$5,951 pp (USD)
2 travelers on Start dateArrival
Arrival
Day 1
Arrival in the Pearl of Africa
Arrival in the Pearl of Africa
Welcome to Uganda, the Pearl of Africa! Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your accommodation in Entebbe. The drive offers your first glimpse of Uganda’s vibrant atmosphere and lush greenery, setting the tone for the journey ahead.
Once at your hotel, take time to relax after your flight, enjoy the peaceful surroundings near Lake Victoria, and prepare for the incredible adventure that awaits in the days to come.
- Main Destination:
- Entebbe (City, Uganda)
- Accommodation:
- ViaVia Entebbe Guesthouse
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 2
Lake Victoria Boat & Search for the Dinosaur
Lake Victoria Boat & Search for the Dinosaur
You'll head to the shores of Lake Victoria for a shoebill trek, where you’ll first board a motorboat, then switch to a local community canoe to reach the heart of the swamp. Here, you’ll search for the legendary shoebill — a rare, dinosaur-like bird found only in a few parts of Africa.
After the trek, you'll continue your journey in a safari Land Cruiser, comfortably equipped for road travel. You'll arrive at Uganda’s only rhino sanctuary, check in to your lodge, and relax — rhinos often roam close to the accommodation, offering close encounters right from your doorstep.
- Main Destination:
- Mabamba Swamp (Uganda)
- Accommodation:
- Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch - Tents
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 3
Rhino Trekking on Foot at Ziwa Sanctuary
Rhino Trekking on Foot at Ziwa Sanctuary
Start your day with a rare and unforgettable experience — tracking rhinos on foot in the only place in Uganda where wild rhinos roam freely. This guided walking experience, led by expert rangers, allows you to approach these endangered giants safely and observe them at close range in their natural environment.
After the trek, continue your journey north toward Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest protected area. Before heading to the lodge, make a stop at the top of Murchison Falls — the world’s most powerful waterfall. It’s a breathtaking sight and the perfect welcome to the park!
- Main Destination:
- Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch (Uganda)
- Accommodation:
- Bamboo Village Safari Lodge
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 4
Safari and Nile Adventure in Murchison Falls NP
Safari and Nile Adventure in Murchison Falls NP
Begin your day with an early morning game drive through the vast savannah of Murchison Falls National Park. The early hours are the best time to witness predators returning from the hunt and herbivores grazing in the soft golden light.
In the afternoon, embark on a boat safari along the Nile, the longest river in the world, heading upstream to the base of Murchison Falls. Watch as the entire Nile squeezes through a narrow 7-meter-wide gorge before crashing 43 meters down with incredible force. Along the way, enjoy excellent wildlife viewing, spotting hippos, Nile crocodiles, and elephants along the riverbanks.
In the evening, continue with a sunset game drive.
- Main Destination:
- Murchison Falls National Park (Uganda)
- Accommodation:
- Bamboo Village Safari Lodge
Wildlife in Murchison Falls NP
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 5
Scenic Drive to the Forests of Kibale
Scenic Drive to the Forests of Kibale
Start the day with a final drive through Murchison Falls National Park. The early morning hours offer some of the best chances to spot wildlife like hyenas and other elusive animals — so keep your eyes (and camera) ready.
From there, head south toward Kibale Forest, with the scenery shifting dramatically along the way. The open savannah gradually gives way to vibrant green hills and lush tea plantations, painting a picture of Uganda’s diverse beauty.
Check in at your lodge and relax in the peaceful surroundings.
- Main Destination:
- Kibale National Park (Chimps)
- Accommodation:
- Isunga Lodge
Wildlife in Kibale NP
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 6
Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest
Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest
This morning, head into Kibale National Park for an unforgettable chimpanzee trekking experience. Known as the “Primate Capital of East Africa”, Kibale is home to the highest density of chimpanzees in the region — over 1,500 individuals — making it one of the best places in the world to see them in the wild.
With the guidance of expert trackers, you’ll follow signs through the forest until you find one of the habituated chimp families. Once located, you’ll spend one hour observing their natural behavior — grooming, feeding, calling loudly through the forest, or moving swiftly through the canopy.
After the chimpanzee trekking experience, return to your accommodation to rest and relax. Spend the afternoon enjoying the peaceful surroundings and taking in the views of the Kibale Forest as the sounds of the forest settle around you.
- Main Destination:
- Kibale National Park (Chimps)
- Accommodation:
- Isunga Lodge
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 7
Vanilla Plantation & High Altitude Coffee
Vanilla Plantation & High Altitude Coffee
Start your day with a visit to a local vanilla plantation, where you’ll discover the full journey of one of Uganda’s most prized crops. Walk among the vine-draped shade trees as you learn how vanilla is carefully hand-pollinated, nurtured, and harvested. Your hosts will show you the slow, meticulous curing process that gives Ugandan vanilla its deep aroma and rich flavour, and you’ll gain insight into how this delicate crop supports local farmers and communities.
Then we’ll head to one of the most picturesque regions of Uganda — the slopes of the Rwenzori Mountains, known for producing some of the country’s finest high-altitude coffee. Visit a local coffee roaster to learn every step of the journey — from planting the seed to drying, roasting, and finally savoring a fresh cup.
Later, take a short hike through the hills to see how coffee grows in its natural setting, passing through local communities along the way for a glimpse into everyday life in this beautiful mountain region.
- Main Destination:
- Rwenzori Mountains (Mountain Range, Uganda)
- Accommodation:
- Tabingi Safari Lodge
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 8
Game Drive and Boat Safari at Kazinga Channel
Game Drive and Boat Safari at Kazinga Channel
Start your morning with a scenic drive through Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s premier wildlife destinations. The park is home to an incredible variety of animals, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, and elusive leopards often seen lounging in the shade.
