Day 1: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park – The Primate Capital
Upon arrival in Uganda, meet your Wild Compass Africa driver-guide for your transfer to Kibale Forest National Park, the renowned “Primate Capital of the World.” The scenic drive leads you past Kampala’s vibrant suburbs, lush tea plantations, and the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains. En route, enjoy lunch and a few photography stops before arriving at your lodge for dinner and an evening of relaxation amid the sounds of the forest.
Meals and Accommodation: Turaco Tree Tops or similar
Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking & Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After breakfast, head to the park offices for a morning briefing before venturing into the rainforest in search of chimpanzees. Watch them swing, groom, and interact in their natural habitat, an experience that offers a deep connection to our closest relatives. After an hour with the chimps, drive south to Queen Elizabeth National Park via scenic crater lakes and panoramic views of the Rwenzori ranges. Arrive in time to relax at your lodge overlooking the savannah.
Meals and Accommodation: Buffalo Safari Lodge or similar
Day 3: Game Drive & Boat Cruise on the Kazinga Channel
Today promises a full day of wildlife viewing. Begin with an early morning game drive across the Kasenyi plains, where lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and Uganda kobs roam freely under the golden sunrise.
After lunch, set out for a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, a natural link between Lakes Edward and George. The cruise offers spectacular sightings of hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and hundreds of birds along the shoreline — a paradise for photographers. Return to your lodge at sunset.
Meals and Accommodation: Buffalo Safari Lodge or similar
Day 4: Ishasha Sector – Tree-Climbing Lions & Transfer to Bwindi
After breakfast, travel south through the Ishasha sector, famous for its rare tree-climbing lions. Keep your camera ready as you may spot these majestic cats lounging on fig tree branches. Continue to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Arrive at your lodge nestled in the misty hills for dinner and overnight.
Meals and Accommodation: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge or similar
Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi & Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
The day begins early with a briefing at the park headquarters, followed by a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking adventure. Trek through dense jungle terrain until you encounter a family of mountain gorillas. Spend a magical hour observing their behaviors, from playful youngsters to the mighty silverback leader.
After trekking, transfer to the beautiful Lake Bunyonyi, a peaceful haven surrounded by terraced hills and dotted with 29 islands. Relax or enjoy an optional boat ride and visit the Batwa pygmy community for cultural insight.
Meals and Accommodation: Birdnest Resort or similar
Day 6: Drive to Lake Mburo National Park – Evening Game Drive
Enjoy a relaxed morning at the lake before continuing your journey to Lake Mburo National Park, the only park in Uganda with both zebras and impalas. Check into your lodge and later head out for an evening game drive, where you may spot elands, giraffes, warthogs, leopards, and abundant birdlife.
Meals and Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock Lodge or similar
Day 7: Nature Walk & Transfer to Mabamba Wetland
Begin your day with a guided nature walk, an intimate way to experience the park’s wildlife on foot. Get close to zebras and giraffes as your ranger explains the ecosystem and its unique species.
Later, depart for Mabamba Swamp, a Ramsar-listed wetland along the northern shores of Lake Victoria, famed for its population of shoebill storks. Overnight near the swamp in Entebbe.
Meals and Accommodation: Karibu Guest House or similar
Day 8: Shoebill Tracking & Airport Transfer
Start your final day with an exciting boat excursion through Mabamba Swamp, navigating narrow channels surrounded by papyrus reeds. Keep your eyes peeled for the iconic shoebill, a prehistoric-looking bird that stands tall among the reeds. Other sightings may include African jacanas, kingfishers, and ducks.
After this magical finale, you’ll be transferred to Entebbe International Airport or your hotel, marking the end of your unforgettable safari adventure.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch | No Accommodation
