Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe
Arrival at Entebbe International Airport
Meet and transfer to your hotel for overnight rest and safari briefing
Destination: Entebbe
Accommodation: Papyrus Guest House
Day 2: Shoebill Tracking – Mabamba Swamp
Early morning transfer to Mabamba Swamp on Lake Victoria for a guided canoe excursion in search of the rare shoebill stork — one of Africa’s most sought-after birds. Morning light provides excellent photography conditions. Return to Entebbe for overnight
Destination: Mabamba Swamp
Accommodation: Papyrus Guest House
Day 3: Transfer to Kibale National Park
Scenic drive west through tea plantations and crater lakes toward Kibale Forest — often called the primate capital of East Africa.
Destination: Kibale
Accommodation: Turaco Tree Tops
Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking – Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Morning chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest. Observe dynamic chimp troops in their natural rainforest habitat. After lunch, transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Destination: Kibale | Queen Elizabeth N.P
Accommodation: Acacia Wilderness Lodge
Day 5: Wildlife Safari & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
Early morning wildlife search in the Kasenyi plains for lions, elephants, buffalo, and antelope.
Mid-morning boat safari along the Kazinga Channel — famous for dense concentrations of hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and birdlife. Optional golden-hour wildlife drive in the evening
Destination: Queen Elizabeth N.P
Accommodation: Acacia Wilderness Lodge
Day 6: Kyambura Gorge Chimps – Transfer to Bwindi (Rushaga)
Early morning chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge, a dramatic forested ravine within Queen Elizabeth National Park. Afternoon transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Rushaga sector)
Destination: Rushaga
Accommodation: Four Gorillas Lodge (or similar)
Day 7: First Gorilla Trek – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Full-day gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Spend one hour with a habituated gorilla family — an unforgettable and intimate wildlife encounter.
Destination: Rushaga
Accommodation: Four Gorillas Lodge (or similar)
Day 8: Second Gorilla Trek – Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for your second gorilla trekking experience in a different ecosystem at the foothills of the Virunga volcanoes.
Destination: Mgahinga N.P
Accommodation: Ichumbi Hotel Kisoro (or similar)
Day 9: Golden Monkey Trekking – Mgahinga
Morning golden monkey trekking in the bamboo forests of Mgahinga. These rare primates are fast-moving and vibrant, offering exciting viewing opportunities. Afternoon at leisure or optional community visit
Destination: Mgahinga N.P
Accommodation: Ichumbi Hotel Kisoro (or similar)
Day 10: Fly Kisoro – Entebbe
Scenic 1–2 hour domestic flight from Kisoro back to Entebbe, dramatically reducing travel time compared to overland driving.
Destination: Entebbe
Accommodation: No accommodation
Day 1 – Arrival in Entebbe | Kampala
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport, where your guide will welcome you and transfer you to a comfortable lodge near Lake Victoria. Settle in and relax, preparing for the immersive journey ahead.
Overnight: The Boma Hotel | similar
Day 2 – Mabamba Swamp | Full Day Exploration
Travel to Mabamba Swamp, home to the legendary shoebill stork. Spend the day in quiet papyrus canoes, gliding through the swamp in morning and evening light, capturing authentic bird behavior and local fishing life.
Overnight: The Boma Hotel | similar
Photographic Opportunities
Shoebill stork hunting and preening
Papyrus wetlands at sunrise and sunset
Local fishermen navigating traditional canoes
Day 3 – Lake Mburo National Park | Evening Nature Walk & Night Drive
Depart from Mabamba and journey toward Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda’s intimate and wildlife-rich savannah gem. The drive itself presents opportunities to observe pastoral communities, grazing cattle, and scattered wildlife against rolling hills and acacia-studded plains. Upon arrival, settle into Rwakobo Rock Lodge, perched atop rocky outcrops with sweeping views over the park.
In the afternoon, embark on a nature walk through the savannah, photographing zebras, impalas, and warthogs in their natural habitat. The golden hour casts long shadows and bathes the landscape in soft, warm light, perfect for environmental portraits of wildlife and the expansive terrain.
As darkness descends, take part in a night drive, exploring the park’s nocturnal world. With only your spotlight cutting through the shadows, watch for elusive bush babies, civets, genets, and perhaps a shy serval. This is raw, untouched Africa, where the nocturnal rhythms of the savannah reveal themselves to those patient enough to observe and capture them.
