8-day Uganda safari

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$3236

8 Days Big Five, Chimps & Gorilla Safari Uganda

From

$ 3236

Contact a Safari Expert

+256 (704) 324 972

Tour Overview

Uganda is one of the most diverse countries in Africa when it comes to landscapes. From misty mountain rainforests to wide open savannahs, this incredible variety of habitats supports an equally rich range of wildlife—making Uganda a dream destination even for seasoned nature enthusiasts.

On this 8-day Uganda safari adventure, you’ll explore the country’s top national parks in search of lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, hyenas, hippos, zebras, and the unique Ugandan kob. But the real highlight of this journey lies in the lush rainforests where you’ll track wild chimpanzees and come face to face with the magnificent mountain gorillas. Combined with the warmth and hospitality of Uganda’s people, this adventure has all the ingredients for a truly extraordinary safari through the Pearl of Africa.

Each accommodation has been carefully selected for its charm, location, and beautiful setting. One such gem is the stunning Mutanda Lake Resort, perched on a ridge with sweeping views over the sparkling waters of Lake Mutanda and the dramatic backdrop of the seven Virunga volcanoes. Almost all the experiences listed in this itinerary are included in the tour price. At Greenway Nature Tours, we’re always on the lookout for unique and meaningful travel experiences.

If you’re looking to go beyond the classic highlights, our Uganda safari experts are happy to recommend unique excursions that add an extra layer of wonder to your journey. Imagine a guided night walk through Kibale rainforest. Or how about joining a lion tracking experience using GPS technology in Queen Elizabeth National Park? You can also glide through the peaceful waters of Lake Mutanda by canoe or pedal your way among grazing zebras on a mountain bike ride through Lake Mburo National Park.

Trip Highlights

Walk with wild rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in Uganda to see them.
Go on exciting game drives and a boat trip to see the big Murchison Falls.
See the amazing view from the top of Murchison Falls where the Nile river crashes down.
Find and watch wild chimpanzees playing in the green Kibale Forest.
Take a peaceful walk in Bigodi Swamp to see many monkeys and colorful birds.
Drive through Queen Elizabeth Park with beautiful forests, lakes, and farms on your way to Lake Mutanda.
Meet gentle mountain gorillas up close in the magical Bwindi Forest.
Have fun paddling a kayak or boat on beautiful Lake Mutanda and watch the sunset.
See special animals like impalas and elands in small but wonderful Lake Mburo Park.
Choose to explore Lake Mburo by walking, biking, or riding horses with amazing views all around.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Visit Murchison Falls National Park - Rhino Tracking & Scenic Drive

This morning, you will meet your expert safari guide for a warm welcome and a detailed briefing about your upcoming adventure. Once you’re ready, your journey to the iconic Murchison Falls National Park begins. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a special stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in Uganda where you can encounter wild rhinos. Accompanied by an experienced ranger, you’ll track these magnificent animals on foot for an hour.

After this exciting encounter, continue your journey with a tasty lunch at Kabalega Diner, a great spot to relax and recharge. From here, you’ll drive on to Murchison Falls National Park, entering one of the most scenic and wildlife-rich regions in East Africa. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and take time to unwind as you prepare for the exciting days ahead.

About Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls is Uganda’s largest and oldest national park, dramatically divided by the mighty Nile River. The southern section is blanketed in tropical rainforest, while the northern plains open into wide savannahs teeming with wildlife. At its heart is the park’s namesake attraction: the thundering Murchison Falls, where the Nile squeezes through a narrow gorge and plunges 45 meters into a swirling pool below. It’s one of the most powerful waterfalls in Africa and a highlight of your trip.

Optional: Bush Camping Experience in Murchison Falls

If you’re craving an even deeper connection with the wilderness, opt for a once-in-a-lifetime bush camping experience near the Lake Albert delta. You’ll be driven on a private safari deep into the park, where a special campsite will be set up just for you. Fully equipped with professional gear—tents, stretchers, barbecue setup, chairs, tables, and lighting—you’ll camp under the stars, surrounded by pure nature. With an armed ranger, guide, and cook to ensure your comfort and safety, you’ll spend the night listening to the distant calls of hyenas and watching hippos venture onto land. Though there are no modern sanitary facilities, the unforgettable “bush vibe” more than makes up for it.

