Discover Uganda's Adventure Highlights: Gorilla tracking in Bwindi, chimps in Kibale, savannah safaris, birding, and scenic beauty.
11 DAYS
USD $,$$$
Type
Personalized
Activity
Physical
Overview
- Wildlife game drives and boat safaris in three nature parks, Lake Mburo, Queen Elizabeth, and Murchison Falls National Parks.
- Encounter the African Big Five safari animals, Rhino, lion, elephant, buffalo, hippo.
- Trek and spend an hour observing Africa's mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
- Spot the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha Sector.
- Encounter some of the forgotten cultures, the Batwa pygmies of the Bwindi Forest.
- Stay in eco-friendly lodges with beautiful views of the wilderness that connect you with nature.
- Travel in a 4x4 comfortable safari cruiser with a professional safari guide who will manage your entire journey.
Price includes/excludes
- Accommodation in mid-range-priced lodges and meals as indicated in itinerary
- 1 Gorilla trekking permit ($800) and 1 Chimpanzee trekking permit ($250)
- Park entrance fees
- All excursions and activities as indicated in the itinerary under the supervision of a professional English-speaking tour guide.
- Ground transport and transfers in a 4x4 Custom Safari Landcruiser
- AMREF Evacuation Insurance cover
- Government taxes
- Travel insurance
- International flights
- Visa fees and processing
- Extra activities and meals not indicated in the itinerary
- Extra luggage on domestic flights
- Service tips, gratuities, souvenirs, and snacks
- Accommodation after the end of the trip
Detailed Itinerary
Discover Uganda's wilderness soul, where vast savannahs meet lush forests teeming with life. This extraordinary safari invites you to experience the best of this vibrant country.
Feel the thrill of walking in the footsteps of giants. Trek the majestic mountain gorillas of Africa through the ancient beauty of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – an encounter that will touch your heart. Listen to the chatter of playful chimpanzees in Kibale Forest, and let the captivating wildlife of Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks amaze you.
This Uganda highlights adventure isn't simply about the animals. It's a journey of immersion. You'll traverse breathtaking landscapes by vehicle, boat, and foot. Birdwatchers, prepare to be delighted, as Uganda's skies burst with color.
The Uganda Highlights Adventure whispers of a profound connection with the natural world. It's a mosaic of unforgettable moments, where every step reveals new wonders. This is a journey that promises to stay with you long after you return home.
Day 1: Arrive at Entebbe, Optional Shoebill Tracking
As soon as you step off the plane at Entebbe International Airport, your Uganda highlights adventure begins! Your private driver will whisk you away to your hotel for a welcoming briefing. Once settled in, immerse yourself in the beauty of Uganda's avian world on an optional shoebill tracking experience.
Search for the elusive shoebill stork, a fascinating bird with a unique appearance and captivating behavior. Explore the wetlands and marshes where these birds thrive, marveling at the rich biodiversity that surrounds you. After a thrilling afternoon, relax and unwind at your comfortable accommodation, ready for the adventures to come
Where to stay: Choose from these Entebbe Safari Hotels
Day 2: Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park
Fuel up for adventure with a delicious breakfast, then hit the road for a scenic journey to Lake Mburo National Park. This roughly 5-hour drive unfolds like a postcard – rolling hills, lush landscapes, and picturesque villages dotting the vibrant tapestry. As you near the park, soak in the changing scenery – glistening Lake Mburo framed by acacia woodlands and grassy plains.
Upon arrival, check into your lodge, nestled in this tranquil paradise. Take some time to unwind and embrace the serene atmosphere – the perfect prelude to your safari adventures.
Stay at: Rwakobo Rock Lodge or any of these Mburo Lodges
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner + Water
Day 3: Game Drive in Lake Mburo - Transfer to Bwindi
Begin your day with the thrill of an early morning game drive, venturing into the deep wilderness of Lake Mburo National Park. Explore diverse habitats like savannah, woodlands, and wetlands, each teeming with unique wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for zebras, impalas, buffaloes, giraffes, and a vast array of birds.
After a satisfying lunch, embark on a scenic journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (approximately 6-7 hours by road), renowned for its incredible population of mountain gorillas. As you travel, witness breathtaking scenery as you delve deeper into Uganda's natural beauty. Arrive at your cozy forest cottage, settle in, and rest in anticipation of tomorrow's extraordinary adventure.
