16 Day Highlights of Uganda

Itinerary for the 16 Day Highlights of Uganda

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe International Airport 

Upon your arrival in Entebbe, you will be picked up by a company representative and transferred to Papyrus Guest House

Day 2: Kampala – Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary Murchison Falls National Park 

Day 3: Game drive & Launch cruise

After breakfast, embark on a journey to Murchison Falls National Park, where an exciting game drive on the northern bank of the Nile awaits. This adventure offers an excellent opportunity to spot majestic wildlife, including giraffes, elephants, lions, hartebeests, and a variety of bird species. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic boat trip to the base of the iconic falls.

Along the way, look out for Nile crocodiles, hippos, waterbucks, and vibrant birdlife. As you approach the base, be captivated by the breathtaking view of the Nile before returning to Fort Murchison for a relaxing evening. Meals and accommodation included.

Day 4: Murchison Falls – Fortfortal- Kibale Forest

After breakfast, transfer to Murchison Falls National Park with lunch en route arriving in the evening for relaxation in Kibale National Park. Thereafter transfer to Kibale National Park arriving in time for lunch in Kibale National Park, home of the primates arriving in the evening for relaxation. Accommodation and meals at Isunga Lodge.

Day 5: Chimpanzee Tracking and Crater Lakes Region

Today, step into the heart of the forest for an unforgettable chimp tracking experience. Kibale Forest, known for its rich biodiversity, boasts the highest concentration of primates in East Africa. Head out for a guided nature walk through the tropical rainforest, where you’ll search for wild chimpanzees, red-tailed monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and more.

After lunch, explore the crater lakes region, starting with a tour of the Ridge of Lake Kyaninga overlooking the lodge, followed by visits to the scenic Lake Saaka, Kigere, and Bikere. For a truly breathtaking view, hike up Kyengangwa Hill to take in the panorama of the crater lakes and the majestic Rwenzori Mountains—the “Mountains of the Moon.” End your day with a relaxing retreat at Isunga Lodge.

Day 6: Kibale to Queen Elizabeth National Park

After breakfast, head to Queen Elizabeth National Park and arrive in time for lunch.  Thereafter, enjoy a scenic boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a 33 km natural waterway connecting Lake Edward and Lake George. On this 2-hour cruise, you’ll encounter abundant wildlife, including hippos, Nile crocodiles, buffaloes, elephants, and a variety of birds. Plains game also frequents the banks for water, offering incredible sightings.

Accommodation and Meals at Bush Lodge.

Day 7: Game Drive – Ishasha Sector

After breakfast, proceed to the Kasenyi Track which is a hotspot for lion sightings, often seen hunting the large herds of Uganda kob that roam the area. Look out for herds of elephants and buffalos, leopards, warthogs, topis and waterbucks which are excellent photographic opportunities.

Later, check out and journey to the Ishasha Sector, the southern part of the park, arriving in time for a relaxing lunch. In the afternoon, set off on an exciting game drive, keeping an eye out for the famous tree-climbing lions. Your accommodation and meals will be at Ishasha Jungle Lodge.

Day 8: Tree Climbing Lion Game Safari and Nature Walk – Ishasha Sector

Start your day with an early breakfast before embarking on a thrilling morning game drive in search of the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha. Afterward, return to the lodge for some well-deserved relaxation and a delightful lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy a peaceful nature walk along the scenic Ishasha River, where you’ll encounter hippos, elephants, and buffaloes, as well as a variety of bird species.

As the day winds down, indulge in sundowner drinks while watching the sun set gracefully over the Ishasha wilderness. Your stay includes accommodation and meals at the serene Ishasha Jungle Lodge.

Day 9: Ishasha Sector –  Bwindi National Park

After a bush breakfast head to Bwindi National Park, the home of the mountain gorillas with lunch en route, take time to look at the amazing scenery and homesteads of the local communities. You will arrive in the early evening for relaxation. Accommodation and meals at Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

Day 10:  Gorilla Trekking

Wake early for the highlight of your safari—an unforgettable encounter with Bwindi’s gentle giants! After breakfast, head to the park offices to be assigned to a gorilla family and meet your expert guide.

Following a briefing on gorilla safety and tracking, embark on a thrilling trek through steep, muddy terrain, which can take 2 to 8 hours. The effort will be rewarded as you stand face to face with a majestic Mountain Gorilla silverback.