Accommodation Options:

Budget: Fort Murchison – Lazy Camping (Half Board)

Mid-Range: Murchison River Lodge – Thatched Tents (Full Board)

Semi-Luxury: Murchison River Lodge – Cottage (Full Board)

Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge (Full Board)

Exclusive: Nile Safari Lodge (Full Board, including drinks)

Day 2: Explore the Wildlife and Beauty of Murchison Falls National Park

Today is devoted entirely to discovering the abundant wildlife and spectacular landscapes that make Murchison Falls National Park one of Uganda’s most iconic safari destinations. Your day begins with a thrilling early morning game drive, and in the afternoon, you’ll embark on a scenic boat safari along the legendary Nile River. Keep your camera ready—you might spot hippos, crocodiles, water birds, and, if you’re lucky, even elephants cooling off in the river! After a day full of adventure and unforgettable encounters, you’ll return to your lodge for a well-deserved evening of rest.

Morning Safari – Murchison Falls Game Drive

After an early breakfast, set off towards the delta area for your first traditional African game drive. The rising sun paints the savannah in golden hues, and the early morning air is cool and fresh—perfect conditions for spotting wildlife. As you drive across the wide-open plains, you’ll encounter a variety of animals including giraffes, antelopes, elephants, lions, and even elusive leopards. You’ll also stop at the banks of the Nile, where you’ll see large pods of hippos basking in the morning sun. It’s the ultimate introduction to the park’s rich ecosystem.

Afternoon Boat Safari to Murchison Falls

In the afternoon, you’ll head out on a classic boat safari along the mighty Nile. As you gently cruise upstream under the watchful eyes of crocodiles, hippos, buffalos, and playful monkeys, the riverbanks come alive with wildlife. Keep an eye out for elephants and antelope that frequently come to the water’s edge to drink. Colorful water birds—kingfishers, bee-eaters, and fish eagles—flit along the banks, adding to the spectacle. Your journey ends at the foot of the 40-meter-high Murchison Falls, where the entire Nile is forced through a narrow rocky gorge, creating a dramatic thunder of crashing water. The boat trip lasts about three hours. (Tip: sit on the left side of the boat for better views of the riverbank wildlife.)

Optional Experience: Private Boat Safari to the Falls – Morning

For a more exclusive and intimate adventure, you may opt for a private boat safari to Murchison Falls. This personalized experience offers a major advantage over the larger boats: you can get closer to the animals, set your own pace, and enjoy a more tranquil, customized journey with your guide and group. Lasting about three hours, this is an ideal choice for wildlife photographers or anyone seeking a more immersive river safari.

Optional Experience: Delta Boat Safari to Lake Albert

In addition to the boat trip to the waterfall, there’s another stunning experience you can enjoy—a boat safari through the delta area, where the Victoria Nile empties into Lake Albert. This lush, water-rich region resembles a smaller version of Botswana’s famed Okavango Delta. It’s a paradise for wildlife and especially bird lovers. Expect to see pods of hippos, crocodiles sunning on riverbanks, and elephants bathing in the shallows. Birding enthusiasts will be thrilled to spot rare and beautiful species like the Saddle-billed Stork, African Giant Kingfisher, and the prehistoric-looking Shoebill Stork—one of Uganda’s most sought-after bird species.

Accommodation Options:

Budget: Fort Murchison – Lazy Camping (Half Board)

Mid-Range: Murchison River Lodge – Thatched Tents (Full Board)

Semi-Luxury: Murchison River Lodge – Cottage (Full Board)

Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge (Full Board)

Exclusive: Nile Safari Lodge (Full Board, including drinks)

Day 3: Top of the Falls Visit & Scenic Transfer to Kibale Forest

Today’s journey takes you from the savannah plains of Murchison Falls to the lush, emerald world of Kibale Forest. But before you leave, you’ll make a short detour to visit one of the most breathtaking natural sights in Uganda—the Top of Murchison Falls. Standing above the roaring cascade, you’ll witness the sheer force of the Nile River as it crashes through a narrow 7-meter gorge and plunges 40 meters below. It’s a powerful and awe-inspiring sight that perfectly caps off your time in this incredible park.

