12 Days Uganda Gorilla Classic Safari

Wildlife, Big 5, Chimpanzees, Golden Monkeys, and Mountain Gorilla Trekking Safari Experience. Welcome to the heart of Uganda, where wildlife diversity and breathtaking landscapes create an unparalleled safari experience. This 12 Days Uganda Gorilla Classic Safari journey, crafted by Africa Gorilla Wild, offers an in-depth exploration of Uganda’s most treasured parks and nature reserves. Designed for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts, this itinerary promises encounters with iconic wildlife, including the Big Five, a diverse array of primates like chimpanzees and golden monkeys, and the renowned mountain gorillas of Bwindi. Starting from the scenic Entebbe Airport and ending at the Kisoro gateway, this 12 Days Uganda Gorilla Classic Safari covers Uganda’s most scenic and wildlife-rich destinations with ample time for immersive, once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Tour Quotation Based on Sharing Basis Mid-Range Traveler: US$4657

12 Days Uganda Gorilla Classic Safari Highlights

• Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe Airport and Check-in – Overnight at Boma Hotel
• Day 2: Scenic Road Transfer to Kidepo Valley National Park (12 Hours) or Optional Air Transfer – Overnight at Kidepo Savannah Lodge
• Day 3: Full-Day Adventure in Kidepo Valley National Park – Overnight at Kidepo Savannah Lodge
• Day 4: Morning Game Drive in Kidepo Valley and Road Drive to Murchison Falls National Park – Overnight at Pakuba Safari Lodge
• Day 5: Full-Day Adventure in Murchison Falls National Park – Shoebill Tracking, Game Drives, and Boat Cruise – Overnight at Pakuba Safari Lodge
• Day 6: Morning Game Drive, Visit the Top of Murchison Falls, Proceed to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for Rhino Tracking – Overnight in Hoima City
• Day 7: Morning Road Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park (Bigodi Swamp Walk) – Overnight at Chimpanzee Forest Lodge
• Day 8: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest National Park and Afternoon Relaxation – Overnight at Chimpanzee Forest Lodge
• Day 9: Scenic Road Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Batwa Cultural Experience) – Overnight at Rushaga Gorilla Lodge
• Day 10: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Afternoon Drive to Kisoro – Overnight at Mutanda Lake Resort
• Day 11: Golden Monkey Tracking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Afternoon Sunset Boat Cruise on Lake Mutanda – Overnight at Mutanda Lake Resort
• Day 12: Road Transfer to Entebbe Airport for Flight Back to the UK – End of Safari

 

Table of 12 Days Uganda Gorilla Classic Safari Inclusions and Exclusions

Safari Inclusions	Safari Exclusions
– Park entrance fees	– International flights
– Ground transportation with an experienced driver-guide	– Travel insurance
– Accommodation as per itinerary	– Visa fees
– Meals as indicated	– Personal expenses (laundry, tips, etc.)
– Activities: Game drives, boat cruises, trekking permits	– Optional activities not included in itinerary

Detailed 12 Days Uganda Gorilla Classic Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe Airport and Check-in – Overnight at Boma Hotel

Upon your arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by a representative from Africa Gorilla Wild. After a brief orientation and overview of your exciting 12 Days Uganda Gorilla Classic Safari itinerary, you’ll be transferred to the charming Boma Hotel in Entebbe. Known for its warm hospitality and colonial-style ambiance, Boma Hotel offers a peaceful and comfortable retreat to rest and prepare for the adventures ahead. Take some time to relax in the hotel’s lush gardens, refresh by the pool, or enjoy a delicious dinner featuring both local and international cuisine.

During your stay, you can reflect on the remarkable experiences that await you on this safari, from tracking mountain gorillas to game drives across Uganda’s breathtaking landscapes. As you settle in, you’ll appreciate the Boma’s attention to detail and comfort, ensuring a restful start to your journey.

 

Day 2: Scenic Road Transfer to Kidepo Valley National Park (12 Hours) or Optional Air Transfer – Overnight at Kidepo Savannah Lodge

Today’s journey takes you to Kidepo Valley National Park, one of Uganda’s most remote and captivating wilderness areas. For those who wish to immerse themselves in Uganda’s scenic countryside, the 12-hour road transfer is a fascinating adventure through ever-changing landscapes, rural villages, and rolling hills. Along the way, you’ll have opportunities to observe Uganda’s rural lifestyle, spot local wildlife along the roads, and experience the natural beauty of the Karamoja region.

