Embark on a thrilling 12 Days Explore Uganda, The Pearl of Africa’s Top Safari Attractions through the Pearl of Africa to discover the breathtaking wonders of Uganda. Experience thrilling gorilla encounters as you navigate the lush trails of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and follow the playful chimpanzees in their wild surroundings. Experience the thrill of encountering diverse wildlife as you navigate the stunning landscapes of Lake Mburo National Park through exhilarating game drives and serene boat safaris. This journey presents thrilling experiences and guided nature walks, revealing breathtaking landscapes. Discover extraordinary African wildlife, including gorillas and lions that scale trees. Embark on an extraordinary expedition to uncover the stunning landscapes of Uganda, where the thrill of primate and wildlife exploration awaits.

Arrival Day in Uganda: Your Effortless Introduction to East Africa

Upon arriving at Entebbe International Airport, you are set to begin the 12-day Pearl of Africa Gorilla-Chimpanzee and Wildlife Safari, a journey that guarantees an extraordinary exploration of Uganda’s breathtaking landscapes. Your welcoming team will be eager to greet you with open arms. Once you have navigated through immigration and customs, you will find yourself in the arrivals area, where our driver or the hotel’s representative will be eagerly awaiting to welcome you. Stepping into Uganda is a breeze, thanks to the welcoming officials who are always ready to help. In usual situations, the airport process generally spans about 45 minutes to an hour. Many hotels and lodges around Entebbe frequently provide free airport transfers, and we can take you to your selected accommodation if required. Be sure to keep your Uganda Tourist Visa and Yellow Fever Certificate ready for your journey. Your first night will be spent in a cozy Entebbe hotel, laying the groundwork for the exciting journey that awaits you in the Pearl of Africa. We’re located in Kampala, just an hour away, and can organize your arrival and final night upon request.

Day 1: Set off from Entebbe or Kampala – Explore Mabamba Swamp in search of the elusive Shoebill Stork, then journey to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

Our 12-day Pearl of Africa Gorilla-Chimpanzee and Wildlife Safari kicks off with a pickup from your Entebbe or Kampala hotel, followed by an exciting 4-hour drive to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. Our first destination is Mabamba Swamp, an incredible location for spotting the majestic Shoebill Stork and a variety of other specialized water birds in Uganda. Mambamba Swamp, nestled along the shores of Lake Victoria, is recognized as a RAMSAR site. A fishing boat accompanied by a skilled birding guide will navigate through the swamp’s narrow channels, leading you to the elusive Shoebill Stork. The Shoebill Stork – a remarkable bird of Africa, can be seen in the early mornings as it stands motionless in the swamp, searching for lungfish and other prey, its beak swooping down to capture the fish. You frequently find yourself in close proximity, capturing stunning images of the Shoebill Storks. We typically wrap things up by 10:30 a.m. – 11 in the morning.

Gather your essentials: include some bottled water, a sturdy pair of binoculars, a hat, sunblock, insect repellent, a lightweight rain jacket, a long-sleeved shirt, and long pants – all packed in your backpack.

Embark on a 4-hour drive to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, arriving at 3:30 p.m. to embrace the thrill of the journey.

Arrive at the Ziwa Rhinos Guesthouse, where permanent tented cottages await, ready to immerse you in the next chapter of your Ugandan wildlife journey. Meals provided: Dinner and Breakfast.

Amuka Lodge offers a reasonably priced choice in the region, featuring cozy accommodations complete with a swimming pool and permanent tented cottages.

Day 2: Embark on an exhilarating journey at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for an unforgettable rhino tracking experience, followed by an exciting excursion to the top of the falls, and conclude the day with a thrilling late afternoon safari drive.

On-Foot Rhino Exploration

After breakfast, we will rendezvous with the designated ranger at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to embark on an exciting journey tracking Rhinos on foot. The ranger will lead us as we approach the Rhinos for some incredible photo moments. On the one-hour Rhino Trek, you will find yourself just 10 meters away from these magnificent beasts. The rangers will accompany you every step of the way on your journey.
The Rhinos are in a Sanctuary, preparing for their exciting journey back to the wild reserves of northern Uganda. Exciting plans are underway for the release of some Rhinos in 2024 and 2025!