Overnight: Rwakobo Rock Lodge
Photographic Opportunities
Golden-hour savannah landscapes with zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, elands, birds impalas and ,much more
Close-up wildlife portraits in natural light
Nocturnal species under subtle illumination, highlighting the raw and intimate side of African nights
Wide-angle vistas capturing Mburo’s undulating hills and scattered acacia trees
Day 4 – Transfer to Rushaga | Mgahinga National Park | Scenic Highlands
Travel from Lake Mburo toward the ascending hills and misty mountains of southwestern Uganda, arriving at Rushaga or Mgahinga National Park (depending on gorilla permit availability). The drive offers sweeping views of rolling tea plantations, terraced hillsides, and rural villages, perfect for capturing Uganda’s highland landscapes in soft light.
Overnight: Ichumbi gorilla Lodge | similar
Photographic Opportunities
Misty highland panoramas
Rural village life along winding roads
Tea plantations and hillside patterns in morning or late afternoon light
Days 5–6 – Double Gorilla Tracking | Bwindi / Mgahinga Impenetrable Forest
Spend two full days in the heart of Bwindi or Mgahinga, tracking habituated mountain gorilla families, one of the world’s most endangered species. The forest is dense, ancient, and mist-shrouded — a cathedral of towering trees, ferns, and lianas. Move quietly through this primeval landscape, listening for the subtle rustle of leaves and distant grunts that announce gorilla presence. Encounter silverbacks overseeing their families, mothers tenderly caring for infants, and juveniles at play — each moment a rare, fleeting insight into a species teetering on the edge of extinction.
The interplay of dappled light filtering through thick canopies creates dramatic opportunities for intimate portraits and environmental storytelling. The forest itself — moss-laden trunks, creeping vines, and textured undergrowth — becomes a vital part of your composition, framing these incredible primates in their natural, wild habitat.
Overnight: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge | Similar
Photographic Opportunities
Close-up portraits of gorillas: silverbacks, mothers, and infants
Family interactions, play, and social dynamics
Misty forest shafts of light creating moody, cinematic scenes
Environmental context: textured understory, moss, and towering forest flora
Day 7 – Golden Monkey Tracking | Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Begin the day tracking the golden monkey (Cercopithecus kandti), a rare and visually stunning primate found only in Bwindi and Mgahinga’s high-altitude bamboo forests. Agile and acrobatic, these monkeys dart through dense bamboo thickets, their shimmering golden-orange fur catching the soft morning light. Photographers can capture dynamic movement, playful interactions, and intimate group behaviors, set against a backdrop of misty hills and bamboo stalks.
After the morning session, transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s jewel of biodiversity, famous for its Kazinga Channel, savannah wildlife, and volcanic rift valley landscapes. The drive showcases rolling hills, local villages, and rift valley panoramas, offering additional opportunities to photograph rural life and scenic vistas.
Overnight: The Bush Lodge
Photographic Opportunities
Agile golden monkeys leaping through bamboo with soft light highlights
Group behaviors and intimate family interactions
Misty bamboo forests for dramatic compositions
Rift valley landscapes and roadside village life en route
Day 8 – Sunrise Game Drive | Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise | Kyambura Gorge Nature Walk
Start the morning with a sunrise game drive, seeking elephants, lions, buffaloes, and Uganda kob against the soft early light. Mid-morning, embark on a Kazinga Channel boat cruise, photographing hippos, crocodiles, and abundant waterbirds. In the afternoon, hike Kyambura Gorge, capturing chimpanzees in the lush canopy set against the savannah backdrop.
Overnight: The Bush Lodge
Photographic Opportunities
Wildlife silhouettes at sunrise
Hippos, crocodiles, and birds in reflective water
Chimpanzees and forest textures in natural light
Environmental storytelling: savannah meets gorge forest
Day 9 – Early Sunrise Kazinga Boat Cruise | Transfer to Kibale / Bigodi Swamp
Enjoy an early Kazinga Channel boat cruise, capturing the golden morning light across the water and spotting wildlife activity before the park fully awakens. After breakfast, transfer to Kibale Forest, with the option for an evening Bigodi Swamp walk to photograph swamp birds, primates, and local community life.