Stay at: Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge or any of these Bwindi Lodges
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner + Water
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking Adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
This is the day you've been waiting for! After a briefing by skilled guides, embark on your gorilla trekking adventure deep within the lush embrace of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Follow expert trackers and rangers, your anticipation growing with every step.
And then, it happens – a glimpse of the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Witness their gentle interactions, the tender care of mothers, perhaps even the playful antics of young gorillas. This is an encounter that will touch your heart and leave you forever changed.
Here are a few things to help you prepare.
[-] Best time to go
[-] Your packing list for the gorilla trek
[-] how we price this gorilla trek
[-] Top lodges to consider for the gorilla trek
[-] All the questions and answers about gorilla treks
Day 5: Transfer to Ishasha Sector in Queen Elizabeth National Park
After a fulfilling breakfast, bid farewell to Bwindi and embark on a scenic journey to the captivating Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Here, a unique phenomenon awaits – tree-climbing lions! Keep a keen eye out for these majestic creatures perched atop ancient fig trees as you embark on a leisurely game drive. Ishasha teems with diverse wildlife, offering breathtaking encounters in this stunning wilderness.
Before departing Bwindi, you might choose to explore the mysteries of the rainforest on a guided nature walk along ancient trails. Discover hidden wonders as you immerse yourself in the lush embrace of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Settle into your accommodation and unwind amidst the park's natural beauty, anticipating the wonders that tomorrow holds.
Stay at: Elephant's Plains Lodge or any of these Queen Elizabeth Park Lodges
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner + Water
Day 6: Boat Safari & Game Drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Rise with the sun and let the melodies of the African bush set the rhythm for your day. A thrilling boat safari on the Kazinga Channel awaits! As you glide across the water, a wildlife paradise unfolds before you. Search for elephants and buffaloes along the banks, spot playful hippos, and watch for crocodiles basking in the sun. Birdsong fills the air as you capture breathtaking images of this vibrant ecosystem.
The adventure continues this afternoon with a game drive through the diverse landscapes of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Explore open savannahs, delve into dense forests, and marvel at crater lakes – each habitat teeming with life. Keep your eyes peeled for lions, elusive leopards, majestic elephants, graceful antelopes, and countless other creatures. Let the sights, sounds, and energy of the African wilderness wash over you.
Day 7: Transfer To Kibale National Park
After a final breakfast at your lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park, it's time to say goodbye and embark on a scenic journey (approximately 2-3 hours) to Kibale National Park, the primate capital of Africa. As you travel, witness the majestic Rwenzori Mountains casting long shadows while fertile farmlands and vibrant tea plantations unfold across the landscape.
Nicknamed "The Primate Paradise," Kibale boasts the highest concentration of chimpanzees in East Africa. Keep your eyes peeled for glimpses of these fascinating creatures along the roadside as you travel.
Upon arrival in Kibale, check into your comfortable lodge nestled amidst the lush greenery. This afternoon, unwind and soak in the serenity of the park's natural beauty. Perhaps take a refreshing dip in the lodge pool or explore the surrounding area on a short nature walk, keeping an eye out for colorful birds and shy monkeys.
Stay at: Turaco Treetops Lodge or any of these Kibale Forest Lodges
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner + Water
Day 8: Chimpanzee Trekking Experience
Be up by 6:30 to join rangers at the trekking center by 7:30, after breakfast. The crisp morning air of Kibale National Park vibrates with the symphony of the rainforest as you embark on your chimpanzee trek. Expert trackers lead the way, following subtle signs like footprints and feeding trails. Anticipation builds with every rustle of leaves and the occasional distant hoot. Finally, a burst of excited whispers alerts you – a family of chimpanzees! Observe mothers cradling their young, playful juveniles swinging through the trees, and dominant males surveying their territory. Witnessing the social bonds and sheer intelligence of Africa's chimps in their natural habitat is a truly humbling experience.
