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Luxury Uganda Safari

OVER VIEW OF LUXURY UGANDA SAFARI EXPERIENCE

The 16 Day Luxury Uganda Safari Experience offer unforgettable encounters with diverse wildlife, breathtaking scenery, and vibrant cultures.

Experience Uganda’s best wildlife and adventure! Spot big game in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth and Lake Mburo, trek rhinos at Ziwa, and meet primates in Kibale and Bwindi. Enjoy cultural encounters at Ewaffe and Buhoma Batwa Experience, thrilling adventure activities in Jinja, and scenic beauty at Crater Lakes and Bigodi Wetland.

LUXURY UGANDA SAFARI EXPERIENCE

  • Wildlife Encounters in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, Lake Mburo National Parks.
  • Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for Rhino trekking.
  • Primate Experiences, Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest and Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest.
  • Culture and Adventure at Ewaffe Cultural Center and Batwa Community
  • Ride for a Woman Community Project in Bwindi Park
  • Jinja for White-water rafting, Quadbiking, Mountain Biking and Guided Village Walks.
  • Scenic Beauty at the Volcanic Crater Lakes & Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary
  • Stay in luxury lodges supporting conservation and communities.

  • ITINERARY
  • WHAT TO PACK
  • INCLUDES
  • TRAVEL INFORMATION
  • REQUEST A QUOTE 
ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe Airport

Upon your arrival in Entebbe, a company representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel for an overnight stay at the start of the Luxury Uganda Safari Experience.

Meal Plan: Dinner

Accommodation: Emin Pasha Hotel

Comfort Level: Luxury

Day 2: To Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary–Murchison Falls National Park

After an early breakfast at 7:00 am, begin your journey north to the captivating Murchison Falls National Park. Along the way, stop at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in Uganda where wild rhinos roam. Established in 1998, the sanctuary is dedicated to reintroducing rhinos to Uganda’s protected areas and educating local communities on conservation, poaching, and protecting these endangered species.

Head out for an exciting rhino trek, lasting 1-2 hours, offering a rare chance to see these majestic creatures up close. Enjoy lunch before continuing to your place of overstay for relaxation.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Paraa Safari Lodge – Signature Cottage

Comfort Level: Luxury

Day 3: Game Drive and Boat Cruise to Bottom of the Falls  

After breakfast, you will continue to Murchison Falls National Park with a game drive on the northern bank of the Nile, giving you a greater chance of seeing animals such as giraffes, elephants, lions, hartebeest, and different species of birds.

In the afternoon, you have a boat trip to the base of the falls. Look out for the Nile crocodile, hippos, waterbucks, and a variety of bird species at the bottom of the falls, an amazing scenic view of the Nile awaits you as well before returning to the lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Paraa Safari Lodge – Signature Cottage

Comfort Level: Luxury

Day 4: Murchison Falls – Fortportal – Kibale Forest

After breakfast, transfer to Murchison Falls National Park with lunch en route arriving in the evening for relaxation in Kibale National Park.

You may spot black-and-white colobus monkeys, baboons, and more primates hiding in trees along the road. You will have lunch in Fort Portal Town, this area is famed for the fabled mountains of the moon and many tea plantations.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Primate Lodge Kibale

Comfort Level: Luxury

Day 5: Chimpanzee Tracking and Crater Lakes Region

Today the forest opens its doors for sensational chimp tracking. Kibale Forest is reputed for having the highest concentration of primates in East Africa. Enjoy a guided nature walk in the tropical rainforest in search of the wild chimpanzee, red-tailed monkey, black-and-white colobus monkey, and many others. 

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.”

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Primate Lodge Kibale

Comfort Level: Luxury

Day 6: Kibale Forest – Queen Elizabeth National Park – Boat cruise Kazinga Channel

After breakfast, head to Queen Elizabeth National Park and arrive in time for lunch. Thereafter transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park arriving in time for late lunch on the Classic Uganda Adventure. 

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.

 

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Elephant Plains Lodge

Comfort Level: Luxury

Day 7: Game Drive – Ishasha Sector Southern Part of Queen Elizabeth Park

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.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Ishasha Wilderness Camp

Comfort Level: Luxury

Day 8: Game Drive – Ishasha Sector – Tree Climbing Lions & Nature walk

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.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Ishasha Wilderness Camp

Comfort Level: Luxury

Day 9: Queen Elizabeth National Park – Bwindi National Park

After 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 in preparation for your gorilla trekking adventure.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Mahogany Springs.

Comfort Level: Luxury

Day 10:  Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi National Park   

In the early morning, you will be briefed on gorilla tracking at the park headquarters and assigned groups of 8 people per group. Accompanied by a guide and your packed lunch, you will go in search of the gorillas in a small group. You walk through the forest, sometimes you descend again and then climb up a slope again. The duration of gorilla tracking is unpredictable. 

The walk can be quite strenuous due to the muddy trails and mountainous areas and can take up to 8 hours depending on how far the gorillas have moved in search of food. It is worth it and what awaits you, in the end, is indescribable.

For an hour you can admire these peaceful ‘Gentle Giants’ as they go about their daily activities of grooming, feeding, and playing. It is a once-in-a-lifetime memorable experience on the Highlights of Uganda Adventure.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Mahogany Springs.

Comfort Level: Luxury

Day 11:  Bwindi NP – Batwa Community Experience and Ride 4 a Woman Community Experience

Breakfast and then head out to the Batwa Trail Walking Experience. 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.

After lunch, immerse yourself in the Ride 4 a Woman Community Experience, a heartwarming initiative empowering women in Bwindi. Engage in hands-on activities like basket weaving, craft making, and pedal sewing, or embark on a scenic bicycle ride through the community. Experience traditional cooking, visit a local homestay, and enjoy the vibrant rhythms of cultural dance and drama performances. This enriching encounter offers a deeper connection to the people and traditions of Bwindi while directly supporting women’s livelihoods.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Mahogany Springs

Comfort Level: Luxury

Day 12:  To Lake Mburo National Park   – Boat cruise or Nature walk

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 or Have an Evening Game Safaris or an Evening Nature Walk.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Kigarama Wilderness Lodge

Comfort Level: Luxury

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.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Wildwaters Lodge

Comfort Level: Luxury

Day 14:  Jinja -Adventure Activities

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.

Rafting on the Nile: Sessions ranger from mild to wild and family floats.

Quadbiking along the River Nile and Jinja Communities.

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, or even quad biking.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Wildwaters Lodge

Comfort Level: Luxury

Day 15:  Jinja – Ewaffe Cultural Center –  Entebbe    

After a relaxed breakfast, set off on your journey back to Entebbe, with a stopover at the Ewaffe Cultural Center 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 Bark cloth 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.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Emin Pasha Hotel

Comfort Level: Luxury

Day 16:  Departure

After breakfast, depending on your flight details, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight back home at the end of your Luxury Uganda Safari Experience.

Meal Plan: Breakfast

WHAT TO PACK

• Comfortable hiking boots and lightweight clothing.

• Rain jacket and a warm sweater for cooler evenings.

• Insect repellent and sunscreen.

• Reusable water bottle.

• Binoculars and a good camera.

• Personal medications and a small first-aid kit.

• Nature blending clothes

INCLUDES

Included in the Luxury Uganda Safari Experience

  • Ground transportation in a safari customized 4WD Toyota Landcruiser with gasoline/fuel
  • All Nature walks mentioned
  • Rhino Trekking
  • Batwa Community Experience
  • All Boat Cruises 
  • All Game Drives
  • Gorilla trekking permit
  • Chimpanzee trekking permit
  • Drinking water / refillable water bottle
  • English-speaking Guide
  • Accommodation and Meals
  • All Park Entrance Fees.

Excluded in the Luxury Uganda Safari Experience

  • International Airfares;
  • Visa Fees;
  • Drinks and Beverages
  • Tips, and Gratuities for your Driver/guide and hotel staff
  • Jinja Activities white-water rafting, kayaking, tubing, or even quad biking.
  • Optional activities unless specified as included
  • Any other services not expressly shown in the itinerary or indicated as included.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

Uganda – The Pearl of Africa’s Untamed Beauty

Uganda, aptly named the Pearl of Africa, is a land Gifted by Nature. It is located in the Great Lakes Region with breathtaking landscapes, extraordinary biodiversity, and unforgettable adventures. This remarkably diverse country is where the East African savannah meets the lush West African jungle, creating an ecological paradise unlike any other.

Towering over Uganda’s landscapes are the majestic Rwenzori Mountains, Africa’s third-highest range, and the dramatic Virunga Volcanoes, while the shimmering waters of Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake, cradle its southern border. Lying in a basin between the eastern and western branches of the Rift Valley, Uganda’s elevated position gives it a more temperate climate than its equatorial location might suggest. Most of the country sits over 1,000 meters above sea level, with a landscape that is largely flat apart from the forested mountain ranges that often define its borders.

One of Africa’s most water-rich nations, Uganda’s lakes, rivers, and wetlands cover 25% of its surface, keeping the landscape lush and green for most of the year—though the northern region gradually transitions into semi-desert.

Nowhere else on the continent can travelers witness such a rich variety of primates with such ease. From great apes—mountain gorillas and chimpanzees—to over a dozen monkey species, Uganda is a primate lover’s paradise. But it’s not just primates that thrive here. With over 1,000 bird species, Uganda is a birder’s wonderland, home to rare rainforest specialists and some of Africa’s most sought-after birds.

We invite you to explore Uganda, a diverse landscape with abundant wildlife, plenty to discover, and unique experiences. When recounting your time in this jewel of a country, you’ll struggle to find the words that do justice to it.

Entry Requirements:

Your passport must have a minimum of at least two full clear pages for visas and stamps and be valid for more than 6 months from the date of entry into Uganda.

Please check visa requirements prior to travel with your booking agent or Bush Wander, as requirements are regularly changed with little notice.

Most passports require a single-entry visa (US$50). Visas cannot be obtained on arrival. You must apply and pay for them online at least two weeks before your arrival. You must upload clear copies of your current passport, a yellow fever certificate, and a passport photo.

Only Visa and Mastercard cards are accepted for visa payments. Once payment is made, the system will process your application and send you a barcoded email. Print out this email and bring it with you to Uganda. Upon arrival, you should present the barcoded email to the immigration officer, who will scan the barcode, take your fingerprints and photo, and place a visa in your passport.

Alternatively, the Ugandan High Commissions may issue visas where such commissions are located.

Visa Exempt Countries:

The following nationalities do not require a visa to enter Uganda: all nationalities from East African countries (Tanzania, Rwanda, Kenya, Burundi), all nationalities from COMESA countries (Angola, Eritrea, Malawi, Madagascar, Seychelles, Swaziland, Zambia, Comoros, Kenya, Mauritius, Zimbabwe), and passport holders from OTHERS (Antigua, Barbados, Fiji, Grenada, Lesotho, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, The Grenadines, Vanuatu, Cyprus, Bahamas, Belize, Gambia, Jamaica, Malta, Singapore, St. Vincent-Tonga and Ireland).

East Africa Tourist Visa:

If you are planning an East Africa trip to Uganda, Rwanda, and/or Kenya, it may be better to apply for a multiple-entry visa, valid for 90 days at USD 100 per visa. For more information go through the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration if you are entering Uganda first, or alternatively, the Government visa site for the East Africa country you will be first entering.

