Big 5 safari in Uganda is a thrilling 10-day adventure combining encounters with the Big 5, gorilla trekking, and chimpanzee tracking for an unforgettable experience. This safari showcases Uganda’s diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.

Kick off your Big 5 safari in Uganda at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, tracking wild rhinos on foot. Continue to Murchison Falls National Park, home to lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalos. Enjoy exhilarating game drives, a Nile River cruise, and a visit to the world’s most powerful waterfalls.

Next, head to Kibale Forest National Park for incredible chimpanzee tracking amidst Africa’s richest primate diversity. Explore Bigodi Village to complement your cultural experience. Then, visit Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you’ll encounter tree-climbing lions, over 95 mammal species, and 600 bird species.

The highlight bonus of your Big 5 safari in Uganda is gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to half of the world’s remaining Mountain Gorillas. Unwind afterward at Lake Bunyonyi, a serene retreat with 29 stunning islands. Conclude this incredible journey with a game walk in Lake Mburo National Park, before heading back to Entebbe or Kampala.

Major Activities

• Track wild white rhinos on foot
• Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
• Trek for wild Chimpanzees in Kibale Forest
• Cultural tour of Bigodi Village
• Track rare tree climbing lions in Ishasha
• Boat cruise on Kazinga Channel
• Boat trip to the bottom of Murchison Falls
• Boat cruise on beautiful Lake Bunyonyi
• Game drives in Murchison Falls & Queen Elizabeth Parks
• Visiting the top of Murchison Falls
• Walking safari in Lake Mburo National Park
• Uganda Equator crossing experience

Highlights

Day 1: Track rhinos in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary & Transfer to Murchison Falls

Day 2: Morning Game Drives & Afternoon Boat Cruise

Day 3: Visit the Top of the Falls & Transfer to Kibale Forest

Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking & Bigodi Community Walk.

Day 5: Travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Day 6: Game Drive in Kasenyi & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

Day 7: Track Tree-Climbing Lions & Travel to Bwindi

Day 8: Gorilla Trekking & Relaxation at Lake Bunyonyi

Day 9:  Relaxed Breakfast & Transfer to Lake Mburo

Day 10: Game walk in Lake Mburo NP & Drive Back to Kampala

Details

Day 1: Track Rhinos in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary & Transfer to Murchison Falls

Your exciting Big 5 Safari in Uganda begins today! Your tour driver will pick you up from Kampala or Entebbe at 7:00 AM for a 5–6 hour scenic drive northwest to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and most iconic park. Along the way, you’ll pass through lively towns, colorful roadside markets, and picturesque rural villages, offering a glimpse of Uganda’s beauty.

The first stop on your Big 5 Safari in Uganda is the renowned Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in the country where wild rhinos roam. This 70 km² sanctuary, operated by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, is dedicated to rhino conservation, aiming to reintroduce rhinos to Uganda’s national parks.

Enjoy a thrilling two-hour rhino tracking adventure on foot, led by expert rangers, giving you an intimate encounter with one of the Big 5. Following this memorable activity, head to Kabalega Dinner for a delightful lunch. Afterward, continue your journey to Murchison Falls National Park, arriving in the late afternoon.

Spanning 3,893 km², the park is a haven for wildlife, boasting over 70 mammal species—including lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalos from the Big 5—as well as 470 bird species.

The park’s highlight is the dramatic Murchison Falls, where the Nile River forces its way through an 8-meter gorge before plunging into a breathtaking cascade. This incredible spectacle sets the perfect tone for your unforgettable Big 5 Safari in Uganda.

Accommodation Options:

Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge/Bakers Lodge/Nile Safari Lodge

Mid-range: Pakuba Safari Lodge/Murchison River Lodge

Budget: Hornbill Safari Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Drive Distance & Time: Approx. 311 km or 5-6 hours

Day 2: Morning Game Drives & Afternoon Boat Cruise

Day 2 of your Big 5 safari in Uganda starts with an early breakfast before heading out on an exhilarating 3 to 4-hour morning game drive in the northern savannahs of Murchison Falls National Park. As the sun rises over the scenic grasslands, you’ll search for incredible wildlife, including giraffes, buffalos, elephants, lions, leopards, hyenas, and more. Keep an eye out for playful warthogs, grazing antelopes, and primates like Patas monkeys and baboons.

Bird lovers will also be delighted by sightings of special species such as Pel’s Fishing Owl, Saddle-billed Stork, Goliath Heron, Ground Hornbill, and the striking Grey Crowned Crane. With a bit of luck, you might even spot the rare and prehistoric-looking shoebill stork. After the drive, return to the lodge to relax and enjoy lunch.

In the afternoon, embark on a spectacular 3-hour boat cruise on the Nile River, a highlight of your Big 5 safari in Uganda. Witness massive crocodiles slipping into the water and pods of hippos jostling along the banks. Marvel at countless waterbirds before pausing near the base of the powerful Murchison Falls, where the Nile narrows to 8 meters and plunges 45 meters into the cauldron below.