Alternatively, for an additional cost of $500 per person, you can choose an air transfer, providing a bird’s-eye view of Uganda’s diverse landscapes and a quicker arrival to Kidepo. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed at Kidepo Savannah Lodge, an eco-friendly lodge with stunning views over the park’s golden savannah. Settle into your lodge, where comfortable accommodations blend seamlessly with the natural environment, offering an immersive and luxurious stay in the heart of the African wilderness.

Day 3: Full-Day Adventure in Kidepo Valley National Park – Overnight at Kidepo Savannah Lodge

Your day in Kidepo Valley National Park promises a thrilling exploration of one of Uganda’s most untouched and biodiverse regions. Begin with an early morning game drive in the Narus Valley, renowned for its large populations of buffalo, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and elands. As you traverse the valley’s sweeping savannah, be on the lookout for Kidepo’s iconic predators, including lions and cheetahs, who are often spotted prowling the open plains. The park’s remote location and limited number of visitors mean you’ll enjoy a truly intimate and uncrowded wildlife experience.

Later, continue exploring the Kidepo River Valley, a picturesque region known for its rugged landscape and unique flora, including the striking Borassus palm trees. You may also encounter ostriches, a rare sight in Uganda, as well as herds of oryx and the striking Karamoja apalis bird, found only in this region. For those interested in cultural experiences, optional visits to nearby Karamojong communities offer an opportunity to engage with local traditions, witness traditional dances, and gain insights into the resilient lifestyle of the Karamojong people.

As evening falls, return to Kidepo Savannah Lodge, where you can relax and enjoy dinner under the stars, surrounded by the enchanting sounds of the African bush. This full day in Kidepo will be an unforgettable highlight of your safari journey.

 

Day 4: Morning Game Drive in Kidepo Valley and Road Drive to Murchison Falls National Park – Overnight at Pakuba Safari Lodge

Start your day with an early morning game drive in Kidepo Valley National Park, taking advantage of the best time to spot the park’s elusive predators such as lions, leopards, and even the rare cheetah. As dawn breaks, the park’s rugged terrain and open savannah come alive, offering ample opportunity for photographing unique landscapes and observing herds of buffalo, elephants, giraffes, and zebras. The stunning Narus Valley, a favored water source for many species, is often a highlight, with a steady flow of wildlife drawn to its water holes.

After an exhilarating morning, enjoy a hearty breakfast before embarking on a scenic drive to Murchison Falls National Park. The journey traverses Uganda’s beautiful landscape, winding through rural communities, lush farmland, and scenic mountain views. Upon reaching Murchison Falls National Park, check in at the charming Pakuba Safari Lodge, set along the Nile River with expansive views of the wilderness. Unwind, savor a well-deserved dinner, and rest up for the adventures awaiting you in this iconic park.

 

Day 5: Full-Day Adventure in Murchison Falls National Park – Shoebill Tracking, Game Drives, and Boat Cruise – Overnight at Pakuba Safari Lodge

Today is dedicated to exploring the diverse and vibrant ecosystem of Murchison Falls National Park. Begin with early morning Shoebill tracking, a rare opportunity to spot this prehistoric-looking bird species, which is renowned for its unique appearance and massive beak. Murchison is one of the few places where you can observe this remarkable bird in its natural habitat, especially along the Nile’s papyrus-lined edges.

Later, venture into the heart of the park on guided game drives, witnessing abundant wildlife including elephants, giraffes, lions, and even elusive leopards. Murchison Falls is one of Uganda’s best spots for big-game viewing, with wide-open plains providing easy access to large herds of buffalo, antelope, and the fascinating Rothschild giraffe.

In the afternoon, enjoy a serene boat cruise on the Nile, a signature experience where you’ll glide past crocodiles basking on the riverbanks and pods of hippos cooling off in the water. The boat journey culminates near the powerful Murchison Falls, where the Nile’s waters crash through a narrow gorge with spectacular force. Return to Pakuba Safari Lodge, enriched by the park’s stunning landscapes and wildlife encounters.

 

Day 6: Morning Game Drive, Visit the Top of Murchison Falls, Proceed to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for Rhino Tracking – Overnight in Hoima City

Begin the morning with another game drive to catch any last glimpses of Murchison’s abundant wildlife, from herds of elephants and buffalo to colorful bird species filling the skies. After the game drive, proceed to the top of Murchison Falls, where you can stand just meters away from the roaring waters as they surge through a narrow rock crevice. This viewpoint offers a dramatic perspective on one of Uganda’s most iconic natural wonders, where the mighty Nile is forced through a 7-meter gap before plunging 43 meters down in a thunderous waterfall.

From Murchison, continue to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in Uganda where you can observe rhinos in the wild. Guided rhino tracking at Ziwa allows you to see these majestic creatures up close, contributing to the sanctuary’s ongoing efforts to protect and reintroduce rhinos into Uganda’s wild. After this unique experience, journey onward to Hoima City, where you’ll stay overnight, preparing for the following day’s trip to Kibale Forest.

