12 day Secrets of Northern Uganda

 Itinerary 12 Day Secrets of Northern Uganda

Day 1: Arrival

Your Adventure starts at Entebbe Airport where a representative awaits to whisk you away to your hotel, marking the beginning of your thrilling 12 Day Secrets of Northern Uganda Adventure.  Accommodation and Meals at Papyrus Guest House.

Day 2: To Sipi Falls- Coffee tour

Embark on an adventure starting with breakfast, journeying towards Tororo. Pause to marvel at the majestic Tororo Rock, towering 300 meters above the plains. Next, we venture to Mbale, a town nestled at Mount Elgon’s base.

This area is full of rich heritage and fascinating culture. We will have a lunch stop at Mbale and with beautiful viewpoints on our way we will reach Sipi Village, nestled between mountains and waterfalls.

After lunch, you will have a village coffee tour learning how coffee is processed from the seed to the cup.

Accommodation and Meals at Rafiki Lodge Sipi

Day 3: Sipi Falls- Hiking to the waterfalls

After breakfast start with a hike to the enchanting Sipi Falls. Trek down to the base of this renowned cascade, then ascend through rugged paths to discover hidden caves.

Along the way, traverse maize fields, banana groves, and traditional bandas, immersing yourself in nature’s beauty.

Refresh yourself under the falls’ natural shower and marvel at the panoramic vistas of the valley. Witness the splendid sunset painting the Eastern Ugandan plains as you unwind.

Later, retreat to Rafiki Lodge Sipi for relaxation or opt for the thrilling experience of abseiling down the majestic Sipi Falls. Enjoy accommodation and meals amidst the tranquil surroundings of Rafiki Lodge Sipi.

Day 4: To Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve

Journey to the enchanting Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve. Traverse its vast plains, adorned with acacia woodlands and sculpted by ancient rock formations, framed by the majestic Mount Kadam and Mount Napak.

Have a picnic lunch and thereafter explore the small network of wildlife tracks look out for the Roan antelope which is only found here, oribi, klipspringer, hyaenas, ostriches, and leopards, impala, Jackson’s hartebeest, Rothschild giraffes.

Look out for the Cheetahs as well, this is the best place in Uganda to seek out these graceful cats! Later proceed to Karamoja Safari Camp.

Day 5:  Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve – Kidepo National Park

After breakfast, set off for another exhilarating game safari in Pian Upe before continuing your journey through Karamoja, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the rugged eastern Ugandan landscape and the impressive Mount Kadam, which rises to 3,068 meters.

Proceed to Kidepo Valley National Park, located in the northeastern corner of Uganda, renowned for its pristine wilderness and recognized as one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations. Arrive in time for lunch and a chance to unwind.

In the evening, have a game drive in the park to spot its diverse wildlife. Enjoy your stay, with accommodation and meals provided at Kidepo Savannah Lodge.

Day 6: Game Safaris in Narus Valley and Kanangorok hot springs.

Today spend the day on Game Safaris. Relaxed breakfast and head out to explore the savannah plains on the floor of the Narus Valley, across a backdrop of the surrounding rugged hillsides. This is an excellent time for a game safari as you look out for a variety of game herds including Burchell’s zebra, Jackson’s hartebeest, oribi, African buffalo, and Grant’s gazelle as you drive. Along the way, you get to pass the seasonally dry Kidepo River, on a good day, you can spot large troops of baboons close to the riverbed.

Have a picnic lunch and then head towards the northern part of the park at the Kanangorok hot springs. This area is particularly known for the flocks of ostrich found in the region. It’s also the best place to look out for cheetahs. Later head back to your camp. Accommodation and Meals at Kidepo Savannah Lodge.

Day 7:  Kidepo Valley Park Nature Walk and Nyangea Napore Cultural Experience

Today head out to the savannah plains in the heart of the Narus Valley where you will be joined by a Wildlife Authority ranger for your walking safari. This is a great way to immerse yourself in wildlife to truly experience this unique savannah by getting up close and personal with nature.

Your ranger will help you track animals on foot in the savannah plains, explaining more about the park and its biodiversity and history. Lookout for game herds including the Burchell’s zebra, Jackson’s hartebeest, Grant’s gazelle, and Rothschild’s giraffe.

After lunch, immerse yourself in the 2-3 hours vibrant Nyangea Napore Cultural Experience. Engage with the local community as they warmly share their rich cultural heritage and daily activities.

