bird species.

In the afternoon, continue the safari with a boat cruise on the River Nile, sailing towards the majestic Murchison Falls. This leisurely boat safari provides additional chances to observe a variety of animals and birds while witnessing the falls from a unique perspective.

Day 4: Drive to the Chimps in Kibale Forest NP

Embark on a journey to the habitat of Chimpanzees in Kibale National Park today. This tropical forest, home to 13 primate species, including the main attraction of chimpanzee tracking and bird watching, presents picturesque views of villages and vibrant roadside markets. Lunch will be provided en route or packed.

Travel Time – 7 hours

Day 5: Chimpanzee Tracking in Their Natural Habitat

Delve into the fulfilling adventure of chimpanzee tracking, exploring the lush tropical forests with flowing streams and abundant wildlife. Begin with a briefing from the ranger guide about your chimp trek, possibly sighting red-tailed monkeys, black-and-white Columbus monkeys, butterflies, and birds along the way. With guidance, locate the chimpanzees, capturing moments as they play, groom, and feed.

After lunch, visit Bigodi Swamp, a community project celebrated for its diverse bird and primate population. The community project contributes to employment opportunities through tour guiding, with proceeds supporting schools and teachers.

Day 6: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Following breakfast, continue the wildlife exploration by heading to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Enjoy the scenic views of crater lakes and the mystical Rwenzori Mountain ranges. Upon reaching the park, indulge in a boat safari on the Kazinga Channel, providing a delightful fusion of water, wildlife, and photographic opportunities.

Travel Time – 2 hours

Day 7: Game Drive and Transfer to Ishasha Sector

Observe animals in their natural habitats during an early morning game drive, appreciating the diverse families, clans, and groups starting their day. Witness the remarkable Kasenyi plains, known for the large Kob mating ground, and keep an eye out for elephants, lions, leopards, waterbucks, buffaloes, and colorful birds.

Following this experience, drive to Ishasha, renowned for its tree-climbing lions. Although sighting them is challenging, rangers will assist in the search. Lunch can be enjoyed as a picnic or at the lodge.

Travel Time – 2 hours

Day 8: Expedition to the Gorillas in Bwindi Forest

Embark on a journey to the home of the gentle giants, the Mountain Gorillas, in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The terraced hills of Kigezi Highlands provide a picturesque backdrop. Lunch will be arranged en route or at the lodge, depending on the arrival time. Rest and unwind at your lodge.

Travel Time – 2 hours

Accommodation:

Day 9: Mountain Gorilla Trekking

Discover the incredible Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Your ranger guide, along with early trackers, will lead you to these rare giants deep within the jungle. The trek, ranging from one hour to approximately eight hours, offers a one-hour encounter with the gorillas, capturing unforgettable moments. For those not interested in gorilla tracking, alternative activities include a community village walk or a short guided forest walk.

Day 10: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi

Reflect on your gorilla experiences as you journey to Lake Bunyonyi, the second deepest lake in Africa. Marvel at the stunning scenery of interlocking hills, terraced by locals practicing farming, earning the nickname “Switzerland of Africa” from Churchill.

Travel Time – 2 hours

Day 11: Lake Bunyonyi Islands

Awake to the sun’s rays over Lake Bunyonyi, surrounded by picturesque hills terraced for potato farming and other crops. Embark on a canoe ride to explore some of the 29 islands, gaining insights into the area’s culture and history. Learn about the ‘punishment island’ story during the boat ride.

In the afternoon, enjoy activities such as swimming in the lake, bird watching, hiking to capture more views of the lake and its islands, or simply relaxing by the lakeshore with a good book.

Day 12: Journey to the Home of Zebras – Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo National Park, a small gem in southwestern Uganda, awaits as you traverse beautiful landscapes, plantations, and farms. Lunch at Igongo Cultural Museum, showcasing the life of the area’s native people. Later in the afternoon, experience a boat trip on Lake Mburo.

Travel Time – 4 hours

Day 13: Transfer to Kampala via Equator Monument

After an early breakfast, engage in a game drive and proceed to Kampala. Make a stop at the famous Equator line, where lunch can be enjoyed in the city or at the Equator, depending on the arrival time. Continue the journey to Jinja.

Travel Time – 4 hours

Day 14: Discover River Nile – White Water Rafting

Explore the origin of the Nile in Jinja, visiting the Source of the River Nile where it embarks on its 4000 km journey through Africa. Your driver guide will take you to the water rafting starting point for a full-day rafting experience on the River Nile. Navigate through rapids before and after lunch, with optional activities available in the afternoon, such as quad bike safari, bungee jumping, horseback safari, or kayaking.

Day 15: End of the Classic Uganda Safari

We hope you had a fantastic time in the Pearl of Africa both in the wild and with the people of Uganda. Buy souvenirs and transfer to the airport.

Gorilla trekking tips

Bwindi impenetrable national park requires hiking, you should pace yourself and drink plenty of water.
Eating, drinking and smoking near the gorillas is forbidden. Your ranger guide will communicate a designated time and place for such.
We encourage you to carry a rain poncho
Waterproof walking shoes or hiking boots are essential.
Gardening gloves for protection against stinging plants
Long trousers and long-sleeved sweaters or shirts while in the forest to avoid insect stings.
Photography is permitted, although you must not use flash
Porters are available to help you carry your day pack for a minimum fee of $20 or 50,000 Ugx