| Day | Destination | Activity | Accommodation | Meal plan |
| 1 | Arrival in Entebbe | Transfer, dinner and overnight | Protea Hotel, Entebbe | – |
| 2 | Murchison Falls NP | Drive, Rhino Tracking en route | Twiga Safari Lodge | B-L-D |
| 3 | Murchison Falls NP | AM Games drive / PM Boat Cruise | Twiga Safari Lodge | B-L-D |
| 4 | Kibale Forest NP | Scenic Drive, Overnight | Primate Lodge Kibale | B-L-D |
| 5 | Queen Elizabeth NP | Chimpanzee Tracking, Drive to QENP | Elephant Plains | B-L-D |
| 6 | Queen Elizabeth NP | AM Games drive / PM Boat Cruise | Elephant Plains | B-L-D |
| 7 | Bwindi NP | Drive to Bwindi | Mahogany Springs | B-L-D |
| 8 | Bwindi NP | Gorilla Tracking | Mahogany Springs | B-L-D |
| 9 | Lake Mburo NP | Drive, night game drive in Lake Mburo | Mihingo Lodge | B-L-D |
| 10 | Entebbe | Drive to EBB airport and departure | B-L | |
| B = Breakfast | L = Lunch | D = Dinner |
●●●Detailed Itinerary ●●●
DAY 1: Arrival – Entebbe
Welcome to the Pearl of Africa! Arrival at Entebbe Airport, where you will be welcomed by a Great Lakes Safaris representative and transferred to your hotel.
Dinner and overnight at Protea Hotel
DAY 2: Entebbe/Kampala – Murchison Falls National Park (350kms/6-7hrs)
Today we will depart for the most beautiful protected area in Uganda: Murchison Falls National Park. En route we will make a stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, home to the only wild rhinos in Uganda. The reserve was created to reintroduce rhinos to the country which had been extinct since 1982. Together with a guide you will track the rhinos and observe them in their habitat at a very close and safe distance. Have lunch at the Rhino sanctuary and thereafter we will drive to Murchison Falls National Park and drive for an hour deeper into the National Park to the site of Murchison Falls after which the park is named– one of Uganda most beautiful sights. If time allows, you will be able to visit to Top of the Falls for a first view of the magnificent waterfalls. Check in at Twiga Safari lodge for dinner and overnight.
Murchison Falls National Park is the largest protected area in Uganda. The waterfall for which the park is named is the most electrifying sight of its type in East Africa. The southern part is mostly covered by dense woodlands and harbors one of the most varied forest faunas in East Africa, and is a premier sight for bird watchers, as well as one of the best- and most affordable – places to track chimpanzees. The northern part is mostly covered by green grasslands with scattered acacia trees, borassus palms and riverine woodlands. . The world’s longest River Nile is thronged with hippos, crocodiles, waterbucks and buffaloes. Wildlife includes lions, Leopards, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, hartebeests, oribis, Uganda kob and so much more.
DAY 3: Murchison Falls National Park
After an early breakfast we start the day with a game drive on the northern bank of the Nile, with chances of seeing Rothschild Giraffe, elephants, lions, Jackson Hartebeest, Oribis, Waterbucks, different species of the savannah woodland birds, and if lucky even the elusive leopard to top the Africa’s “The Big 5” amongst a multitude of African plains game returning to Twiga Safari Lodge for lunch.
In the afternoon, enjoy a Nile launch cruise to the bottom of the water falls for game viewing at close quarters, after the launch cruise, get off from the bottom of the falls and hike up to the top of the falls where you will be rewarded with amazing views of the Nile.
Dinner and overnight at Twiga Safari Lodge – FB
DAY 4: Murchison Falls – Kibale Forest National Park (441km /7- 8hrs)
After breakfast, check out and drive south to Fort Portal, with lunch (packed) en-route. Fort portal rests in the shadow of the fabled ‘Mountains of the Moon’ and is famous for her many tea plantations. You will continue into Kibale National Park arriving at Primate Lodge in time for dinner and overnight.
Dinner and overnight at Primate Lodge Kibale-FB
DAY 5 Chimpanzee Tracking & – Queen Elizabeth NP 3hrs/200km
Today the forest opens for a sensational chimp tracking. Kibale Forest is reputable for having the greatest variety and highest concentration of primates in East Africa. After a pre-tracking briefing at walking distance from your accommodation, you will start your hike adventure into the forest. Follow the footsteps of a large habituated family of chimpanzees, with over 120 individuals that have made Kibale one of the best locations in Africa for chimp viewing.
En route your guide will explain more about the forest and the other inhabitants, including other primates and birds such as the Blue-breasted Kingfisher, Black-billed Turaco, Pied Hornbill, Chestnut winged Starlings and many more.
