This 9-day Uganda safari is a classic itinerary designed for travelers who want to experience the country’s top highlights. It includes gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, extensive game viewing in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Parks, and chimpanzee tracking, offering a perfect blend of primate encounters and big game safaris.
Trek to meet a family of endangered Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Track chimpanzees through the dramatic Kyambura Gorge.
Enjoy thrilling game drives in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Parks.
Cruise the Nile River and the Kazinga Channel for unique aquatic wildlife viewing.
Search for the famous tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector.
Discover local culture at the fascinating Lake Katwe salt works.
Explore the vibrant capital with a guided tour of Kampala.
Touch down at Entebbe International Airport, where your Muganzi Safaris guide welcomes you. Instead of just transferring to a hotel, we dive straight into Ugandan life with a guided Kampala city tour. Visit the historic Gaddafi Mosque for panoramic city views, explore the vibrant Nakasero Market, and absorb the cultural highlights. This immersive start provides a wonderful context for your safari adventure.
Accommodation: Cassia Lodge or similar (Mid-Range)
After breakfast, we journey northwest. En route, we stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for a guided trek on foot to see the endangered white rhino—a fantastic start to your wildlife viewing. We continue to Murchison Falls National Park, arriving in time to relax and soak in the savanna atmosphere.
Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge or similar (Mid-Range)
An early morning game drive reveals the park’s treasures: elephants, Rothschild’s giraffes, lions, and vast herds of antelope. In the afternoon, we switch perspectives for a boat cruise on the Victoria Nile. This journey to the base of the falls offers incredible close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, and elephants. We then take a short, rewarding hike to the “Top of the Falls” to feel the thunderous spray.
Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge or similar (Mid-Range)
We depart after breakfast for a scenic drive south to Queen Elizabeth National Park, a biodiversity hotspot. The journey itself is a visual treat, passing through rural villages and rolling landscapes. We check into our lodge with time to relax before an evening of listening to the sounds of the African bush.
Accommodation: Engazi Game Lodge or similar (Mid-Range)
Today is a classic safari day. We start with a morning game drive across the Kasenyi Plains, searching for lions, leopards, buffalo, and elephants. After lunch, we embark on a famous boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel. This is a photographer’s dream, with huge concentrations of hippos, birds, and animals crowding the water’s edge.
Accommodation: Engazi Game Lodge or similar (Mid-Range)
A different adventure awaits as we head to Kyambura Gorge for chimpanzee tracking. Descending into this lush, forested canyon is an experience in itself. Following the energetic calls of chimps through the undergrowth is thrilling. In the afternoon, we visit the Lake Katwe salt works to see traditional salt mining methods, a fascinating glimpse into local industry.
Accommodation: Engazi Game Lodge or similar (Mid-Range)
We journey south towards Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Our route takes us through the Ishasha sector, renowned for its unique population of tree-climbing lions. We’ll embark on a game drive here, scanning the fig trees for these elusive cats. We then continue to the highlands, arriving at our lodge on the edge of the ancient forest.
Accommodation: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge or similar (Mid-Range)
This is the day you’ve been waiting for. After an early breakfast and briefing, you will begin your gorilla trekking adventure. Hiking through the dense, misty ecosystem of Bwindi is a profound experience. The moment you encounter a gorilla family is humbling and exhilarating. You will spend one magical hour observing them as they feed, play, and interact. This is a truly life-changing experience.
Accommodation: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge or similar (Mid-Range)
After a leisurely breakfast, we begin our journey back to Entebbe. We’ll make a classic stop at the Uganda Equator for photos and demonstrations before continuing to the airport for your evening departure flight, filled with memories that will last a lifetime.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
One Gorilla Trekking Permit (valued at $800)
Chimpanzee Tracking Permit
All park entrance fees and activity costs
Accommodation for 8 nights
Meals as specified in the itinerary (8 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 8 Dinners)
Services of a professional English-speaking driver/guide
Ground transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
All airport transfers
Bottled drinking water in the vehicle
International airfare
Visa fees
Personal travel insurance
Tips for guides and lodge staff
Alcoholic and other premium beverages
Items of a personal nature (souvenirs, etc.)
Fitness: Gorilla trekking requires a moderate level of fitness. The terrain can be steep and challenging.
Packing: Pack sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, layers of clothing, and binoculars.
Booking: Gorilla permits are limited and must be secured well in advance. We recommend booking this safari at least 6-9 months ahead for the best availability.
Ready to embark on your essential Ugandan adventure? This 9-day safari is our most popular tour for its perfect balance of wildlife and primates. Contact Muganzi Safaris today to check availability and secure your spot