 

Day 7: Morning Road Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park (Bigodi Swamp Walk) – Overnight at Chimpanzee Forest Lodge

Following breakfast, depart for Kibale Forest National Park, known as the “Primate Capital of the World.” The drive takes you through Uganda’s picturesque countryside, with views of tea plantations, rural communities, and rolling hills. Upon arrival at Kibale, check in at Chimpanzee Forest Lodge, set within a tranquil forested environment.

In the afternoon, enjoy a guided Bigodi Swamp Walk, a unique wetland area famous for its birdlife and rich biodiversity. The swamp’s lush ecosystem is home to a variety of primates, including black-and-white colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and baboons, as well as over 200 bird species. This nature walk offers an immersive introduction to Kibale’s rich biodiversity, setting the stage for the following day’s chimpanzee tracking.

 

Day 8: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest National Park and Afternoon Relaxation – Overnight at Chimpanzee Forest Lodge

Today promises an unforgettable experience with a morning chimpanzee tracking expedition. Begin with a briefing from your 12 Days Uganda Gorilla Classic Safari expert guides, who will lead you into Kibale’s lush rainforest in search of one of Uganda’s largest chimpanzee populations. Tracking these intelligent primates is both thrilling and humbling, as you’ll witness their social behaviors, vocalizations, and interactions within their family groups. The 12 Days Uganda Gorilla Classic Safari guides are skilled in interpreting chimp behaviors and will offer fascinating insights into their lives in the wild.

After an exhilarating morning, return to the lodge for lunch and an afternoon of relaxation. Take this opportunity to unwind in the serene forest setting, reflecting on the remarkable experience of encountering these endangered primates up close.

 

Day 9: Scenic Road Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Batwa Cultural Experience) – Overnight at Rushaga Gorilla Lodge

Following breakfast, embark on a scenic road transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its dense forest and diverse ecosystem. En route, enjoy views of rolling hills, picturesque landscapes, and lively villages.

Upon arrival at Bwindi, settle in at Rushaga Gorilla Lodge, where you’ll have the opportunity to participate in a Batwa cultural experience. The Batwa are indigenous forest dwellers, and this experience offers a glimpse into their unique traditions, storytelling, and survival skills honed in the forest. The Batwa cultural tour is not only an enriching cultural encounter but also a valuable initiative supporting the Batwa community. Overnight at Rushaga Gorilla Lodge, nestled on the edge of Bwindi’s rainforest.

 

Day 10: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Afternoon Drive to Kisoro – Overnight at Mutanda Lake Resort

Today marks a highlight of the safari: trekking the mountain gorillas in Bwindi’s lush rainforest. Following an early morning briefing from Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers, embark on a challenging yet rewarding trek through the dense forest, following in the footsteps of one of Bwindi’s gorilla families. Gorilla trekking is a profoundly moving experience, as you’ll spend an hour observing the gorillas’ complex family dynamics, from nurturing mothers to playful juveniles and powerful silverbacks.

After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch before driving to Kisoro, where you’ll stay at the scenic Mutanda Lake Resort. Set on the shores of Lake Mutanda, this eco-friendly resort offers stunning lake views and a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxing after an unforgettable day with the gorillas.

 

Day 11: Golden Monkey Tracking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Afternoon Sunset Boat Cruise on Lake Mutanda – Overnight at Mutanda Lake Resort

Begin the day with golden monkey tracking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, the only place in Uganda where you can find this endangered and vibrant species. Unlike gorillas, golden monkeys are agile and playful, often seen leaping between bamboo trees. Trackers will guide you through Mgahinga’s bamboo forest, where you can observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat.

In the afternoon, relax with a sunset boat cruise on Lake Mutanda, a picturesque lake surrounded by lush hills and framed by the distant Virunga Mountains. The boat cruise provides a serene setting to enjoy the sunset and reflect on your safari journey through Uganda. Overnight at Mutanda Lake Resort, enjoying the peaceful lakeside ambiance.

 

Day 12: Road Transfer to Entebbe Airport for Flight Back to the UK – End of Safari

On the final day, savor breakfast with views of Lake Mutanda before embarking on your road transfer back to Entebbe. This scenic drive provides one last chance to take in Uganda’s landscapes, reflecting on the incredible experiences and wildlife encounters you’ve had. Arrive at Entebbe Airport in time for your flight back home, bringing this unforgettable 12 Days Uganda Gorilla Classic Safari adventure to a close.

End of 12 Days Uganda Gorilla Classic Safari