Money and Currency:

Before you travel, call your credit card companies to let them know you will be traveling. This will help to ensure the credit card company won’t flag any of your vacation expenses. ATMs are available in major towns or cities though at times may not be reliable due to a limited amount of money to be withdrawn.

  • Credit cards are widely accepted within Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda. Major hotels and restaurants accept VISA and MasterCard. AMEX and others are not recommended as establishments usually don’t support them. Note that a surcharge of 5% is attached to their usage.
  • Local Currencies are recommended to use while on safari. There are many forex bureaus and banks in the capital cities and the main towns. Smaller denominations than US$100 may attract a less favorable rate of exchange. Notes older than 2010 may not be accepted in the country.
  • Forex Bureaus are located in major towns or cities and have regular banking hours Monday to Friday from 08:30hrs to 16:00hrs. Saturdays are open from 09:00hrs to 12:00hrs. Traveler’s Cheques may be changed in major towns/cities. American Express cheques are accepted but they do attract a low rate. If you can, forego this option. Note: A purchase receipt and a passport are often asked for by the bank and forex bureaus as proof of ownership.

Health and Medical Information

Travelers require a Yellow Fever inoculation more than 10 days prior to your departure otherwise you won’t obtain a visa. The certificate will be checked on arrival in Uganda. On top of that it is also advised you get vaccinations for DTP, Hepatitis A and malaria. Some organizations may advice you to take Typhoid, Cholera, Hepatitis B and Rabies as well. Please consult your pharmacist/doctor.

Travel Insurance on tour

It’s highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, lost luggage, and other unforeseen circumstances. Ensure that your insurance policy provides adequate coverage for your entire trip duration and the activities you plan to undertake, such as wildlife viewing and adventure sports.

Flights & Getting Around

If you need assistance with flight bookings, Travelers Link Africa offers an inflight service—simply share your travel dates, and we’ll take care of the rest!

REQUEST A QUOTE 

Secrets of Northern Uganda

OVER VIEW OF Secrets of Northern Uganda

Embark on an extraordinary adventure through Uganda’s diverse landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant cultures. This 12 day Secrets of Northern Uganda begins with a scenic Sipi Falls hike, where you’ll trek through lush greenery to the stunning falls and learn about local coffee production.

Venture into Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve, one of Uganda’s largest and most remote reserves, for a thrilling game safari, before immersing yourself in the traditional Karamojong culture with a visit to a Manyatta in the rugged Karamoja Plains.

Explore the untamed beauty of Kidepo Valley National Park, known for its breathtaking savannahs and abundant wildlife, then experience the Big 5 in Murchison Falls National Park, including a boat cruise along the Nile to the base of the majestic falls.

Get up close with endangered rhinos at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, and seek the elusive shoebill during a canoe ride in the Lugogo Swamp. Stay in eco-friendly lodges that blend comfort with sustainability, ensuring a journey that supports both local communities and the environment. This safari is a perfect blend of adventure, wildlife, and cultural discovery.

SECRETS OF NORTHERN UGANDA SAFARI HIGHLIGHTS

  • Sipi Falls Hike & Coffee Tour: Trek through lush greenery to the breathtaking Sipi Falls and discover the secrets of local coffee making.
  • Pian Upe Game Safari: Venture into Uganda’s vast, untamed wilderness for incredible wildlife sightings.
  • Karamoja Manyatta Experience: Connect with the rich culture of the Karamojong at a traditional homestead.
  • Kidepo Valley National Park: Discover raw, untouched beauty with dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife.
  • Murchison Falls Big 5 Safari & Nile Cruise: Spot the Big 5 and cruise to the thunderous base of Murchison Falls.
  • Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: Trek rhinos on foot and learn about vital conservation efforts.
  • Shoebill Trek & Canoe Ride: Seek the elusive shoebill in the tranquil Lugogo Swamp.
  • Eco-Friendly Midrange Lodges: Stay in handpicked lodges that promote sustainability and community support.

  • ITINERARY
  • WHAT TO PACK
  • INCLUDES
  • TRAVEL INFORMATION
  • REQUEST A QUOTE 
ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe Airport

Upon your arrival in Entebbe, a company representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel for an overnight stay at the start of the Secrets of Northern Uganda.

Meal Plan: Dinner

Accommodation: Papyrus Guest House

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 2: To Sipi Falls – Coffee Tour

Start your day with breakfast before heading towards Tororo, where you’ll pause to admire the towering 300-meter-high Tororo Rock dominating the plains. Continue to the charming town of Mbale, nestled at the base of Mount Elgon and known for its rich cultural heritage.

Enjoy a delicious lunch soaking in scenic viewpoints along the way before arriving at the picturesque Sipi Village, surrounded by mountains and cascading waterfalls. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in a village coffee tour, learning the fascinating process of transforming coffee beans from seed to cup.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Heritage Sipi Lodge

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 3: Sipi Falls – Sipi Falls Hike

Breakfast at 7:00 am then proceed to Sipi Falls arriving in time for the Sipi Falls Hike using the upper loop. This is a 3-3.5 hrs activity depending on the pace set by the group. This is an amazing walk that takes you on an up climb to the top of the upper waterfall and beyond, walking through community plantations like maize fields, banana groves, and traditional bandas before reaching the national park boundary. On a clear day, marvel at the majestic vistas, beholding the peaks of Elgon, the apex of Wanale Ridge, and the sprawling plains below.

After the Sipi hike, you may partake in these alternative activities.

  • Abseiling 100 meters of Sipi Falls
  • Chebonet Waterfalls Hike ( 3-4hrs) with amazing views of Karamoja Region ( 4km from Sipi falls)

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Sipi Heritage Lodge

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 4: Sipi Falls – Pian Upe Reserve

After breakfast, head 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!

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Kara tunga Safari Camp

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 5: Transfer to Kidepo National Park

Breakfast and then head to Kidepo Valley National with lunch en route arriving in the evening for relaxation. About 480 species have been recorded in the park due to its varied vegetation. Kidepo Valley National Park is renowned for its dramatic savannah landscapes, surrounded by rugged mountains. It features the Kidepo and Narus Valleys, which provide water and attract wildlife year-round, with stunning views of the Mount Morungole range, home to the Ik people.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Kidepo Savannah Lodge

Comfort Level: Mid-range

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

This day begins at dawn with a game drive or safari walk through the enchanting Narus River Valley. Encounter a stunning array of wildlife, from giraffes and zebras to elephants and lions, set against the backdrop of the African savannah. The park also boasts over 475 bird species, making it a birder’s paradise.

After lunch, 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 one of the best places to spot for cheetahs. Later head back to your camp. You have an evening game safari as well.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Kidepo Savannah Lodge

Comfort Level: Mid-range

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.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Kidepo Savannah Lodge

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 8: Kidepo–Murchison Falls National Park

The journey from Kidepo Valley National Park to Murchison Falls National Park takes around 6 hours, traveling through diverse landscapes. Departing Kidepo, you’ll pass the vast plains and rugged hills of the Karamojong region, offering views of traditional homesteads and the Karamojong people. Heading south to Gulu, the road transitions into farmlands and vibrant towns before continuing through scenic savannah landscapes towards Lake Albert. The journey culminates with the mighty Murchison Falls, where the Nile River crashes through a narrow gorge, creating a stunning waterfall, while the park’s wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and lions, enrich the experience.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Fort Murchison

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 9: Game Drive and Boat Cruise to Bottom of the Falls  

After breakfast, you will continue to Murchison Falls National Park with a game drive on the northern bank of the Nile, giving you a greater chance of seeing animals such as giraffes, elephants, lions, hartebeest, and different species of birds.

In the afternoon, you have a boat trip to the base of the falls. Look out for the Nile crocodile, hippos, waterbucks, and a variety of bird species at the bottom of the falls, an amazing scenic view of the Nile awaits you as well before returning to the lodge.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Fort Murchison

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 10: Murchison Falls – Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

After 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.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Ziwa Rhino Guest House

Comfort Level: Mid-range

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 at the guest house and relaxation.

Optional Evening Activity.

In the evening, you may have a city tour of Entebbe Town visiting places like the Botanical Gardens and the Uganda Wildlife Education Center

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Papyrus Guest House

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 12:  Departure

After breakfast, depending on your flight details, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight back home at the end of your Secrets of Northern Uganda Tour.

Meal Plan: Breakfast

WHAT TO PACK

• Comfortable hiking boots and lightweight clothing.

• Rain jacket and a warm sweater for cooler evenings.

• Insect repellent and sunscreen.

• Reusable water bottle.

• Binoculars and a good camera.

• Personal medications and a small first-aid kit.

• Nature blending clothes

INCLUDES

Included in the Secrets of Northern Uganda Tour

  • Ground transportation in a safari customized 4WD Toyota Landcruiser with gasoline/fuel
  • All Nature walks 
  • All Community Visits
  • All Boat Cruises 
  • All Game Drives
  • Drinking water / refillable water bottle
  • English-speaking Birding Guide
  • Accommodation and Meals
  • All Park Entrance Fees.

Excluded in the Secrets of Northern Uganda Tour

  • International Airfares;
  • Visa Fees;
  • 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.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

Uganda – The Pearl of Africa’s Untamed Beauty

Uganda, aptly named the Pearl of Africa, is a land Gifted by Nature. It is located in the Great Lakes Region with breathtaking landscapes, extraordinary biodiversity, and unforgettable adventures. This remarkably diverse country is where the East African savannah meets the lush West African jungle, creating an ecological paradise unlike any other.

Towering over Uganda’s landscapes are the majestic Rwenzori Mountains, Africa’s third-highest range, and the dramatic Virunga Volcanoes, while the shimmering waters of Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake, cradle its southern border. Lying in a basin between the eastern and western branches of the Rift Valley, Uganda’s elevated position gives it a more temperate climate than its equatorial location might suggest. Most of the country sits over 1,000 meters above sea level, with a landscape that is largely flat apart from the forested mountain ranges that often define its borders.

One of Africa’s most water-rich nations, Uganda’s lakes, rivers, and wetlands cover 25% of its surface, keeping the landscape lush and green for most of the year—though the northern region gradually transitions into semi-desert.

Nowhere else on the continent can travelers witness such a rich variety of primates with such ease. From great apes—mountain gorillas and chimpanzees—to over a dozen monkey species, Uganda is a primate lover’s paradise. But it’s not just primates that thrive here. With over 1,000 bird species, Uganda is a birder’s wonderland, home to rare rainforest specialists and some of Africa’s most sought-after birds.

We invite you to explore Uganda, a diverse landscape with abundant wildlife, plenty to discover, and unique experiences. When recounting your time in this jewel of a country, you’ll struggle to find the words that do justice to it.

Entry Requirements:

Your passport must have a minimum of at least two full clear pages for visas and stamps and be valid for more than 6 months from the date of entry into Uganda.

Please check visa requirements prior to travel with your booking agent or Bush Wander, as requirements are regularly changed with little notice.

Most passports require a single-entry visa (US$50). Visas cannot be obtained on arrival. You must apply and pay for them online at least two weeks before your arrival. You must upload clear copies of your current passport, a yellow fever certificate, and a passport photo.

