This 9-day itinerary offers a diverse and captivating tour of Uganda’s natural wonders. Highlights include witnessing the power of Murchison Falls, with its breathtaking waterfall and abundant wildlife, embarking on thrilling game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park to spot lions, elephants, and more.
Day 1: Entebbe to Murchison Falls National Park
Upon your arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by Bugoli Adventures, embark on a scenic drive to Murchison Falls National Park. The journey takes approximately 5-6 hours, and along the way, you’ll pass through charming landscapes and rural communities. Upon reaching the park, check into your lodge and settle in.
Day 2: Murchison Falls National Park
Start your day with an early morning game drive, accompanied by an experienced guide. The park is known for its rich wildlife, and you’ll have the chance to spot lions, elephants, buffaloes, hyenas, and more. The game drive will take you through diverse landscapes, including savannah plains and woodland areas. After the game drive, visit the top of Murchison Falls for breathtaking views and great photo opportunities. In the afternoon, you have the option to go on a nature walk in either Rabongo Forest or Budongo Forest. These walks offer the chance to observe chimpanzees, monkeys, and a wide variety of bird species. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the surrounding nature before returning to your lodge for dinner and a peaceful night’s sleep.
Day 3: Murchison Falls to Kibale forest National Park
Depart Murchison Falls National Park after breakfast and journey towards Queen Elizabeth National Park. The drive takes approximately 5-6 hours, and along the way, you’ll witness the changing landscapes and rural communities. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and take some time to relax.
Day 4: Chimpanzee trekking and transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Early morning after your breakfast, you will be transferred to the Kibale Park headquarters; here you will be briefed on your next activity.
After the briefing you will begin your Chimpanzee trekking; depending on how long it takes you will return to the lodge to freshen up and thereafter embark on a journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Queen Elizabeth National Park: Occupying an area of 1978 sq.km, this is Uganda’s premier and most popular national park hosting the Big 5, cats, antelopes, reptiles, birds and beautiful scenery. On arrival you will check into your accommodation and thereafter have dinner and overnight stay.
Day 5: Queen Elizabeth National Park
Rise early for a game drive in the Kasenyi plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Keep your eyes peeled for lions, elephants, buffaloes, hyenas, and other wildlife that roam these vast grasslands. Your experienced guide will share insights about the animals and their behaviors, making the experience both educational and exciting. After the game drive, head to the Kyambura Gorge for a chimpanzee trekking adventure. This unique opportunity allows you to track and observe these remarkable primates in their natural habitat. The forest is also home to other primate species and a myriad of birdlife, adding to the overall biodiversity of the area. In the evening, consider taking a guided nature walk through the Maramagambo Forest, where you can encounter bats, pythons, and various bird species. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 6: Queen Elizabeth national Park to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After breakfast, bid farewell to Queen Elizabeth Forest National Park and begin your journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The drive is approximately 5-6 hours, offering scenic views of the Ugandan countryside. Upon arrival at Bwindi, check into your lodge and enjoy some leisure time to relax and prepare for the gorilla trekking experience the following day. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is renowned for its population of endangered mountain gorillas, and this park is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining gorilla population. Immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings and enjoy a peaceful evening at your lodge.
Day 7: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Today is the highly anticipated day of gorilla trekking! After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing on the gorilla trekking guidelines. You will be assigned to a gorilla family group and accompanied by experienced guides and trackers. Embark on an exhilarating trek through the dense forest, following the trails of the gorillas. The trekking duration can vary depending on the location of the gorilla family, ranging from 2 to 6 hours. Once you find the gorillas, spend a precious hour observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Witness their interactions, behaviors, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of the adorable young ones. This is an unforgettable and awe-inspiring experience. After the trek, return to your lodge for a well-deserved rest. In the evening, you may choose to relax or participate in optional activities such as a community walk or a visit to the Batwa Pygmy community to learn about their traditional way of life.
Day 8: Transfer to Lake Mburo and evening boat cruise
After a delightful lunch and a brief rest, we embark on our afternoon boat cruise, eager to explore further and uncover more of Lake Mburo’s treasures. The afternoon sun casts a warm glow over the landscape, creating a serene and idyllic atmosphere.As we navigate the waters once again, our knowledgeable guide shares tales of the park’s conservation efforts and the importance of preserving this delicate ecosystem. The stillness of the lake provides an opportunity for introspection and connection with nature, as we absorb the breathtaking scenery.
The afternoon cruise reveals even more hidden wonders. Giraffes majestically graze on treetops in the distance, their towering presence a striking contrast against the backdrop of the lake. Waterbucks and bushbucks come to the shoreline to quench their thirst, casting curious glances our way. Families of warthogs scurry along the banks, their characteristic tusks and comical demeanor adding to the charm of the experience. As we soak in the tranquility of the lake, our senses come alive with every passing moment. The gentle breeze carries the sweet scent of wildflowers, and the distant calls of vervet monkeys and baboons create a symphony of wildlife melodies.
Day 9: Morning game drive and Departure
As the first rays of the sun pierce through the dense foliage, we embark on an exhilarating morning game drive at Lake Mburo National Park. With our knowledgeable guide leading the way, we venture deep into the park’s vast savannah plains and rolling hills, ready to encounter the incredible wildlife that calls this place home. As our safari vehicle traverses the rugged terrain, the anticipation builds. The air is filled with excitement and the sounds of nature awakening. The landscape unfolds before us, revealing a tapestry of acacia woodlands, open grasslands, and shimmering lakes. We keep our eyes peeled for the iconic inhabitants of Lake Mburo. Zebras, with their mesmerizing black-and-white stripes, graze peacefully alongside impalas and topis. Towering giraffes elegantly stride across the horizon, their graceful movements a true spectacle to behold. The majestic eland, the world’s largest antelope, gazes at us with a watchful eye.
As we bid farewell to this enchanting haven, we carry cherished memories of the mesmerizing landscapes, the diverse wildlife, and the peaceful waters. Lake Mburo beckons travelers to explore its hidden treasures, offering a day of exploration and awe-inspiring encounters in the heart of Uganda’s wilderness.