After this visit, you’ll begin your scenic drive south towards Kibale Forest National Park. The journey is a visual feast—passing through vibrant rural villages, dense rainforests, rolling tea plantations, and ancient crater lakes. On a clear day, the legendary Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” rise in the distance with their snow-capped peaks glistening on the horizon. As you approach Fort Portal, the landscape becomes greener and lusher, eventually welcoming you into the enchanting world of Kibale Forest—a place often referred to as the “primate capital of the world.”

Kibale Forest National Park: A Primate Paradise

Kibale Forest is one of the most biologically rich and diverse tropical rainforests in Africa. It’s most famous for its incredible variety of primates—13 species in total—making it a dream for wildlife lovers. Among the species commonly seen here are red-tailed monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, red colobus, diademed monkeys, olive baboons, mangabeys, and the tiny, nocturnal galago (bush baby).

Set at an average elevation of 1,300 meters, the park’s primary rainforest is bordered by scenic tea plantations to the north and papyrus-filled wetlands to the south. Beyond primates, Kibale is also a hotspot for birdwatching, with hundreds of rare and colorful bird species calling this forest home. The nearby Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, located just outside the park, adds even more opportunities for birdlife and community engagement. Once you arrive at your lodge nestled in or near the forest, you’ll feel completely immersed in a different world—one filled with chattering monkeys, rustling leaves, and the tranquil rhythm of the rainforest.

Accommodation Options:

Budget: Kibale Forest Camp (Half Board)

Mid-Range: Turaco Treetops – Standard Cottage (Half Board)

Semi-Luxury: Turaco Treetops – Luxury Cottage (Full Board)

Luxury: Crater Safari Lodge (Full Board)

Exclusive: Kibale Lodge (Full Board)

Day 4: Looking for chimpanzees and other special monkeys

Today is entirely dedicated to the fascinating world of primates. You’ll explore the dense Kibale Forest and its surrounding wetlands, both teeming with an incredible variety of monkey species and birds. In the morning, you’ll head deep into the rainforest for an unforgettable chimpanzee trekking experience, followed by a relaxed nature walk through the Bigodi Swamp in the afternoon. Between these exciting activities, you’ll return to your lodge for lunch and some well-deserved rest.

Please note: The exact order of the activities depends on your scheduled chimpanzee trekking permit. You may do the Bigodi swamp walk in the morning and chimpanzee trekking in the afternoon.

Morning: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest

Your day begins with a once-in-a-lifetime encounter: tracking wild chimpanzees in the heart of Kibale Forest. After a short briefing at the park headquarters, you’ll venture into the forest with experienced rangers, following the calls and movements of a chimpanzee troop. As you approach, you may hear their excited chatter echoing through the canopy. Once found, you’ll spend a full hour observing these intelligent and playful primates in their natural environment—watching them feed, groom, and interact just a few meters away. Along the way, you may also spot other forest residents, including red-tailed monkeys, blue monkeys, and colorful bird species.

Afternoon: Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary Walk

Later in the afternoon, when temperatures are cooler and wildlife is more active, you’ll enjoy a guided walk through the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, located just outside the park. This community-managed swamp is a biodiversity hotspot and a peaceful contrast to the dense forest. Your local guide will lead you along wooden boardwalks and natural trails, pointing out various primate species like black-and-white colobus monkeys, red colobus, vervets, and baboons. It’s also a paradise for bird lovers, with frequent sightings of the Great Blue Turaco, hornbills, and kingfishers. Bigodi is not just a haven for wildlife—it also provides insight into the strong link between conservation and community. Proceeds from your visit support local education, healthcare, and sustainable development projects.

Accommodation Options:

Budget: Kibale Forest Camp (Half Board)

Mid-Range: Turaco Treetops – Standard Cottage (Half Board)

Semi-Luxury: Turaco Treetops – Luxury Cottage (Full Board)

Luxury: Crater Safari Lodge (Full Board)

Exclusive: Kibale Lodge (Full Board)

Day 5: Travel Through Through Queen Elizabeth National Park to the Magical Lake Mutanda

After breakfast, you will depart from the lush Kibale Forest and set off on a breathtaking journey toward the volcanic landscapes of southern Uganda. This drive beautifully showcases Uganda’s incredible geographical diversity. As you travel through Queen Elizabeth National Park, you may spot some wildlife along the way, adding a touch of adventure to the drive. The scenery shifts constantly—one moment you’re passing through tropical rainforests and crater lakes, and the next you’re winding through coffee and banana plantations, climbing over hills and valleys that reveal the majestic backdrop of the Virunga Volcanoes. Eventually, you’ll arrive at the stunning Lake Mutanda, one of Uganda’s most picturesque and peaceful destinations.