Only Visa and Mastercard cards are accepted for visa payments. Once payment is made, the system will process your application and send you a barcoded email. Print out this email and bring it with you to Uganda. Upon arrival, you should present the barcoded email to the immigration officer, who will scan the barcode, take your fingerprints and photo, and place a visa in your passport.

Alternatively, the Ugandan High Commissions may issue visas where such commissions are located.

Visa Exempt Countries:

The following nationalities do not require a visa to enter Uganda: all nationalities from East African countries (Tanzania, Rwanda, Kenya, Burundi), all nationalities from COMESA countries (Angola, Eritrea, Malawi, Madagascar, Seychelles, Swaziland, Zambia, Comoros, Kenya, Mauritius, Zimbabwe), and passport holders from OTHERS (Antigua, Barbados, Fiji, Grenada, Lesotho, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, The Grenadines, Vanuatu, Cyprus, Bahamas, Belize, Gambia, Jamaica, Malta, Singapore, St. Vincent-Tonga and Ireland).

East Africa Tourist Visa:

If you are planning an East Africa trip to Uganda, Rwanda, and/or Kenya, it may be better to apply for a multiple-entry visa, valid for 90 days at USD 100 per visa. For more information go through the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration if you are entering Uganda first, or alternatively, the Government visa site for the East Africa country you will be first entering.

Money and Currency:

Before you travel, call your credit card companies to let them know you will be traveling. This will help to ensure the credit card company won’t flag any of your vacation expenses. ATMs are available in major towns or cities though at times may not be reliable due to a limited amount of money to be withdrawn.

  • Credit cards are widely accepted within Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda. Major hotels and restaurants accept VISA and MasterCard. AMEX and others are not recommended as establishments usually don’t support them. Note that a surcharge of 5% is attached to their usage.
  • Local Currencies are recommended to use while on safari. There are many forex bureaus and banks in the capital cities and the main towns. Smaller denominations than US$100 may attract a less favorable rate of exchange. Notes older than 2010 may not be accepted in the country.
  • Forex Bureaus are located in major towns or cities and have regular banking hours Monday to Friday from 08:30hrs to 16:00hrs. Saturdays are open from 09:00hrs to 12:00hrs. Traveler’s Cheques may be changed in major towns/cities. American Express cheques are accepted but they do attract a low rate. If you can, forego this option. Note: A purchase receipt and a passport are often asked for by the bank and forex bureaus as proof of ownership.

Health and Medical Information

Travelers require a Yellow Fever inoculation more than 10 days prior to your departure otherwise you won’t obtain a visa. The certificate will be checked on arrival in Uganda. On top of that it is also advised you get vaccinations for DTP, Hepatitis A and malaria. Some organizations may advice you to take Typhoid, Cholera, Hepatitis B and Rabies as well. Please consult your pharmacist/doctor.

Travel Insurance on tour

It’s highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, lost luggage, and other unforeseen circumstances. Ensure that your insurance policy provides adequate coverage for your entire trip duration and the activities you plan to undertake, such as wildlife viewing and adventure sports.

Flights & Getting Around

If you need assistance with flight bookings, Travelers Link Africa offers an inflight service—simply share your travel dates, and we’ll take care of the rest!

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Uganda Wildlife and White Water Rafting Adventure

OVER VIEW OF Uganda Wildlife and White Water Rafting ADVENTURE

Get ready for an unforgettable journey deep into Uganda’s wild heart, where adventure and inspiring landscapes await. Immerse yourself in this 12 day Uganda Wildlife and White Water Rafting Safari for a perfect blend of discovery, culture, and unforgettable encounters with Uganda’s pristine wilderness.

Uganda Wildlife and White Water Rafting ADVENTURE HIGHLIGHTS

  • Kazinga Channel Cruise: Enjoy birdwatching and amazing game safaris in Queen Elizabeth.
  • Ishasha’s Tree-Climbing Lions in the Southern Part of Queen Elizabeth Park.
  • The Ultimate Gorilla Trekking Experience in Bwindi Forest
  • Batwa Community Experience in Echuya Forest
  • Igongo Cultural Center
  • Nile Rafting: Brave thrilling rapids on a white-water rafting adventure.
  • Luxury Eco Lodges that support local community empowerment.

  • ITINERARY
  • WHAT TO PACK
  • INCLUDES
  • TRAVEL INFORMATION
  • REQUEST A QUOTE 
ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe Airport

Upon your arrival in Entebbe, a company representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel for an overnight stay at the start of the Uganda Wildlife and White Water Rafting Adventure.

Meal Plan: Dinner depending on time of arrival.

Accommodation: Emin Pasha Hotel

Comfort Level: Luxury

Day 2: To Queen Elizabeth National Park

After a hearty breakfast, embark on a picturesque drive from Uganda’s vibrant capital, Kampala, to the wildlife-rich haven of Queen Elizabeth National Park. The 6 to 7-hour journey offers a visual feast of Uganda’s breathtaking countryside, with rolling hills, lush greenery, and charming rural landscapes.

Along the way, enjoy the sights of bustling roadside markets, sprawling tea plantations, and traditional villages that capture the spirit of Uganda. Stop at the iconic Uganda Equator for an intriguing demonstration of water flow differences between the northern and southern hemispheres.

Have lunch in Mbarara, Uganda’s land of long-horned Ankole cattle, before continuing your journey. Arrive at the park in the early evening, ready to immerse yourself in its stunning wilderness and rich biodiversity.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Mweya Safari Lodge

Comfort Level: Luxury

Day 3: Lion Experiential Project and Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise   

After breakfast you will visit a lion experiential project. This experience allows visitors to actively participate in monitoring the prides in the park, using locator devices and learning habituation calls, as well as monitoring weather, surroundings and behavior. The results are added to researchers’ databases, contributing valuable information to the overall understanding of wildlife ecology, and helping to conserve this wonderful ecosystem.

After lunch, enjoy a scenic two-hour boat cruise along the historic Kazinga Channel, which connects Lakes Edward and George. Glide past hippos, Nile crocodiles, wallowing buffaloes, and elephants. Marvel at countless bird species and plains game that gather at the water’s edge for a truly unforgettable wildlife spectacle.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Mweya Safari Lodge

Comfort Level: Luxury

Day 4: To Ishasha Sector – Southern Part of Queen Elizabeth Park

Today, take a scenic drive from the Mweya Plains to the iconic Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, renowned for its tree-climbing lions. The journey, lasting about 2 to 3 hours, takes you through diverse landscapes, from sprawling savannahs and acacia woodlands to tranquil wetlands.

Along the way, you’ll encounter breathtaking views of the Rift Valley escarpment and spot wildlife such as elephants, buffaloes, and an array of bird species. The transition into Ishasha’s wild beauty is unmistakable, with its serene fig trees standing tall, often cradling lions lazily draped across their branches. This scenic route promises both tranquility and thrilling wildlife encounters. You will arrive in time for lunch at the camp and relaxation.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Ishasha Wilderness Camp

Comfort Level: Luxury

Day 5: Bush Breakfast – Game Safaris- Community Visit

Start your day with a delightful bush breakfast, surrounded by the wild beauty of Ishasha. Afterward, embark on an exciting game drive in search of the famed tree-climbing lions, along with other wildlife roaming the plains.

Return to camp for a hearty lunch before heading out for a cultural experience with Agartha’s Taste of Uganda Tour. Learn firsthand how the Bakiga people grow, harvest, and prepare their traditional dishes. Try your hand at sifting, grinding, cooking, and keeping food warm the traditional way. Savor your creations and leave with a thoughtfully packed snack and a taste of local brew.

As evening falls, enjoy a serene sundowner at a scenic spot—either along the ridge or by the Ntungwe River. Soak in the breathtaking views and tranquil atmosphere, capping off a perfect day in this enchanting part of the park.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Ishasha Wilderness Camp

Comfort Level: Luxury

Day 6: Ishasha Sector – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park  

Today set off from the wild plains of Ishasha to the lush, mist-covered landscapes of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The journey, approximately 3 to 4 hours depending on the trailhead, offers a mesmerizing blend of Uganda’s diverse landscapes. Travel through rolling savannah plains dotted with acacia trees, cross scenic valleys, and ascend into the cooler, forested highlands.

Along the way, pass traditional villages where friendly locals go about their daily lives, as well as terraced hillsides that paint a beautiful patchwork on the landscape. As you approach Bwindi, the scenery transforms into a dense rainforest teeming with life and shrouded in mist. You will arrive in time for lunch and relaxation. This ancient forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, welcomes you with its breathtaking beauty and the promise of unforgettable gorilla encounter.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge

Comfort Level: Luxury

Day 7: Gorilla Trekking  

After breakfast, transfer to the park offices, where you’ll be assigned a gorilla family and introduced to your expert guide. Following a pre-trek briefing, drive to the trailhead and embark on an exhilarating adventure into Bwindi’s dense forest.

Expect a trek lasting between 2 to 8 hours, navigating steep, slippery terrain, possibly with rainfall adding to the challenge. Upon encountering the gorillas, spend a magical hour observing their daily routines — feeding, playing, grooming, and moving gracefully through the forest. It’s a truly unforgettable wildlife encounter. Return to the lodge to relax and unwind.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge

Comfort Level: Luxury

Day 8: Batwa Experience – Echuya Forest Trail

The Batwa people of southwestern Uganda, near the Echuya Forest Reserve, are one of the region’s oldest indigenous communities. Once forest dwellers, they were displaced due to conservation efforts, particularly in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Traditionally, they lived as hunter-gatherers, deeply connected to the forest through spiritual practices.

Today, visitors can explore Batwa culture through guided tours, learning about their survival skills like hunting, gathering honey, and using medicinal plants. The experience includes making a fire with sticks, crafting bamboo cups, and heartfelt performances of traditional songs, offering a glimpse into their rich cultural heritage.

Optional Evening Activity: Dugout Canoe ride along Lake Mulehe and Lake Mutanda. Through this activity, you may sport different species of birds, and visit some places like Punishment Island on Lake Mutanda.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 9: Transfer – Mbarara Town – Igongo Cultural Center 

After breakfast, travel from Kisoro to Mbarara on a scenic 5 to 6-hour journey through breathtaking landscapes. Pass the majestic Virunga Volcanoes, terraced hills, and the serene Lake Bunyonyi. The route transitions from lush highlands to open plains as you approach Mbarara, home to the iconic Ankole cattle and vibrant town life. You will arrive in time for a late lunch and relaxation at the country hotel. After lunch, you may opt to tour the Cultural Village and Museum.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Igongo Cultural Center and Country Hotel

Comfort Level: Luxury

Day 10: Mbarara – Jinja

Today you will head out of the 6 to 7-hour drive from Mbarara to Jinja, a journey that showcases Uganda’s diverse landscapes. Pass through rolling savannahs, lush farmlands, and bustling towns like Masaka and Kampala. Cross the iconic Nile River bridge at Jinja and continue to Wildwaters Lodge, nestled on a private island in the Nile. Prepare to unwind amid the roar of white-water rapids and serene natural beauty.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Wildwaters Lodge. 