Enjoy your packed lunch at a picnic site in the forest, and then proceed with trekking. Upon the gorilla sighting, you will observe them for an hour as they interact in their natural habitat. After this awe-inspiring experience, return to the lodge for a well-deserved shower, relaxation, and a delicious dinner at Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

Day 11: Batwa Community Experience – Lake Mburo 

Breakfast and then head out to the Rushaga Batwa Trail Walking Experience with a packed lunch. This tour gives you a firsthand introduction to one of the most unique cultures worldwide. The Batwa pygmies are forest people who have been displaced from the rainforest they shared with mountain gorillas. This experience will allow you to learn more about their age-old culture while you enjoy a hike with the Batwa guides, see how they lived and hunted, hear ancient legends, and learn about medical plants.

Head to Lake Mburo National Park arriving in time for lunch and relaxation. As you enter the park you will likely spot some wildlife, like impalas, warthogs, zebras, and buffaloes. In the evening head for a boat ride on the lake and enjoy the rich birdlife and the hippos that are cooling off.  Accommodation and Meals at Rwakobo Rock

Day 12: Nature walk and Evening game drive

Start your day with an exhilarating early morning bushwalk led by a knowledgeable ranger, embarking on a 2-hour hike through the stunning landscapes of Lake Mburo National Park. Known for its vibrant birdlife and serene lakes, this park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. As you stroll, keep an eye out for zebras, warthogs, buffalo, impalas, and the magnificent eland.

Return to Rwakobo Rock for some well-deserved relaxation before enjoying a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, prepare for an exciting evening game drive where you’ll encounter the park’s diverse wildlife in its natural habitat. Indulge in the beauty of the wild while creating unforgettable memories. Accommodation and meals will be at Rwakobo Rock.

Day 13: Lake Mburo -Jinja

Set off early morning to Jinja, a charming town on the shores of Lake Victoria. As the historic source of the Nile and East Africa’s adrenaline capital, Jinja offers a blend of tranquility and excitement. Engage in thrilling activities like white-water rafting, kayaking, tubing, quad biking, mountain biking, and horse riding amidst stunning sunsets and abundant birdlife.

Immerse yourself in Jinja’s natural beauty, where colonial architecture adds charm to the vibrant downtown. Stroll along leafy residential streets bordering the Nile, savoring the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.  Accommodation and Meals at the Haven Eco River Lodge.

Day 14: Jinja

Take the day at your own pace—relax and unwind, or venture out to explore the surrounding area with various activities close to the lodge.

Mountain Biking Adventure Hop on a mountain bike and ride through the nearby village and forest. Marvel at the diverse tree species along the way. You can set off independently or join a knowledgeable local guide who will introduce you to the region’s crops and provide a glimpse into village life.

Guided Village Walk Take a stroll through local villages and experience a traditional way of life that has remained largely unchanged for generations. Observe fish traps in action, watch the fishermen at work in the rapids, and see how the villagers tend their fields.

Bird Watching at the Eco Lodge For a more tranquil activity, stay close to the lodge and enjoy some birdwatching. The surrounding area is home to a rich variety of bird species.

Additional Adventures For thrill-seekers, you can also opt for white-water rafting, kayaking, tubing, horse riding, or even quad biking.

Accommodation and meals at The Haven Eco River Lodge.

Day 15: Jinja – Ewaffe Cultural Center –  Entebbe

After a relaxed breakfast, set off on your journey back to Entebbe, arriving just in time to indulge in a refreshing organic fruit feast at the Ewaffe Cultural Center. Enjoy a guided tour of the farm, where you’ll discover the fascinating world of medicinal plants and the traditional art of Barkcloth making. This immersive experience is followed by a hearty, authentic lunch, showcasing the renowned Luwombo dish.

In the afternoon, continue your journey to Entebbe, arriving by early evening to unwind and relax. Your overnight stay will be at the charming Papyrus Guest House.

Day 16: Departure

Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward journey home. If time allows, consider an optional visit to the Uganda Wildlife Education Center for a unique behind-the-scenes experience. This two-hour educational adventure provides an exclusive look at how we care for our resident animals and birds. Enjoy close encounters with lions, elephants, and other incredible wildlife, offering a memorable experience you won’t want to miss.

Included in the 16 Day Highlights of Uganda

• Ground transportation in a safari customized 4WD Toyota Landcruiser with gasoline/fuel,
• Drinking water and Refillable water bottle
• English-speaking Tour guide
• All Park Entrance Fees
• Activities mentioned in the itinerary 
• Accommodation and Meals

Excluded in the 16 Day Highlights of Uganda

• International Airfares; 
• Visa Fees USD 50 per person;
• Items of personal nature such as Room service
•  Drinks, and Beverages,
• Tips and Gratuities for your Driver/guide and hotel staff,
• Optional activities unless specified as included,
• Any other services not expressly shown in the itinerary or indicated as included.