Upon sighting the chimpanzees, you will stay with them for one unforgettable hour as they continue their daily routine – growling, grooming, feeding, taking care of the young ones and agilely climbing up trees. It certainly is one unforgettable wildlife encounter and the hour is always over too soon.
After your forest walk, return to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon we transfer towards the south while passing the majestic foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains as the “Mountains of the Moon”. Enroute we will explore the scenic crater lakes region that surrounds the dense forest of Kibale National park.
Dinner and overnight at Elephant Plains (B-L-D)
DAY 6 Queen Elizabeth NP
The day begins early when we start with a morning game drive and head to the mating ground of the Uganda Kobs. We search for lions, elephants, buffaloes and other wild animals in their natural habitat.
In the afternoon we take on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural channel between Lake Edward and Lake George. The channel is 33 km long and 2-3 km at its widest points. The scheduled 2-hour boat ride (beverages and snacks included!) will cover a 12-14 km stretch of the channel, with almost guaranteed excellent wildlife sightings including multitudes of hippopotamus – possibly the world’s highest concentration – Nile crocodiles, wallowing buffaloes on its reedy banks, elephants, and many birds.
Dinner and overnight at Elephant plains (B-L-D)
DAY 7 Queen Elizabeth NP – Bwindi NP 5 hours /182 km
Awaken to a new day for another extremely beautiful new day. After morning breakfast, we depart Queen Elizabeth National Park and drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, home of the endangered mountain gorillas. Check in at Mahogany Springs.
Dinner and overnight at Mahogany Springs Lodge (B-L-D)
DAY 8 Gorilla tracking
Arise early today and prepare for the highlight of your safari, an unforgettable encounter with the Gentle Giants!
Following breakfast, transfer to the national park offices where you will be allocated a gorilla family in groups of 8 as well as a gorilla tracking guide. After a pre-tracking briefing by your guide touching on the gorillas generally, your assigned gorilla family as well as appropriate safety precautions, you drive to the trailhead for the start of a thrilling adventure. Expect to walk between 2 and 8 hours in steep and sometimes muddy conditions with rain overhead, which can be tough and require a degree of (average) fitness. However, the thrill of coming face to face with a giant Mountain Gorilla silverback completely makes up for the effort!
Please remember to bring your passport for registration, appropriate, water proof hiking boots and a light rain coat. To protect from stinging nettles, we recommend long pants and long sleeved tops. A pair of old gardening gloves can help grabbing onto the vegetation while most hotels/lodges provide a walking stick that come in very handy especially when hiking downhill. A small waterproof backpack is an excellent idea to carry a light snack, bottled water as well as protection for your camera.
Upon sighting the gorillas, you spend the allowed one hour with them as they go about their daily life; feeding, moving, playing, raising their young and sometimes wrestling with the juveniles – it is a totally unique and unforgettable experience!
Dinner and overnight at Mahogany Springs Lodge (B-L-D)
DAY 9 Bwindi NP – Lake Mburo NP 5 hours / 250 km
After breakfast we depart the impenetrable forest of Bwindi and head to Lake Mburo National Park. Enjoy lunch at a restaurant before we enter the national park, and with a game drive en-route we will calmly proceed to our accommodation, with beautiful views of the park.
In the evening you will have the opportunity to enjoy a night game drive (pre-booking required).
Dinner and overnight at Mihingo Lodge (B-L-D)
Optional: Night game drive in Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo NP is one of the few parks in Uganda where you
can watch wildlife after the sun has set.
A night game drive (usually 2-3 hours) is an exciting experience
and unusual twist on your regular game drives, allowing you to
search for a variety of animals that you would not easily see
during the day, such as bush pigs, genet cats and white tailed
mongoose. But also the elusive leopards and spotted hyenas are best to be seen at night. And with some luck you will be able to spot the one male lion in the park who resides down by Lake Mburo!
NB. Booking in advance is required to avoid disappointment.
Day 10 Lake Mburo NP – Entebbe 6 hours / 270 km
Early start of the day we will go for a bush walk guided by a ranger. Experience a safari on foot that will allow you to notice the smaller, often overlooked, details and usually brings you much closer to the wildlife than when in a car.
Return the lodge for breakfast and with a game drive on our way out we depart the protected area and back towards the capital city. En-route we will pass the Equator where we will make a stop for lunch, photos and souvenir shopping. In time you will be dropped at Entebbe Airport for your international flight. (B-L)
** END OF YOUR SAFARI WITH GREAT LAKES SAFARIS **
●●●
Accommodations
●●●
Protea Hotel Entebbe
Protea Hotel in Entebbe is the closest accommodation to the International Airport, located at only 1 km from the departure and arrival hall and directly on the shores of Lake Victoria. The hotel features 73 rooms, all with en-suite bathrooms and modern amenities including complimentary WiFi, satellite TV and electronic safes. The restaurant offers a la carte menu and there is an outside terrace with a wonderful of the lake. Other facilities include a swimming pool, bar, lounge and health club.
