12-Day Ultimate Uganda Mid-Range Safari

CheetahNone

ZebraNone

Wild DogNone

Accommodation:

Fort Murchison (Room)

Mid-range lodge located just outside Murchison Falls NP

+4 Photos

Meals & Drinks:

All meals included
Non-alcoholic drinks

Day 3

Game Drive and Boat Cruise

Morning: Rise early for an exhilarating game drive in Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and most wildlife-rich reserve. As the sun rises, venture into the savannah in search of lions stalking their prey, herds of elephants moving gracefully, towering giraffes browsing on acacia trees, and buffalo grazing in the golden light.

Afternoon: After lunch, embark on a thrilling boat safari along the Nile River. As you glide toward the base of the majestic Murchison Falls, marvel at the abundance of wildlife. Spot pods of hippos wallowing in the water, massive crocodiles sunning themselves on the riverbanks, and a variety of waterbirds.

Evening: Conclude your boat safari with a hike to the top of Murchison Falls. Feel the power of the world’s strongest waterfall as the Nile squeezes through a narrow gorge, creating a dramatic cascade. From the top, soak in the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding park and the thunderous roar of the falls.

Main Destination:

Murchison Falls National Park

Accommodation:

Fort Murchison (Room)

Mid-range lodge located just outside Murchison Falls NP

Meals & Drinks:

All meals included
Non-alcoholic drinks

Day 4

Transfer to Kibale NP

Morning: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your lodge, then embark on a scenic drive of 7-8 hours' toward Kibale National Park, often referred to as the "Primate Capital of the World." As you travel, marvel at Uganda’s stunning landscapes—rolling hills, lush forests, and picturesque villages—providing a glimpse into the heart of the country.

Midday: Continue your journey through the countryside, enjoying captivating views of tea plantations and vibrant farmlands. Lunch will be enroute.

Afternoon: Arrive at Kibale National Park and settle into your lodge, nestled in the heart of the forest. After some rest, embark on a peaceful and insightful walk through the Bigodi Wetlands, a sanctuary known for its rich biodiversity and birdlife.

Evening: Return to your lodge, where a delightful dinner awaits. Unwind and reflect on the day’s experiences, surrounded by the tranquility of the forest, preparing for the exciting primate adventures ahead.

Main Destination:

Kibale National Park (Chimps)

Best Time To Visit January to February and June to July (Chimp trekking is easiest)

High Season June to September (Peak time for Uganda)

Best Weather January to February and June to July (Least rain)

Wildlife in Kibale NP

ChimpanzeeCommon

ElephantOccasional

BuffaloOccasional

LionVery Rare

LeopardVery Rare

HippoRare

GiraffeNone

CheetahNone

ZebraNone

Accommodation:

Kibale Forest Lodge

Mid-range lodge located inside Kibale NP (Chimps)

Meals & Drinks:

All meals included
Non-alcoholic drinks

Day 5

Chimpanze Trekking and Transfer to Fort Potral

Morning: After a hearty breakfast, set off for the highly anticipated chimpanzee trekking adventure in Kibale Forest. The trek begins around 8:00 AM and usually lasts 3-4 hours, depending on where the chimpanzees are located. As you trek through the lush forest, keep your eyes peeled for the agile chimpanzees, often seen playing, grooming, or foraging in their natural habitat.

Afternoon: After your chimpanzee trek, return to the lodge for lunch. Then, in the afternoon, embark on a scenic 1.5-2 hour drive to Fort Portal. Upon arrival in Fort Portal, check into your accommodation. Later, head out for a relaxing exploration of the nearby Crater Lakes, lush surroundings, and stunning panoramic views.

Evening: After your exploration, return to your lodge for a delicious dinner. Unwind as you reflect on the day’s experiences and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of Fort Portal, setting the tone for a peaceful evening.

Main Destination:

Fort Portal (Town)

Accommodation:

Dutchess Boutique Hotel

Mid-range hotel located in Fort Portal (Town)

Meals & Drinks:

All meals included
Non-alcoholic drinks

Day 6

Transfer to Queen Elizabeth NP

After a delicious breakfast, embark on a scenic 3-4 hour drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most diverse wildlife reserve. As you travel through the picturesque landscape, enjoy sweeping views of the rift valley and charming villages, offering a glimpse of rural life in Uganda. Upon arrival in Queen Elizabeth, check into your lodge and take a moment to unwind and prepare for the day's adventure.

In the afternoon, head out for a thrilling game drive through the park's vast savannah, home to an impressive variety of wildlife. Spot elephants grazing by the grasslands, herds of antelopes, and perhaps even the elusive lions lounging in.

Main Destination:

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Best Time To Visit January to February and June to July (Dry seasons)

High Season June to September (Peak time for Uganda)

Best Weather June to July and January to February (Less rainfall)

Wildlife in Queen Elizabeth NP

ChimpanzeeOccasional

ElephantCommon

LionCommon

BuffaloCommon

HippoAbundant

LeopardOccasional

GiraffeNone

CheetahNone

ZebraNone

Wild DogNone

Accommodation:

The Bush Lodge (Banda)

Mid-range banda located just outside Queen Elizabeth NP

+8 Photos

+7 Photos

Meals & Drinks:

All meals included
Non-alcoholic drinks

Day 7

Game Drive and Boat Cruise

Morning: Start your day with an early morning game drive in the iconic Kasenyi plains, renowned for its abundance of wildlife, including prides of lions, elephants, buffalo, and a variety of antelopes. As the sun rises, enjoy the magical moment when the park comes alive with activity.

