12 Days Uganda Safari Adventure – Gorillas, Wildlife & The Mighty Nile Experience

Overview

Embark on the ultimate 12-day Uganda Safari adventure — a journey that takes you through breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife encounters, thrilling adventures, and rich cultural experiences. From gorilla and chimpanzee trekking to game drives, white water rafting, and scenic boat cruises, this itinerary reveals the very best of the Pearl of Africa.

You’ll explore top destinations including Jinja, Murchison Falls, Kibale Forest, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and Lake Mburo National Park. Expect rhino tracking, rafting, nature walks, and unforgettable close encounters with Africa’s Big Five.

  •  12 Days
  • Age 15+
  • Uganda

 

 

Detailed Itinerary

 

 

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe & Transfer to Jinja

 

 

Meet your guide upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport and transfer to Jinja — the adventure capital of East Africa. Along the scenic route, enjoy views of Mabira Forest and lush tea plantations. Visit the Source of the Nile before checking into your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Wild Waters Lodge / Jinja Safari Lodge / Kingfisher Safaris Resort

Day 2: White Water Rafting & Transfer to Kampala

 

After breakfast, head to the Nile for an adrenaline-pumping white water rafting experience — no prior experience required! Enjoy thrilling rapids and spectacular views before lunch and your transfer back to Kampala.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Kabira Country Club / Cassia Lodge / Red Chilli Hideaway

Day 3: Rhino Tracking at Ziwa & Transfer to Murchison Falls

 

Drive north to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for rhino tracking on foot. Continue to Murchison Falls National Park, arriving in time for a brief evening game drive before checking into your lodge.

Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Chobe Safari Lodge / Pakuba Safari Lodge / Red Chilli Rest Camp

Day 4: Game Drive, Boat Cruise & Hike to the Top of Murchison Falls

 

 

Enjoy a morning game drive to spot lions, elephants, giraffes, and buffaloes. In the afternoon, cruise along the Nile to the base of Murchison Falls and hike to the top for panoramic views of the world’s most powerful waterfall.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Chobe Safari Lodge / Pakuba Safari Lodge / Red Chilli Rest Camp

Day 5: Drive to Kibale Forest National Park

 

Depart Murchison Falls for Kibale Forest, known as the primate capital of the world. The scenic journey takes about 6–7 hours, arriving in time to relax at your lodge.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Primate Lodge / Kibale Forest Camp / Isunga Lodge

Day 6: Chimpanzee Trekking & Bigodi Wetland Walk

 

 

Join a guided trek to see wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat. After lunch, visit Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for a nature walk filled with birdlife and local community experiences.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Primate Lodge / Kibale Forest Camp / Isunga Lodge

Day 7: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

 

After breakfast, drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Enjoy an evening game drive across the plains of Kasenyi, where elephants, antelopes, and big cats roam freely.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mweya Safari Lodge / Enganzi Game Lodge / Bush Lodge

Day 8: Morning Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

 

 

Embark on a morning game drive to spot lions, leopards, and elephants. In the afternoon, cruise along the Kazinga Channel, home to hippos, crocodiles, and countless bird species.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mweya Safari Lodge / Enganzi Game Lodge / Bush Lodge

Day 9: Ishasha Game Drive & Transfer to Bwindi

 

Explore the Ishasha sector, famous for tree-climbing lions. After lunch, continue to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest — home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge / Gorilla Mist Lodge / Ruhija Gorilla Friends Camp

Day 10: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

 

After a briefing, trek deep into the forest in search of a gorilla family. Spend one incredible hour observing their behavior and interactions — an unforgettable experience.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge / Gorilla Mist Lodge / Ruhija Gorilla Friends Camp

Day 11: Drive to Lake Mburo National Park & Evening Game Drive

 

 

Travel to Lake Mburo National Park and enjoy an evening game drive to see zebras, impalas, and elands.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Mihingo Lodge / Rwakobo Rock Lodge / Eagles Nest Camp

Day 12: Nature Walk & Return to Kampala or Entebbe

 

Take a guided nature walk in Lake Mburo — one of Uganda’s few parks where walking safaris are allowed. After lunch, drive back to Kampala or Entebbe for your departure.

Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch

 

Why Choose This 12-Day Uganda Safari

 

  • Track gorillas, chimpanzees, and rhinos in their natural habitats.

  • Enjoy boat cruises, game drives, and rafting adventures.

  • Experience Uganda’s unique culture and stunning scenery.

  • Perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive safari experience.