Next, we will embark on our journey to Murchison Falls Park, where you have the option to stay at Pakuba Lodge. Once you have made yourself comfortable in your room, you can savor a delightful lunch and pause to recharge from your travels. If you choose a mid-range facility, you can dive into the enjoyment of their pool. After lunch, we will set off on our first game drive, where you will encounter majestic lions, towering elephants, graceful giraffes, a variety of antelopes, playful warthogs, and formidable buffaloes. Your knowledgeable guide will be at your service, leading you on a quest to discover elusive lions, elephants, and giraffes while sharing insights about the trees and birds along the way. Embrace the journey and uncover the wonders of Murchison Falls.

Our itinerary is crafted to ensure an unforgettable and thrilling African experience. We embrace our commitment to precision and ensuring our customers are delighted. Join our expert guide for an exciting journey where you can explore and discover the incredible flora and fauna of Uganda.

Lodging: Pakuba Lodge – Full dining experience included

Or Murchison River Retreat.

Alternative accommodation choices include Budget Gipir & Labongo Safari Lodge, Upscale Paraa Safari Lodge, and the luxurious Nile Safari Lodge.

Day 3: Morning Safaris Drive & Nile River Boat Safari, where wildlife roams freely against the stunning backdrop of Murchison Falls.

Begin your day with a delightful breakfast and set off for an exhilarating morning game drive. As you journey alongside Lake Albert and traverse the savannah, you will encounter an array of animals and birds that may be new to your eyes. The wildlife here will captivate you, making it hard to tear yourself away from the excitement for a break or a meal.

After lunch, embark on an exhilarating journey through Murchison Falls National Park with a motorized boat ride on the Nile. Prepare to encounter crocodiles and hippos lounging by the riverbank, along with a vibrant array of birds, playful monkeys, majestic buffaloes, and towering elephants, all while taking in the breathtaking view of the falls below. Don a hat and slather on plenty of lotion, and don’t forget the insect repellent to keep those pesky Tsetse flies at bay during your three-hour journey.

Next up is Murchison Falls, a breathtaking spectacle of nature’s might. At the base of the falls, disembark from the boat and embark on a hike alongside the cascading waters, where the refreshing spray will keep you invigorated. At the summit, your driver will be waiting for you. Following that, you’ll traverse the Nile and return to your lodge for dinner and a well-deserved rest.

Wrap up your day with a delightful dinner at your accommodation and unwind for the night.

Lodging: Pakuba Lodge – Full dining experience included

Day 4: Journey to Fort Portal – Kibale Chimpanzee Forest Park

We will kick off our day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on our journey to Kibale Forest. As we journey forward, we will traverse stunning landscapes that add an exciting twist to our adventure. We will take a break for lunch and ensure you have drinking water during your journey in the vehicle. This drive will be the longest, taking around 7 hours, on your journey through Africa, so we suggest setting off no later than 8 am in the morning.

Once we arrive at Fort Portal, you can choose to stay at a budget, moderate, or upscale lodging facility based on your preference. After checking in, we will embark on a delightful dinner before settling in for the night after an exhilarating day of travel.

Lodging included: Isunga Lodge – Every meal provided.

Explore various choices nearby: the reasonably priced Turaco Treetops Lodge, Primate Lodge Kibale, and the luxurious Papaya Lake Lodge.

Day 5: Embark on an exhilarating journey tracking chimpanzees in Kibale Forest, followed by an afternoon stroll through the enchanting Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast and set off for Kanyankyu River camp at 8:00 a.m. We’re embarking on our inaugural primate safari in Uganda. You’ll receive a pre-tracking briefing before you embark on the thrilling adventure of chimpanzee tracking, the most popular activity in this park, where a group of chimpanzees swings and plays in Kibale Forest. Chimpanzees are our closest relatives, yet they face significant threats as one of the most endangered primate species. As you stroll along, you will encounter a fascinating array of primates, including the striking black and white Columbus monkeys, the charming L’Hoest monkeys, the elusive gray-cheeked mangabey, the playful red-tailed monkeys, and the enchanting bush babies and pottos. Your adventure will also introduce you to a diverse selection of bird species, such as the vibrant yellow-spotted nicator, the melodious rumped tinker bird, the delightful Little green bul, the stunning green-breasted pitta, the majestic crowned eagle, and the intriguing black bee-eater. Do not forget to keep an eye out for the magnificent elephants that roam the area too!

