Overview
The 12-Day Uganda Primate & Wildlife Safari is a journey where the savannah meets the tropical rainforest, offering you a unique blend of thrilling wildlife, primate tracking, and breathtaking scenery. Expect to see Africa’s iconic animals — lions, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, leopards, and hippos — as well as up to 13 primate species including mountain gorillas and chimpanzees.
This adventure takes you through Uganda’s most remarkable national parks — Murchison Falls, Kibale Forest, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Lake Bunyonyi, and Lake Mburo, showcasing the best of Uganda’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
Safari Highlights
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Track mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
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Experience chimpanzee habituation in Kibale Forest.
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Enjoy scenic game drives across Uganda’s savannah parks.
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Cruise the Victoria Nile and Kazinga Channel among hippos and crocodiles.
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Relax on the tranquil shores of Lake Bunyonyi.
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Witness Uganda’s incredible diversity — from wildlife to local culture.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe
Welcome to Uganda! Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, a Muganzi Safaris representative will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your hotel for relaxation after your journey.
Accommodation Options:
Day 2: Entebbe – Murchison Falls National Park
After breakfast, depart for Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and most famous park. En route, visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for rhino tracking before continuing to the Top of the Falls, where the Nile River squeezes through a narrow gorge with thunderous force.
Accommodation Options:
Day 3: Game Drive & Nile River Cruise
Enjoy a thrilling morning game drive across Murchison’s savannah plains, spotting elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, lions, and antelopes. In the afternoon, embark on a boat cruise along the Victoria Nile to the base of the falls, where hippos, crocodiles, and colorful birdlife thrive.
Accommodation: Same as above
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Day 4: Murchison Falls – Kibale Forest National Park
After breakfast, drive south through the beautiful Albertine Rift Valley, passing charming villages and farmlands. Arrive in Fort Portal, a picturesque town set against the backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains — “Mountains of the Moon.”
Accommodation Options:
Day 5: Chimpanzee Habituation Experience
Today, you’ll join researchers in Kibale Forest for a once-in-a-lifetime chimpanzee habituation experience. Spend the day observing these intelligent primates in their natural environment — from de-nesting at dawn to building new nests at dusk.
Accommodation: Same as above
Day 6: Kibale – Queen Elizabeth National Park
After breakfast, travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its rich wildlife and diverse ecosystems. Stop at the Equator for a photo opportunity before visiting Katwe Salt Lake or enjoying an evening game drive.
Accommodation Options:
Day 7: Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
Begin the day with an early morning game drive through Kasenyi Plains, home to elephants, buffaloes, lions, and leopards. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, connecting Lake Edward and Lake George — a hotspot for hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife.
Accommodation: Same as above
Day 8: Queen Elizabeth – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
After breakfast, drive through the Ishasha Sector, famous for tree-climbing lions, before arriving at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home of the endangered mountain gorillas.
Accommodation Options:
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Midrange: Ichumbi Lodge / Rushaga Gorilla Lodge / Haven Buhoma
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Luxury: Mahogany Springs / Buhoma Lodge / Gorilla Leisure Lodge
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High-End: Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge / Gorilla Forest Camp
Day 9: Gorilla Trekking Adventure
Today, embark on your unforgettable gorilla trekking experience. After a briefing, head into the dense Bwindi Forest with experienced rangers to find a habituated gorilla family. Spend up to an hour observing their behaviors — a truly emotional and life-changing encounter.
Accommodation: Same as above
Day 10: Bwindi – Lake Bunyonyi
After breakfast, drive to the scenic Lake Bunyonyi, Africa’s second deepest lake. Known as the “Place of Many Little Birds,” it’s ideal for relaxation after your gorilla trek. Enjoy a boat cruise or explore the surrounding islands.
Accommodation Options:
Day 11: Lake Bunyonyi – Lake Mburo National Park
Depart for Lake Mburo National Park, a beautiful park dotted with lakes and acacia woodlands. Enjoy a boat trip upon arrival, spotting hippos and abundant bird species.
Accommodation Options:
Day 12: Lake Mburo – Entebbe Departure
Begin the day with a guided nature walk or optional horseback safari to see zebras, impalas, and elands up close. After lunch, return to Entebbe, stopping at the Equator line for photos and souvenirs before your departure flight.
Safari Inclusions
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4×4 Land Cruiser with pop-up roof for game viewing
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Professional English-speaking driver-guide
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Accommodation and meals as listed
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Park entrance fees and activity permits
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Gorilla & chimpanzee tracking permits
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All boat cruises and nature walks
Exclusions:
International flights, visas, insurance, tips, drinks, and personal expenses.