Overnight: Kibale Forest Camp
Photographic Opportunities
Early morning wildlife activity along Kazinga
Birds, swamp reflections, and primate behavior at Bigodi
Environmental and cultural portraits of local guides
Day 10 – Chimpanzee Tracking & Bigodi Swamp Walk
Spend the morning tracking chimpanzees in Kibale Forest, observing family interactions, playful juveniles, and the alpha male in action. In the afternoon, explore Bigodi Swamp, photographing birds, small primates, and local activities along boardwalks and forest trails.
Overnight: Kibale Forest Camp
Photographic Opportunities:
Close-up chimp portraits and natural behaviors
Birds in dynamic forest light
Swamp reflections, insects, and plant textures
Environmental and community photography
Day 11 – Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary | Evening Rhino Trek
Transfer to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, home to Uganda’s white rhinos. Capture these magnificent animals in open grasslands, with dramatic late afternoon light emphasizing their massive forms. An evening rhino trek offers opportunities for wide-angle landscapes and intimate wildlife storytelling.
Overnight: Ziwa Rhino Lodge
Photographic Opportunities
White rhinos at golden hour
Birds and small wildlife cohabiting the sanctuary
Grassland vistas and light-infused landscapes
Day 12 – Morning Rhino Photography | Transfer to Entebbe / Departure
Spend the final morning photographing rhinos in the sanctuary before transferring to Entebbe International Airport for departure, concluding the expedition.
Photographic Opportunities
Early morning rhino activity and interactions
Scenic transfer landscapes
Final shots of Uganda’s raw wildlife and rolling countryside
Day 1: Journey to Sipi Falls
Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Kampala or Entebbe to the slopes of Mount Elgon, where the spectacular Sipi Falls cascade over the highlands of Eastern Uganda. Upon arrival, you will check in at Lacam Lodge, a cozy retreat perched above the falls, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding valley. The afternoon is yours to unwind after the journey — you might stroll along the lodge’s trails, breathe in the fresh highland air, and admire the serene landscape. This introduction to Northern Uganda sets the tone for the adventure ahead, combining tranquil nature with a sense of anticipation for the experiences to come.
Accommodation: Lacam Lodge
Meals: Full board
Day 2: Exploring Sipi Falls
After breakfast, the day begins with a guided hike to the three-tiered Sipi Falls, weaving through lush farmlands and small rural villages. Along the way, your guide will share insights into local farming practices, the flora and fauna of the region, and the history of the area. The falls themselves offer a spectacular panorama, with mist rising from each tier and rainbows forming in the sunlight. In the afternoon, you will take part in a Sipi Arabica Coffee Tour, learning how this world-renowned coffee is grown, harvested, and processed before tasting the rich, aromatic brew. Sipi Falls is more than a scenic location — it is a cultural and ecological gem that provides a gentle introduction to Uganda’s highland life.
Accommodation: Lacam Lodge,
Meals :Full board
Day 3: Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve
Leaving the highlands behind, you travel north to Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve, one of Uganda’s oldest protected areas. Upon arrival, you will settle into Pian Upe Eco Camp, situated amidst rolling semi-arid savannahs. In the afternoon, embark on your first wildlife encounter with a game drive or walking safari. Here, the open plains host a fascinating variety of wildlife, from cheetahs and roan antelopes to leopards and ostriches, often seen in their natural habitats with little human disturbance. The day ends with a sunset over the plains, a perfect moment to reflect on the remoteness and tranquility of Northern Uganda.
Accommodation: Pian Upe Eco Camp,
Meals: Full board
Day 4: Cultural Immersion in Moroto
The adventure continues to Moroto, a vibrant center of the Karamojong culture. Today focuses on a deep cultural experience, visiting traditional manyattas (homesteads) and spending time with nomadic herders. You will witness their daily routines, learn about their survival skills in the arid landscape, and observe the traditional dances and music that have been passed down for generations. In the evening, a cultural performance under the stars offers a captivating glimpse into the rhythms and resilience of the Karamojong people, highlighting the harmony between tradition and the harsh natural environment.
Accommodation: Karatunga eco camp
Meals: Full board
Day 5: East African Rift Escarpment & the Ik Community
After breakfast, you will visit a local cattle market or village, offering a glimpse into the vibrant exchanges and communal life of Northern Uganda. The journey then continues to the East African Rift Escarpment, with scenic views stretching across the plains. Arriving at Timu Eco Camp, the afternoon is devoted to meeting the Ik people, one of Uganda’s most isolated and fascinating communities. Your interactions here will allow you to understand their unique language, traditions, and intricate relationship with the natural environment, offering a rare perspective on life in one of Africa’s most remote regions.
Accommodation: Timu Eco Camp
Meals: Full board
Day 6: Hike Mount Morungole & Transfer to Kidepo Valley
The morning begins early with a hike up Mount Morungole, a rewarding climb that offers panoramic views across Kidepo Valley and the distant borders of Kenya and South Sudan. The hike showcases Uganda’s diverse landscapes, from rocky escarpments to sweeping savannahs. After descending, you will drive to Kidepo Valley National Park, often regarded as one of Africa’s last wilderness areas. Check-in at your next Lodge, where you can relax and prepare for the game drives that await in the coming days.
Accommodation: Kidepo Savannah Lodge
Meals -Full board
Day 7: Wildlife Encounters in Kidepo Valley National Park
Kidepo Valley National Park is renowned for its rugged landscapes, abundant wildlife, and remote charm. Today, you will embark on morning and afternoon game drives, exploring the Narus and Kidepo Valleys. Here, you are likely to encounter lions lounging under acacia trees, leopards stealthily moving across the savannah, and herds of elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and zebras roaming freely. Bird enthusiasts will be enthralled by the park’s over 400 species of birds, from vibrant bee-eaters to striking vultures. The day offers incredible photographic opportunities and unforgettable encounters in one of Uganda’s most dramatic safari settings.
Accommodation: Kidepo Savannah Lodge
Meals -Full board
Day 8: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
Leaving Kidepo behind, you will drive southwest toward Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area. The scenic journey traverses open plains, rolling hills, and small villages, offering a glimpse into the diverse ecosystems of Northern Uganda. Arrive at your lodge in the evening, overlooking the majestic Nile River, where the day concludes with a peaceful sunset and the gentle sounds of the surrounding wildlife.
Accommodation: Fort Murchison lodge
Meals -Full board
Day 9: Game Drive & Boat Safari on the Nile
Today combines terrestrial and aquatic wildlife experiences. The morning starts with a game drive in the northern section of Murchison Falls, where elephants, giraffes, lions, and Uganda kobs graze across the savannah. In the afternoon, board a boat for a Nile River cruise to the base of Murchison Falls, witnessing the raw power of the Nile as it surges through a narrow gorge. Optional: hike to the top of the falls to experience the dramatic views from above, feeling the mist and hearing the thunderous roar of the water.
Accommodation: Fort Murchison lodge
Meals -Full board
Day 10: Chimpanzee Tracking & Transfer to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
After breakfast, travel to Budongo Forest for an unforgettable chimpanzee tracking experience. Guided by experienced trackers, you will follow these intelligent primates through dense rainforest, observing their social behavior and interactions in the wild. Later, continue to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only location in Uganda where you can see rhinos. Check in at Amuka Lodge, relax in the tranquil savannah setting, and reflect on the incredible wildlife experiences of the past days.
Accommodation: Amuka Lodge
Meals -Full board
Day 11: Rhino Tracking & Return to Kampala
The final day begins with guided rhino tracking through Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, offering a rare opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures up close under the supervision of expert rangers. After this unique encounter, enjoy a final lunch before embarking on the journey back to Kampala or Entebbe, bringing to a close your 11-day Northern Uganda adventure. You leave with memories of wildlife, landscapes, and cultures that few travellers ever witness.
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
Day 1: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary & Murchison Falls
Depart early from Entebbe or Kampala, heading north to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. Embark on a guided walk to track white rhinos, observing these majestic creatures up close in their natural habitat. Continue to Murchison Falls National Park and visit the top of the falls to witness the Nile being funnelled through a narrow 7-meter gorge into a 42-meter deep chasm — a truly breathtaking spectacle. Transfer to your lodge for an overnight stay.
Meals & Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge
Day 2: Morning Game Drive & Nile Boat Cruise
Begin the day with an early morning game drive, spotting lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and diverse birdlife. After lunch, embark on a boat cruise along the Nile towards the base of Murchison Falls. Watch for hippos, crocodiles, elephants along the riverbanks, and bird species like kingfishers and fish eagles. Return to your lodge for relaxation.
Meals & Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge
Day 3: Transfer to Kidepo Valley National Park & Night Game Drive
Depart early for Kidepo Valley National Park, located in northeastern Uganda near the borders with South Sudan and Kenya. This remote park features expansive savannahs, rugged valleys, and abundant wildlife, including cheetahs, ostriches, giraffes, elephants, and over 500 bird species. In the evening, enjoy a night game drive, spotting nocturnal animals such as leopards, hyenas, civets, and serval cats.
