10 Day Gorilla & Game Drive Safari
10 Day Gorilla & Game Drive Safari Highlights
- Day 1: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
- Day 2: Murchison Falls Game drive and Launch cruise
- Day 3: Transfer to Kibale National park – Fort portal
- Day 4: Queen Elizabeth National park Uganda
- Day 5: Queen Elizabeth National park Game drive and launch cruise
- Day 6: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
- Day 7: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
- Day 8: Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park
- Day 9: Lake Mburo National Park – Jinja Source of the Nile River
- Day 10: Jinja – Kampala
10 Day Safari Details
DAY 1: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park for wildlife game and boat safari.
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at your hotel, followed by a comprehensive briefing on the upcoming safari adventure. Set out on a captivating journey to Murchison Falls National Park, a scenic drive that unfolds over 4-5 hours. This expansive national park, the largest in Uganda, boasts palm-studded grasslands that harbor thriving populations of lions, buffaloes, elephants, Uganda Kobs, the distinctive Rothschild’s giraffe, Patas monkeys, warthogs, vibrant butterflies, and a myriad of other wildlife.
Relish the picturesque drive through the enchanting countryside, passing landmarks such as the renowned Luwero Triangle and Masindi town. Make memorable stopovers at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and Masindi town, where a delectable lunch at Masindi Hotel awaits. Following this, continue your journey to Murchison Falls, arriving early to make the most of your time.
As the day unfolds, embark on a sunset cruise along the majestic River Nile or opt for a scenic drive to the summit of the falls, offering panoramic views of both Murchison and the smaller Uhuru falls. Conclude your day with a delectable dinner and a restful overnight stay in this captivating natural haven.
Accommodation: (full board)
Budget – Red Chille/Murchsion river lodge
Moderate – Sambiya River lodge/ Twiga safari lodge/Kabalega wildness
Luxury – Paraa Safari Lodge or Nile Safari Lodge, Chobe Safari Lodge.
Day 2: Murchison Falls Game drive and Launch cruise – Uganda wildlife safari
Take a cup of coffee and then later you will go for an early morning game drive at the Northern bank of the Victoria Nile. Expect encounters of Lions, Leopards, Giraffe, Buffalo, Elephant, The African Python and many other Savannah wildlife.
Enormous concentrations of hippos and birds can be observed from morning / afternoon launch trip along the Victoria Nile placed below thee magnificent Murchison falls National park.
Return for mid morning breakfast and lunch and then later you will be transferred to the Pier to take a launch cruise to the Bottom of the falls. Encounters of hippos , Crocodiles , and many other wildlife will be seen along the shores taking water from the river.
There is an optional hike to the top of the falls from the bottom where the boat ride ends. If you are not interested in this, you will be ridden back to your lodge for dinner and over night.
Accommodation: (full board)
Budget – Red Chille/Murchsion river lodge
Moderate – Sambiya River lodge/ Twiga safari lodge/Kabalega wildness
Luxury – Paraa Safari Lodge or Nile Safari Lodge, Chobe Safari Lodge.
Day 3: Transfer to Kibale National park – Fort portal for Chimpanzee tracking.
Take your breakfast and proceed to to Kibale national park via Hoima to Fort portal. A highlight of visit to Kibale National Park will be the Chimpanzee tracking excursion that starts from Kanyankyu at 0800hrs and 1400hrs daily. Encountering man’s closest cousin is stands at over 95% according to 2006 statistics.
Whilst in the forest, you can expect to see encounter other types of primates most probably the grey-cheeked mangabey and red-tailed monkey. You will hear plenty of bird song but it is very difficult to see any bird (bird watching) in the heart of forest-you are better off looking for them in the rest of the camp and along the road. Take pictures of traditional homesteads and farms en route. Weather is pleasant in Fortportal
Accommodation: (full board)
Budget Chimps nest bandas
Moderate- Primates lodge cottages
Day 4: Queen Elizabeth National park for Uganda wildlife game Safari and boat cruise.
Commence your day with an early breakfast before embarking on a guided walk in the park, lasting 2-3 hours. Delve into the rich biodiversity of the area, which hosts 12 primate species, including the captivating chimpanzee. Capture vivid images of the diverse flora, fauna, and a plethora of bird species that inhabit the surroundings.
After a satisfying lunch, set off for Queen Elizabeth National Park, traversing the foothills of the majestic Rwenzori Mountains. As the day transitions to evening, partake in a thrilling game drive to witness the park’s wildlife in their natural habitat. Conclude your day by retiring for the night at a comfortable accommodation.
Accommodation: (full board)
Budget – Albertine River camp
Moderate –Hippo hill camp
Luxury- Mweya Safari Lodge / Katara Lodge or Jacana Lodge / Enganzilodge
Day 5: Queen Elizabeth National park Game drive and launch cruise
Rise early in the morning to savor a refreshing cup of tea or coffee. Embark on an exhilarating game drive along the Kasenyi track, where you can witness the majestic herds of Buffalo, Elephant, Warthog, and Lion. Head back to the lodge for a delightful mid-morning breakfast. Following a satisfying lunch, indulge in a captivating two-hour launch cruise along the Kazinga channel, offering a unique opportunity for up-close encounters with hippos and a diverse array of bird species native to the park.
The park boasts a vibrant and astonishing bird life, comprising well over 550 resident species, each contributing to the colorful spectacle. Conclude your day with a sumptuous dinner and enjoy a restful overnight stay at your lodge.