Be aware that the chimpanzees you’ll meet on your walk are habituated, meaning they’re used to the presence of humans. However, it’s essential to understand that not all chimpanzees in the park are accustomed to human presence, and the process of getting them used to it can take as long as two years.

After the tracking, head back to your lodge for a delightful lunch.

Consider extending your time with the chimpanzees in Kibale Forest beyond the 3-hour trek for an unforgettable experience. The Chimpanzee Habituation Experience (CHEX) invites you to immerse yourself for 4 hours in the captivating world of chimpanzees as you observe and track their movements through the lush forest. If you’re curious about how regular chimpanzee trekking differs from CHEX, the latter provides a deeper, more engaging experience.

The guided Nature Walk at the Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary.

In the afternoon, we’ll embark on an exploration of Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary, nestled next to Kibale Forest, a true haven for biodiversity. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, our nature walk on raised planks invites you to encounter a variety of birds such as the Great Blue Turaco and the Shoebill Stork, as well as primates like chimpanzees and different species of monkeys. Keep an eye out for fascinating mammals such as Sitatunga antelopes and bush pigs, as well. Kibale is teeming with wildlife, home to Forest Elephants and buffaloes that are unique compared to their savannah counterparts. The forest weaves into a vast migration route that stretches all the way to the Democratic Republic of Congo. Bigodi serves as a haven for wildlife while also being a vibrant community initiative, where entrance and guide fees contribute to the support of local residents. The wetlands beckon to birdwatchers, boasting over 200 species and revealing the vibrant ecosystems of Uganda.

Lodging: Isunga Lodge – Full board included

Day 6: Journey to Queen Elizabeth Wildlife Park and the breathtaking Scenic Explosion Crater Drive

Our Gorilla-Chimpanzee and Wildlife Safari unfolds as we enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting off on a picturesque 2½-3 hour drive to Queen Elizabeth Park. This park is a vibrant sanctuary for an array of wildlife, featuring Uganda Kob, topi, elephants, lions, giant forest hogs, and Cape buffalo. Depending on the season, you may encounter flamingos at the soda lakes nestled within ancient volcanic calderas.

Upon arrival, we won’t immediately check into our lodge; instead, we’ll plunge right into the park’s stunning landscapes with a late morning Explosion Crater drive. This famous route, spanning 27 kilometers, reveals a collection of 12 craters dotted with serene lakes and offers breathtaking vistas from the park’s peak.

Majestic elephants traversing a path in Queen Elizabeth National Park during an exhilarating morning safari drive.

Prepare for an exciting journey as we encounter a diverse array of wildlife, followed by a well-deserved retreat at our lodge for some relaxation. After lunch, we’ll embark on an exhilarating game drive through the savannah, surrounded by the enchanting candelabra euphoria trees. You will get to rise above in the pop-up roof vehicle, capturing stunning photographs at your leisure, stopping whenever you desire for that ideal moment.

The park is embraced by the towering 16,000ft Rwenzori Mountains to the north and is bordered by the shimmering Lakes George and Edward, with its western edge touching Zaire’s Parc Du Virunga.

As the sun sets, we make our way back to the lodge, where a delightful dinner awaits, followed by a restful night’s sleep. Experience the Bush Lodge, where breathtaking vistas of the Kazinga Channel connecting Lake Edward and Lake George await, along with all meals included.

At last, we will make our way back to the lodge for a delightful dinner and a restful night ahead.

Lodging: Bush Lodge – Full board included.

The Bush Lodge boasts an incredible vantage point overlooking the renowned Kazinga Channel, linking the stunning Lake Edward and Lake George.

Other options include the moderately priced Enganzi Game Lodge, the upscale Kasenyi Safari Camp, Mweya Safari Lodge, and the luxurious Kyambura Gorge Lodge.

Day 7: Exciting morning safari drive followed by an exhilarating afternoon launch cruise on the Kazinga Channel

Waking up to the enticing aroma of breakfast amidst the wild is an experience that stays with you forever. Embarking on a morning game drive and witnessing a boat ride along the Kazinga Channel while observing hippos and nocturnal animals as they settle in for the night is truly exhilarating. As you journey forward, you may encounter a magnificent herd of elephants gracefully traversing the path before you, or catch a glimpse of a pair of lions lounging in the expansive savanna grass in the distance. Buffaloes roam peacefully in the dawn light, while birds soar gracefully above. Keep your eyes peeled; you could encounter a rock python hiding in the shadows. The game track ride usually spans around 2½ to 3 hours, yet it feels like mere moments as you become fully immersed in the experience.

After arriving back at your lodgings at Queen Elizabeth, you have the perfect opportunity to embrace some spontaneous moments before lunch. After lunch, embark on a boat ride along the Kazinga Channel, famous for its remarkable abundance of hippos in Africa. Imagine the thrill of snapping a photo of a hippo with its mouth wide open! At one point, the area was bustling with hippos, leading to their grazing and stripping the surrounding grasslands bare. Prior to gaining independence, the wildlife authorities managed their numbers, and the locals enjoyed the meat. Following Idi Amin’s rise to power, a tumultuous period ensued where poachers and soldiers claimed the lives of numerous hippos. Even during the decline of Idi Amin, locals, rebels, and soldiers engaged in the thrilling pursuit of many hippos.

As you glide along the water, your eyes are treated to a vibrant display of wildlife—flocks of birds soaring overhead, crocodiles basking in the sun, and the majestic presence of elephants and buffaloes along the banks. It is truly an exhilarating experience and often stands out as one of the most memorable moments of a safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park. After a delightful dinner, you can relax outside beneath the vast, starry African sky, soaking in the experience.

Accommodation: Bush Lodge – Includes all meals.

Day 8: Embark on an exhilarating journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, with an exciting stopover at Ishasha – in pursuit of the elusive Tree Climbing Lions.

Tree-climbing lions lounging on branches in the Ishasha region. After a hearty breakfast, we embarked on our journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, choosing a picturesque path through the lesser-known southern section of Queen Elizabeth Park – the Ishasha region. Famous for its tree-climbing lions, we will embark on an exhilarating game drive here that will last up to three hours. With a knowledgeable guide from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), the drive offers a thrilling chance to spot not only lions but also leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and a variety of antelopes, including the stunning Topi.

Enjoy lunch at the Savannah Resort before heading to the Ruhija area of Bwindi, where you will stay at the Bakiga Lodge.

While a game drive is included in the typical safari package, its practicality frequently hinges on the state of the road. Even with the finest 4×4 vehicle, there can be moments when the path is obstructed by mudslides and other challenging conditions brought on by intense rainfall. If circumstances don’t permit, we’ll head straight to Bwindi through a more refined landscape, skipping the game drive. The UWA, however, works tirelessly to ensure the road remains functional at all times.

Lodging: Bakiga Lodge – complete dining experience

Other options: Moderately priced Haven Lodge – Buhoma, Upscale and Luxury: Mahogany Springs, Buhoma Lodge, Bwindi Lodge, and Gorilla Forest Camp.

Day 9: Trekking with Mountain Gorillas – Exploring Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Park and Journeying to Lake Bunyonyi

Are you prepared for an unforgettable journey? The exciting day has arrived! Kick off your day with the sunrise and a fulfilling breakfast that sets the stage for excitement ahead.
Do not forget to pick up your packed lunch from the Lodge!

Your daypack must-haves: Ideally, a waterproof daypack that doubles as a carry-on for your flight to Uganda. Gather all your must-haves and stow them in the daypack. Pack a delicious lunch, 2 litres of water, a rain jacket, or a poncho into your daypack.

What to Wear for an Exciting Gorilla Trekking Experience in Uganda

Selecting the perfect outfit for Gorilla Trekking is essential. Regrettably, numerous trekkers embark on their journeys without adequate preparation, resulting
to unease that takes away from the breathtaking journey. Choosing the right attire goes beyond mere comfort; it’s essential for your safety and well-being. Here’s what you might want to think about wearing: A close-up view of a mountain gorilla in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Park during an exhilarating 12-Day Uganda Gorilla, Chimpanzee & Wildlife Safari.

Long-Sleeved Shirts: Shield yourself from scratches, insect bites, and the sun. Earthy tones are suggested.
Breathable Trousers: Choose long pants that are tough and can shield your legs from thorns and nettles. Slip them into your socks for an extra layer of defense against ants.
Durable, Waterproof Hiking Boots: A must-have for the frequently rugged and unpredictable landscape. Make sure they are well-worn to prevent any discomfort.
Garden Gloves: These are essential for gripping branches and navigating through thick foliage.
A hat: Shields your head from the sun’s rays and offers a safeguard against unexpected rain showers.
A waterproof jacket or poncho is essential; the weather can change in an instant, especially in the heart of the forests. You find yourself immersed in a vibrant Afro-montane Rainforest.
Thick Socks: These can be tucked into trousers to keep pesky insects at bay.

Additional items

Shades
Camera gear: Bring along additional batteries and storage devices secured in Ziploc bags. Binoculars are essential for those who seek to explore the wonders of the world around them.
Insect Repellant: We suggest utilizing the powerful Australian RID Insect Repellent, along with sunscreen and sunglasses for your outdoor escapades.

Having a porter and a walking stick is essential: A porter will lighten your load on the sometimes-tough trail, while a local walking stick provides support and balance on the frequently challenging path. We provide our clients with a combination of both.

For an additional $20, you can opt for walking sticks and porters to ease your journey, though they are not part of the package price. Explore our guide on the perfect attire for your safari journey.
Keep in mind that the focus is on creating an enjoyable and unforgettable experience with the Gorillas while ensuring your safety.

The Orientation for Gorilla Trekking:

We’ll connect you with a Gorilla Family that aligns with your fitness level, age, and health status. The ranger takes this bold step.
You’ll receive advice on how to conduct yourself during your trek and when you find yourself close to the Gentle Giants. Explore the complete rules and guidelines right here.

The Gorilla Expedition and Encounter

After orientation, you embark on your thrilling Gorilla Trek up the volcanoes. You are trekking at an elevation above 2,000 meters, a thrilling experience for many. While the ascent may be challenging, it remains accessible and presents no difficulties for individuals with a reasonable level of fitness. The group of hikers journeying through the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest with an expert guide on a Uganda Gorilla & Chimpanzee Safari embarks on a trek lasting between three to five hours, featuring an hour spent with the Gorilla Family—a truly unforgettable experience for most. Typically, you find yourself returning to the Lodge around 1:00 p.m.

Seeking additional moments of joy with our beloved pets? Choose the all-day Gorilla Habituation Experience for an extraordinary four hours with the mountain gorillas. This unique experience comes with an extra fee of USD 1,500. So, are you ready for an exhilarating experience?

We might linger here for another night or embark on a 2½-hour drive to Lake Bunyonyi, where exploration and relaxation await. The activities here at Lake Bunyonyi are available for you to choose from and are not part of the package.

Lodging: Lake Bunyonyi Eco-Resort – Complete dining experience

Another choice: BirdNest Resort.

Day 10: Lake Bunyonyi: Discovery and Leisure

After breakfast, embark on an exhilarating guided nature walk in Bwindi before heading to the stunning Lake Bunyonyi. Yet, choosing to embark on the village trail or
one of the five trails should align with your personal tastes. After a lunch break, we will set off for Lake Bunyonyi, a remarkable tourist destination that promises excitement and wonder. This area, often referred to as “Little Switzerland,” is an ideal spot for exploration and excitement. A lot of overland campers seem to feel the same way. The lake and hills in the area offer stunning views, and the water invites you to take a dip if you steer clear of the reedy sections.

Visitors enjoying a delightful meal at Lake Bunyonyi Eco-Resort. Lake Bunyonyi presents an extraordinary experience that stands apart from typical wildlife destinations. While you might encounter playful otters and a variety of bird species, it mainly serves as a place to unwind and relax. Numerous guests and travel agents discover it to be an excellent spot to pause and recharge during lengthy journeys.

Lake Bunyonyi, the second deepest lake in Africa, invites you to indulge in a feast of delicious crayfish, promising a delightful culinary experience. “Bunyonyi” is a local term that translates directly to “many small birds.” This destination is essential for passionate bird watchers, featuring a winding lake and 29 islands that promise exciting experiences to explore. Arrive at your chosen accommodation at Lake Bunyonyi, where a world of exciting activities awaits you. You can embark on a canoe ride, explore islands such as Bwama Island (which is
perfect for bird enthusiasts), or embark on a nature walk along the shoreline of one of the islands to enjoy a diverse array of small birds, or you can just unwind. After a day of tracking gorillas, you will find that dinner at your lodging is a rewarding experience.

Lake Bunyonyi Eco-Resort awaits with thrilling experiences and captivating landscapes.

Day 11: Lake Mburo & Exciting Afternoon Game Drive

Embark on an exciting journey to Lake Mburo for an afternoon game drive as part of our 12-Day Pearl of Africa Safari, featuring gorillas, chimpanzees, and wildlife. Enjoy breakfast before heading to this stunning park. Explore the enchanting Kigezi highlands, where the breathtaking scenery captivates the senses in Africa’s lush embrace. You can immerse yourself in one of the elegant, upscale tented camps that are environmentally conscious and undoubtedly among the finest accommodations you have ever experienced.

Settle in for a delightful lunch at your selected accommodation by the shores of Lake Mburo.

After savoring your lunch, you can embark on an exhilarating afternoon game drive in Uganda, where you will encounter a diverse array of wildlife, including the renowned mountain gorillas in Bwindi. Among the fascinating creatures you might encounter are zebras, warthogs, buffaloes, klipspringers, elands, orbits, and waterbucks. Lake Mburo National Park is particularly famous for its impalas, small antelopes that roam the grassy plains in search of herbs. Fascinatingly, the capital city of Kampala gets its name from the impala. If you are in the mood for excitement, consider choosing a horseback safari or an ATV quad safari. The decision is completely in your hands.

Lodging: Eagles Nest Lodge – Complete dining experience

Alternative choices include the reasonably priced Rwakobo Rock, as well as the more luxurious Mihingo Lodge and Kigambira Safari Lodge.

Day 12: Exciting Walking Safari & Journey Back to Entebbe/Kampala

Morning meal and departure. We gather a UWA-armed guide for an exhilarating 1½ nature walk before setting off on our adventure to Entebbe/Kampala.

We used to plan an exhilarating afternoon boat safari at this location. However, in many instances, we must fulfill the minimum requirement.
of participants or cover the entire fee needed to embark on a thrilling one-hour boat journey. Given our previous exhilarating boat safaris on this trip, we think swapping it for a walking safari would be far more exhilarating and enjoyable.

As we forge ahead on our exciting journey, we will pause in Masaka for a delightful lunch. Afterward, we will make our way back towards Kampala and take a break at Zebras and impalas grazing in Lake Mburo National Park on a Uganda Gorilla & Chimpanzee SafariNabusanke Trading Center. Here, you can experience the thrill of standing on the equator, capturing unforgettable photos, and exploring unique souvenirs and crafts. Our adventure will carry on as we make our way to Entebbe in the late afternoon, bringing our 12-day exploration of the Pearl of Africa to a close. This journey has taken us through Uganda’s finest wildlife and game parks, along with unforgettable experiences of gorilla and chimpanzee trekking.