Comfort Level: Luxury

Day 11: White Water Rafting

Immerse yourself in a full day of adventure in Jinja, the thrilling adventure capital of Uganda. Start your morning with an exhilarating white water rafting experience at the source of the world’s longest river, the Nile. Whether you choose the more moderate Grade 3 or the challenging Grade 5 rapids, you’re in for an unforgettable ride that spans 4-5 hours, covering about 25 kilometers of thrilling river action.

After the adrenaline-pumping rafting session, unwind in the afternoon with a relaxing boat cruise along the Nile. As the sun sets over the river, take in the breathtaking views of the vibrant colors reflected on the water. This is the perfect time to capture stunning sunset photos, with the peaceful surroundings of the Nile providing a picturesque backdrop to end your adventurous day. Alternatively, you may choose to spend the day relaxing at the lodge.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Wildwaters Lodge

Comfort Level: Luxury

Day 12: Jinja to Entebbe

After breakfast, depart from the resort and return to the mainland, embarking on your journey back to Entebbe. Cherish the scenic drive as you reflect on your unforgettable adventure before catching your onward flight home at the end of the Uganda Wildlife and White Water Rafting Adventure.

WHAT TO PACK

• Comfortable hiking boots and lightweight clothing.

• Rain jacket and a warm sweater for cooler evenings.

• Insect repellent and sunscreen.

• Reusable water bottle.

• Binoculars and a good camera.

• Personal medications and a small first-aid kit.

• Nature blending clothes

Sturdy Walking Sandals

Sunglasses and Hat

Waterproof Rucksack

INCLUDES

Included in the Uganda Wildlife and White Water Rafting Adventure.

  • Ground transportation in a safari customized 4WD Toyota Landcruiser with gasoline/fuel
  • All Nature walks 
  • All Community Visits
  • All Boat Cruises 
  • All Game Drives
  • Rafting on the Nile
  • Drinking water / refillable water bottle
  • English-speaking Birding Guide
  • Accommodation and Meals
  • All Park Entrance Fees.

Excluded in the Uganda Wildlife and White Water Rafting Adventure.

  • International Airfares;
  • Visa Fees;
  • 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.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

Uganda, deservedly dubbed the Pearl of Africa, is in the Great Lakes Region in central Africa and boasts an ecological diversity that rivals that of many larger countries. Here, the Eastern Savannah meets the West African jungle. Uganda offers visitors incredible diversity through its multitude of varying ecosystems. Bordered by the Rwenzori Mountains (often called the Mountains of the Moon, the third highest in Africa), the Virunga Mountains, and Africa’s largest lake, Lake Victoria, it’s a beautiful country bursting with birds and wildlife.

In no other African destination can one see a comparable variety of primates with so little effort – not just the great apes but also more than ten monkey species. And, if Uganda had primate enthusiasts grinning with satisfaction, it would have birdwatchers doing cartwheels. Uganda is, by far, the smallest of the four African countries in which more than 1,000 bird species have been recorded, and it is particularly rich in western rainforest specialists – undoubtedly the finest birdwatching in Africa.

For most, the highlight is found amongst the forests in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where facing endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is one of the most profound wildlife encounters you will ever experience. Discover tree-climbing lions around Ishasha in Queen Elizabeth National Park, trek chimps in Kibale Forest or Kyambura Gorge, or snatch massive Nile perch up north at Murchison Falls, where the mighty Nile cascades through a gap just seven meters wide. Adrenaline junkies will find Jinja simply exhilarating with its white-water rafting, kayaking, and bungee jumping activities. Jinja is rapidly emerging as East Africa’s answer to the more southerly “adrenalin capital” Victoria Falls.

We invite you to explore Uganda, a diverse landscape with abundant wildlife, plenty to discover, and unique experiences. When recounting your time in this jewel of a country, you’ll struggle to find the words that do justice to it.

Entry Requirements:

Your passport must have a minimum of at least two full clear pages for visas and stamps and be valid for more than 6 months from the date of entry into Uganda.

Please check visa requirements prior to travel with your booking agent or Bush Wander, as requirements are regularly changed with little notice.

Most passports require a single-entry visa (US$55). Visas cannot be obtained on arrival. You must apply and pay for them online at https://visas.immigration.go.ug at least two weeks before your arrival.

You must upload clear copies of your current passport, a yellow fever certificate, and a passport photo.

Only Visa and Mastercard cards are accepted for visa payments. Once payment is made, the system will process your application and send you a barcoded email. Print out this email and bring it with you to Uganda. Upon arrival, you should present the barcoded email to the immigration officer, who will scan the barcode, take your fingerprints and photo, and place a visa in your passport.

Alternatively, the Ugandan High Commissions may issue visas where such commissions are located.

Visa Exempt Countries:

The following nationalities do not require a visa to enter Uganda: all nationalities from East African countries (Tanzania, Rwanda, Kenya, Burundi), all nationalities from COMESA countries (Angola, Eritrea, Malawi, Madagascar, Seychelles, Swaziland, Zambia, Comoros, Kenya, Mauritius, Zimbabwe), and passport holders from OTHERS (Antigua, Barbados, Fiji, Grenada, Lesotho, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, The Grenadines, Vanuatu, Cyprus, Bahamas, Belize, Gambia, Jamaica, Malta, Singapore, St. Vincent-Tonga and Ireland).

connect@bushwander.com www.bushwander.com

East Africa Tourist Visa:

If you are planning an East Africa trip to Uganda, Rwanda, and/or Kenya, it may be better to apply for a multiple-entry visa, which is valid for 90 days for tourists only. The cost is USD100 per visa. For more information go to: https://visas.immigration.go.ug/#/apply if you are entering Uganda first, or alternatively, the Government visa site for the East Africa country you will be first entering.

Banking and Currency:

US Dollars cash is widely accepted and, in most cases, preferred as the currency that travellers should use to EXCHANGE into UGX on arrival for spending money on the road e.g. for drinks, curios, tips. Please note that USD bills older than 2009 are not accepted. Ensure your USD bills are 2009 or younger. Small USD bills are difficult to change – use Uganda shillings for small tips.

Credit Cards:

Credit cards can be used at some lodges and hotels, but a transaction fee of up to 5% may be charged. Ask first.

Travel, Transport, and Getting Around Flights:

Note that baggage allowance on all domestic flights is max 15 kgs in soft bags

Health and Medical Information

Travellers require a Yellow Fever inoculation more than 10 days prior to your departure. The certificate will be checked on arrival in Uganda. If you have a history of liver disorders (hepatitis etc.), consult your physician first.

Tetanus and Cholera inoculations are recommended but not compulsory. Hepatitis inoculation is at the discretion of the traveler.

Malaria prophylactics are a must and can be purchased from your local pharmacy. Please consult your pharmacist/doctor.

Diarrhoea / Giardia – Bottled water is readily available throughout Uganda, however, it’s advisable to bring medicine just in case.

This is a guide only. Please check with your doctor or travel clinic for the latest information

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Off the Beaten Track Safari in Uganda

OVER VIEW OF OFF THE BEATEN TRACK SAFARI IN UGANDA

This unforgettable 15-day Off-the-Beaten-Track Safari Adventure, explores the hidden gems of East and Northern Uganda! Begin your journey with a mesmerizing visit to Sipi Falls, where cascading waters meet sweeping views of the Karamoja plains. Venture into the wild and untamed Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve, home to elusive cheetahs and stunning savannah landscapes.

Feel the thrill of encountering the Big Five as you traverse the vast, untouched plains of Kidepo Valley National Park, where the spirit of the Karamojong people echoes in every breeze.

Dive deep into Uganda’s vibrant culture, breathtaking natural wonders, and adrenaline-packed activities as we journey through rugged terrains. Marvel at the thunderous power of Murchison Falls, explore the hidden beauty of Lake Albert Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve, and immerse yourself in moments that redefine adventure.

This remote safari experience is a transformative journey filled with excitement, discovery, and memories to last a lifetime. Blaze your trail through Uganda’s best-kept secrets and uncover the extraordinary at every turn!

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK SAFARI IN UGANDA HIGHLIGHTS

  • Hike to the stunning Sipi Falls while supporting the livelihoods of local Arabica coffee growers.
  • Spot unique wildlife at Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve and contribute to ongoing conservation efforts.
  • Experience authentic Karamoja culture with a visit to a traditional Manyatta
  • Witness breathtaking wildlife and rugged mountain scenery in Kidepo Valley National Park.
  • Discover ancient art and cultural history in Karamoja’s rock paintings and Cave Exploration
  • Discover the Big Five and cruise the Nile at the iconic Murchison Falls National Park.
  • Explore Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve that lies between the breathtaking Blue Mountains of the Congo and Lake Albert. 
  • Stay in Midrange Lodges that support Responsible Travel

  • ITINERARY
  • WHAT TO PACK
  • INCLUDES
  • TRAVEL INFORMATION
  • REQUEST A QUOTE 
ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe Airport

Upon your arrival in Entebbe, a company representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel for an overnight stay at the start of your Off The Beaten Track Safari in Uganda.

Meal Plan: Dinner depending on time of arrival.

Accommodation: Papyrus Guest House

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 2: To Sipi Falls – Coffee Tour

After breakfast, we journey towards Tororo, pausing to marvel at Tororo Rock, a towering formation that commands a 300-meter elevation above the plains. Our route continues to Mbale, a town at the base of Mount Elgon, renowned for its rich heritage and captivating culture.

Enjoy a delightful lunch in Mbale, surrounded by picturesque viewpoints along the way, before we proceed to Sipi Village. This charming settlement is positioned amidst cascading waterfalls and majestic mountains, offering a serene retreat. In the afternoon, indulge in an enlightening Arabica coffee tour, experiencing the process of coffee production from seed to cup.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Sipi Heritage Lodge

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 3: Sipi Falls- Hiking to the waterfalls  

After breakfast, embark on a captivating hike to the enchanting Sipi Falls. Begin with a nature walk to the base of this renowned waterfall, then continue with a challenging ascent to explore a series of caves.  The journey begins with a leisurely nature walk that leads you to the base of the majestic waterfall, where the rushing waters cascade down rocky cliffs amidst lush greenery.

As the trail ascends with a moderate climb, journey through picturesque landscapes adorned with maize fields, verdant banana plantations, charming bandas, and traditional thatched-roof huts- homesteads. You’ll encounter additional cascades of Sipi Falls, each offering its own unique charm and scenic allure. Take in the inspiring sights and sounds of nature, pausing to cool off under the refreshing spray of the falls, and admire breathtaking views overlooking the valley below.

Optional Activity- You may participate in a thrilling abseiling experience down the mountainside, descending alongside the famous Sipi Falls.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Sipi Heritage Lodge

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 4: To Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve

Today, you’ll journey from Sipi Falls to the Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve, immersing yourself in its vast plains. These plains are a tapestry of wilderness, rolling savannahs, and acacia woodlands, adorned with weathered rock formations. In the backdrop stand the majestic Mount Kadam and Mount Napak.

Enjoy a picnic lunch before embarking on an exploration of the reserve’s network of wildlife tracks. Look out for the rare Roan antelope, alongside oribi, klipspringer, hyenas, ostriches, leopards, impala, Jackson’s hartebeest, and Rothschild giraffes. Make sure to watch for cheetahs as well, this reserve offers the best opportunity in Uganda to spot these graceful cats. Later, continue your journey to your place of overnight stay.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Karamoja Safari Camp.

