9-Day Uganda Safari | Rafting, Rhinos, Gorillas & Chimps
9-Day Uganda Safari | Rafting, Rhinos, Gorillas & Chimps
Tour Overview
Your journey begins with exciting white-water rafting on the Nile River in Jinja, followed by a visit to a special sanctuary where you can track rare white rhinos. Next, explore Murchison Falls National Park, home to lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, giraffes, and more, capped off with a scenic boat cruise to the base of a powerful waterfall.Then, you’ll head to Queen Elizabeth National Park for more unforgettable game viewing and a chance to track wild chimpanzees. From there, travel to the breathtaking Lake Mutanda near Bwindi Forest, where the highlight is meeting the magnificent mountain gorillas in their natural habitat—a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
You’ll also have time to unwind or enjoy fun activities like canoeing or cultural visits. Finally, your adventure continues at Lake Mburo National Park with game drives and optional safaris on foot, by bike, or horseback. After exploring this peaceful park, your trip concludes with a journey back to Entebbe for your flight home. This safari perfectly blends adventure, wildlife, and stunning landscapes, leaving you with memories to cherish forever.
Trip Highlights
- Nile white-water rafting in Jinja offers thrilling rapids and great views.
- Track rare wild white rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
- Enjoy game drives and a boat cruise to Murchison Falls.
- Trek through the forest to see wild chimpanzees in Queen Elizabeth Park.
- Experience a once-in-a-lifetime mountain gorilla encounter in Bwindi Forest.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Travel to Jinja and a visit to the source of the Nile
Your journey begins with your arrival at Entebbe International Airport at 8:00 AM, where our guide will meet you. After a short break for refreshments at a nearby hotel or mall, you’ll head out on a drive to the vibrant town of Jinja. The drive takes about 4 hours through lively local markets, lush countryside, and beautiful Ugandan landscapes.
Jinja, located on the eastern shore of Lake Victoria, is a charming town full of history and natural beauty. It was once a small fishing village but became famous in the 19th century when explorer John Hanning Speke identified it as the source of the Nile. Today, it’s a favorite destination for travelers who love nature, culture, and adventure. Just outside Jinja, you’ll stay for two nights in a peaceful lodge overlooking the Nile. This is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings. You’ll also have time to try exciting activities such as horse riding, white-water rafting, tubing on the Nile, bungee jumping, or quad biking.
Whether you’re watching the river from your veranda or diving into the adventure, Jinja offers a beautiful and refreshing start to your Ugandan journey. Tonight, you’ll settle in at your chosen lodge. For a comfortable stay, The Haven Eco River Lodge is a great midrange option, while Wildwaters Lodge offers a more luxurious experience. Lunch and dinner are included today.
Day 2: Rafting Adventure on the Nile River
Start your day with an early breakfast at the lodge, then get ready for an unforgettable adventure—white-water rafting on the mighty Nile River, the longest river in the world. This is one of the best places on Earth to go rafting, with thrilling rapids and stunning scenery all around. The rafting experience lasts the whole day, with a break along the river where you’ll enjoy a tasty lunch. You’ll return to the lodge around 5:00 PM, a little tired but full of exciting memories. It’s the perfect time to relax, maybe with a cold drink in hand, and enjoy the peaceful views of the Nile as the sun begins to set.
If rafting isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other activities to choose from, right from your accommodation. Adventure lovers can try tubing on the Nile, whitewater canoeing, mountain biking, or quad biking through the countryside. If you prefer something more relaxing, you might enjoy a peaceful horseback ride along the river or take a gentle walk through a nearby village to meet local people and learn about their way of life. Of course, simply unwinding at the lodge and soaking in the views of the Nile is also a wonderful option. Your guide or lodge staff can help you arrange any activities you’re interested in. Tonight, you’ll once again stay at The Haven Eco River Lodge, where all your meals are included.
Day 3: Rhino Tracking and Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
After breakfast, your journey continues as you drive 6 to 7 hours toward Murchison Falls National Park. Along the way, you’ll stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Nakasongola—the only place in Uganda where you can see wild rhinos. Here, you’ll meet the expert rangers for a short briefing, then head out on foot to track the white rhinos. This is a rare and unforgettable experience. The rhinos, once extinct in Uganda, have been reintroduced and are now protected in this sanctuary. Watching these powerful, endangered animals up close in their natural habitat is a true highlight of the trip. After rhino tracking, you’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing your drive to Murchison Falls National Park—Uganda’s largest and one of its most spectacular parks. The park is divided by the mighty Nile River, and its landscapes shift beautifully from thick rainforest in the south to wide open savannah in the north.