Afternoon: After a thrilling morning, return to your lodge for a refreshing breakfast, followed by some relaxation. In the afternoon, embark on a serene boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a waterway that connects Lake Edward and Lake George. This is a prime spot for observing an impressive array of wildlife, from massive pods of hippos and crocodiles lounging by the banks, to a wealth of birdlife, including vibrant kingfishers, pelicans, and waterfowl.

Evening: After the boat safari, return to your lodge for a delicious dinner, reflecting on the day's exciting wildlife encounters. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of the park as you relax and prepare for more adventures in the days ahead.

Main Destination:

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Accommodation:

The Bush Lodge (Banda)

Mid-range banda located just outside Queen Elizabeth NP

Meals & Drinks:

All meals included
Non-alcoholic drinks

Day 8

Transfer to Bwindi

Morning: After a hearty breakfast, set off on a scenic 4-5 hour drive toward Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, taking the route through the spectacular Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. This area is famous for its unique tree-climbing lions, which are often seen lounging lazily in the branches of fig trees, making for an unforgettable sight. As you journey through this picturesque part of the park, keep your eyes peeled for other wildlife, such as buffalo, elephants, and a variety of birds, as the lush savannah stretches out before you.

Afternoon: Upon arrival at your lodge in Bwindi, check in and take in the serene surroundings. Nestled in the heart of the forest, the lodge offers the perfect setting to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of the rainforest. Spend the afternoon relaxing, taking in the sounds of the forest, and preparing for the exciting gorilla trekking experience that lies ahead.

Main Destination:

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Gorillas)

Best Time To Visit June to August and December to February (Gorilla trekking is easiest)

High Season June to September (Gorilla permits are scarce)

Best Weather June to July and December to February (Less rainfall)

Wildlife in Bwindi Impenetrable NP

GorillaCommon

ChimpanzeeRare

ElephantRare

LionNone

GiraffeNone

LeopardNone

CheetahNone

BuffaloNone

ZebraNone

HippoNone

Accommodation:

Gorilla Valley Lodge

Mid-range lodge bordering Bwindi Impenetrable NP (Gorillas) without fences

Meals & Drinks:

All meals included
Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Day 9

Gorilla Adventure and Cultural Experience

Morning: After a hearty breakfast, head to the Bwindi park headquarters for a briefing on the trekking guidelines. Then, set off on an unforgettable trek through the dense, mist-covered rainforest in search of a habituated mountain gorilla family. The trek can range from moderate to strenuous, but the reward of meeting these gentle giants up close is incomparable. Spend an hour observing the gorillas as they interact, feed, and play, capturing unforgettable memories while learning about their behavior and conservation efforts.

Afternoon: After the trek, return to the lodge to relax and enjoy a well-deserved lunch. Later, immerse yourself in the local culture with a visit to a nearby Batwa community. The Batwa people, known as the "forest people," have a rich cultural heritage tied to the forest they once lived in.

Evening: Return to your lodge in the late afternoon and unwind after an exhilarating day. Enjoy a delicious dinner, reflecting on the experiences of the day.

Main Destination:

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Gorillas)

Accommodation:

Gorilla Village Lodge

Budget guest house located just outside Bwindi Impenetrable NP (Gorillas)

Meals & Drinks:

All meals included
Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Day 10

Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi and Island exploration

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive of 3-4 hours to Lake Bunyonyi, often referred to as the "Switzerland of Africa" due to its stunning terraced hills and crystal-clear waters. As you drive through picturesque landscapes, enjoy the sweeping views of lush hills, verdant valleys, and traditional Ugandan villages. Upon arrival, check in to your lakeside lodge, nestled along the serene shores of the lake, offering panoramic views of the surrounding islands.

In the afternoon, take a boat ride to explore the fascinating Punishment Island. This historical site, once used for the exile of young girls accused of pregnancy before marriage, offers a glimpse into the traditions and stories of the area. Learn about the island's past and its significance in the cultural landscape of Lake Bunyonyi.

Afterward, return to your lodge, where you can unwind, enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, and relish a delightful dinner as the sun sets over the lake.

Main Destination:

Lake Bunyonyi

Accommodation:

Hawk's Eye Lodge Bunyonyi

Budget lodge located at Lake Bunyonyi

Meals & Drinks:

All meals included
Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Day 11

Transfer to Lake Mburo & Equator Stop over

After a hearty breakfast at your lodge, embark on an exciting journey to of 5-6 hours' drive to Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda's smallest savannah park, renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Along the way, enjoy a fascinating stop at the Equator, where you can stand with one foot in each hemisphere, take memorable photos, and learn about this geographical wonder.

As you continue your drive, enjoy the scenic views of rolling hills and vibrant villages that lead you to the park. Upon arrival, check in to your lodge and prepare for an unforgettable afternoon safari.

In the late afternoon, embark on a thrilling guided safari walk, where you’ll explore the park on foot with an expert guide. This immersive experience allows you to get up close to nature as you encounter herds of zebras, buffaloes, giraffes, and antelopes grazing in the wild.

End the day with a relaxing dinner at your lodge, reflecting on the day’s adventures.

Main Destination:

Lake Mburo National Park

Best Time To Visit January to February and June to August (Dry seasons)

High Season June to September (Peak time for Uganda)

Best Weather June to August and January to February (Little rainfall)

Wildlife in Lake Mburo NP

GiraffeCommon

BuffaloCommon

ZebraCommon

HippoCommon

LeopardOccasional

HyenaOccasional

ElephantNone

LionNone

CheetahNone