Wrap up the day with dinner and relaxation at your lodge, ready for the next adventure in your Big 5 safari in Uganda!

Accommodation Options:

Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge/Bakers Lodge/Nile Safari Lodge

Mid-range: Pakuba Safari Lodge/Murchison River Lodge

Budget: Hornbill Safari Lodge

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Visit the Top of the Falls & Transfer to Kibale Forest

On Day 3 of your Big 5 Safari in Uganda, start with a relaxed breakfast before driving to the top of Murchison Falls, where you’ll witness the breathtaking power of the world’s strongest waterfalls from an incredible vantage point.

After soaking in the magnificent views, embark on a scenic six-hour drive south to Kibale Forest National Park. Along the way, you’ll stop for lunch in Fort Portal, a picturesque town nestled at the base of the legendary Mountains of the Moon, famous for its lush tea plantations and stunning scenery.

From Fort Portal, continue to Kibale Forest National Park, home to one of Africa’s most pristine rainforests. Spanning 770 km², Kibale boasts the highest concentration and variety of primates on the continent, with 13 species, including over 1,500 wild chimpanzees. You’ll arrive at your camp in the late afternoon, where you’ll unwind, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your Big 5 Safari in Uganda.

Accommodation Options:

Luxury: Crater Safari Lodge/Kyaninga Lodge/Primate Lodge Kibale

Midrange: Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse – Cottages/Kibale Forest Camp

Budget: Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse – Main house

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Drive Distance & Time: Approx. 366 km or 6 hours

Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking & Bigodi Community Walk

A special spice of your Big 5 safari in Uganda, Day 4 begins with an early breakfast at 6:30 AM before transferring to the Kanyanchu Visitor Centre for an unforgettable chimpanzee trekking adventure. After a briefing by skilled park rangers at 8:00 AM, head into the lush Kibale Forest, home to over 1,500 habituated chimpanzees.

The trek lasts 2 to 5 hours, with a 95% success rate of encountering these fascinating creatures. Watching chimpanzees as they swing through the trees, socialize, patrol, and call out to each other is an inspiring experience. You’ll spend an entire hour with them, capturing photos and marveling at their intelligent, human-like behaviors.

Along the way, keep an eye out for elusive forest mammals like Bushbucks, Duikers, and perhaps even forest-adapted elephants. Observant trekkers may spot colorful butterflies, reptiles, and amphibians, alongside Kibale’s impressive birdlife, which includes species like the Green-breasted Pitta and African Grey Parrot.

After lunch back at the lodge, dive into the cultural side of your Big 5 safari in Uganda with a guided walk in Bigodi Village, where you’ll gain insights into rural African life and traditions.

Accommodation Options:

Luxury: Crater Safari Lodge/Kyaninga Lodge/Primate Lodge Kibale

Midrange: Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse – Cottages/Kibale Forest Camp

Budget: Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse – Main house

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park & Afternoon Game Drive

Your Big 5 Safari in Uganda continues with a leisurely breakfast before saying goodbye to the amazing staff at Kibale Forest. Set out on a scenic 2 to 3-hour drive south to Queen Elizabeth National Park, a journey filled with stunning views.

Arrive at your lodge in time for lunch and a short rest. In the afternoon, embark on an exciting game drive through Uganda’s most visited park. Spanning 1,978 km², Queen Elizabeth National Park was established in 1952 and renamed in honor of Queen Elizabeth II. Its diverse habitats include sprawling savannahs, tropical forests, papyrus swamps, and beautiful crater lakes.

This incredible diversity supports 95 mammal species and over 600 bird species, making it a top highlight of your Big 5 Safari in Uganda. Keep an eye out for elephants, buffalos, antelopes, and vibrant birdlife as you explore the park’s breathtaking landscapes. Capture magical moments of the savannah bathed in the golden hues of sunset.

Return to your lodge in the evening to unwind, enjoy dinner, and reflect on the adventures of the day, as you prepare for more thrilling experiences on your Big 5 Safari in Uganda.

Accommodation Options:

Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge/Kyambura Gorge Lodge

Midrange: Enganzi Game Lodge/Bush Lodge/Kasenyi Safari Camp

Budget: Pumba Safari Cottages

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6: Game Drive in Kasenyi & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

Your exciting Big 5 safari in Uganda continues with an early breakfast before setting out for a thrilling morning game drive in the Kasenyi Plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park. This area is not only rich in wildlife but also one of the most scenic in the park, especially during the golden hours of sunrise.

Look out for impressive African big game, including elephants, buffalos, kobs, bushbucks, and hippos, as well as predators like leopards, hyenas, and forest hogs. After the game drive, return to your lodge for relaxation and lunch before transferring to the Mweya Jetty for an unforgettable Kazinga Channel boat cruise.

This must-do activity allows you to get close to pods of hippos and buffalos, as well as elephants along the shoreline. Watch majestic crocodiles basking and waterbirds in their natural habitat, all while soaking up the beauty of the park.
The channel itself, a link between Lake Edward and Lake George, offers stunning views and an ideal opportunity for photography during your Big 5 safari in Uganda. After the boat cruise, enjoy a short game drive along the channel track as you return to the lodge for dinner, relaxation, and overnight stay.