As you approach, you’ll see why this park is so special. The Nile forces its way through a narrow gap in the rocks and crashes down in a thunderous waterfall—Murchison Falls, one of the most powerful and dramatic waterfalls in Africa. The surrounding area is incredibly lush and green, thanks to the constant presence of the river. Tonight, you’ll stay near the park, where you can relax and take in the beauty of the wild. Your accommodation options include Murchison River Lodge (thatched cottage) for a comfortable midrange stay, or Nile Safari Lodge if you prefer a touch of luxury. All meals are included today.Top of Form
Day 4: Game drive and afternoon boat cruise
Today is all about exploring the incredible wildlife and landscapes of Murchison Falls National Park. You’ll begin the day with your first game drive of the trip, and later enjoy a boat safari on the Nile—one of the best ways to see animals up close in their natural habitat.
After an early breakfast, you’ll set out for the delta area of the park, where the Nile flows through wide, open savannah. The morning light is golden and fresh—perfect conditions for spotting wildlife. As you drive through the park, keep your eyes open for giraffes, lions, elephants, buffalo, antelope, and many more animals. You’ll also make a stop by the river, where groups of hippos bask in the morning sun. In the afternoon, you’ll take a scenic boat cruise along the Nile, sailing slowly toward the base of the spectacular Murchison Falls. Along the way, you’ll pass crocodiles resting on the riverbanks, hippos wallowing in the water, and countless birds fishing and flying overhead. With a bit of luck, you might even spot elephants or buffalo coming to drink at the water’s edge.
The boat ride lasts about three hours and ends at the foot of the dramatic Murchison Falls, where the Nile thunders through a narrow rock gorge and plunges 40 meters below. For the best views, we recommend sitting on the left side of the boat, as most wildlife activity is along that bank. If you’ve booked a private boat safari, you’ll enjoy a more intimate and flexible experience. A smaller boat allows you to get closer to the animals, choose your own pace, and share the journey only with your group—making the experience even more special. At the end of the day, you’ll return to Murchison River Lodge, where you can relax and relive the day’s amazing sightings. All meals are included today.
Day 5:Visit the Top of the Falls and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After breakfast, your day begins with a visit to the Top of Murchison Falls, where you’ll witness the mighty Nile River being forced through a narrow 7-meter gorge before crashing down 40 meters below. Standing here, you’ll feel the ground shake beneath your feet and hear the thunder of the water—a truly powerful and unforgettable sight. From there, you’ll begin the scenic drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most diverse and wildlife-rich parks. Along the way, you’ll travel through the oil city of Hoima, where you’ll stop to enjoy a relaxed lunch. The journey continues south through lush countryside, rolling hills, and rural villages. As you travel along the Albertine Rift escarpment, the landscapes shift between forests, farms, and open plains, offering a real glimpse into everyday life in western Uganda.
Eventually, you’ll reach Kasese, the gateway to Queen Elizabeth National Park. This region sits in the shadow of the legendary Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” which rise in the distance with their misty peaks and dramatic slopes. Tonight, you’ll settle into your lodge just outside the park. For a comfortable stay, Enganzi Game Lodge offers cozy midrange accommodation, while Kyambura Gorge Lodge provides a luxurious experience with stunning views and excellent service. All meals are included today.
Day 6: Chimps tracking and transfer to Lake Mutanda
After an early breakfast, your guide will take you to Kalinzu Forest, part of Queen Elizabeth National Park, for an exciting chimpanzee tracking experience. As you walk through the dense, green jungle, you’ll be surrounded by the sounds of nature—chirping birds, rustling leaves, and distant calls from the forest.
Then comes the thrilling moment when you encounter a group of wild chimpanzees, watching them swing through the trees and interact in their natural habitat. It’s a memorable and moving wildlife experience. Once your trek is complete, you’ll leave behind the wide savannahs and begin a scenic journey south toward Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. This drive is one of the most beautiful in Uganda and showcases the country’s incredible diversity.
Along the way, you’ll pass lush rainforests, sparkling crater lakes, coffee plantations, and rolling hills, until finally reaching the volcanic landscapes around Lake Mutanda.
Nestled in the shadow of the towering Virunga volcanoes, Lake Mutanda is a breathtaking sight. Its still, clear waters reflect the misty peaks in the distance, and the atmosphere is peaceful and serene. This fairytale-like lake lies in Uganda’s far southwest, where Uganda meets Congo and Rwanda. The surrounding rainforests are home to many species, including the rare and endangered mountain gorilla.
This beautiful region is not just the gateway to gorilla trekking—it’s also perfect for optional activities. You can go canoeing, stand-up paddling, or kayaking on the calm waters of Lake Mutanda. A sunset cruise with a drink in hand is a lovely way to end the day. If you’re up for more adventure, you can trek golden monkeys or even climb a volcano in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The rainforest around Bwindi also offers stunning nature walks, village tours, and cultural visits with the Batwa pygmies.
Tonight, you’ll stay at Mutanda Lake Resort. All meals are included today.