Meals & Accommodation: Kidepo Savannah Lodge
Day 4: Morning Nature Walk & Evening Game Drive
Experience the park on foot with a morning nature walk, capturing stunning photos of wildlife and landscapes. Spot giraffes, lions, leopards, elands, buffaloes, and diverse bird species while learning about the park’s ecosystem from your guide. In the evening, go on a game drive to observe wildlife as they become more active during cooler hours.
Meals & Accommodation: Kidepo Savannah Lodge
Day 5: Bush Breakfast & Cultural Experience
Wake early for a bush breakfast surrounded by Kidepo’s wild landscapes. Visit Karimojong homesteads to experience traditional life, or opt for a hike into the mountains to meet the Ike community, learning about their customs and way of life. This is an immersive cultural experience, perfect for photography and interaction with local communities.
Meals & Accommodation: Kidepo Savannah Lodge
Day 6: Return to Entebbe or Kampala
After breakfast, begin the journey back to Kampala or Entebbe. Enjoy scenic stops along the way for photos and refreshments. Arrive late afternoon or evening, marking the end of your unforgettable northern Uganda safari.
Meals: Half board | No accommodation
Day 1: Pick-up from Entebbe | Transfer to Lake Mburo | Evening Game Drive
Your safari begins with a warm welcome from our representative in Entebbe. After the briefing, set off towards Lake Mburo National Park — Uganda’s smallest but most scenic savannah park. En route, enjoy short stopovers for refreshments and photo moments along the countryside.
Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and head out for an evening game drive, where you’ll encounter giraffes, zebras, topis, impalas, buffaloes, and countless bird species. End your day with a beautiful sunset over the acacia woodlands.
Meals and Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock / Similar Midrange Lodge
Day 2: Morning Milking Experience | Nature Walk | Transfer to Bwindi
Begin your morning with a local milking experience at a nearby cattle kraal. Learn about the traditional lifestyle of Ankole herdsmen, enjoy fresh milk, and hear fascinating stories about the long-horned cattle.
After breakfast, embark on a guided walking safari — a rare opportunity to walk alongside zebras, giraffes, and impalas while learning about the park’s ecosystem. Later, continue your journey through the stunning Kigezi Highlands to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to half of the world’s mountain gorillas.
Meals and Accommodation: Gorilla Mist Camp / Similar Midrange Lodge
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking Experience | Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Today is the highlight of your safari! After an early breakfast, report to the park headquarters for a gorilla trekking briefing before venturing into the misty forest. Follow your guide through thick vegetation to meet a family of mountain gorillas — observing their feeding, grooming, and playful behaviour for one unforgettable hour.
After this life-changing encounter, travel north through the scenic Ishasha sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions, before entering Queen Elizabeth National Park for your overnight stay.
Meals and Accommodation: Elephant Hab Lodge / Similar Midrange Lodge
Day 4: Morning Game Drive | Afternoon Boat Cruise
Enjoy an early morning game drive through the Kasenyi plains in search of lions, elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and leopards. Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most biodiverse reserve, home to over 600 bird species.
In the afternoon, relax on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, where you’ll see massive pods of hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and vibrant birdlife. The close-up views of wildlife along the water make this one of Uganda’s most memorable safari experiences.
Meals and Accommodation: Elephant Hab Lodge / Similar Midrange Lodge
Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge | Drive to Entebbe
After breakfast, descend into the dramatic Kyambura Gorge, also known as the Valley of Apes, for a fascinating chimpanzee trekking experience. This three-hour adventure lets you observe our closest relatives in their natural habitat while exploring a remarkable ecosystem of tropical forest and riverine life.
After the trek, begin your return journey to Entebbe. Stop at the Equator for photos and souvenir shopping before concluding your safari, marking the end of an incredible 5-day gorillas, chimpanzees, and walking wildlife adventure.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 1: Shoebill Tracking & Rhino Trekking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Start your adventure with an early breakfast before heading to Mabamba Swamp on the shores of Lake Victoria. Take a boat ride through the papyrus channels to spot the elusive shoebill stork, along with African fish eagles, kingfishers, and other wetland birds.
Afterward, drive north to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Uganda’s only location to see white rhinos in the wild. Join a guided rhino trek on foot and get close to these majestic giants in their natural habitat.
Overnight at Amuka Lodge or similar.
Day 2: Murchison Falls – Top of the Falls, Boat Cruise & Evening Game Drive
Drive into Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest conservation area. Begin with a visit to the top of the falls, where the Nile plunges 43 meters through a narrow gorge.
Enjoy a boat cruise along the Nile, spotting elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife. In the late afternoon, take an evening game drive, encountering lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, kobs, and other savannah wildlife.
Overnight at Pakuba Safari Lodge or similar.
Day 3: Morning Game Drive & Transfer to Kibale National Park
Take an early morning game drive in Murchison Falls to capture wildlife in the golden light. Afterwards, drive south through the Albertine escarpments, enjoying crater lakes, rolling hills, and lush landscapes.
Arrive at Kibale Forest National Park, home to over 1,500 chimpanzees. Dinner and Overnight. Kibale Forest Lodge or similar
Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking & Bigodi Community Tour
Embark on a morning chimpanzee trek in Kibale Forest with experienced guides. Watch chimps feed, groom, and interact, alongside other primates like red colobus and black-and-white colobus monkeys.
In the afternoon, visit the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for a cultural and nature experience. Learn traditional crafts, brewing, and farming from the local community.
Overnight at Kibale Forest Lodge.
Day 5: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park – Kazinga Channel Cruise & Evening Game Drive
Travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park, passing the Ndali-Kasenda Craters and scenic landscapes. Upon arrival, enjoy a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, spotting hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and birds.
End the day with an evening game drive, encountering lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and giraffes.
Overnight at Elephant Hab Lodge or similar.
Day 6: Kyambura Gorge Nature Walk & Tree-Climbing Lions in Ishasha
Start with a nature walk in Kyambura Gorge, spotting primates and birds along the gorge’s permanent river. Then, drive south to Ishasha, home to the world-famous tree-climbing lions. Enjoy an evening game drive across the savannah. Overnight at Jungle Lodge Ishasha or similar.
Day 7: Morning Game Drive & Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
After a morning game drive, travel to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Check in at Four Gorillas Lodge or similar and prepare for your gorilla trekking adventure.
Day 8: Gorilla Trekking & Batwa Community Visit
Rise early for gorilla trekking in Bwindi. Spend up to one hour observing a family of mountain gorillas, watching silverbacks, females, and infants in their natural habitat.
In the afternoon, visit the Batwa community to learn about their culture, traditional hunting methods, and forest life.
Overnight at Four Gorillas Lodge.
Day 9: Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park – Evening Nature Walk
Drive south to Lake Mburo National Park, passing rolling hills and rural landscapes. Take an evening walking safari, spotting zebras, impalas, giraffes, topis, and other wildlife.
Overnight at Mpogo Farm Lodge or similar.
Day 10: Morning Farm Visit & Transfer to Entebbe
Visit a local Ankole cattle kraal to experience traditional milking and ghee-making. After breakfast, drive back to Entebbe, stopping at the Equator line for a photo opportunity. End your safari with memories of Uganda’s wildlife, culture, and landscapes.
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport where a Wild Compass Africa representative will warmly welcome you. Transfer to your hotel for a relaxed evening. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore Entebbe town, visit local markets, wander through the Botanical Gardens, or opt for a scenic Lake Victoria cruise to Mabamba Swamp in search of the iconic shoebill.
Meals and Accommodation: Karibu Guest House
Day 2: Fly to Kisoro Airstrip – Transfer to Bwindi
Return to the airport for your scenic flight to Kisoro, offering breathtaking aerial views of lakes and volcanoes. On arrival, transfer to your lodge nestled at the edge of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Spend the rest of the day unwinding and enjoying the jungle atmosphere. You will have a chance to visit the community for more local experience if the weather and time allow.
Meals and Accommodation: Four Gorillas
Day 3: Gorilla Habituation Experience – Bwindi
Today is extraordinary. Join researchers and rangers for the Gorilla Habituation Experience, spending up to four hourswith a semi-wild mountain gorilla family as they become accustomed to human presence. This slow, immersive encounter is one of the most intimate wildlife experiences on the continent.
Meals and Accommodation: Four Gorillas
Day 4: Classic Gorilla Trekking – Bwindi
Return to the forest for a second gorilla encounter—this time with a fully habituated group. Trek through Bwindi’s ancient rainforest, and once you find the gorillas, enjoy a magical hour observing their behaviour up close.
Meals and Accommodation: Four Gorillas
Day 5: Drive to Ishasha Sector – Afternoon Game Drive
Leave the forest behind and drive to the remote Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Enjoy an afternoon game drive searching for the region’s world-famous tree-climbing lions, along with elephants, buffaloes and topi.
Meals and Accommodation: Ishasha Jungle Lodge
Day 6: Ishasha Morning Game Drive – Transfer to Kasenyi | Sunset Sundowner
Enjoy a sunrise game drive in Ishasha in search of tree-climbing lions before driving north to the wildlife-rich Kasenyi plains. Arrive at your lodge in time to unwind with a peaceful sundowner as the savannah turns golden.
Meals and Accommodation: Elephant Hub Lodge
Day 7: Kasenyi Game Drive – Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise – Transfer to Kibale
Enjoy an early game drive in the Kasenyi sector before heading to the Kazinga Channel. Cruise along the waterway, famous for Africa’s highest hippo density and fantastic birdlife. Later, drive to Kibale Forest, arriving in the evening.
Meals and Accommodation: Turaco Tree-Tops
Day 8: Chimpanzee Trekking – Bigodi Community Visit
Venture into Kibale Forest, home to over 1,500 chimpanzees. Enjoy an exciting trek and spend time observing them at close range. In the afternoon, explore Bigodi community for a guided walk, showcasing local culture and wetland wildlife.
Meals and Accommodation: Turaco Tree-Tops
Day 9: Fly from Kasese Airstrip to Entebbe – Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Kasese Airstrip for your flight back to Entebbe. Connect to your international departure or continue with further travel arrangements.
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Relax and Settle In
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport, where your private driver-guide will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel. Spend the day relaxing after your flight and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Entebbe.
Accommodation: Boma Hotel or Karibu Guest House | Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Entebbe – Lake Mburo National Park
After breakfast, drive southwest to Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda’s smallest savannah park, yet rich in wildlife. Arrive at the lodge for lunch and enjoy a relaxed afternoon exploring the surroundings, spotting zebras, giraffes, and impalas.
Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock Lodge | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Lake Mburo – Nature Walk and Game Drive
Start the day with a guided nature walk to encounter wildlife up close. Enjoy a bush breakfast (optional) in the wilderness, creating lasting family memories. Later, relax at the lodge or take an afternoon evening game drive, when animals become more active in the golden light.
Optional: Horse riding safari (age restrictions may apply)
Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock Lodge | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Lake Mburo – Queen Elizabeth National Park
Drive through scenic countryside and traditional villages to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Arrive at your lodge perched above the Rift Valley escarpment. Spend the afternoon relaxing or observing wildlife from your lodge terrace.
Accommodation: Acacia Wilderness – Mweya | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Queen Elizabeth National Park – Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Cruise
Enjoy an early morning game drive in the Kasenyi Plains, spotting lions, elephants, buffalo, antelopes, and birdlife. In the afternoon, take a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, one of Africa’s top wildlife waterways, followed by a sunset sundowner.
Accommodation: Acacia Wilderness – Mweya | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Queen Elizabeth National Park – Leisure Day
A leisure day allows families to enjoy lodge facilities or optional activities such as extended game viewing or visiting salt lakes. This unhurried day is perfect for rest and relaxation.
Accommodation: Acacia Wilderness – Mweya | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Queen Elizabeth – Kibale Forest National Park
Drive north to Kibale Forest, passing through tea plantations, crater lakes, and lush countryside. Arrive at your lodge in the afternoon and settle in. Optional community visits nearby offer cultural immersion for children and adults, including weaving, dancing, and village life experiences.
Accommodation: Turaco Treetops Lodge | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Kibale Forest – Chimpanzee Trekking
After breakfast, embark on chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest, home to East Africa’s highest concentration of chimpanzees. Return to the lodge for lunch and enjoy a relaxed afternoon swimming or exploring the forest surroundings.
Accommodation: Turaco Treetops Lodge | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9: Kibale – Murchison Falls National Park
Depart early and drive through Hoima and the Albertine Rift region to Murchison Falls National Park. Arrive by evening and relax at the lodge amid the sounds of the African wilderness.
Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10: Murchison Falls – Game Drive & Nile River Cruise
Begin with a morning game drive on the northern bank to spot elephants, giraffes, lions, leopards, buffalo, and antelopes. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise on the Nile to the base of Murchison Falls, witnessing the river funnel through a 7-meter gorge into the Devil’s Cauldron. Return to the lodge to relax or swim.
Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11: Murchison Falls – Top of the Falls & Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
After breakfast, visit the Top of Murchison Falls for photography and breathtaking views. Continue south to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where you can enjoy a guided rhino tracking experience on foot in the late afternoon, completing your Big Five experience in Uganda.
Accommodation: Ziwa Rhino Ranch – Luxury Bandas | Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12: Ziwa – Entebbe (Departure)
After breakfast, depart Ziwa and drive back to Entebbe. Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a relaxed breakfast or head straight to the airport for your onward journey.
Accommodation: N/A | Meals: Breakfast
Optional Add-ons: Extend your family safari with mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or a golden monkey experience in Mgahinga National Park for an unforgettable wildlife encounter.
Day 1 – Kigali City Tour & Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Your adventure begins with a warm welcome in Kigali, either at the airport or your hotel. After introductions, embark on a city tour that provides insight into Rwanda’s past and present. A moving visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial offers reflection on the tragic events of 1994, while the city’s vibrant craft markets and bustling local stalls showcase Rwanda’s resilience and creativity. In the afternoon, you will drive across the border into Uganda, heading toward Queen Elizabeth National Park. The journey, lasting 4–6 hours, is filled with scenic hills, farms, and roadside communities. Upon arrival, settle into your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Meals & Accommodation: Acacia Wilderness Mweya
Day 2 – Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
Awake to the sounds of the wild and prepare for a morning game drive across the Kasenyi Plains. The park’s diverse landscapes support a variety of animals including elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, lions, and leopards. After lunch, embark on a leisurely boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway connecting Lakes Edward and George. This excursion reveals large pods of hippos, basking crocodiles, elephants at the water’s edge, and an impressive range of birdlife including kingfishers, fish eagles, and pelicans. Return to your lodge to relax and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Meals & Accommodation: Acacia Wilderness Mweya
Day 3 – Kyambura Gorge Chimpanzees, Ishasha Sector & Transfer to Bwindi
After an early breakfast, descend into the mystical Kyambura Gorge, also known as the “Valley of the Apes.” Here, lush tropical forests hide a resident population of chimpanzees, along with black-and-white colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and a host of forest birds. The trek can last 2–5 hours depending on the chimpanzee movements. Continue southwards to the Ishasha sector, home to the world-famous tree-climbing lions. With luck, you may spot them lounging in fig trees while scanning the savannah for prey. After lunch (packed or hot, depending on timing), drive through picturesque landscapes to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home of the endangered mountain gorillas.
Meals & Accommodation: Gorilla Mist Camp | Alternative
Day 4 – Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi & Transfer to Kisoro
This day is the pinnacle of your safari. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking. Once assigned a gorilla family, you will set out with experienced rangers through dense forest and rugged terrain. The trek may take 1–7 hours, but the reward is extraordinary—spending a precious hour in the presence of these gentle giants. Watch them forage, groom, and interact, while marveling at their striking resemblance to humans. After trekking back, begin your scenic drive to Kisoro, passing through rolling hills and terraced farmlands. The route offers stunning vistas of the Virunga volcanoes.
Meals & Accommodation: Ichumbi Hotel Kisoro
Day 5 – Golden Monkey Tracking in Mgahinga & Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
This morning, venture into Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for golden monkey tracking. Led by a ranger, you will navigate bamboo forests in search of these endangered primates, whose playful antics and striking golden coats make for an enchanting experience. After an hour of observation, return to Kisoro and continue to Lake Bunyonyi. Known as the “Lake of a Thousand Islands,” it is the second-deepest lake in Africa and a perfect retreat after days of trekking. Enjoy the cool breeze, panoramic views, and the tranquility of the islands.
Meals & Accommodation: Birdnest Resort
Day 6 – Lake Bunyonyi Exploration & Return to Kigali
After breakfast, embark on a boat excursion around Lake Bunyonyi. With 29 islands, each steeped in folklore and history, the lake offers cultural stories such as the infamous Punishment Island, once used to exile young women. Birds, lush terraced hills, and the calm waters make this a memorable outing. In the afternoon, begin your drive back to Kigali (approximately 4 hours) in time for your onward flight from Kigali International Airport. This marks the end of your unforgettable 6-day safari.