11 days Uganda safari trip
11-Day Uganda Safari trip Itinerary: Discover the Pearl of Africa
This 11 days Uganda safari trip offers an exceptional adventure that will take you to the most visited national parks in Uganda. Including Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Murchison Falls National Park, not excluding other parks. Like Kibale Forest National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Throughout the journey, you will have the opportunity to view a diverse array of wildlife. Such as elephants, buffaloes, lions, leopards, Jackson’s hartebeest, giraffes, zebras, and elands. Other animals that occur are waterbucks, Uganda kobs, oribi, and rhinos, during game drives and boat cruises. Additionally, you will have the chance to spend time with the endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Travelers also get to see chimpanzees in Kibale Forest National Park and Kyambura gorge.
Tour Highlights of 11 days Uganda Safari Trip
- Arrival in Entebbe
- Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park via Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
- Morning Game Drive, Afternoon Boat Trip, Evening Game Drive
- Transfer to Kibale Forest Area on 11 days Uganda Safari Trip
- Morning Chimpanzee Tracking and Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary Walk
- Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Morning Game Drive & Afternoon Boat Ride on Kazinga Channel
- Chimpanzee Tracking in Kyambura Gorge and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
- Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
- Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park and Evening Game Drive
- Early Morning Walking Safari, Transfer to Entebbe via Equator
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe
Welcome to Uganda!
Upon arriving at Entebbe International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our representative. You’ll then be transferred to your hotel, where you can relax and prepare for the adventure ahead.
- Accommodation: Marriot Protea Hotel Entebbe
- Activities: Airport transfer, check-in, and relaxation
- Highlights: Get settled and prepare for your safari adventure with a briefing optional.
Travel Tips:
- Ensure your travel documents and vaccination certificates are in order.
- Rest well to recover from your flight and start your adventure refreshed.
Day 2: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park via Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Begin your journey early in the morning with a scenic drive to Murchison Falls National Park. En route, you’ll stop at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for a guided trek to see the majestic white rhinos.
- Morning: Depart from Entebbe and head to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for an exciting rhino tracking experience.
- Afternoon: Continue your journey to Murchison Falls National Park. Upon arrival, visit the top of Murchison Falls to witness the Nile River’s powerful cascade.
- Accommodation: Midrange: Pakuba Safari Lodge, Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel Tips:
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for the rhino trek.
- Keep your camera ready for stunning views of Murchison Falls.
Day 3: Morning Game Drive, Afternoon Boat Trip, Evening Game Drive
Morning Game Drive
After breakfast on day 3 of your 11-day Uganda safari tour, your driver guide will take you from the lodge for a morning game drive. During this drive, you will have the opportunity to see animals such as buffaloes, Uganda kob, and warthogs. Large elephants, Jackson’s hartebeest, giraffes, and waterbucks grazing in the open savannah plains. Additionally, you will be able to spot predators like lions, leopards, and hyenas before they retreat to their hiding areas. You will also observe a variety of birds. Following the game drive, you will return to the lodge for lunch. Thereafter, we return to the lodge where you will have your lunch which starts at 12:30 pm. You will then leave the lodge at 1:00 pm and drive to the point where you will take a boat trip.
Afternoon Boat Cruise
After lunch, you will drive to Paraa jetty landing site for an exciting boat cruise to the bottom of the falls. During the approximately 2-hour boat ride, you will enjoy spectacular views of the beautiful scenery. Hippos, and Nile crocodiles in the water, as well as elephants, buffaloes, warthogs, and antelopes along the shores. Additionally, you will see water birds such as kingfishers, bee-eaters, cormorants, and fish eagles. After the boat cruise, you will meet up with your driver guide and return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
- Accommodation: Midrange: Pakuba Safari Lodge, Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Transfer to Kibale Forest Area on 11 days Uganda Safari Trip
Today, you’ll travel to the lush Kibale Forest area, famous for its high population of primates. After enjoying breakfast on day 4 of your 11 days Uganda safari trip. You will check out of the lodge and transfer to Kibale National Park in western Uganda. This journey will take 7 hours. Along the way, you will stop for an en-route lunch while taking in the stunning views. Tourists get to see traditional homesteads, local people, beautiful scenery. The majestic Rwenzori Mountains, serene crater lakes, and lush tea plantations, among other sights. Upon your arrival at the park, you will check into the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
- Accommodation: Midrange: Kibale Primate Lodge, Luxury: Chimpundu Safari Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Morning Chimpanzee Tracking and Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary Walk
Primate Encounters in Kibale
Experience the thrill of tracking chimpanzees in their natural habitat and exploring the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary.
After an early breakfast on day 5 of your 11-day Uganda safari, you will check out of the lodge and meet up with your driver guide for the transfer to the park headquarters for a chimpanzee trekking briefing. Following the briefing, you will be grouped into parties of six, assigned a chimpanzee family to trek. And accompanied by a park guide who will lead you into the forest. Chimpanzee trekking, an exciting activity, begins at 8:00 am and can last from 30 minutes to 4 hours. Depending on the location of the chimpanzees as they move in search of food, especially during the dry season.
During the trek, you will also encounter other primates like red-tailed monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and vervet monkeys. Additionally, you will spot various bird species, mammals, and plant species. Once the chimpanzees are found, you will spend one hour observing them in their natural habitat. Allowing you to learn about their behaviors and habits, watch them feed, play, fight, hunt, and mate, and take photos and videos to capture these memorable moments.
After your one hour with the chimpanzees, you will trek back to the park headquarters. Where you will meet up with your driver guide and return to the lodge for lunch.
In the afternoon, you will embark on an intriguing Bigodi swamp walk. During which you will have the chance to view different bird species, primates, and various plant and tree species. After the swamp walk, you will return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
- Accommodation: Midrange: Kibale Primate Lodge, Luxury: Chimpundu Safari Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, renowned for its diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife.
After an early breakfast on day 6 of your 11-day Uganda safari holiday, you will check out of the lodge in Kibale Forest. Then, you’ll meet up with your driver guide for the transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park. During the journey, you’ll have the chance to enjoy the scenic landscapes of western Uganda, including views of the Rwenzori Mountains, rolling hills, and lush plantations.
As you travel, you will have a brief stopover in Fort Portal for a refreshment break. Here, you can possibly explore the local markets or landmarks. Continuing the journey, you will pass through small villages and towns, providing a glimpse into the daily lives of the local people.
Upon arrival at Queen Elizabeth National Park, you will check into your lodge and have lunch. After settling in, you may have some leisure time to relax and enjoy the lodge’s amenities. Later in the afternoon, you can go for a short game drive to acquaint yourself with the park’s diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes.
In the evening, you will return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay, preparing for the exciting adventures that await you in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
- Accommodation: Midrange Kasenyi Safari Lodge, Luxury Mweya Safari Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Morning Game Drive & Afternoon Boat Ride on Kazinga Channel
Adventure in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Enjoy a full day of activities in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Morning Game Drive
After an early breakfast on day 7 of your 11-day Uganda safari trip, you will set out for an exhilarating morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Accompanied by your driver guide, you will explore the park’s vast savannah plains. During this adventure, you’ll have the opportunity to see a wide variety of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, buffaloes, lions, leopards, warthogs, and various antelope species such as Uganda kobs and waterbucks. Moreover, the early morning hours are an ideal time for spotting predators, as they are often more active before the heat of the day sets in.
Additionally, you will enjoy the breathtaking scenery, with the backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains and the park’s diverse landscapes. This game drive will also provide excellent birdwatching opportunities, as Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to over 600 bird species.
Afternoon Boat Ride on Kazinga Channel
Following the game drive, you will return to the lodge for lunch and some relaxation. In the afternoon, you will head to the Kazinga Channel for an exciting boat ride. The Kazinga Channel, which links Lake Edward and Lake George, is famous for its high concentration of hippos and Nile crocodiles. As you cruise along the channel, you will also see elephants, buffaloes, and other wildlife coming to the water’s edge to drink and cool off.
This two-hour boat ride offers a unique perspective of the park and is perfect for photography enthusiasts. Furthermore, you will have the chance to observe a variety of water birds such as kingfishers, African fish eagles, pelicans, and many more.
After the boat ride, you will meet up with your driver guide and return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay, reflecting on the day’s thrilling experiences.
- Accommodation: Midrange Kasenyi Safari Lodge, Luxury Mweya Safari Lodge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel Tips:
- Early game drives often yield the best wildlife sightings.
- The boat ride offers great photo opportunities, so have your camera ready.
Day 8: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kyambura Gorge and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
From the Savannah to the Forest
Experience chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge before heading to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.
Kyambura Gorge Chimpanzee Tracking
After an early breakfast on day 8 of your 11-day Uganda safari trip, you will check out of the lodge and meet up with your driver guide for the transfer to Kyambura Gorge. Here, you will embark on an exciting chimpanzee tracking adventure. Following a briefing by the park rangers, you will enter the lush rainforest of Kyambura Gorge, also known as the “Valley of Apes.” As you trek through the dense vegetation. You will have the chance to observe not only chimpanzees but also a variety of other primates, birds, and plant species.
Tracking the chimpanzees in their natural habitat is an exhilarating experience, offering a glimpse into their daily lives and behaviors. The trek can last from one to several hours, depending on the location of the chimpanzees.
Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest via Ishasha
After your chimpanzee tracking adventure, you will return to the lodge for lunch and some rest. Subsequently, you will set off for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, passing through the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. This route is renowned for its tree-climbing lions, so keep your eyes peeled for these unique predators lounging in the fig trees.
As you continue your journey, you will traverse beautiful landscapes, including savannah plains, rolling hills, and lush vegetation. Upon arrival in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, you will check into your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay, preparing for the gorilla trekking adventure that awaits you in the days to come.
- Accommodation: Midrange: Mahogany Springs Lodge, Luxury: Sanctuary Retreats Gorilla Forest Camp
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9: Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
The Ultimate Gorilla Encounter
Today, experience the highlight of your safari: gorilla tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Following an early breakfast on day 9 of your 11 days Uganda safari trip, you will gear up for the highlight of your trip: gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Equipped with packed lunches and all necessary gear, you will convene with your guide and head to the park headquarters for a pre-trek briefing.
Located in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, which shelters nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population, this experience is truly unique and unforgettable. Once assigned to a specific gorilla family group, you will be guided by experienced trackers and guides. They will navigate you through the dense jungle in search of these magnificent primates.
The trek’s duration and difficulty can vary depending on the gorillas’ location. But the excitement of encountering them in their natural habitat is well worth the effort. As you traverse the forest, you may also chance upon other wildlife species. Including various bird species and rare forest elephants.
Upon locating the gorilla family, you will have the privilege of spending up to one hour. While observing them as they engage in their daily activities, such as feeding, grooming, and playing. This intimate encounter with these gentle giants is both humbling and awe-inspiring.
After your time with the gorillas, you will trek back to the park headquarters and return to your lodge for a well-deserved rest. Reflecting on the extraordinary adventure you’ve just experienced. Later in the evening, you will relish dinner at the lodge and exchange stories of your gorilla encounter with fellow travelers, cementing memories to last a lifetime.
- Accommodation: Midrange: Mahogany Springs Lodge, Luxury: Sanctuary Retreats Gorilla Forest Camp
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Travel Tips:
- Follow your guide’s instructions for a respectful and safe encounter with the gorillas.
- Carry sufficient water, snacks, and a good camera for the trek.
Day 10: Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park and Evening Game Drive
Transition to Lake Mburo
Leave Bwindi behind and head to Lake Mburo National Park, known for its picturesque landscapes and unique wildlife.
Following breakfast on day 10 of your Uganda safari, you will check out from your lodge and commence a scenic journey to Lake Mburo National Park. Leaving Bwindi Impenetrable Forest behind, you will be greeted by picturesque views of rolling hills, lush countryside, and quaint villages.
En route to Lake Mburo National Park, you’ll have the chance to witness the everyday life of rural communities while spotting local wildlife along the way. Keep your camera ready for potential sightings of zebras, antelopes, and other animals as you approach the park.
Upon reaching Lake Mburo National Park, you will check into your lodge and indulge in a delicious lunch. After settling in, you can opt to relax at the lodge or partake in an afternoon game drive or boat ride to explore the park’s diverse landscapes and wildlife.
In the evening, you will savor dinner at the lodge, unwinding amidst the serene ambiance of Lake Mburo National Park.
