12 Days Ultimate Uganda Gorilla and Wildlife Safari

Embark on a journey of a lifetime with Rwakabunga Safaris on this 12 Days Ultimate Uganda Gorilla and Wildlife Safari. This luxury adventure has been thoughtfully crafted to give you the best of Uganda’s natural beauty and wildlife diversity, from the rolling savannahs of Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Park to the misty rainforests of Bwindi where mountain gorillas live. Each day is designed to balance comfort, exploration, and authentic encounters, while you relax in some of the country’s finest lodges. Expect gourmet dining, breathtaking landscapes, and close encounters with Uganda’s extraordinary wildlife in a truly immersive safari experience.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe

Upon your arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be met by a professional guide from Rwakabunga Safaris who will transfer you to your luxury hotel. Depending on your time of arrival, you may enjoy a relaxed evening by the shores of Lake Victoria, Uganda’s largest freshwater lake. This is the perfect moment to unwind after your flight and prepare for the exciting adventure that lies ahead. Your guide will brief you about the safari while you enjoy a fine dining experience in your hotel.

Accommodation Options: Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort and Spa, Hotel No.5, Protea Hotel by Marriott Entebbe
Meals: (Dinner)

Day 2: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park

After breakfast, set off on a scenic drive through the countryside toward Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area. Along the way, you will stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for an unforgettable walking safari to see rhinos up close. Arrive at the park in the evening and settle into your luxury lodge with sweeping views of the Nile River. This evening, relax by the fire as you enjoy a chef-prepared dinner under the stars.

Accommodation Options: Chobe Safari Lodge, Nile Safari Lodge, Paraa Safari Lodge
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 3: Game Drive and Boat Cruise at Murchison Falls

Start your day with a thrilling game drive on the northern bank of the Nile where you will spot lions, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and numerous antelope species. Return to the lodge for a sumptuous lunch before heading out for a private boat cruise along the Nile to the base of the spectacular Murchison Falls. Watch crocodiles basking on the banks and hippos cooling in the waters, as well as vibrant birdlife. In the evening, enjoy a sundowner with panoramic views of the savannah.

Accommodation Options: Chobe Safari Lodge, Nile Safari Lodge, Paraa Safari Lodge
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4: Transfer to Kibale National Park

Today you embark on a scenic journey to Kibale National Park, often referred to as the primate capital of the world. The drive takes you through verdant landscapes and traditional homesteads, offering glimpses into rural Ugandan life. Arrive at your luxurious forest lodge, tucked away in the lush greenery, where you can unwind and listen to the sounds of nature. This tranquil setting is perfect for preparing for tomorrow’s chimpanzee trek.

Accommodation Options: Kyaninga Lodge, Crater Safari Lodge, Primate Lodge Luxury Cottages
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest

After an early breakfast, head into Kibale Forest for an exhilarating chimpanzee trekking experience. Accompanied by expert rangers, you will track these playful primates through the forest and observe them in their natural habitat. The park is also home to many bird species and other primates, making the trek even more rewarding. In the afternoon, you can visit Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for a guided nature walk. Return to your lodge for a cozy evening and a fine dining experience.

Accommodation Options: Kyaninga Lodge, Crater Safari Lodge, Primate Lodge Luxury Cottages
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 6: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before transferring to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most popular safari destination. Arrive in time for an afternoon game drive across the Kasenyi plains where lions and large herds of antelope roam. The park is beautifully set against the backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains, creating postcard-perfect landscapes. In the evening, relax at your luxury lodge while enjoying sundowners and a delicious dinner.

Accommodation Options: Kyambura Gorge Lodge, Mweya Safari Lodge, Katara Lodge
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 7: Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

Begin your day with a sunrise game drive to spot elephants, buffaloes, and perhaps the elusive leopard. After lunch, take a luxury boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway that connects Lake Edward and Lake George. This area is known for having one of the highest concentrations of hippos and crocodiles, as well as an impressive variety of birdlife. Return to your lodge for an elegant dinner overlooking the savannah.

Accommodation Options: Kyambura Gorge Lodge, Mweya Safari Lodge, Katara Lodge
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 8: Transfer to Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park

Today you will drive to the southern Ishasha sector of the park, which is famous for its unique tree-climbing lions. A game drive in this area offers the chance to see these lions resting in fig trees, along with herds of elephants and topi antelope. Your luxury lodge here provides both comfort and proximity to the wild, making it a perfect stopover before heading to Bwindi.

Accommodation Options: Ishasha Wilderness Camp, Enjojo Lodge, Ishasha Jungle Lodge
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 9: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed game drive as you leave Ishasha for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home of the endangered mountain gorillas. The drive passes through rolling hills and lush countryside until you reach your lodge nestled on the edge of the forest. Spend the afternoon at leisure, soaking in the breathtaking views and preparing for your gorilla trekking adventure.

Accommodation Options: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Bwindi Lodge, Mahogany Springs Lodge
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 10: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

This is the highlight of your safari. After a hearty breakfast, set out with experienced trackers into the misty rainforest for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with mountain gorillas. The trek can take several hours depending on the location of the gorilla family, but the reward of watching them interact in their natural habitat is unforgettable. Return to your lodge for a celebratory evening by the fireplace with a gourmet dinner.

Accommodation Options: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Bwindi Lodge, Mahogany Springs Lodge
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 11: Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park

After the magical gorilla experience, head to Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda’s smallest but most beautiful savannah park. Arrive in time for an afternoon game drive where you may spot zebras, elands, and impalas. Lake Mburo is also an excellent place for walking safaris and birdwatching. Your lodge here offers a peaceful escape with views of the rolling hills and the lake.

Accommodation Options: Mihingo Lodge, Mantana Tented Camp, Rwakobo Rock Lodge
Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 12: Morning Safari – Return to Entebbe

Begin your final day with a morning nature walk or game drive in Lake Mburo National Park. After breakfast, start your journey back to Entebbe with a stop at the equator for photos and souvenir shopping. Depending on your flight time, you will be transferred to Entebbe International Airport for your departure, marking the end of this unforgettable 12-day luxury safari.

Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch)

End of the 12 Days Ultimate Uganda Gorilla and Wildlife Safari.