The specific destination today depends on your accommodation level. Those booked in the luxury version of this trip will spend the night on the northern side of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Buhoma, which is about a 5-hour drive from Kibale Forest. Travelers on the budget plan will overnight in Kisoro town, which is about a 6 hour drive away. Guests booked in the mid-range and semi-luxury versions will stay at the beautifully situated Mutanda Lake Resort, which lies approximately a six-and-a-half-hour drive from Kibale and offers breathtaking views across the lake and volcanoes.

Lake Mutanda is a fairytale-like lake in the extreme southwest of Uganda, nestled at the foot of the dramatic Virunga volcano chain. This awe-inspiring chain of volcanoes stretches across Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The lake is surrounded by rainforest-covered hills that are home to the endangered mountain gorillas, making it an ideal base for gorilla trekking adventures in both Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.

The region around Lake Mutanda offers many wonderful activities. You can explore the lake by canoe, kayak, or stand-up paddleboard, and a sunset boat cruise with a drink in hand is a relaxing way to take in the scenery. In Mgahinga National Park, adventurous travelers can hike one of the Virunga volcanoes or track the playful golden monkeys in the forest. In Bwindi, aside from gorilla trekking, you can enjoy guided nature walks through the jungle trails. Cultural activities are also available, such as visiting the Batwa pygmy community or joining a local village tour to learn about traditional life in the region. If you have particular interests—such as birdwatching, photography, hiking, or cultural immersion—our travel specialists will be happy to assist you in planning your day.

Accommodation Options:

Budget: Travellers Rest (Breakfast)

Middle Class: Mutanda Lake Resort – Standard Cottage (Half Board)

Semi-luxury: Mutanda Lake Resort – Luxury Cottage (Full Board)

Luxury: Buhoma Lodge (Full Board)

Day 6: The great gorilla trek!

Today is likely the most anticipated moment of your journey—the unforgettable experience of trekking to see the endangered mountain gorillas in the misty rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. In the morning, you will travel to the park headquarters where your gorilla trekking adventure begins. Accompanied by experienced rangers from the Uganda Wildlife Authority, you will trek through the dense forest, ducking under vines and stepping over roots in search of a gorilla family. As you follow signs of their presence—such as nests, droppings, and broken bamboo—you’ll feel the anticipation build. Finally, the moment arrives. You come face to face with a gentle giant, a silverback calmly observing you while surrounded by his family. The experience is both humbling and exhilarating—one that will stay with you for the rest of your life.

If you are not joining the gorilla trekking, there are still many wonderful things to enjoy around Lake Mutanda. The clear, bilharzia-free waters are ideal for a refreshing swim, and you might even spot playful otters nearby. You can explore the lake by paddle board, kayak, traditional dugout canoe, or even set out on a scenic cruise aboard a motorboat, enjoying a glass of wine while admiring the breathtaking surroundings. If you prefer to stay on land, you can take a gentle walk around the lake or challenge yourself with a more strenuous hike in Mgahinga National Park, where the Virunga volcanoes tower in the background. Here, you also have the option to go on a Golden Monkey trekking excursion—another rare and delightful primate experience.

If you are doing the gorilla trek but also want time to relax and take in more of Lake Mutanda’s beauty, we highly recommend staying an additional night here. It’s the perfect way to reflect on your gorilla encounter, surrounded by calm waters and stunning volcanic landscapes.

For those seeking a more immersive gorilla experience, gorilla habituation is an exceptional alternative to regular trekking. This special excursion allows you to accompany researchers and trackers as they spend time with a gorilla family in the process of becoming accustomed to human presence. Limited to just four participants, this experience grants you up to four hours with the gorillas—offering deeper insights into their behavior and social dynamics. It’s a rare and moving opportunity to witness conservation in action.

Another optional experience is a day trip to Lake Mulehe, located just next to Lake Mutanda. The adventure begins in the morning with a canoe or boat ride across the peaceful lake, followed by a scenic walk along its shores. As you stroll, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of both Lake Mutanda and Lake Mulehe, framed by the backdrop of Bwindi’s forested slopes and the towering Virunga volcanoes. Along the way, you’ll meet friendly locals, fishermen, and even a traditional medicine man. A local lunch is included in the experience. Though the trail includes a few uphill sections, the walk is not overly strenuous. It’s an ideal mix of light activity, striking landscapes, and meaningful cultural encounters.