- Accommodation: Midrange: Rwakobo Safari Lodge, Luxury: Mihingo Safari Lodge
- Activities: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11: Early Morning Walking Safari, Transfer to Entebbe via Equator
Final Adventure and Departure
End your safari with a walking safari in Lake Mburo, then transfer back to Entebbe with a stop at the Equator.
Following breakfast on the final day of your 11 Days Uganda safari trip, you will embark on an invigorating walking safari in Lake Mburo National Park. This leisurely stroll through the park offers a unique opportunity to observe wildlife up close and appreciate the park’s stunning scenery.
After the walking safari, you will return to the lodge for checkout and then proceed to visit the Equator. Here, you will have the chance to stand at the geographical divide between the northern and southern hemispheres, marked by the Equator line. Don’t forget to capture some memorable photos at this iconic location.
Subsequently, you will continue your journey to Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight. As you travel, you can reminisce about the unforgettable experiences and cherished memories from your Uganda safari.
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will bid farewell to your driver guide and proceed to check-in for your flight home, concluding your remarkable adventure in Uganda.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Travel Tips:
- Walking safaris offer a unique perspective, so stay alert and enjoy the experience.
- The Equator stop is a great photo opportunity and a chance to pick up some souvenirs.
Conclusion
Embark on an adventure of a lifetime with this 11-day Uganda safari itinerary. Designed to give you an immersive experience in the country’s top wildlife reserves. From gorilla and chimpanzee tracking to thrilling game drives and scenic boat rides. Every moment promises excitement and discovery.
Are you ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime? Now is the time to book your Uganda safari and explore the wonders of the Pearl of Africa.
With its unparalleled beauty and rich biodiversity, Uganda awaits you. So why wait? Start planning your journey today!
Includes 11 days Uganda safari trip
- Moreover, transport using a customized vehicle equipped with GPS and an opening roof.
- Additionally, passengers and public liability insurance are provided for your peace of mind.
- Furthermore, enjoy full board during your trip, ensuring all your meals are taken care of.
- Experienced driver/guide and UWA professional armed rangers in the parks when required;
- Furthermore, all fees for the excursions – activities as stated in the day-by-day program.
- Additionally, all park entrance fees are covered.
- Moreover, accommodation as stated is included in the package.
- Lastly, return airport transfers are provided as part of the package.
Excludes
- For your international flight to and from Uganda trip, ensure to consider additional costs for:
- Moreover, visas if required should be accounted for.
- Additionally, make sure to include personal travel insurance in your budget.
- Furthermore, gorilla and chimp permits are essential expenses to factor in.
- Also, don’t forget about drinks, which can add to your overall expenses.
- Furthermore, tips for guides and staff should be considered.
- Additionally, laundry services may incur additional costs during your trip.
- Moreover, keep in mind optional activities that may come with extra charges.
- Furthermore, be prepared for extras that may arise unexpectedly.
- Additionally, budget for personal items you may need during your travels.
- Lastly, remember to account for everything not stated in the day-by-day program to avoid any unexpected expenses.
Terms and conditions
- Bookings: At the moment of booking, a deposit of 40% of the total amount is due.
- Bookings must be made at least 60 days before the date of departure.
- Steady Safaris Ltd reserves the right not to accept bookings made less than 60 days prior to the date of departure.
- Full payment has to be made not less than 30 days before the departing date of the tour.
- If the full amount is not paid in due time, Steady Safaris Ltd reserves the right to treat the booking as cancelled.
- Cancellations: 60 days prior to the departure date of the tour, full refund of deposit; between 60 and 30 days, refund of 50% of deposit; less than 30 days, no refund.
- Gorilla permits are non-refundable.
Notes 11 days Uganda safari trip
- Travellers should reach Entebbe on tour starting the day before 8 a.m. and leave from the same airport at the end of the tour after 8 p.m.
- If these times can’t be respected, then 1 or 2 days should be calculated for the overnight in Kampala.
- Additionally, children under 12 years of age will not see chimpanzees.
- Moreover, Kibale NP offers small walks of 1 or 2 hours with creative activities.
- Furthermore, gorilla trekking is not for anyone under 15 years of age.
- Moreover, prices for private safari include no extra passengers.
- Lastly, all have VAT, and prices are in United States dollars (USD).
- Gorilla permits are available at least two months before the departure date.