After a heart-stopping morning, return to your lodge for a well-deserved lunch and a chance to recharge. The afternoon offers a contrasting adventure – a gentle stroll through the Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary. Lush papyrus swamps teeming with colorful birds greet you as you enter this haven of biodiversity. Keep an eye out for shy primates like blue monkeys with their dazzlingly white eyelids, or the colobus monkeys with their distinctive black-and-white fur. Listen for the melodic calls of unseen birds and the rhythmic croaking of frogs in the vibrant symphony of the wetlands. As the golden light filters through the canopy, revel in the tranquility of this hidden oasis, teeming with life beneath the emerald embrace of the rainforest.
Day 9: Transfer From Kibale to Murchison Falls National Park
After a final breakfast at your Kibale lodge, it's time to bid farewell to the primate paradise. Today's journey takes you to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda's largest wildlife reserve, via a scenic route (approximately 5-6 hours).
As you wind your way through the Ugandan countryside, picturesque landscapes unfold before you. Pass vibrant rural communities, witness the daily life unfold, and soak in the beauty of rolling hills and sprawling farmlands. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife sightings – you never know what you might encounter along the way!
Finally, Murchison Falls National Park welcomes you with its < ahref="https://www.nkuringosafaris.com/murchison-falls-national-park/">vast savannas and the promise of thrilling adventures. Settle into your comfortable lodge and unwind amidst the tranquility of this iconic park, anticipation building for what awaits you tomorrow.
Stay at: Murchison River Lodge or any of these Murchison Lodges
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner + Water
Day 10: Boat Safari & Game Drives in Murchison Falls National Park
Begin your day with a thrilling game drive through the golden savannas of Murchison Falls National Park. The rising sun casts a warm glow over the landscape as you explore, your senses heightened in anticipation. Keep your eyes peeled for majestic lions, graceful giraffes, lumbering buffaloes, powerful elephants, and the countless antelope species that call this place home. Every bend in the track reveals new wonders, unexpected sightings of African wildlife.
As the afternoon heat sets in, embark on a boat safari along the mighty Nile River. Feel the gentle breeze on your face as you glide towards the base of the breathtaking Murchison Falls. Hippos yawn lazily, crocodiles bask in the sun, and elephants gather at the water's edge to drink. The air thickens with anticipation as you near the falls – roaring water and cascading mist. Witness the raw power of the Nile as it forces its way through a narrow gorge, the untamed beauty of Africa.
Day 11: Murchison - Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary - Entebbe - End of Trip
On your final day, depart from Murchison Falls National Park and make a stop at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. This sanctuary plays a vital role in rhino conservation efforts, providing a protected space for reintroducing the endangered white rhinos to Uganda. Take a guided walk and encounter these magnificent creatures up close while learning about their conservation.
After the rhino encounter, continue your journey back to Entebbe International Airport, cherishing the memories of your incredible Ugandan adventure. Reflect on the diverse wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and the warmth and hospitality of the Ugandan people that made your trip truly unforgettable.
Diana
Moreen
Trip specialists
Uganda is quite a special destination for nature lovers. But planning a trip like this one can knock you off your senses. Let's not allow that to happen. Diana and Moreen know Uganda like their own backyards. Allow them to guide you through the daunting logistics. Start now!
What our last guests said.