Day 7: Gorilla Tracking experience
Today is the highlight of your journey—a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with the mountain gorillas of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. After an early breakfast, you’ll transfer to the park headquarters, where you’ll be briefed and assigned a trekking group. Then, accompanied by expert rangers from the Uganda Wildlife Authority, you’ll head into the dense rainforest in search of these incredible creatures. Bwindi Forest is one of the last remaining habitats of the endangered mountain gorilla and is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining population. The forest is also rich in biodiversity, with over 120 mammal species and 350 bird species, making every step of your trek full of surprises and beauty.
As you hike through the forest, you’ll move quietly, following signs like broken branches, fresh dung, or chewed bamboo—clues that a gorilla family is nearby. And then, suddenly, you’ll see them: a group of gorillas, including a mighty silverback calmly observing you as his family grazes, plays, or rests nearby. The moment is deeply moving and unforgettable. You’ll spend one magical hour in their presence—an experience that will stay with you for the rest of your life.
Optional: Gorilla Habituation Experience
For those seeking a deeper connection with these incredible animals, you can choose the Gorilla Habituation Experience instead. This unique, full-day activity allows you to accompany researchers and conservationists as they follow a gorilla family still in the process of being habituated to human presence. You’ll spend up to four hours with the gorillas—more time to observe their behavior, social structure, and interactions. This activity is limited to just four participants, offering an intimate and educational insight into gorilla conservation.
Optional Activities at Lake Mutanda
After your trek, return to Mutanda Lake Resort to relax or enjoy optional water activities. This bilharzia-free lake is safe for swimming and offers a peaceful setting for adventure or relaxation. You can unwind on a sun deck, or go kayaking, paddle boarding, sailing, or canoeing in a traditional dugout canoe. A motorboat cruise at sunset is also a favorite way to end the day. Tonight, return to Mutanda Lake Resort to relax and reflect on one of the most extraordinary days of your life. All meals are included.
Day 8: Transfer To Lake Mburo National Park
You leave Lake Mutanda with deep and lasting memories. The time spent with the mountain gorillas—Dian Fossey’s famous protégés from Gorillas in the Mist—will remain unforgettable. But it’s not just the gorillas; the beauty, power, and unique character of Central African nature have also left a strong impression on you. Today, you will travel along the scenic road that links Rwanda, Kampala, and Kenya. As you drive, you’ll pass peaceful villages, rolling green hills, and farmland until you reach the lovely Lake Mburo National Park.
Lake Mburo is the smallest safari park in Uganda, but it holds a special place in the country’s wildlife. It is the only park where both impalas and eland antelopes roam freely. You’ll also find zebras, buffaloes, and many other animals here. At the heart of the park lies Lake Mburo itself, home to hippos, crocodiles, and a wide variety of birds.
In the afternoon, you’ll enjoy a game drive through this peaceful park, discovering its diverse wildlife and landscapes. Just before dinner, there is an optional night safari you can join. As darkness falls, the park comes alive with nocturnal animals like bush babies (galagos), hyenas, and with luck, even elusive leopards. This night drive offers an exciting and different way to experience the park’s wildlife. Afterwards, you’ll return to your lodge for a restful evening.
Your accommodation options are Rwakobo Rock for midrange comfort or Mihingo Lodge for a more luxurious stay. All meals during your stay are included.
Day 9: Walking or mountain bike tour
In the morning, you can choose between a mountain bike safari or a walking safari through Lake Mburo National Park. Since there are no lions or elephants here, both activities are safe and offer a wonderful chance to explore the park’s wildlife up close.
If you prefer something different, you can also opt for a horseback safari, which is only available if you stay at Mihingo Lodge and must be booked on site. Horseback riding is an exciting way to discover the park and suits both beginners and experienced riders. After your morning activity and a late breakfast, you will begin your journey back across the equator to Entebbe, where you will be dropped off at the airport in the early evening for your return flight home. This marks the end of your unforgettable Uganda adventure, and we hope you had a fantastic time.
What Is Included
- Arrival and departure transfers (Entebbe Airport pick-up and drop-off)
- All ground transportation in a comfortable safari vehicle
- Professional English-speaking guide/driver throughout the trip
- Accommodation for 8 nights as specified (lodges and safari camps)
- All meals included (breakfast, lunch, and dinner as mentioned)
- White-water rafting on the Nile River in Jinja, including equipment and safety briefing
- Rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary with expert rangers
- Game drives in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Lake Mburo National Parks
- Boat cruise on the Nile to the base of Murchison Falls
- Chimpanzee trekking in Kalinzu Forest
- Gorilla trekking permit and guided trek in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Visit to the Top of Murchison Falls
- Park entrance fees for all mentioned national parks and reserves
- Water and refreshments during activities
- All local taxes and service charges
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