Visit Nyange Napore homesteads, where you’ll have the chance to participate in traditional activities like gathering food from the granary, grinding grains, and joining in community games. Experience the joy of dancing, storytelling, and folklore alongside the welcoming Karamojong people, gaining insight into their unique way of life, traditions, and beliefs.

This is also a special opportunity to join the locals in their traditional dances and songs, creating unforgettable memories of cultural connection.

Accommodation and Meals at Kidepo Savannah Lodge.

Day 8: Transfer from Kidepo Park – Murchison Falls National Park

Today depart from your lodge as the sun rises over the savannah leaving behind the wilderness of Kidepo Valley National Park and drive through the stunning rugged scenery of mountains and plains passing through Kitgum town onwards to the hub of northern Uganda, Gulu town.

Continue on your journey to reach Murchison Falls National Park heading to your accommodation for relaxation on the 12 day Secrets of Northern Uganda Adventure.

Accommodation and Meals at Fort Murchison.

 Day 9:   Game Safari and Boat Cruise

Experience the untamed beauty of the Victoria and Albert Nile savannah plains today as you venture into the heart of wildlife territory. Amidst the majestic palm trees and serene Acacia tree woodlands, a world of wonders awaits.

Look out for Rothschild giraffes, lions, hippos, elephants, herds of buffalo, Jackson’s hartebeest, bushbucks, Uganda kob, warthog, and waterbuck and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot the elusive leopard!

Stop at the hippo pool nestled along the Victoria Nile delta, where these magnificent creatures laze in the shallow waters. After lunch, embark on a mesmerizing boat cruise along the mighty river Nile, tracing its path to the awe-inspiring Murchison Falls waterfall. As you meander upstream passing hippos pods lazing in the water, look out for crocodiles, buffalo, waterbuck, elephants, and Uganda kob on the riverbanks.

To a bird watcher’s delight, there is a multitude of birds that can be spotted including the Red-throated and northern Northern-carmine Bee-eaters nesting on the Nyamusika cliffs.

On reaching the base of the falls you’ll marvel at the spectacle of the White Nile surging through a 7-meter wide gap in the rock face, cutting through Fajao Gorge, and falling 43 meters into the river below, before it meanders off through the savannah plains of the park.

Accommodation and Meals at Fort Murchison

Day 10: Murchison Falls National Park –  Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

After a leisurely breakfast, set off for Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, arriving in time for lunch and some relaxation. Following your meal, set off on an exciting 2-hour Rhino Trekking Session, where you’ll have the incredible opportunity to observe southern white rhinos up close in their natural habitat.

During your trek, look out for a variety of other wildlife, including Uganda kobs, oribis, bushbucks, and waterbucks, as well as a rich array of bird species. This immersive experience promises to be a memorable encounter with Uganda’s diverse wildlife. Accommodation and Meals at Ziwa Rhino Ranch Guest Rooms.

Day 11: Shoebill Trek and Canoe Ride – Entebbe

After breakfast, head out for the Shoebill Trek and Canoe Ride. Departing at 6 am, you’ll set off on your trek, where the early morning hours provide the perfect opportunity to spot the elusive shoebill. This canoe ride through the tranquil swamp not only enhances your chances of seeing this remarkable bird but also allows you to witness the breathtaking Ugandan sunrise illuminating the Lugogo Swamp. It’s a magical start to your day, combining nature’s beauty with an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Later head back to Entebbe arriving in time for late lunch and relaxation at Papyrus Guest House.

Day 12: Departure

At the end of your East African Adventure, depending on your flight details, you will have a relaxation day in Entebbe before heading to the airport for your onward flight back home at the end of your 12 day Secrets of Northern Uganda.

Included in the 12 Day Secrets of Northern Uganda

• Ground transportation in a safari customized 4WD Toyota Land Cruiser with gasoline/fuel
• Mineral water in the vehicle,
• Services of an English speaking Driver/guide,
• Accommodations mentioned in the itinerary,
• Meals
• All Park Entrance Fees,
• All activities mentioned in the itinerary
• Ferry or boat crossing fees where applicable.

• International Airfares; Excess baggage charges;
• Ugandan Entry Visa Fees
• Shopping charges for Curios and Crafts,
• International Airport Departure Taxes,
• Optional activities unless specified as included,
• Any other services not expressly shown in the itinerary or indicated as included