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EXCELLENT
255 reviewsPosted on Tripadvisor
Gabriel B3 unforgettable Weeks in Uganda We spent three weeks travelling around Uganda. It was a wonderful trip with so many incredible moments. A big shout-out to our fantastic driver and guide, Emanuell. We laughed, discussed, learned and enjoyed ourselves so much. Thank you so much, Emanuell, it was a real pleasure. We highly recommend Nkuringo. The people there take great care of their guests. We felt we were in the best of hands at all times and can highly recommend the company.Posted on Tripadvisor
Mary Carol WExceeded our expectations! We just returned from a customized fly-in safari and primate-trekking trip with Nkuringo Safaris. This trip was an A++ experience!! Our travel manager, Catherine, did a fantastic job of planning every detail. Our guide, Patrick Yiga, was superb. His knowledge, driving abilities (not easy roads!), and communication skills were all excellent. He paid attention to every detail. We already miss him a lot! Our experiences, accommodations, and food were all exceptional. Nkuringo Safaris showed us why Uganda is truly the Pearl of Africa.Posted on Tripadvisor
lisvelasco2001Amazing Custom Ugandan Trip How do I rate our 12 day trip through Uganda? AMAZING. My travel consultant who I use to put together our Africa trips worked in conjunction with Nkuringo to put together an amazing trip for us. There were 8 of us - my husband (active 72 year old) and I (62 years old), 4 travel friends (56-72) and our 2 nephews (30 years old). It was an active adventure with a primate focus. We took two internal flights to minimize our time on the bumpy roads. In putting the trip together, I had the opportunity to review all the accommodations and suggested activities. We did two hikes, two mountain bike rides, Chimp/Gorilla/Golden Monkey Tracking and some boating.It’s hard to say what the best/favorite thing was. Each was special in it’s own way. The unexpected PRIVATE boat ride on the Kazinga Channel was amazing in itself? Having a great guide for the Chimp tracking? Hike through the Bwindi Forest on the Ivy Trail?Accommodations were incredible - all staffed by very special people. None of us will ever forget Innocent (our butler) at the Primate Lodge. I will never forget Issac’s (Nkuringo Lodge) attention to our nephews who wanted to visit a local bar - who willingly took them and then hike to the Top of the World with them. It was really nice to have our laundry done and boots cleaned at some of the lodges.But the best part of the entire trip (besides traveling with friends and family) was our guides: Jack and Oscar. The two of them worked hand in hand for a seamless trip seeing to our every want and teaching us all about the country. My husband and I travel extensively and these two men rank up there as two of the best guides ever. I will never forget Oscar mountain biking with me as I slowly went downhill, gripping the brakes while my husband and nephews ripped ahead with the bike guide. For that I will be forever grateful. Or the day that the nephews wanted to go into town/Kisoro and see a bar and walk around. Jack and Oscar took them while Jack walked around with them. My husband and I never had to worry about their safety.The Land Cruisers were in top notch condition and spotless at the beginning of the trip. They were cleaned again when Jack and Oscar had a break from us. When available they even provided WIFI in the vehicles as well as water.Kudos to Lydia, the owner of the company, for running a top notch organization.Posted on Tripadvisor
Simone CGreat Uganda experience with a perfect guide! We had an amazing vacation full of everything you can dream about: Gorillas, Chimpanzees, Leopard, Rhinos,…and some hiking. We had the best guide you can have, driving perfectly through every terrain, always flexible, perfectly organised and always a smile on his face: Bob Magezi! We felt safe and in great hands all the time! Uganda is a very diversified country that exceeded our expectations, with awesome people, green nature and lots of animals.Posted on Tripadvisor
MLAn unforgettable Uganda Experience with Bob and Nkuringo Two weeks of an amazing Uganda experience are behind us. From Entebbe over Ziwa Rhino to Murchison Falls, Kibale (Chimps), Ruwenzori, QE National Park, Bwindi and Lake Mutanda.The trip was extremely well organized and full of great experiences.We thank our great Guide Bob for a tremendous job and guidance through beautiful Uganda.Thank you Bob and Nkuringo, Iris&MarvinPosted on Tripadvisor
Laura PAmazing tour Everything about this 5 day experience was top notch. Remmy was an incredible guide - great energy, good vibes, helpful, knowledgeable, & always kept us feeling safe. Lodges were beautiful with great service & of course the animals/wild life did not disappoint. Added some optional hikes/walks to keep us active. Incredible trip - definitely recommend Remmy & Nkuringo!!Posted on Tripadvisor
Devon GIncredible trip to Uganda The trip was unbelievable. The itinerary was thoughtfully packed with amazing activities and beautiful scenic drives that made travel time enjoyable. The gorilla and chimpanzee trekking experiences were truly once-in-a-lifetime moments that we will never forget. Our guide Remmy was the best tour guide we could have asked for during our trip to Uganda. He was always prompt, incredibly knowledgeable, and genuinely kind. He truly made the entire experience special. We felt comfortable with him right away, and by the end of the trip, it honestly felt like we were traveling with family. We can’t recommend Remmy highly enough!Posted on Tripadvisor