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 5: Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve – Game Drives  

After breakfast, head out for game safaris in Pian Upe before proceeding through Karamoja with stunning views with amazing scenery over the rugged landscape of the east of Uganda and Mount Kadam, which peaks at 3068 meters. Later head back for relaxation at the camp. 

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Karamoja Safari Camp

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 6: Manyatta Experience and Cave Exploration 

After breakfast, you’ll venture into the Karamoja plains for an enriching Manyatta Experience. Immerse yourself in the traditional way of life by visiting a local Manyatta homestead. Engage in various community activities that offer an authentic glimpse into the culture. Participate in tasting the local meals, enjoy the rhythmic songs and dances of traditional folklore, craft traditional Karamojong beads, listen to elders’ captivating stories, and join in traditional Karamojong games. This interactive experience promises unforgettable insights into the community’s heritage.

After lunch, head for Cave Exploration. The Napendio cave, revered by locals, houses ancient rock paintings that depict scenes of wild animals and the early human inhabitants of the area. Nearby, the Napedet cave provides a glimpse into the past with its cooking stones dating back decades ago. The cave’s walls are adorned with art featuring elands, warthogs, and giraffes, and the view from the cave is simply breathtaking.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Karamoja Safari Camp

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 7: To Kidepo National Park Narus Valley Game Safari

Head out through Kotido’s stunning landscapes to Africa’s wilderness oasis. Arrive at the premier park- Kidepo Valley National Park for a delectable lunch and serene relaxation. 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. Depending on the time you might 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. Alternatively, you may have a nature walk experience in the Narus Valley. 

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Kidepo Savannah Lodge

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 8: : Kidepo Valley Park Nature Walk and Community Visit

Today, venture into the heart of the Narus Valley, where the vast savannah plains await your exploration. Accompanied by a Wildlife Authority ranger, embark on a walking safari, a remarkable opportunity to intimately connect with the wilderness and its inhabitants.

Your knowledgeable ranger will guide you through the savannah, shedding light on the park’s rich biodiversity and storied history. Keep your senses sharp as you track various game herds, including the majestic Burchell’s zebra, Jackson’s hartebeest, Grant’s gazelle, and the elegant Rothschild’s giraffe.

As the day transitions to evening, delve into a cultural immersion with a visit to the local community. Spend a captivating evening among the Karamajong people, gaining invaluable insights into their customs, beliefs, and way of life.

Participate in traditional dances and songs, embracing the vibrant heritage of the indigenous community. This experience promises to be a captivating blend of nature, culture, and unforgettable encounters.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Kidepo Savannah Lodge. 

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 9: 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, the place for The Greatest Waterfall on the Nile. heading to your accommodation for late lunch and relaxation.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Fort Murchison

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 10: Game Safari and Boat cruise to Bottom of the Falls

Today get to explore the wildlife tracks, along Victoria and Albert Nile savannah plains dotted with a backdrop of palm trees and pockets of Acacia tree woodlands. Look out for Rothschild giraffes, lions, hippos, elephants, herds of buffalo, Jackson’s hartebeest, bushbucks, Uganda kobs, warthog, and waterbuck and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot the elusive leopard! Get a stop over at the hippo pool on the Victoria Nile delta, where you can see hippos wallowing in the shallows across the water.

After lunch, embark on a boat cruise to navigate the course of the river Nile to the thundering base of 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 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.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Fort Murchison

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 11:Murchison Falls to Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve

After breakfast, transfer from Murchison Falls National Park to Lake Albert passing through the great escarpments of Biso arriving in time for lunch at the lodge. After lunch head out on an expedition for fossils that have existed for generations. Fossil hunting allows tourists to go out on an expedition for fossils that have existed for generations in the Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve. 

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Lake Albert Safari Lodge.

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 12: Nature walk and Night Game Drive 

Today you will start your day with a guided nature walk in Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve. The nature walks will start from the Albertine Rift escarpment which rewards tourists with breathtaking views of several antelope species, warthogs, primates, and bird species among others. Later return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation.

After a bush early dinner, enjoy a night-guided game drive through the Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve. Look out for leopards, hyenas, bush babies, civets, and also warthog, bushbuck, and waterbucks that continue their feeding activities throughout the night.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Lake Albert Safari Lodge.

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 14:  Transfer back to Entebbe   

Today you will have a bush breakfast and then depart for Entebbe passing through vast plains and passing some markets selling a variety of tropical fruits and will lunch en route arriving in the early afternoon for relaxation at Papyrus Guest House.

Optional Stopover at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for Rhino Trekking and Lunch.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 15:  Departure   

Today, you will head to the airport for your onward flight home, marking the end of your unforgettable Off-the-Beaten-Track Safari in Uganda.

WHAT TO PACK

• Comfortable hiking boots and lightweight clothing.

• Rain jacket and a warm sweater for cooler evenings.

• Insect repellent and sunscreen.

• Reusable water bottle.

• Binoculars and a good camera.

• Personal medications and a small first-aid kit.

• Nature blending clothes

INCLUDES

Included in the Off The Beaten Track Safari in Uganda.

  • Ground transportation in a safari customized 4WD Toyota Land cruiser with gasoline/fuel
  • All Nature walks 
  • All Community Visits
  • All Boat Cruises 
  • All Game Drives
  • Drinking water / refillable water bottle
  • English-speaking Guide
  • Accommodation and Meals
  • All Park Entrance Fees.

Excluded in the Off The Beaten Track Safari in Uganda.

  • International Airfares;
  • Visa Fees;
  • 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.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

Uganda – The Pearl of Africa’s Untamed Beauty

Uganda, aptly named the Pearl of Africa, is a land Gifted by Nature. It is located in the Great Lakes Region with breathtaking landscapes, extraordinary biodiversity, and unforgettable adventures. This remarkably diverse country is where the East African savannah meets the lush West African jungle, creating an ecological paradise unlike any other.

Towering over Uganda’s landscapes are the majestic Rwenzori Mountains, Africa’s third-highest range, and the dramatic Virunga Volcanoes, while the shimmering waters of Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake, cradle its southern border. Lying in a basin between the eastern and western branches of the Rift Valley, Uganda’s elevated position gives it a more temperate climate than its equatorial location might suggest. Most of the country sits over 1,000 meters above sea level, with a landscape that is largely flat apart from the forested mountain ranges that often define its borders.

One of Africa’s most water-rich nations, Uganda’s lakes, rivers, and wetlands cover 25% of its surface, keeping the landscape lush and green for most of the year—though the northern region gradually transitions into semi-desert.

Nowhere else on the continent can travelers witness such a rich variety of primates with such ease. From great apes—mountain gorillas and chimpanzees—to over a dozen monkey species, Uganda is a primate lover’s paradise. But it’s not just primates that thrive here. With over 1,000 bird species, Uganda is a birder’s wonderland, home to rare rainforest specialists and some of Africa’s most sought-after birds.

We invite you to explore Uganda, a diverse landscape with abundant wildlife, plenty to discover, and unique experiences. When recounting your time in this jewel of a country, you’ll struggle to find the words that do justice to it.

Entry Requirements:

Your passport must have a minimum of at least two full clear pages for visas and stamps and be valid for more than 6 months from the date of entry into Uganda.

Please check visa requirements prior to travel with your booking agent or Bush Wander, as requirements are regularly changed with little notice.

Most passports require a single-entry visa (US$50). Visas cannot be obtained on arrival. You must apply and pay for them online at least two weeks before your arrival. You must upload clear copies of your current passport, a yellow fever certificate, and a passport photo.

Only Visa and Mastercard cards are accepted for visa payments. Once payment is made, the system will process your application and send you a barcoded email. Print out this email and bring it with you to Uganda. Upon arrival, you should present the barcoded email to the immigration officer, who will scan the barcode, take your fingerprints and photo, and place a visa in your passport.

Alternatively, the Ugandan High Commissions may issue visas where such commissions are located.

Visa Exempt Countries:

The following nationalities do not require a visa to enter Uganda: all nationalities from East African countries (Tanzania, Rwanda, Kenya, Burundi), all nationalities from COMESA countries (Angola, Eritrea, Malawi, Madagascar, Seychelles, Swaziland, Zambia, Comoros, Kenya, Mauritius, Zimbabwe), and passport holders from OTHERS (Antigua, Barbados, Fiji, Grenada, Lesotho, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, The Grenadines, Vanuatu, Cyprus, Bahamas, Belize, Gambia, Jamaica, Malta, Singapore, St. Vincent-Tonga and Ireland).

East Africa Tourist Visa:

If you are planning an East Africa trip to Uganda, Rwanda, and/or Kenya, it may be better to apply for a multiple-entry visa, valid for 90 days at USD 100 per visa. For more information go through the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration if you are entering Uganda first, or alternatively, the Government visa site for the East Africa country you will be first entering.

Money and Currency:

Before you travel, call your credit card companies to let them know you will be traveling. This will help to ensure the credit card company won’t flag any of your vacation expenses. ATMs are available in major towns or cities though at times may not be reliable due to a limited amount of money to be withdrawn.

  • Credit cards are widely accepted within Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda. Major hotels and restaurants accept VISA and MasterCard. AMEX and others are not recommended as establishments usually don’t support them. Note that a surcharge of 5% is attached to their usage.
  • Local Currencies are recommended to use while on safari. There are many forex bureaus and banks in the capital cities and the main towns. Smaller denominations than US$100 may attract a less favorable rate of exchange. Notes older than 2010 may not be accepted in the country.
  • Forex Bureaus are located in major towns or cities and have regular banking hours Monday to Friday from 08:30hrs to 16:00hrs. Saturdays are open from 09:00hrs to 12:00hrs. Traveler’s Cheques may be changed in major towns/cities. American Express cheques are accepted but they do attract a low rate. If you can, forego this option. Note: A purchase receipt and a passport are often asked for by the bank and forex bureaus as proof of ownership.

Health and Medical Information

Travelers require a Yellow Fever inoculation more than 10 days prior to your departure otherwise you won’t obtain a visa. The certificate will be checked on arrival in Uganda. On top of that it is also advised you get vaccinations for DTP, Hepatitis A and malaria. Some organizations may advice you to take Typhoid, Cholera, Hepatitis B and Rabies as well. Please consult your pharmacist/doctor.

Travel Insurance on tour

It’s highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, lost luggage, and other unforeseen circumstances. Ensure that your insurance policy provides adequate coverage for your entire trip duration and the activities you plan to undertake, such as wildlife viewing and adventure sports.

Flights & Getting Around

If you need assistance with flight bookings, Travelers Link Africa offers an inflight service—simply share your travel dates, and we’ll take care of the rest!

REQUEST A QUOTE 

Explore The Pearl of Africa

OVER VIEW OF THE EXPLORE THE PEARL OF AFRICA

The 18 day Explore the Pearl of Africa is an adventure Tour that takes you on the journey of a lifetime through the spectacular national parks along with wildlife, nature, and community visits. Join us on an incredible journey through the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures of Uganda, famously known as the Pearl of Africa.

EXPLORE THE PEARL OF AFRICA SAFARI HIGHLIGHTS

  • Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: A Conservation Success Story
  • Mighty Murchison Falls: Scenic Boat Cruise Adventure
  • Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve: Quad Biking Thrills
  • Sempaya Hot Springs: Nature Walk in Semuliki National Park
  • Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale and the Crater Lakes Region
  • A Unique Lion Experiential Project in Queen Elizabeth Park 
  • Discover the iconic tree-climbing lions of Ishasha Sector in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
  • The Ultimate Gorilla Trekking Experience
  • Rushaga Community Walk and Blacksmith Experience
  • Stay at Handpicked Midrange Lodges that support local communities.

  • ITINERARY
  • WHAT TO PACK
  • INCLUDES
  • TRAVEL INFORMATION
  • REQUEST A QUOTE 
ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe Airport

Upon your arrival in Entebbe, a company representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel for an overnight stay at the start of your Explore The Pearl Of Africa Tour.

Meal Plan: Dinner

Accommodation: Papyrus Guest House

Comfort Level: Mid-range

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

After breakfast at 7:00 a.m., you will be on your way North to Murchison Falls National Park. You will have a stop-over at Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary, home to the only wild rhinos in Uganda.

The Rhino trek takes 1-2 hours to get an opportunity to view them at close quarters. Have lunch then proceed to the park arriving late in the evening for relaxation.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Fort Murchison

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 3: Game Drive and Boat Cruise to Bottom of the Falls  

After breakfast, you will continue to Murchison Falls National Park with a game drive on the northern bank of the Nile, giving you a greater chance of seeing animals such as giraffes, elephants, lions, hartebeest, and different species of birds.

In the afternoon, you have a boat trip to the base of the falls. Look out for the Nile crocodile, hippos, waterbucks, and a variety of bird species at the bottom of the falls, an amazing scenic view of the Nile awaits you as well before returning to the lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Fort Murchison

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 4: Murchison Falls – Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve- Nature walk 

After breakfast, head out to Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve, this reserve has one of the most scenic views in the Rift Valley escarpment. You will arrive in time for lunch.

In the evening, have a nature walk along the Albertine Rift Escarpment with breathtaking views of scenery and some games like antelopes, warthogs, and waterbucks among others.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Lake Albert Safari Lodge.

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 5: Game safari and Quad bike ride  

After breakfast. You will head out for a game safari in the reserve, and look out for the Antelopes such as Uganda Kobs, waterbucks, Bushbucks, bush duikers, Jackson’s hartebeests, and Impalas among others.

After lunch, head out for a quad biking session in the reserve with a guide taking in the breathtaking scenery of the Wildlife reserve on this 18 day Explore the Pearl of Africa Tour Experience.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Lake Albert Safari Lodge.

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 6: Transfer to Fort portal 

After a leisurely breakfast head toward Fort Portal, named after Sir Gerald Portal, a British Special Commissioner for Uganda in the late 19th century, boasts a rich colonial history intertwined with the vibrant traditions of the Batooro people. The town is home to the Tooro Kingdom, one of Uganda’s four traditional kingdoms, where you can visit the royal palace and learn about the kingdom’s heritage and customs arriving in time for lunch and evening relaxation at the lodge.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Isunga Lodge

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 7: Semuliki Park – Hot Springs and Forest Walk 

Breakfast and then head out to the Sempaya hot springs. The Sempaya hot springs are divided into two which were named by local people as male and female hot springs. You will visit the female hot spring Nyansimbi with the spring boiling at around 2m high.

You will then have a picnic lunch and thereafter have a forest walk, look out for primates such as the Grey-cheeked mangabey, black-and-white colobus, Central African red colobus, baboon, blue monkey, red-tailed monkey, de Brazza’s monkey, vervet monkey, and birds along the trails.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Isunga Lodge

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 8: Amabere Caves / Nyakasura Caves and Evening Spent at Leisure

After breakfast, (Optional activity) head out for 9km out of town to the Amabere Caves on a guided nature walk (these rocks and caves are called stalagmites and stalactites). Visiting the Amabere ga Nyinamwiru Caves gives you a chance to check out the waterfalls and three nearby crater lakes. Many colobus monkeys can also be seen around. Evening relaxation at the lodge.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Isunga Lodge

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 9: Chimpanzee Tracking and Lake Kyaninga

Today the forest opens its doors for sensational chimp tracking. Kibale Forest is reputed for having the highest concentration of primates in East Africa. Enjoy a guided nature walk in the tropical rainforest in search of the wild chimpanzee, red-tailed monkey, black-and-white colobus monkey, and many others. 

Take a tour of the Ridge of Lake Kyaninga Crater Lake which overlooks the Lodge for Scenic Viewing taking in the amazing scenery.

If you can, take a hike to Kyengangwa Hill for a panoramic view of the 3 crater lakes, and the Rwenzoris -mountains of the moon.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Turaco Treetops

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 10: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park – Kazinga Channel Cruise

Today you will head out to Queen Elizabeth National Park arriving in time for lunch. After lunch, head for the scheduled 3 hrs boat ride along the Kazinga channel joining Lake Edward and Lake George with excellent wildlife sightings including, multitudes of hippopotami, Nile crocodiles, wallowing buffaloes on its reedy banks, elephants, multitudes of birds including many endemics as well as hundreds of other plains game that come to it for water.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Queen Elizabeth Bush Lodge

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 11: Lion Experiential Project and Ishasha Sector

After breakfast, you will visit an experiential lion project. This experience allows visitors to actively participate in monitoring the pride in the park, using locator devices and learning habituation calls, as well as monitoring weather, surroundings, and behavior.

The results are added to researchers’ databases, contributing valuable information to the overall understanding of wildlife ecology, and helping to conserve this wonderful ecosystem. 

Later check out and head to Ishasha Sector – the southern part of the park arriving in time for lunch.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Ishasha Jungle Lodge

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 12: Game Safari and Nature Walk

This morning, once again head out for the tree-climbing lion search. Return to the camp for lunch.  Thereafter, you can take a nature walk on the Ishasha river. Look out for the hippos, elephants, and buffaloes along the river, and spot different bird species. In the evening, you will have sundowner drinks while you enjoy the sun setting over the Ishasha.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Ishasha Jungle Lodge

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 13: Ishasha Sector – Bwindi National Park

After 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 in preparation for your gorilla trekking adventure.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge.

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 14: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi National Park   

In the early morning, you will be briefed on gorilla tracking at the park headquarters and assigned groups of 8 people per group. Accompanied by a guide and your packed lunch, you will go in search of the gorillas in a small group. You walk through the forest, sometimes you descend again and then climb up a slope again. The duration of gorilla tracking is unpredictable. 

The walk can be quite strenuous due to the muddy trails and mountainous areas and can take up to 8 hours depending on how far the gorillas have moved in search of food. It is worth it and what awaits you, in the end, is indescribable.

For an hour you can admire these peaceful ‘Gentle Giants’ as they go about their daily activities of grooming, feeding, and playing. It is a once-in-a-lifetime memorable experience.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge.

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 15: Batwa Community Walk and Blacksmiths of Abaheesi Clan. 

Start this day of the 18 Day Explore the Pearl of Africa Experience with a relaxed breakfast, then wander through the lively community of Bwindi. Explore the rich culture of Rushaga by observing skilled basket weavers at work, gaining valuable insights into their craftsmanship.

Wrap up this immersive experience with the captivating rhythms and traditional dances of the Batwa people, preceded by a tour of their current residences.

Following lunch, delve into the world of the Abaheesi clan blacksmiths. Witness as they transform scrap metal into modern tools or traditional weapons of the Bakiga people. The ancestral bellows, crafted from wood and cowhide, have been passed down through generations and can generate enough heat to melt metal over an open fire.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 16: Bwindi National Park – Lake Mburo National Park     

Breakfast and then head out to the Rushaga Batwa Cultural Center. This experience will allow you to learn more about their age-old culture with the Batwa guides, see how they lived and hunted, hear ancient legends, and learn about medical plants.

Later head to Lake Mburo National Park arriving in time for lunch. As you enter the park you will likely spot some wildlife, like impalas, warthogs, zebras, and buffaloes.

In the afternoon you can go on a boat ride on the lake and enjoy the rich birdlife and the hippos that are cooling off.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Mpogo Safari Lodge.

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 17: Nature walk and Evening game drive

Early start of the day as you head out for a bushwalk guided by a ranger for a 2-hour hike. Lake Mburo National Park is renowned for its rich birdlife and beautiful lakes. Enjoy a nature walk searching for zebras, warthogs, buffalo, and impala, and look out for one of Africa’s largest antelope, the beautiful Eland. Return to the camp for relaxation.

After lunch, you will embark on an evening game drive in the park OR a cycling session around the local communities close to the park. This unique cycling adventure allows you to explore the area at a leisurely pace, interact with the local people, and gain insights into their daily lives and traditions.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Mpogo Lodge.

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 18:  Lake Mburo National Park – Entebbe    

After breakfast, head back to Entebbe with a stopover at the Equator for a demonstration of the water flowing in the northern and southern hemispheres. You may visit some shops and craft centers at the Equator. Arrive early in the evening in Entebbe for relaxation at the end of your 18 Day Explore The Pearl Of Africa Safari. Optional Refreshment Room at Papyrus Guest House before heading to the airport.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch

WHAT TO PACK

• Comfortable hiking boots and lightweight clothing.

• Rain jacket and a warm sweater for cooler evenings.

• Insect repellent and sunscreen.

• Reusable water bottle.

• Binoculars and a good camera.

• Personal medications and a small first-aid kit.

• Nature blending clothes

INCLUDES

Included in the Explore The Pearl Of Africa

  • Ground transportation in a safari customized 4WD Toyota Landcruiser with gasoline/fuel
  • Rhino Trekking
  • All Nature walks 
  • All Community Visits
  • All Boat Cruises 
  • All Game Drives
  • Gorilla trekking permit
  • Chimpanzee trekking permit
  • Drinking water / refillable water bottle
  • English-speaking Birding Guide
  • Accommodation and Meals
  • All Park Entrance Fees.

Excluded in the Explore The Pearl Of Africa

  • International Airfares;
  • Visa Fees;
  • 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.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

Uganda – The Pearl of Africa’s Untamed Beauty

Uganda, aptly named the Pearl of Africa, is a land Gifted by Nature. It is located in the Great Lakes Region with breathtaking landscapes, extraordinary biodiversity, and unforgettable adventures. This remarkably diverse country is where the East African savannah meets the lush West African jungle, creating an ecological paradise unlike any other.

Towering over Uganda’s landscapes are the majestic Rwenzori Mountains, Africa’s third-highest range, and the dramatic Virunga Volcanoes, while the shimmering waters of Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake, cradle its southern border. Lying in a basin between the eastern and western branches of the Rift Valley, Uganda’s elevated position gives it a more temperate climate than its equatorial location might suggest. Most of the country sits over 1,000 meters above sea level, with a landscape that is largely flat apart from the forested mountain ranges that often define its borders.

One of Africa’s most water-rich nations, Uganda’s lakes, rivers, and wetlands cover 25% of its surface, keeping the landscape lush and green for most of the year—though the northern region gradually transitions into semi-desert.

Nowhere else on the continent can travelers witness such a rich variety of primates with such ease. From great apes—mountain gorillas and chimpanzees—to over a dozen monkey species, Uganda is a primate lover’s paradise. But it’s not just primates that thrive here. With over 1,000 bird species, Uganda is a birder’s wonderland, home to rare rainforest specialists and some of Africa’s most sought-after birds.

We invite you to explore Uganda, a diverse landscape with abundant wildlife, plenty to discover, and unique experiences. When recounting your time in this jewel of a country, you’ll struggle to find the words that do justice to it.

Entry Requirements:

Your passport must have a minimum of at least two full clear pages for visas and stamps and be valid for more than 6 months from the date of entry into Uganda.

Please check visa requirements prior to travel with your booking agent or Bush Wander, as requirements are regularly changed with little notice.

Most passports require a single-entry visa (US$50). Visas cannot be obtained on arrival. You must apply and pay for them online at least two weeks before your arrival. You must upload clear copies of your current passport, a yellow fever certificate, and a passport photo.

Only Visa and Mastercard cards are accepted for visa payments. Once payment is made, the system will process your application and send you a barcoded email. Print out this email and bring it with you to Uganda. Upon arrival, you should present the barcoded email to the immigration officer, who will scan the barcode, take your fingerprints and photo, and place a visa in your passport.

Alternatively, the Ugandan High Commissions may issue visas where such commissions are located.

Visa Exempt Countries:

The following nationalities do not require a visa to enter Uganda: all nationalities from East African countries (Tanzania, Rwanda, Kenya, Burundi), all nationalities from COMESA countries (Angola, Eritrea, Malawi, Madagascar, Seychelles, Swaziland, Zambia, Comoros, Kenya, Mauritius, Zimbabwe), and passport holders from OTHERS (Antigua, Barbados, Fiji, Grenada, Lesotho, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, The Grenadines, Vanuatu, Cyprus, Bahamas, Belize, Gambia, Jamaica, Malta, Singapore, St. Vincent-Tonga and Ireland).

East Africa Tourist Visa:

If you are planning an East Africa trip to Uganda, Rwanda, and/or Kenya, it may be better to apply for a multiple-entry visa, valid for 90 days at USD 100 per visa. For more information go through the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration if you are entering Uganda first, or alternatively, the Government visa site for the East Africa country you will be first entering.

Money and Currency:

Before you travel, call your credit card companies to let them know you will be traveling. This will help to ensure the credit card company won’t flag any of your vacation expenses. ATMs are available in major towns or cities though at times may not be reliable due to a limited amount of money to be withdrawn.

  • Credit cards are widely accepted within Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda. Major hotels and restaurants accept VISA and MasterCard. AMEX and others are not recommended as establishments usually don’t support them. Note that a surcharge of 5% is attached to their usage.
  • Local Currencies are recommended to use while on safari. There are many forex bureaus and banks in the capital cities and the main towns. Smaller denominations than US$100 may attract a less favorable rate of exchange. Notes older than 2010 may not be accepted in the country.
  • Forex Bureaus are located in major towns or cities and have regular banking hours Monday to Friday from 08:30hrs to 16:00hrs. Saturdays are open from 09:00hrs to 12:00hrs. Traveler’s Cheques may be changed in major towns/cities. American Express cheques are accepted but they do attract a low rate. If you can, forego this option. Note: A purchase receipt and a passport are often asked for by the bank and forex bureaus as proof of ownership.

Health and Medical Information

Travelers require a Yellow Fever inoculation more than 10 days prior to your departure otherwise you won’t obtain a visa. The certificate will be checked on arrival in Uganda. On top of that it is also advised you get vaccinations for DTP, Hepatitis A and malaria. Some organizations may advice you to take Typhoid, Cholera, Hepatitis B and Rabies as well. Please consult your pharmacist/doctor.

Travel Insurance on tour

It’s highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, lost luggage, and other unforeseen circumstances. Ensure that your insurance policy provides adequate coverage for your entire trip duration and the activities you plan to undertake, such as wildlife viewing and adventure sports.

Flights & Getting Around

If you need assistance with flight bookings, Travelers Link Africa offers an inflight service—simply share your travel dates, and we’ll take care of the rest!

REQUEST A QUOTE 

Classic Uganda Safari Adventure

OVER VIEW OF CLASSIC UGANDA SAFARI ADVENTURE

The 19-day Classic Uganda Adventure, immersing yourself in the natural wonders of Uganda’s national parks. Venture beyond the tourist trails to discover hidden gems and extraordinary landscapes.

Begin your journey in the Adventure town of Jinja for rafting or quad biking, Proceed to Sipi Falls, then traverse Kidepo National Park before descending to the majestic Nile River in Murchison Falls NP. Continue to the lush tropical forests of Kibale, the domain of chimpanzees, and experience the avian splendor of the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth Park.

Encounter the majestic Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi Forest, then unwind at the serene Lake Bunyonyi, known for its islands and cultural richness. Encounter the enchanting golden monkeys at Mgahinga NP before concluding your adventure with thrilling biking and nature walks at Lake Mburo.

CLASSIC UGANDA SAFARI ADVENTURE HIGHLIGHTS

  • White Water Rafting Adventure on the Nile
  • Quad Biking in Jinja Along the River Nile and Surroundings
  • Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
  • Explore Kidepo Valley National Park’s Stunning Wilderness
  • Experience the Dodoth Cultural Heritage 
  • Boat Cruise on the Mighty Nile at Murchison Falls
  • Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest National Park
  • Sipi Falls Hike and Coffee Tour
  • Stay in Handpicked, Eco-Friendly Midrange Accommodations

  • ITINERARY
  • WHAT TO PACK
  • INCLUDES
  • TRAVEL INFORMATION
  • REQUEST A QUOTE 
ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe Airport

Upon your arrival in Entebbe, a company representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel for an overnight stay at the start of your Classic Uganda Safari Adventure.

Optional Activity: Depending on your arrival time, you may have a visit to Uganda Wildlife Education Center for an introduction about Uganda’s Flora and Fauna.

Meal Plan: Dinner

Accommodation: Papyrus Guest House

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 2: To To Jinja – Rafting / Quad Biking

Following breakfast at 7:30 am, our journey from Kampala to Jinja in the east begins. Upon arrival, you’ll have the option to experience the thrill of grade 3 rafting on the Nile, avoiding the intense rapids of grade 5.

Alternatively, you can choose a Quad Biking Session, guiding you through picturesque farms, lush forests, and quaint villages along the River Nile.

For those seeking an extra challenge, special sections can be added to the quad biking route. With ample time, we’ll explore further along the Nile, immersing ourselves in the beauty of the surrounding farms, forests, and villages along the eastern bank.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Adrift River Club

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 3: To Sipi Falls – Sipi Falls hike and Coffee tour

Breakfast at 7:00 am then proceed to Sipi Falls arriving in time for the Sipi Falls Hike using the upper loop. This is a 3-3.5 hrs activity depending on the pace set by the group. This is an amazing walk that takes you on an up climb to the top of the upper waterfall and beyond, walking through community plantations before reaching the national park boundary.

On a clear day, marvel at the majestic vistas, beholding the peaks of Elgon, the apex of Wanale Ridge, and the sprawling plains below. Following the hike, partake in a captivating coffee tour.

Immerse yourself in the coffee cultivation as you visit a local plantation nestled amidst the slopes of Elgon. Gain insights into the meticulous processes of coffee processing, cultivation, and harvesting.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Sipi Heritage Lodge

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 4: Sipi Falls – Kidepo National Park

Breakfast and then head to Kidepo Valley National with lunch en route arriving in the evening for relaxation.  About 480 species have been recorded in the park due to its varied vegetation. Kidepo Valley National Park is renowned for its dramatic savannah landscapes, surrounded by rugged mountains. It features the Kidepo and Narus Valleys, which provide water and attract wildlife year-round, with stunning views of the Mount Morungole range, home to the Ik people.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Kidepo Savannah Lodge

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 5: Game Safari & Dodoth Village Experience

Your day on the Classic Uganda Safari Adventure begins at dawn with a game drive or safari walk through the enchanting Narus River Valley. Encounter a stunning array of wildlife, from giraffes and zebras to elephants and lions, set against the backdrop of the African savannah. The park also boasts over 475 bird species, making it a birder’s paradise.

After lunch, visit a local Karamojong Homestead to experience their way of life. Take a 4-hour hike to Dodoth Village. Immerse yourself in the Karamojong’s nomadic culture, learn about local traditions like brewing kwete( local beer), and grinding grains like Sorghum, and join in their vibrant Emuya and Edonga dances. End the day with a scenic hike, taking in breathtaking views from Kenya to South Sudan.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Kidepo Savannah Lodge

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 6: Kidepo–Murchison Falls National Park

The journey from Kidepo Valley National Park to Murchison Falls National Park takes around 6 hours, traveling through diverse landscapes. Departing Kidepo, you’ll pass the vast plains and rugged hills of the Karamojong region, offering views of traditional homesteads and the Karamojong people. Heading south to Gulu, the road transitions into farmlands and vibrant towns before continuing through scenic savannah landscapes towards Lake Albert. The journey culminates with the mighty Murchison Falls, where the Nile River crashes through a narrow gorge, creating a stunning waterfall, while the park’s wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and lions, enrich the experience.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Fort Murchison

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 7: Game Drive and Boat Cruise to Bottom of the Falls  

After breakfast, you will continue to Murchison Falls National Park with a game drive on the northern bank of the Nile, giving you a greater chance of seeing animals such as giraffes, elephants, lions, hartebeest, and different species of birds.

In the afternoon, you have a boat trip to the base of the falls. Look out for the Nile crocodile, hippos, waterbucks, and a variety of bird species at the bottom of the falls, an amazing scenic view of the Nile awaits you as well before returning to the lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Fort Murchison

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 8: Murchison Falls – Fortportal  

After breakfast, head to Fort Portal with stopovers at Papyrus Swamps for some birding session along the way, look out for Red-necked Falcon, Marsh Tchagra, Thick-billed and Slender-billed, Weavers, Black-crowned and Fawn-breasted Waxbills, Yellow-mantled Widowbird and Black Bishop.

You may spot black-and-white colobus monkeys, baboons, and more primates hiding in trees along the road. You will have lunch in Fort Portal Town, this area is famed for the fabled mountains of the moon and many tea plantations.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Turaco Treetops

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 9: Chimpanzee Tracking and Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary

Today the forest opens its doors for sensational chimp tracking. Kibale Forest is reputed for having the highest concentration of primates in East Africa. Enjoy a guided nature walk in the tropical rainforest in search of the wild chimpanzee, red-tailed monkey, black-and-white colobus monkey, and many others. 

After lunch, we transferred to Bigodi Community. Here you will have the choice to join a guided Swamp Walk through the Wetland Sanctuary, which is famous for the many birds and primates that live in this area.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Turaco Treetops

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 10: Rwenzori Foothills – Queen Elizabeth National Park

Today you can enjoy the majestic Rwenzori Mountains in their full glory! Have a guided walk at the foothills of the ‘Mountains of the Moon and learn about the local culture firsthand. Enjoy the scenic views, have a glimpse of village life, and meet the locals. Thereafter transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park arriving in time for late lunch on the Classic Uganda Adventure. 