Accommodation: (full board)
Budget – Albertine River camp
Moderate –Hippo hill camp
Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge / Katara Lodge or Jacana Lodge / Enganzilodge
DAY 6: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest via Ishasha sector for the tree climbing lions
Enjoy a hearty breakfast before embarking on a scenic drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, passing through the Ishasha sector renowned for its tree-climbing lions. Traverse picturesque panoramas characterized by terraced farmland and deep valleys, immersing yourself in the stunning topography of the region.
Pause for a delicious lunch along the journey. Later, arrive at your destination for the day, where you will be treated to a delightful dinner and enjoy a restful overnight stay in the captivating surroundings
Accommodation: (full board)
Budget – Buhoma Rest camp/ Bwindi View Bandas
Moderate – Lake Kitandara/Havens
DAY 7: Gorilla Trekking safari in Bwindi Impenetrable Natural Forest.
This 7 day of 10 Day Gorilla & Game Drive, Following breakfast, proceed to the park headquarters at 7:00 am for a comprehensive briefing on the gorillas’ lifestyle and tracking protocols. Around 8:00 am, embark on the highlight of your gorilla trekking safari, a thrilling adventure that may extend throughout the day. Journey through the rainforest and bamboo-covered slopes accompanied by a park ranger, porters, and other trackers in search of a mountain gorilla family.
The trek may be challenging, involving tough and lengthy walks, but the moment you catch a glimpse of the magnificent silverback, any discomfort will fade away. Once sighted, you will be guided to within 6 meters of the mountain gorillas. Spend a magical hour sitting amidst them, gazing into their large, expressive eyes, observing their behaviors, and capturing photos for an unforgettable experience.
The duration of the gorilla excursion can vary, ranging from 2 to 8 hours. Be prepared for long walks in steep and muddy conditions, perhaps under rain, before encountering the gorillas. Good physical condition is advisable. To ensure conservation, the time spent with the gorillas is limited to one hour, during which a ranger will instruct you on appropriate behavior.
After the gorilla safari, descend to the park headquarters where you will be honored with gorilla trekking certificates, acknowledging your contribution to gorilla conservation. In the evening, unwind around a campfire or take a walk to meet the Batwa pygmies, the original forest dwellers, who will demonstrate their unique lifestyle. Later, retire to the lodge for a well-deserved rest.
Accommodation: (full board)
Budget – Buhoma Rest camp/ Bwindi View Bandas
Moderate – Lake Kitandara/Havens lodge/silverback lodge
Luxury- Buhoma Lodge/ Mahogany Springs Lodge/ Sanctuary gorilla lodge
Day 8: Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park for Uganda wildlife Game safari and Boat ride.
In the early hours of the morning, with time at a premium, enjoy a quick breakfast before embarking on a drive to Lake Mburo National Park. Today’s game drive promises a glimpse of the park’s diverse wildlife, including zebras, topes, elephants, elands, impalas, buffaloes, and various antelope species. Nestled in a unique part of Uganda characterized by extensive acacia woodland, Mburo showcases a distinct fauna not commonly found in other reserves.
Renowned as the prime location in the country to spot the majestic eland antelope, topi, as well as zebras, impalas, and an array of acacia-associated birds, Lake Mburo National Park offers a truly exceptional safari experience. The park’s five lakes play host to hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of weaverbirds, while the surrounding swamps provide a habitat for elusive papyrus specialists such as the sitatunga antelope and the striking red, black, and yellow papyrus gonolek.
Accommodation: (full board)
Budget – Rwonyo Bandas
Moderate- Arcadia Cottages Lake Mburo/Eagles nest
Luxury – Mihingo Lodge / MantanaTented Camp/ Arcadia Cottages
Day 9: From Lake Mburo National Park – Jinja Source of the Nile River
Start your day with a delightful breakfast, followed by a brief early morning game drive to catch glimpses of the wildlife. After the game drive, proceed to Kampala and then make your way to Jinja. In Jinja, explore the Source of the River Nile, the origin of the mighty river that embarks on its majestic journey towards Egypt. This iconic spot, where John Speke first discovered the source of the Nile River, can be accessed by a scenic boat ride.
Take in the awe-inspiring surroundings and the historical significance of this location. After the visit, retire for a relaxing dinner at your hotel, reflecting on the natural wonders and historical marvels witnessed throughout the day.
Accommodation: (full board)
Nile Resort Jinja
Sunset hotel
Hotel Triangle all with water view.
Day 10: Cycling Village Tour and Transfer to Kampala/Entebbe Airport
Day 10 begins with a refreshing morning cycling tour through the charming villages of Jinja. Pedal along quiet paths lined with gardens, sugarcane fields, and small homesteads as you enjoy warm greetings from local residents. The ride offers an authentic glimpse into daily rural life, with children heading to school and farmers tending to their morning tasks. After the invigorating tour, return to your lodge for a well-deserved meal, or head into town for lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the Nile. In the early afternoon, you begin your transfer to Kampala or Entebbe, enjoying scenic views along the route. You arrive later in the day, with time to relax and reflect on the highlights of your adventure.
End of 10 Day Gorilla & Game Drive Safari
10 Day Gorilla & Game Drive Safari Includes & Excludes
Tour Includes
- All Activities Outlined
- Guide fees
- Service of an English-speaking guide
- Transportation in a 4×4 Safari Van or Land Cruiser with pop-up roof
- All activities in the travel plan except the optional ones
- Bottled drinking water
- Relevant government taxes
Tour Excludes
- Money for Tips
- Telephone bills
- Personal insurance
- Flight fees
- Laundry service
- Optional activities
- Shopping bills
- Alcoholic drinks
- Hotel /lodge fees after your 1 day rhino trekking trip