After a full day of wildlife, nature, and adventure, you’ll return to your lodge to relax and soak in the peaceful beauty of this extraordinary region.

Accommodation Options:

Budget: Travellers Rest (Breakfast)

Middle Class: Mutanda Lake Resort – Standard Cottage (Half Board)

Semi-luxury: Mutanda Lake Resort – Luxury Cottage (Full Board)

Luxury: Buhoma Lodge (Full Board)

Day 7: On to Lake Mburo National Park

With your heart still full from the extraordinary experiences at Lake Mutanda, today you leave behind one of the most magical corners of Africa. The encounter with the mountain gorillas—those gentle giants so passionately protected by Dian Fossey—will stay with you forever. But beyond the gorillas, it’s the mist-shrouded volcanoes, the mirror-like lake waters, and the raw, untouched beauty of Central African nature that make saying goodbye so emotional.

You begin your journey along the scenic route that connects Rwanda with Kampala and Kenya, heading northeast through ever-changing landscapes. As the towering Virungas slowly fade in the distance, you pass through highland farms, bustling trading centers, and open savannahs until you reach the peaceful sanctuary of Lake Mburo National Park.

Despite being Uganda’s smallest savannah park, Lake Mburo is a true hidden gem. It is the only place in the country where you can see the graceful impala and the majestic eland antelope, Africa’s largest antelope species. The park’s rolling hills and scattered acacia trees are home to zebras, topis, buffaloes, giraffes, and a wide variety of birds. In the center of the park lies the serene Lake Mburo, where hippos and crocodiles glide through the water and over 300 species of birds make their home—including fish eagles, kingfishers, herons, and storks.

As the day comes to a close and twilight settles over the savannah, you have the option to embark on a thrilling night safari. Just before dinner, you’ll venture out into the darkness with a spotlight and a trained ranger, searching for some of the park’s more elusive nocturnal creatures. The bush comes alive at night—galagos (bush babies) leap through the trees, hyenas roam in the shadows, and with some luck, you may catch a rare glimpse of a leopard on the prowl. This unique safari offers a completely different perspective of the African wilderness.

After the night drive, you’ll return to your lodge to enjoy a warm dinner and settle in for a restful evening surrounded by the quiet sounds of the wild.

Accommodation Options:

Budget: Eagles Nest (Breakfast)

Middle Class: Rwakobo Rock (Full Board)

Luxury: Mihingo Lodge (Full Board)

Day 7: Walking or mountain bike safari in Lake Mburo

On your final morning in Uganda, you have a choice of exciting ways to experience the unique landscape and wildlife of Lake Mburo National Park. Since this park is free of lions and elephants, it offers a safe setting for adventure. You can opt for a leisurely walking safari led by an expert ranger, who will guide you through the park’s rolling hills in search of zebras, buffalos, eland antelopes, and giraffes. This gentle exploration also provides a fantastic opportunity for bird enthusiasts and photographers, as Lake Mburo is home to over 310 species of birds, many of which are often spotted during these early morning walks.

For those looking for a more active start to the day, a mountain bike safari is available. This thrilling ride takes you on winding trails across the park’s lush, green scenery. Along the way, you’re likely to encounter impalas, zebras, and hartebeests, all while enjoying stunning panoramic views. The tour is moderately challenging due to the park’s varying altitudes, making it a rewarding and invigorating way to immerse yourself in the wilderness.

Another exciting option is a horseback safari, an unforgettable way to explore the park quietly and closely. Whether you are an experienced rider or a beginner, this adventure offers a unique perspective on Lake Mburo’s beauty. Please note that this activity is only available to guests staying at Mihingo Lodge, and due to limited availability, it cannot be booked in advance—so arrangements will need to be made on-site. Riders must also weigh less than 90 kilograms for safety reasons.

After your morning activity, you will return to the lodge for a late breakfast before beginning your journey back to Entebbe. The drive will take you across the equator once more, offering a final chance to reflect on your incredible Ugandan adventure. Upon arrival in Entebbe in the early evening, you will be dropped off at the airport in time for your return flight home. Safe Journey!