In the evening, you may head out for an evening game drive or head out to the Kichwamba Orphanage Foundation for a coffee tour experience learning about the processing of coffee, later a cultural dance session.

 

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Queen Elizabeth Bush Lodge

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 11: Lion Experiential Project and Boat Cruise Kazinga Channel

After breakfast, you will visit an experiential lion project. This experience allows visitors to actively participate in monitoring the pride in the park, using locator devices and learning habituation calls, as well as monitoring weather, surroundings, and behavior.

The results are added to researchers’ databases, contributing valuable information to the overall understanding of wildlife ecology, and helping to conserve this wonderful ecosystem. 

After lunch, head for the scheduled 3 hrs boat ride along the Kazinga channel joining Lake Edward and Lake George with excellent wildlife sightings including, multitudes of hippopotami, Nile crocodiles, wallowing buffaloes on its reedy banks, elephants, multitudes of birds including many endemics as well as hundreds of other plains game that come to it for water.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Queen Elizabeth Bush Lodge

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 12: Queen Elizabeth National Park – Bwindi National Park

After 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 in preparation for your gorilla trekking adventure.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge.

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 13:  Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi National Park   

In the early morning, you will be briefed on gorilla tracking at the park headquarters and assigned groups of 8 people per group. Accompanied by a guide and your packed lunch, you will go in search of the gorillas in a small group. You walk through the forest, sometimes you descend again and then climb up a slope again. The duration of gorilla tracking is unpredictable. 

The walk can be quite strenuous due to the muddy trails and mountainous areas and can take up to 8 hours depending on how far the gorillas have moved in search of food. It is worth it and what awaits you, in the end, is indescribable.

For an hour you can admire these peaceful ‘Gentle Giants’ as they go about their daily activities of grooming, feeding, and playing. It is a once-in-a-lifetime memorable experience on your Classic Uganda Safari Adventure.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge.

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 14:  Bwindi NP – Lake Bunyonyi -Culture on the Crest Tour 

After breakfast to Lake Bunyonyi arriving in time for lunch at the Lodge. After lunch, you will embark on a 5-hour experience on the Kyabahinga Peninsula. You will canoe across the bay to the terraced hillsides of the Kyabahinga peninsula.

Have a stopover at a trading center above the school where the local brew is made, as you proceed to climb the slopes of Kyabahinga for about 30 minutes till the top of the hill, you will meet Omugurusi Jeremiah, a traditional healer, a well-known herbalist who will share with us some carefully chosen secrets of tropical highland flora. 

After that proceed to the ridge where you will find a home of a crafts maker who will demonstrate how the crafts are made, you can try them out as well. A descent down the hill and a short canoe ride will bring you back to our starting point.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Travelers Rest Hotel

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 15:  Lake Bunyonyi – Mgahinga NP Golden Monkey Hike     

Following breakfast, make your way to Mgahinga National Park to attend a briefing regarding the guidelines and regulations for hiking with golden monkeys. The trek commences promptly at 8 a.m., following the Gahinga Trail in pursuit of these captivating creatures.

Typically lasting between 30 minutes to 3 hours, the trek duration varies based on the monkeys’ movements in their quest for food. You’ll have the opportunity to observe the golden monkeys for approximately 1 hour, witnessing their daily routines. Subsequently, descend along the trail back to the initial point of departure.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Travelers Rest Hotel

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 16: Mgahinga – Lake Mburo National Park Boat Cruise     

We drive to Lake Mburo National Park and as we enter the park you will likely spot some wildlife, like impalas, zebras, and buffaloes arriving in time for lunch. In the afternoon you can go on a boat ride on the lake and enjoy the rich birdlife and the hippos that are cooling off. In the evening, you will have an evening game drive in search of zebras, buffalos, giraffes, and impalas among others before returning to the Lodge for relaxation.  

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Mpogo Safari Lodge.

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 17:  Biking Safari and Game Drives

After breakfast head out for the Ankole Trail 2-hour biking session. Ride along paths that wind through local Ankole cattle farms, where you can interact with herders and learn about the traditional Ankole cattle culture. The trail also offers opportunities to spot wildlife like zebras, impalas, and bird species as you cycle through the diverse ecosystems of Lake Mburo National Park. Later return to the lodge for relaxation and lunch.

In the evening, head out to the Kigambira Loop in search of bushbucks, bush duikers, and occasionally leopards thereafter head back to lodge.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Bakiga Lodge.

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 18:  Lake Mburo National Park – Entebbe    

Early start of the day as we will go for a bushwalk guided by a ranger. Lake Mburo National Park is renowned for its rich birdlife and beautiful lakes. Enjoy a nature walk searching for zebras, warthog, buffalo, and impala and, if you’re lucky, see the largest of Africa’s Antelope, the beautiful Eland.

Return to the lodge for breakfast and with a game drive on our way out we depart the protected area heading back towards the capital city. En route, we will pass the Equator where we will make a stop for lunch, photos, and souvenir shopping.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Accommodation: Papyrus Guest House

Comfort Level: Mid-range

Day 19:  Departure

After breakfast, depending on your flight details, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight back home at the end of your Classic Uganda Safari Adventure.

Meal Plan: Breakfast

WHAT TO PACK

• Comfortable hiking boots and lightweight clothing.

• Rain jacket and a warm sweater for cooler evenings.

• Insect repellent and sunscreen.

• Reusable water bottle.

• Binoculars and a good camera.

• Personal medications and a small first-aid kit.

• Nature blending clothes

INCLUDES

Included in the

  • Ground transportation in a safari customized 4WD Toyota Landcruiser with gasoline/fuel
  • Rafting / Quad Biking
  • All Nature walks 
  • All Community Visits
  • All Boat Cruises 
  • All Game Drives
  • Gorilla trekking permit
  • Chimpanzee trekking permit
  • Drinking water / refillable water bottle
  • English-speaking Birding Guide
  • Accommodation and Meals
  • All Park Entrance Fees.

Excluded in the Classic Uganda Safari Adventure

  • International Airfares;
  • Visa Fees;
  • 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.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

Uganda – The Pearl of Africa’s Untamed Beauty

Uganda, aptly named the Pearl of Africa, is a land Gifted by Nature. It is located in the Great Lakes Region with breathtaking landscapes, extraordinary biodiversity, and unforgettable adventures. This remarkably diverse country is where the East African savannah meets the lush West African jungle, creating an ecological paradise unlike any other.

Towering over Uganda’s landscapes are the majestic Rwenzori Mountains, Africa’s third-highest range, and the dramatic Virunga Volcanoes, while the shimmering waters of Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake, cradle its southern border. Lying in a basin between the eastern and western branches of the Rift Valley, Uganda’s elevated position gives it a more temperate climate than its equatorial location might suggest. Most of the country sits over 1,000 meters above sea level, with a landscape that is largely flat apart from the forested mountain ranges that often define its borders.

One of Africa’s most water-rich nations, Uganda’s lakes, rivers, and wetlands cover 25% of its surface, keeping the landscape lush and green for most of the year—though the northern region gradually transitions into semi-desert.

Nowhere else on the continent can travelers witness such a rich variety of primates with such ease. From great apes—mountain gorillas and chimpanzees—to over a dozen monkey species, Uganda is a primate lover’s paradise. But it’s not just primates that thrive here. With over 1,000 bird species, Uganda is a birder’s wonderland, home to rare rainforest specialists and some of Africa’s most sought-after birds.

We invite you to explore Uganda, a diverse landscape with abundant wildlife, plenty to discover, and unique experiences. When recounting your time in this jewel of a country, you’ll struggle to find the words that do justice to it.

Entry Requirements:

Your passport must have a minimum of at least two full clear pages for visas and stamps and be valid for more than 6 months from the date of entry into Uganda.

Please check visa requirements prior to travel with your booking agent or Bush Wander, as requirements are regularly changed with little notice.

Most passports require a single-entry visa (US$50). Visas cannot be obtained on arrival. You must apply and pay for them online at least two weeks before your arrival. You must upload clear copies of your current passport, a yellow fever certificate, and a passport photo.

Only Visa and Mastercard cards are accepted for visa payments. Once payment is made, the system will process your application and send you a barcoded email. Print out this email and bring it with you to Uganda. Upon arrival, you should present the barcoded email to the immigration officer, who will scan the barcode, take your fingerprints and photo, and place a visa in your passport.

Alternatively, the Ugandan High Commissions may issue visas where such commissions are located.

Visa Exempt Countries:

The following nationalities do not require a visa to enter Uganda: all nationalities from East African countries (Tanzania, Rwanda, Kenya, Burundi), all nationalities from COMESA countries (Angola, Eritrea, Malawi, Madagascar, Seychelles, Swaziland, Zambia, Comoros, Kenya, Mauritius, Zimbabwe), and passport holders from OTHERS (Antigua, Barbados, Fiji, Grenada, Lesotho, Sierra Leone, Solomon Islands, The Grenadines, Vanuatu, Cyprus, Bahamas, Belize, Gambia, Jamaica, Malta, Singapore, St. Vincent-Tonga and Ireland).

East Africa Tourist Visa:

If you are planning an East Africa trip to Uganda, Rwanda, and/or Kenya, it may be better to apply for a multiple-entry visa, valid for 90 days at USD 100 per visa. For more information go through the Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration if you are entering Uganda first, or alternatively, the Government visa site for the East Africa country you will be first entering.

Money and Currency:

Before you travel, call your credit card companies to let them know you will be traveling. This will help to ensure the credit card company won’t flag any of your vacation expenses. ATMs are available in major towns or cities though at times may not be reliable due to a limited amount of money to be withdrawn.

  • Credit cards are widely accepted within Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda. Major hotels and restaurants accept VISA and MasterCard. AMEX and others are not recommended as establishments usually don’t support them. Note that a surcharge of 5% is attached to their usage.
  • Local Currencies are recommended to use while on safari. There are many forex bureaus and banks in the capital cities and the main towns. Smaller denominations than US$100 may attract a less favorable rate of exchange. Notes older than 2010 may not be accepted in the country.
  • Forex Bureaus are located in major towns or cities and have regular banking hours Monday to Friday from 08:30hrs to 16:00hrs. Saturdays are open from 09:00hrs to 12:00hrs. Traveler’s Cheques may be changed in major towns/cities. American Express cheques are accepted but they do attract a low rate. If you can, forego this option. Note: A purchase receipt and a passport are often asked for by the bank and forex bureaus as proof of ownership.

Health and Medical Information

Travelers require a Yellow Fever inoculation more than 10 days prior to your departure otherwise you won’t obtain a visa. The certificate will be checked on arrival in Uganda. On top of that it is also advised you get vaccinations for DTP, Hepatitis A and malaria. Some organizations may advice you to take Typhoid, Cholera, Hepatitis B and Rabies as well. Please consult your pharmacist/doctor.

Travel Insurance on tour

It’s highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, lost luggage, and other unforeseen circumstances. Ensure that your insurance policy provides adequate coverage for your entire trip duration and the activities you plan to undertake, such as wildlife viewing and adventure sports.

Flights & Getting Around

If you need assistance with flight bookings, Travelers Link Africa offers an inflight service—simply share your travel dates, and we’ll take care of the rest!

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