In the afternoon, set off on a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, home to one of the world’s largest hippo populations. You’ll glide past massive pods of hippos, crocodiles basking on the banks, and large herds of elephants and buffaloes coming to drink. Few places in Africa offer such consistent and close-up encounters with wildlife.
In the evening, rest in your lodge or continue with a sunset game drive.
- Main Destination:
- Queen Elizabeth National Park (Uganda)
- Accommodation:
- Tabingi Safari Lodge
Wildlife in Queen Elizabeth NP
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 9
Walking Safari at Lake Mburo National Park
Walking Safari at Lake Mburo National Park
Today we journey to Lake Mburo National Park, a beautiful landscape of rolling hills and open savannah. Though smaller than Uganda’s other parks, it offers close wildlife encounters in a peaceful, uncrowded setting.
After check-in, head out on a guided walking safari led by an armed ranger — a rare and exciting way to experience the African wilderness on foot. Lake Mburo is one of the best places in Uganda to see large herds of zebras and the elegant Rothschild’s giraffe. You may also encounter topis, elands, and other antelope species, along with a rich variety of birdlife, all from a truly immersive perspective.
- Main Destination:
- Lake Mburo National Park (Uganda)
- Accommodation:
- Hyena Hill Lodge
Wildlife in Lake Mburo NP
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 10
- To Gorilla Land
- To Gorilla Land
Today, we leave the open savannah landscapes behind and journey toward Uganda’s ancient montane forests, a dramatic change in scenery and atmosphere. As we travel deeper into the highlands, the environment becomes cooler, greener, and more densely forested — the natural home of the endangered mountain gorillas. This day marks a transition from classic wildlife viewing to one of Africa’s most remarkable forest experiences.
- Main Destination:
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Gorillas)
- Accommodation:
- Rushaga Gorilla Lodge
Wildlife in Bwindi Impenetrable NP
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 11
Gorilla Trekking and Batwa community
Gorilla Trekking and Batwa community
Today you’ll trek in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. After a short briefing, set off with your guide into the forest to track one of the habituated gorilla families. Once located, you’ll spend one unforgettable hour observing them up close — playing, moving through the trees, and interacting with each other in their natural environment.
This is the highlight of any trip to Uganda and an experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Afterwards, visit the Batwa community, the original forest dwellers of Bwindi. During this cultural experience, you’ll learn about their traditional way of life, hunting skills, music, and storytelling, gaining insight into a culture deeply connected to the forest for generations.
- Main Destination:
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Gorillas)
- Accommodation:
- Rushaga Gorilla Lodge
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 12
Transfer to Rwanda & Visit Twin Lakes
Transfer to Rwanda & Visit Twin Lakes
Today we will say goodbye to Uganda and cross into Rwanda, the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
Before heading to the lodge, we visit the villages along the shores of the Twin Lakes — Burera and Ruhondo.
Walk through the community to see how locals live. Most are subsistence farmers, growing crops mainly for their own use. Visit the Banana Man to see how local banana beer is made and try a sample. Stop by the island’s only school (quiet during the holidays) and enjoy a home-cooked meal prepared by a local host.
In the afternoon, visit a church in Musanze town before returning to your lodge.
- Main Destination:
- Volcanoes National Park (Gorillas)
- Accommodation:
- Kinigi Cottage
Wildlife in Volcanoes NP
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 13
Golden Monkey Trekking at Volcanoes NP
Golden Monkey Trekking at Volcanoes NP
Today’s adventure offers an unforgettable experience in Volcanoes National Park.
You will track the vibrant and energetic Golden Monkeys, known for their striking orange-gold coats and playful nature. Found only in a few places in the world, these rare primates leap through the lush greenery of the Virunga Mountains in large, lively troops—making for an incredible sight and a dream for photographers and wildlife lovers alike.
Journey east toward Akagera National Park. The drive takes you through scenic Rwandan countryside, passing small towns and rolling hills.
Arrive at your lodge in time to settle in, enjoy the surroundings, and prepare for the adventures ahead.
- Main Destination:
- Volcanoes National Park (Gorillas)
- Accommodation:
- Akagera Rhino Lodge
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 14
Full-Day Game Drive in Akagera NP
Full-Day Game Drive in Akagera NP
Start your day with a morning game drive through the scenic savannahs of Akagera National Park, Rwanda’s premier Big Five destination. Keep your eyes peeled for lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and a variety of other wildlife including giraffes, zebras, topis, bushbucks, hippos, and warthogs.
After lunch, continue for a sunset game drive along the park’s lakes and rivers, where crocodiles, hippos, and water birds are often spotted. The golden hour light highlights the park’s natural beauty and offers perfect photo opportunities.
- Main Destination:
- Akagera National Park (Rwanda)
- Accommodation:
- Akagera Rhino Lodge
Wildlife in Akagera NP
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 15
Kigali City Tour and Airport Dropoff
Kigali City Tour and Airport Dropoff
After breakfast, start the journey back to Kigali where we continue with a guided Kigali city tour, exploring vibrant local craft markets and key cultural landmarks that showcase Rwanda’s rich history and heritage. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to visit places such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local art galleries, or the bustling Kimironko Market. After exploring the city, you will be dropped off at Kigali International Airport. Safe travels, and we hope to welcome you back again soon!
- Main Destination:
- Akagera National Park (Rwanda)
- Accommodation:
- No accommodation (End of tour)
- Meals & Drinks:
