7 Days Uganda Safari

Day 1: Arrival

You will be picked by our experienced guide on arrival at the airport and be briefed about the trip and then proceed to the Hotel/lodge in Entebbe. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.  

As the first light of day pierces the horizon, you set forth on an early morning departure from the cozy confines of your lodge. Your destination is the grand Murchison Falls, and your path takes you through the picturesque terrains of Luwero and Nakasongola districts. Along the way, a stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Nakasongola presents an exhilarating opportunity to come face-to-face with rhinos in their natural habitat, alongside a diverse array of wildlife that includes various primates and antelopes. The sanctuary’s marshland is a birder’s paradise, offering a chance to spot the rare shoebill stork from the tranquility of a wooden boat gliding through the water. After enjoying a delightful lunch amidst these serene surroundings, you resume your trek to Murchison Falls National Park. Your arrival in the evening is just in time to witness the golden hues of sunset casting a warm glow over the landscape. The day winds down with a delectable dinner, followed by a peaceful night’s rest back at the lodge, leaving you with memories of a day well spent in nature’s embrace.

Following a nourishing breakfast at the serene lodge, you’ll set out on an exhilarating journey to the park, accompanied by your knowledgeable guide. Immerse yourself in the thrill of game viewing within Murchison’s vast expanses, a sanctuary brimming with diverse fauna such as majestic giraffes, towering elephants, graceful waterbucks, elusive leopards, formidable buffaloes, basking hippos, stealthy hyenas, and trotting warthogs among others. Our seasoned guides, with their wealth of experience, will navigate you to the prime spots for wildlife observation. After basking in the morning’s adventures, you’ll retreat to the lodge for a delightful lunch. The afternoon promises yet another adventure as you embark on a boat cruise to the falls’ base. Witness the awe-inspiring power of the Nile as it carves through a narrow gorge only 5 meters wide before cascading down with a mighty roar. Keep an eye out for Nile crocodiles and hippos luxuriating along the banks or swimming in the calm waters. The riverbanks also serve as a watering hole for other wildlife such as buffaloes and elephants quenching their thirst. Concluding this remarkable day, you’ll return to the lodge for some well-deserved relaxation followed by a sumptuous dinner and a restful overnight stay.

Begin your morning leisurely, savoring a tranquil breakfast amidst the serene backdrop of Murchison Falls Park. Embrace the peaceful ambiance as you indulge in the local flavors and prepare for the day ahead. Once satiated, take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty surrounding you; let the sights and sounds of the park etch into your memory. As the time for departure nears, ensure all belongings are gathered, and bid farewell to this slice of paradise. The journey continues as you embark on a scenic transfer to Kibale Forest National Park. Known as the primate capital of Africa, anticipation builds for the encounters that await within its lush, verdant landscapes.

After an early morning cup of coffee, invigorated and ready for adventure, you gather your essentials and make your way to the Kanyanchu Visitor Information Centre. Here, amidst the whispers of the forest, you’ll receive your briefing and complete the necessary registration formalities. The anticipation builds as the clock nears 8:00 am—the commencement of the chimpanzee trekking experience.

The journey that awaits can vary greatly in duration; it may be a brief encounter lasting a mere 30 minutes or an extensive hike that spans over 5 hours. Your pace and the whims of the chimpanzees will dictate the length of your trek. As you delve deeper into the park, you’re not only tracing the steps of these fascinating primates but also entering the realm of other residents. The forest canopy is alive with the acrobatics of Black and white colobus monkeys, the vibrant hues of blue monkeys, and the playful antics of red-tailed monkeys. Baboons roam freely, their presence a testament to the wildness of this place, while grey-cheeked mangabeys add to the chorus of primate calls that fill the air.

In the afternoon, your adventure continues with a nature walk in Bigodi Wetland. This sanctuary is a mosaic of biodiversity, hosting an array of birds whose songs decorate the airwaves, primates that peer curiously from behind leaves, and ground animals that tread softly on the forest floor. As dusk approaches, you retreat to your lodge, where dinner awaits. Here, under the canopy of stars, you’ll recount the day’s encounters and rest in preparation for another day’s adventures.

Morning Transfer from Kibale National Park:
Begin your day with a scenic drive from Kibale National Park to the Igongo Cultural Centre. Enjoy the changing landscapes as you journey toward Mbarara District in western Uganda.

Arrival at Igongo Cultural Centre:
Upon arrival, you’ll find yourself on the former palace grounds of the local Ankole king. Take a moment to appreciate the historical significance of this location.

Explore the Museum:
The Igongo Cultural Centre houses one of the most detailed and historically accurate collections of Ugandan artifacts. Immerse yourself in the rich culture, history, and daily life of the Bahima tribe.
Discover exhibits that showcase the agrarian and pastoral culture, political changes, and modernization of agricultural practices in the region.

Learn About the Bahima People:
Dive into the way of life of the tribes in southwestern Uganda, particularly the cattle-herding Bahima. Understand their traditions, customs, and resilience.
Explore how the region has adapted to new technologies, including collaborations with the University of Basel, Switzerland, on cheese making and milk pasteurization.

Visit the Eitaramiro Culture Village:
Take a guided tour of the Eitaramiro culture village within the centre. Learn about the day-to-day life in a typical Kigezi and Ankole household.
Engage with locals, ask questions, and gain insights into their traditions.

Optional Activities:
Participate in a hands-on session of eshabwe-making from ghee (clarified butter) made from Ankole cow milk.
Witness millet bread-making or even try your hand at it.
Visit a local Ankole cow farm and experience milking firsthand.

Lunch at the Centre:
Enjoy local, authentic Bahima and Ugandan cuisine at one of the centre’s restaurants.

Explore Beyond the Museum:
Consider a day trip to the Biharwe Eclipse monument in Mbarara or explore nearby honey farms.
Engage in evening entertainment or meet with the Bahima tribespeople.

Dinner & Overnight at Igongo Hotel

After enjoying your breakfast, bid farewell to the remarkable Igongo Center, check out from your hotel, and we will transfer you to Entebbe International Airport for your onward flight to your next destination.