Primate Lodge – Luxury cottages Kibale Forest NP
The new luxury cottages at Primate Lodge feature large twin or double beds, a spacious bathroom and private veranda. Large glass windows and a full size glass sliding door allow 180 degree views of the beautiful rainforest. The main lodge has a spacious dining room, serving local and international meals, with an adjacent bar and lounge area. WIFI is available in the main area.
Twiga Safari Lodge Murchison Falls NP
Twiga Safari Lodge has 8 exclusive cottages situated on the bank of the river Nile in Mubaako Paraa opposite the Murchison falls National Park. The lodge is located at the heart of all the activities carried out in the park as it is a 5 minute drive away from the Paraa ferry crossing. Our guests are able to therefore enjoy a boat ride and or hike to the famous Murchison falls, sport fishing, bird watching at the Lake Albert delta, and game drives through the national park across the river.
Elephant Plains Lodge Queen Elizabeth NP
Situated on the edge of the Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Africa’s finest national parks, Uganda Lodges newest
lodge, Elephant plains, has stunning views over Kasenyi plains, Lakes George and Kikorongo and the lush savannah of the park. The lodge will offer spacious luxurious en-suite rooms with large windows for breath-taking views of the extensive Queen Elizabeth National Park from the comfort of your bed – complete with large luxury bathrooms with his and hers sinks, shower and bath combination. The lodge has a swimming pool for guests to relax after a day of game viewing.
Mahogany Springs ________ Bwindi Impenetrable NP
lolocated at a 2 minutes drive from the headquarters in Buhoma. It offers eight individual bandas with 2 double beds, en-suite bathroom and a private terrace with panoramic views of the forest and surrounding land. The main building includes a craft shop, large bar area, relaxing lounge area with fireplace, restaurant and a large veranda. WIFI is available.
Website: http://www.mahoganysprings.com/
Mihingo Lodge Lake Mburo NP
Mihingo Lodge is a peaceful and exclusive retreat, situated in Lake Mburo National Park. It features ten rooms which are built on wooden platforms. Suspended under the thatched roof is a spacious and comfortable tent, equipped with en-suite bathrooms with stunning views. Each luxury tented room is nestled on a private piece of the lodge’s property, enabling you to enjoy the tranquil environment in complete seclusion. The main dining area is a large thatched structure built of rocks. Below the dining area, an infinity swimming pool stretches out from the rocks. WIFI is available.
●●●
Safari Package Price
●●●
| Tour price in US Dollars / per person Valid for 2024 | ||
| Pax Travelling (Price per person in USD) | High Season Price Per Person | Low Season Price Per Person |
| 2 Pax Traveling | US $ 6,108 | US $ 5,479 |
| 3-6 Pax Traveling | US $ 5,353 | US $ 4,755 |
| 7-12 Pax Traveling | US $ 5,123 | US $ 4,531 |
| 12-15Pax Traveling | US $ 4,962 | US $ 4,368 |
| Additional/Optional surcharges to be added to the package (non-commissionable) | ||
| Price per person in US dollars | High Season Price Per Person | Low Season Price Per Person |
| Single room supplement | US $ 820 | US $ 630 |
| Chimp Trekking Permit | US $ 700 | US $ 700 |
| Gorilla permit | US $ 700 | US $ 700 |
Low Season – April, May, November
High Season- January, March, June, July, August, September, October, December
Included in the price:
- Airport transfer to/from Entebbe Airport
- Ground transport per private 4WD safari vehicle (Land Cruiser)
- English speaking driver/guide
- Accommodation as mentioned in the itinerary, based on a shared twin/double room
- Meals as described in the itinerary
- Bottled mineral water in the safari vehicle
- Entrance fees and ranger fees for national parks
- Activities and excursions mentioned in the program
- Detailed map of Uganda
- AMREF Evacuation Air Ambulance insurance
- VAT for hotels and lodges outside Kampala
Exclusions:
- International flight
- Visa (USD $50, available upon arrival)
- Gorilla & Chimp permit
- Optional activities
- Optional domestic flights
- Meals and drinks not mentioned above
- Items of personal nature
- Tips
Terms and conditions:
* * The items mentioned under “exclusions” are non-commissionable.
* The high season period includes January, February, June, July, August, September, and December.
* The low season period includes March, April, May,October and November.
* Availability of accommodation, permits and activities is not guaranteed until confirmation by your contact person of Great Lakes Safaris. Permits are sold on ‘first come first serve’ basis.
* Gorilla permits can only be secured after receiving the requested deposit.
* The chimp tracking in Kibale Forest may take place either in the morning or afternoon, depending on the availability of the permits for chimp tracking.
* The estimated travelling hours are based on the actual hours of driving; stops for lunch or photos not included.
* Please consult our website for the Terms & Conditions.
