OVER VIEW
This 8 Day Adventure is a transformative journey that blends adventure with relaxation. Begin with exhilarating activities like cycling or a horseback safari in the wildlife-rich Lake Mburo National Park. Marvel at impressive wildlife encounters as you soak in the natural beauty of Uganda.
The highlight of your adventure? An intimate encounter with majestic mountain gorillas in the dense tropical jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. After your trek, indulge in a rejuvenating spa day to relax your body and restore your spirit.
Experience authentic cultural immersion with a visit to the inspiring Ride 4 a Woman community in Buhoma, where you can connect with local women artisans. End your tour with an optional scenic flight over the picturesque landscapes of southern Uganda, creating unforgettable memories before your journey back home.
SAFARI HIGHLIGHTS
- Horseback or Cycling Safari: Explore Lake Mburo's wildlife on a unique horseback or cycling adventure.
- Gorilla Trekking: Experience a close encounter with mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
- Bush Dining: Enjoy a scenic bush breakfast or bush dinner.
- Spa Day: Relax with treatments at Opatra London Spa.
- Community Experience: Visit Buhoma’s Ride 4 a Woman projects to connect with local artisans.
- Luxury Lodges: Stay at handpicked lodges that support local communities and promote eco-friendly travel.
The 8 Day Gorilla and Wellness Adventure starts at Entebbe Airport, where you will be met by a company representative/guide who will transfer you to your place of overnight stay. Depending on the time of your arrival, you may visit the Gorilla Conservation Cafe in Entebbe.
Gorilla Conservation Coffee is a social enterprise of Conservation Through Public Health, an NGO and nonprofit supporting local farmers and helping to protect endangered gorillas and their fragile habitat.
Meal Plan: Dinner depending on time of arrival.
Accommodation: Hotel No 5.
Comfort Level: Luxury
Today, you'll set off for Lake Mburo National Park, enjoying a scenic drive with a lunch stop along the way. Arrive in time to unwind at the lodge or embark on an exhilarating evening game drive. As dusk settles, witness the park's vibrant wildlife emerging — a captivating experience to start your adventure."
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Kigambira Safari Lodge
Comfort Level: Luxury
This day starts with a guided hike to the salt lick, at the salt licks, wildlife/ animals often head there to enjoy the taste of the salty licks made up of water and soil. The animals can be viewed from a raised platform. Thereafter have a Bush Breakfast and then hike to Kazuma Track which leads to the top of Kazuma Hill where you will be able to view the 5 of the great region lakes you will. Head back for lunch at the lodge.
After a delicious lunch, set off on an exhilarating cycling expedition through the park, or choose the tranquil experience of horseback riding. As you explore, look out for the captivating wildlife that calls this area home, including graceful zebras, Uganda kobs, and towering giraffes.
As the sun begins to set, unwind with a serene meditation session on the balcony of your room, where you can disconnect from the world and reconnect with your inner self. Breathe in the crisp, fresh air as you let nature's gentle rhythms guide you to stillness. The harmonious blend of birdsong and rustling leaves creates an ideal backdrop for clearing your mind and finding balance.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Kigambira Safari Lodge
Comfort Level: Luxury
Today, head on a journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the magnificent sanctuary of mountain gorillas. Upon arrival, indulge in a delightful late lunch at the lodge surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the forest. Take this time to relax and soak in the serene atmosphere as you prepare for the thrilling gorilla trek that awaits you tomorrow. Enjoy a peaceful evening, knowing that an extraordinary adventure is just around the corner.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mahogany Springs
Comfort Level: Luxury
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: Mahogany Springs
Comfort Level: Luxury
Your day begins with an enchanting bush breakfast surrounded by the serenity of the wild. Savor every bite as nature provides the perfect backdrop. Following this, embark on a guided nature walk that meanders around the lodge’s perimeter and down to the river. Over the next 1.5 hours, you'll be captivated by the lush flora and vibrant birdlife — a tranquil experience that connects you to Uganda's natural wonders.
Next, immerse yourself in the heartwarming Ride 4 a Woman community, a beacon of empowerment for the women of Buhoma. Witness their incredible artistry and join hands in workshops like basket weaving, pedal sewing, or partake in the spirited Bakiga Dance Performance, a celebration of strength and culture.
After a delightful lunch at the lodge, pamper yourself with a rejuvenating experience at the luxurious Opatra London Spa. Indulge in soothing facials and revitalizing foot and body massages designed to melt away every trace of fatigue. Let serenity wash over you, leaving your body refreshed and your spirit renewed.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mahogany Springs
Comfort Level: Luxury
Start your day with a scenic journey back to Entebbe, stopping at the iconic Equator for a delightful lunch. Continue your adventure, arriving in Entebbe by evening for relaxation.
For a more exclusive experience, choose a scenic flight from Kihihi Airstrip, where you’ll soar above the stunning southern Ugandan landscapes with amazing sights that rejuvenate your mind and soul.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel No 5.
Comfort Level: Luxury
Explore the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC), a sanctuary on the scenic shores of Lake Victoria, dedicated to the education, rescue, and rehabilitation of Uganda’s iconic wildlife. This immersive facility offers a unique opportunity to connect with the country's diverse flora and fauna. Encounter majestic animals such as lions, giraffes, chimpanzees, and rhinos in their natural-like habitats.
After this enriching experience, and depending on your flight schedule, you'll be transferred to the airport for your onward journey home."
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
• 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
Included in the Itinerary
- Ground transportation in a safari customized 4WD Toyota Landcruiser with gasoline/fuel
- Cycling , Horseback Riding in Lake Mburo
- Gorilla trekking permit
- Ride4Woman Community Visit
- Uganda Wildlife Education Center
- Spa Treatment at Mahogany Springs
- Drinking water / refillable water bottle
- English-speaking Guide
- Accommodation and Meals
- All Park Entrance Fees.
Excluded in the Itinerary
- 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.
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!