Joanna WA Memorable Safari Marked by Care, Presence, and Expertise This was an exceptional safari experience from start to finish, beautifully designed and flawlessly delivered. As a solo traveler, I felt supported, well looked after, and genuinely welcomed throughout the entire journey.Diana was a joy to work with from the very beginning. She was warm, friendly, and highly responsive, while at the same time extremely attentive to my individual needs. Her advice on the different elements of the safari was thoughtful and well-balanced, helping shape an itinerary that felt both exciting and perfectly suited to me. I truly appreciated her guidance, flexibility, and care at every stage of the planning process.Patrick is an outstanding guide and professional. His competence, calm presence, and deep knowledge made the journey feel effortless and safe at all times. He has a rare ability to read situations and respond intuitively, creating a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere while remaining discreet and respectful. His attentiveness, sense of humor, and genuine care made long days on the road and in the parks deeply enjoyable and memorable, adding a very special quality to this trip.I was fortunate to do my gorilla trek on my birthday, which made this already extraordinary experience even more meaningful. I was lucky to trek solo and spend precious time with a gorilla family — an unforgettable and deeply moving encounter. The guide Emos, together with the rangers and trackers, were kind, supportive, and incredibly professional, and most importantly made me feel safe and comfortable throughout the entire half-day experience.The game drives and the Kazinga Channel boat safari were exceptional. I was lucky to see the Big Four, with unforgettable sightings of elephants, lions, and a leopard I had especially hoped to observe. I was deeply impressed by Patrick’s knowledge of wildlife, nature, and local culture, and by his thoughtful responses to all my questions, which enriched every experience.At one point I felt uncomfortable with the initially booked boat experience, and both Patrick and Diana addressed this immediately by moving me to a larger, more comfortable boat. I truly appreciated this level of flexibility, responsiveness, and seamless logistics management.The chimpanzee trek in Kibale and the local community activities were equally rewarding. I was guided by Leo, whose warmth, hospitality, and excellent knowledge of local nature and culture helped me connect more deeply with the environment and the people, adding meaningful depth to the journey.The accommodations were impeccable. Nkuringo, Elephant Plains, and Turaco Treetops lodges were all very different in style, yet equally excellent in design, hospitality, quality of service, and delicious food. I was especially touched when Nkuringo Lodge organized a small birthday celebration with a cake — a thoughtful gesture that made me feel truly welcome.Overall, this safari exceeded my expectations in every way. My sincere thanks to Diana, Patrick, and the entire team for creating such a beautifully curated, professional, and memorable experience. I would wholeheartedly recommend this journey to anyone seeking something truly special.Posted on Tripadvisor
Clare NDream trip to Uganda! I cannot recommend Nkuringo Safari’s highly enough. From start to finish, my trip to Uganda exceeded every expectation - especially as I was a solo woman travelling on my first safari. Massively made by Moreen, who organised everything, and Remmy, my guide! From the beginning, Moreen was my first point of contact, and she was so great. Started with an enquiry about the 12 day safari & she helped turn it into an 18 day dream trip! She handled endless emails, questions, and changes — from where I wanted to stay, to adding extra nights and fine-tuning every detail. She made everything so easy & gave me complete confidence from the start and made the planning process stress-free. Each destination and lodge were so special. The settings were stunning, the accommodation perfect, and the hospitality at each place was so welcoming. Falling asleep to the sounds of nature, a lot of the time grumbling hippos and waking up to stunning sunrises & beautiful scenery doesn’t get old.Remmy - my guide, what a guy! Not just an outstanding safari guide — he is someone truly special. He has such a vast knowledge of wildlife, the land, and the Ugandan culture, I learnt so much from him. He knew spots where we could get great sightings of wildlife. He really looked after me, he was kind, caring and attentive. He made me feel completely safe & comfortable. By the end of the trip, Remmy felt more like a friend than a guide. And always making sure I had a cold beer in my hand after an activity. An absolute LEGEND!If you’re considering a safari in Uganda Nkuringo are the company to book with — and if you’re lucky enough to have Remmy as your guide, you’re in for a treat!Thank you Remmy, and thank you Moreen and Nkuringo Safaris for an unforgettable trip of a lifetime! Already thinking about my next adventure to Uganda.Posted on Tripadvisor
Alexandra GMountaingorillas and luxury It was a wonderful and amazing experience to see the mountaingorillas and everything went well, especially because my guide Remmy gave me good advices and answered to all my questions. I would highly recommend his guidance.Apart from that the stay in the Lodge near the Nationalpark was very luxurious.Load more