Accommodation Options:

Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge/Kyambura Gorge Lodge

Midrange: Enganzi Game Lodge/Bush Lodge/Kasenyi Safari Camp

Budget: Pumba Safari Cottages

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7: Track Tree-Climbing Lions & Travel to Bwindi

Day seven of your Big 5 safari in Uganda begins with breakfast, followed by a visit to the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. This area is famous for its tree-climbing lions, often seen dozing in fig trees, making it a unique part of your safari.

After exploring Ishasha, exit the park and continue south through rolling hills and picturesque Ugandan homesteads. The drive offers panoramic views and a chance to enjoy lunch at a local stop, immersing you in Uganda’s scenic countryside.

Arrive at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in the evening. Home to half of the world’s remaining Mountain Gorillas, this 321 km² rainforest also hosts over 120 mammal species and 350 bird species, including Albertine Rift endemics. Relax and prepare for tomorrow’s thrilling gorilla trekking experience.

Accommodation Options:

Luxury: Haven Lodge Buhoma/Gorilla Forest Camp/Buhoma Lodge

Mid-range: Gorilla Mist Camp/Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge

Budget: Trekkers Tavern Ruhija

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Drive Distance & Time: Approx. 130-220 km or 4-7 hours

Day 8: Gorilla Trekking & Relaxation at Lake Bunyonyi

Day eight of your Big 5 safari in Uganda begins with breakfast at your lodge before heading to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for your gorilla trekking adventure. After a briefing by expert local guides, start your trek at 8 AM along designated trails in search of the majestic Mountain Gorillas.

The trekking, lasting 2–7 hours depending on the gorillas’ movements, can be physically demanding due to the steep and wet terrain. However, the reward is priceless—spending time with and photographing these incredible creatures as you connect with their expressive brown eyes is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

After receiving your gorilla trekking certificate and enjoying a packed picnic lunch, you’ll drive about 90 minutes to Lake Bunyonyi. Known for its lush, terraced islands and over 200 bird species, the lake offers a perfect retreat.
Relax at the resort, where swimming, canoeing, or boat cruises are options to complement your evening.

End the day with dinner as you admire the stunning scenery and reflect on the unforgettable moments with the gorillas

Accommodation Options:

Luxury: Birdnest @ Bunyonyi

Mid-range: Lake Bunyonyi Rock Resort

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Drive Distance & Time: Approx. 55-85 km or 1-3 hours

Day 9: Relaxed Breakfast & Transfer to Lake Mburo

Day nine of your Big 5 safari in Uganda starts with a leisurely breakfast before heading to your final destination, Lake Mburo National Park. The scenic morning drive northeast includes a stop at the Igongo Cultural Centre in Mbarara for lunch, offering a chance to enjoy cultural insights and local flavors.

Continue your journey through the Sanga Gate, where you’ll encounter the famous Ankole cattle of the Bahima people. Known for their striking long horns, these cattle are a unique highlight worth photographing as part of your safari experience.

Arriving at the 260 km² Lake Mburo National Park, explore its stunning wetlands and Acacia savanna habitats on an afternoon game drive. Home to 350 bird species and diverse wildlife, the park offers sights of zebras, impalas, eland, buffalos, hippos, leopards, and more.

Reach your lodge in time to freshen up before enjoying a farewell dinner, with views of Lake Mburo’s serene waters as night falls..

Accommodation Options:

Luxury: Mihingo Lodge

Mid-range: Rwakobo Rock

Budget: Eagles Nest Mburo

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 10: Game walk in Lake Mburo NP & Drive Back to Kampala

Start the last day of your Big 5 safari in Uganda with an early breakfast before heading out for a guided nature walk. Explore the stunning savannah, where you might spot Eland, Impala, Zebras, Buffalos, and possibly Giraffes amidst the beautiful Acacia trees.

After the walk, begin your 4 to 5-hour drive back to Entebbe, with a stop at the Ugandan Equator in Kayabwe. Here, stand with one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and the other in the Southern Hemisphere. This iconic stop is perfect for photos and picking up souvenirs.

Arrive at Entebbe Airport, reflecting on the incredible memories of your journey. Safe travels as you carry the beauty and experiences of your Big 5 safari in Uganda with you!

End Of The 10 Days Uganda Safari

Inclusions

• Full board accommodation on the safari
• Gorilla Trekking Permit
• Chimpanzee Tracking Permit
• Transportation in a 4X4 safari vehicle
• Service of the English Speaking Driver/Tour Guide. Any other foreign language speaking guide can be arranged on request.
• Bottled drinking water in the safari vehicle
• Entrance Fees for the park
• All safari Activities Mentioned in the itinerary

 Exclusions

• International flight fare
• Visa fee
• Laundry services
• Tips
• Drinks of personal nature like alcohol