12-Days Uganda Safari: Exploring Gorillas, Wildlife, and the Nile River
12 Days Uganda Safari: Exploring Gorillas, Wildlife, and the Nile River
DURATION
12 Days 11 Nights
STYLE
Gorilla & wildlife Safari
PRICE GUIDE
$ 11500 Per Person
This 12 days Uganda safari offers an exciting mix of wildlife adventures, cultural experiences, and breathtaking landscapes. From tracking rhinos on foot to cruising along the Nile and trekking gorillas in the wild, this journey takes you through Uganda’s most famous parks, including Murchison Falls, Kibale Forest, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and Jinja. Get ready for an unforgettable experience of Uganda’s diverse nature and wildlife.
INCLUDED IN THIS TRIP
- All entry fees to all parks
- Emergency evacuation insurance (excludes medical bills)
- All ground transportation in 4x4 land cruiser
- Gorilla and chimpanzee permits
- All Accommodation as indicated in the itinerary
- English-speaking Experienced Safari guide
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary
- Soft Drinks on all days
- Porter fees during gorilla and Chimps tracking
- Domestic flight Entebbe to Bwindi
- Meet and greet services for the airport smooth transfers
- All domestic flights as per itinerary (15 kgs)
Safari Notes
Accommodation: Although the itinerary price is based on the suggested accommodation, Mond Safaris offers fully customizable trips. Our specialists can assist you in choosing the accommodation option that aligns best with your preferences and budget.
What to expect through out this Safari
- Diverse Wildlife Encounters: Witness the "Big Five" (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) and other unique species
- Trekking mountain gorillas in Bwindi
- Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale national park
- Scenic Landscapes: Experience a variety of stunning landscapes and the beauty with expansive plains of the Queen Elizabeth national park
- Game Drives: Enjoy multiple game drives in each park, with opportunities for early morning and late afternoon safaris, increasing the chances of spotting wildlife.
- Experienced Guides Throughout Your Journey: Benefit from the expertise of experienced guides who will accompany you throughout your safari, providing valuable insights and ensuring a memorable and safe adventure.
- Stay in a range of luxury lodges and tented camps, providing comfortable and stylish accommodations amidst the wilderness.
- Photographic Opportunities: Capture breathtaking moments and stunning scenery, from close-up wildlife shots to panoramic views of the landscapes, making for an unforgettable photographic journey.
- Daily Routine: On some days, we will wake up as early as 5:45 AM and have breakfast. By 7:00 AM, we will begin our activities for the day.
What to Carry for this Safari:
- Valid Passport and Visa: Ensure your travel documents are in order.
- We highly recommend that all travelers obtain travel insurance before going on a safari
- Yellow Fever Certificate: Required for entry into East African countries.
- Comfortable Clothing: Lightweight, breathable clothes for the day and warmer layers for early mornings and evenings.
- Sturdy Walking Shoes or Boots: Essential for game drives and walking safaris.
- Hat and Sunglasses: Protection from the sun.
- A pair of long stocking to use while trekking gorillas and chimpanzees
- Sunscreen: High SPF to protect against the strong sun.
- Insect Repellent: To guard against mosquitoes and other insects.
- Binoculars: For spotting wildlife from a distance.
- Camera with Extra Batteries and Memory Cards: Capture the incredible moments.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the safari.
- Raincoat or Poncho: In case of unexpected showers.
- Daypack: To carry your essentials during game drives and excursions.
12 Days Uganda Safari: Exploring Gorillas, Wildlife, and the Nile River Summary
Welcome to Entebbe, Uganda
Murchison Falls National Park
Kibale National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Bwindi National Park
Flight to Entebbe and Drive to Jinja
Relaxing and afternoon Boat Cruise to the Source of the Nile
Departure
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Entebbe, Uganda
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, a representative from Mond Safaris will greet you and assist you through customs and baggage claim. Afterward, you will be transferred to your hotel in Entebbe to relax and prepare for your exciting adventure ahead.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: lake Victoria Serena hotel- Deluxe double
Hotel Highlights
- Conveniently located on Lake Victoria between Kampala and Entebbe, perfect for a break before or after a gorilla trekking trip.
- Offers a championship golf course, spacious pool, luxurious spa, sauna, yoga and Tai Chi classes, cardio studio, beautiful mosaics, frescoes, fountains, terraced rose gardens, and various dining choices.
- Rooms feature an Italian-inspired design with all the latest amenities, including satellite TVs, Wi-Fi, and 24-hour room service.
Serena Lake Victoria Hotel Overview
Located between Kampala and Entebbe on Lake Victoria, Serena Lake Victoria Hotel is perfect for a rest stop before or after a gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Enjoy stunning lake views and a range of amenities. There's a championship golf course, a big pool, and a luxurious spa offering various treatments along with sauna, yoga, and Tai Chi classes, plus a cardio studio. The hotel grounds are relaxed with mosaics, fountains, and rose gardens. Dining options are plentiful, from casual bites by the pool to the 24-hour Citadel Restaurant serving extensive buffets for breakfast and lunch, and a dinner menu inspired by Uganda and the Mediterranean. Rooms are elegantly themed with modern amenities like satellite TVs, Wi-Fi, and 24-hour room service.
Day 2 & 3: Explore Ziwa Rhinos and Murchison falls
Start your day with a visit to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where you’ll go on a guided walking safari to track rhinos, Uganda’s only free-roaming rhinos. Afterward, continue your drive to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda's largest and most famous park, known for its lions, elephants, giraffes, and hippos. You’ll arrive in the evening, check in to your lodge, and enjoy a relaxing dinner.
Day 3, Begin your day with a boat ride to the Nile Delta, a haven for birdwatchers, including the rare shoebill stork. After breakfast in the bush, embark on a game drive through the park's vast savannah, where you might spot elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, and more. In the afternoon, take a cruise along the Nile to Murchison Falls, where the mighty river squeezes through a narrow gorge and plunges dramatically. Watch for wildlife along the riverbanks, including crocodiles and hippos.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Nile safari lodge
Hotel Highlights
- 8 luxury bandas built from wood and roofs featuring makuti
- 2-bedroom family unit which is perfect for families or small groups of friends
- Family unit offers a private swimming pool
- Communal swimming pool, bar, lounge and dining areas
- Located close to Murchison Falls National Park, on the banks of the River Nile
Nile Safari Lodge overview
Nile Safari Lodge is one of the most luxurious properties in the Murchison Falls area, if not all of Uganda! The owner-run lodge is made up of eight luxury bandas which are simply huge. They are all spread out along the banks of the River Nile and as they are hidden amongst the vegetation, they are perfectly secluded. There is also a family unit which offers private space and spacious accommodation. The bed faces out to the River Nile and in the evening, the staff will turn down the mosquito net for you ready to come back to. The bathrooms are enormous and designed with a natural yet contemporary feel. Nile Safari Lodge is a family project which always gives it that extra level of attention and love. The lodge has a selection of facilities (swimming pool, spa, camp-fire, family units and more), as well as being closely located to the prime game area of Murchison Falls National Park.
Day 4 & 5: Murchison Falls and Flight to Kibale Forest
In the morning, visit the top of Murchison Falls for spectacular views as the Nile crashes down below. Later, catch a flight from Murchison to Kibale Forest, renowned for its primate species. After arriving, your guide will take you through scenic tea plantations to your lodge.
Day 5, Chimpanzee Tracking and Bigodi Swamp Walk, Today, enjoy a chimpanzee habituation experience, spending several hours observing these fascinating creatures as they go about their daily activities in Kibale Forest. In the afternoon, take a walk through Bigodi Swamp, a community-run conservation area where you’ll meet a traditional healer and learn about local culture.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Cimpundu lodge
Hotel Highlights
. Luxury Cottages: Each of the 14 cottages features spacious en-suite bathrooms, private sundecks, and open-air clawfoot bathtubs that offer incredible views of the forest—perfect for a peaceful, relaxing soak.
. Authentic Kibale Experience: Nestled near Kibale Forest and Kibale National Park, Chimpundu Lodge offers amazing opportunities for chimpanzee trekking and exploring the rich wildlife in the area.
. Modern Comforts: All cottages come with modern amenities like Wi-Fi, satellite TV, mini-bars, and tea and coffee-making facilities to make your stay comfortable.
. Relaxation & Leisure: Whether it’s spending time at the bar, enjoying a meal by the pool, or simply relaxing with a good book in the lounge, Chimpundu Lodge provides plenty of ways to unwind after a day of adventure.
Chimpundu Lodge overview
Located just 309 km from Kampala, Chimpundu Lodge offers a perfect blend of luxury and nature in the heart of Kibale Forest. With 14 beautifully designed cottages, this lodge provides a serene escape, where you can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape and wildlife right from your private deck. After a day of chimpanzee trekking, unwind by the pool, enjoy a delicious meal, or relax in the comfortable lounge. Chimpundu Lodge is all about giving you an authentic African experience, with impeccable service and all the modern comforts you could need.
Day 6: Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park and Kazinga Channel Cruise
After breakfast, you will drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most diverse wildlife reserves. On the way, stop at a sustainable tourism project that helps local communities. In the afternoon, take a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, famous for its large populations of hippos, crocodiles, and birds. You may also see elephants and buffaloes along the shores.
Day 7: Lion Tracking and Transfer Game drive
Join a morning lion tracking safari, where you will learn about lion conservation and spot these majestic predators in the wild. Afterward, continue with game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions. In the evening, enjoy a sundowner while watching the sunset over the savannah .
Accommodation: Buffalo safari lodge -Deluxe Double
Meals plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Hotel Highlights
- Prime Location Near Kazinga Channel: Buffalo Safari Lodge is strategically situated near the Kazinga Channel, a renowned wildlife hotspot within Queen Elizabeth National Park.
- Expansive Private Wilderness: This Lodge offers a serene and immersive experience in the heart of nature. The expansive grounds ensure that guests can enjoy the tranquility of the environment while being surrounded by spectacular flora and fauna.
. Rich Wildlife Viewing: The lodge is a haven for wildlife viewing, with frequent sightings of elephants, buffaloes, hippos, warthogs, and various bird species right from the lodge's vicinity.
Buffalo Safari Lodge overview
Buffalo Safari Lodge, located near the enchanting Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda, is a perfect retreat for nature and wildlife lovers. Situated just 1 km off the Kasese-Mbarara road, this resort spans 25 private acres of pristine wilderness. Guests can enjoy a serene environment teeming with spectacular flora and fauna, including elephants, buffaloes, hippos, warthogs, and numerous bird species. The lodge's prime location provides easy access to the Kazinga Channel, renowned for its rich biodiversity and boat safaris. Whether you're relaxing on the lodge's premises or exploring the surrounding area, Buffalo Safari Lodge offers an immersive and tranquil experience, making it an ideal base for your safari adventures in Uganda.
Day 8 & 9: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
On this day after breakfast, You will depart Queen Elizabeth Park drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its mountain gorilla conservation efforts. The journey provides glimpses of local communities and picturesque landscapes.
On Day 9: You will wake up around 05:45 in the morning, and head to park headquarters for a briefing about dos and don’ts during gorilla trekking, later head into the forest with guides and start tracking, it takes approx. 2-6 hours depending on the location of the gorillas and later return to the lodge to relax
Accommodation: Mahogany springs lodge
Meals plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Hotel Highlights
- Nestled atop the Munyanga River, offering stunning views of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
- Provides optimal comfort and privacy with its 12 Luxury Suites set amidst lush gardens.
- Offers easy access to gorilla trekking adventures, serving as an ideal base for exploring the park.
- Provides impeccable service and hospitality to ensure a memorable stay for guests.
Mahogany Springs Overview
Mahogany Springs Lodge epitomizes luxury and comfort, providing a haven of relaxation amidst the wilderness of Bwindi. Boasting 12 exquisite Luxury Suites, the lodge offers a blend of elegance and serenity, ensuring a memorable stay for every guest. Perched atop the Munyanga River, the lodge offers breathtaking panoramic views of the lush valley and the majestic Bwindi forest, creating an enchanting backdrop for your gorilla trekking adventure. Surrounded by meticulously landscaped gardens, Mahogany Springs exudes a sense of tranquility and harmony with nature, making it the ideal retreat after a day of exploration.
Day 10: Flight to Entebbe and Drive to Jinja
In the morning, fly from Kihihi Airstrip to Entebbe, enjoying stunning aerial views of Uganda. Once in Entebbe, transfer to Jinja, the adventure capital of East Africa. If time permits, visit the source of the Nile, where the river begins its long journey to Egypt.
Day 11: Boat Cruise to the Source of the Nile
Relax in the morning at your lodge before embarking on a boat cruise in the afternoon to the source of the Nile. Here, you’ll see where the world’s longest river starts its journey through Uganda and beyond. After the cruise, return to your lodge for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: wild waters Lodge
Hotel Highlights
- Located on a private island in the Victoria Nile, with views of the Bujagali Falls, the lodge features two dining venues: one on the main deck and another on a secluded island for a more intimate experience.
- The beautiful pool is encircled by the flowing waters of the Nile.
- Guests can enjoy spacious and elegant suites, each with a private balcony or terrace.
Wildwater Hotel Overview
Wildwaters Lodge is located on a private island in the River Nile. It offers accommodation in 10 spacious suites, including one designed for families. These suites are connected to the main lodge by wooden walkways through the forest. Each suite features a thatched roof, canvas walls, timber floors, a king-size bed with mosquito netting, an en-suite bathroom, and a private balcony with a large bathtub. The family suite has an additional upper floor for children and a bathroom with a tub.
Day 12: Departure
After breakfast, drive back to Entebbe, stopping for souvenir shopping if time allows. you will be transferred to Entebbe International Airport for your departure, concluding your unforgettable 12 days Uganda safari.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
What is Not Included
Quick Navigation
primates and wildlife Safari
Duration: 12 Days 11 Nights
Style: Safari Holiday / Gorilla trek
When to go: Year Round
Reach out to us for a customized quote tailored to your needs.
Suggested Luxury Uganda Safaris
Explore incredible adventures with our Uganda safaris and tour packages. Our carefully crafted itineraries take you on unforgettable journeys through iconic national parks, from the misty forests of Bwindi for gorilla trekking to the vast savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you can spot the Big Five.
Mond Safaris' itineraries are designed to inspire your travel dreams. Consider them as suggestions, as every detail of the trip we plan will be tailored to your preferences.
Uganda Safari Experiences
GORILLA TRACKING
A once-in-a-lifetime adventure through the lush forests of Uganda to encounter endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Led by experienced guides and trackers, trek through dense vegetation, listening for the gentle sounds of the gorillas.
BOAT SAFARIS
Take a relaxing boat ride through Uganda's beautiful rivers like the Kazinga Channel and the Nile River. See lots of animals like hippos, crocodiles, and colorful birds along the lush riverbanks
CULTURAL EXPERIENCES
Experience Uganda's rich cultural heritage by engaging directly with local communities. Explore traditional villages and connect with residents to discover their customs, traditions, and daily routines
CHIMPANZEE TRACKING
Discover Uganda's lush rainforests to meet chimpanzees. Join experienced guides as they lead you through thick forests. Watch chimpanzees swinging from trees, looking for food, and spending time with their friends
GAME VIEWING
Go on exciting trips in Uganda's famous parks like Queen Elizabeth, Kidepo Valley, and Murchison Falls. Explore big grasslands and thick forests to spot cool animals like lions, elephants, giraffes, and buffalo
GOLDEN MONKEY TRACKING
Explore the misty forests of Uganda to find and watch the playful golden monkeys. These charming monkeys have bright golden fur and live in the bamboo forests of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Useful insights for planning your Safari in Uganda
Where is Uganda located?
Uganda, also known as the pearl of Africa is located in East Africa, bordered by Kenya to the east, South Sudan to the north, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west, Rwanda to the southwest, and Tanzania to the south.
What is the Currency Used in Uganda:
The currency used in Uganda is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). While US dollars are widely accepted in major tourist areas and establishments, it's advisable to carry some local currency for smaller purchases and transactions.
What are some traditional foods and drinks to try in Uganda?
Uganda offers a diverse array of traditional foods and beverages that reflect its rich culinary heritage. Among the must-try dishes are matoke, which consists of steamed green bananas, luwombo, a flavorful stew made with meat, vegetables, and groundnuts wrapped in banana leaves, and ugali, a maize flour-based staple. Another popular street food is the Rolex, a chapati rolled with eggs and vegetables, enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
In addition to these savory delights, Uganda also offers a variety of traditional beverages. For a unique taste of local flavors, try banana beer, a fermented beverage made from ripe bananas, or ajon, a traditional brew crafted from millet or sorghum. These traditional drinks provide a refreshing and authentic taste of Ugandan culture.
What Language Spoken in Uganda:
The official languages of Uganda are English and Swahili, with English being the primary language used in education, government, and business. However, the luganda language is commonly used in the central part and there are over 40 indigenous languages spoken across the country, including Runyankole, and Luo, among others.
The best time to visit Uganda is generally during the dry seasons, which occur from December to February and from June to August. During these periods, the weather is typically warm and sunny, making it ideal for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities such as gorilla trekking and hiking. The dry seasons also offer better road conditions for traveling around the country. However, it's worth noting that Uganda's climate can vary depending on the region, so it's advisable to check specific weather patterns for the areas you plan to visit. Additionally, if you're interested in seeing certain wildlife, such as migratory birds or certain animal behaviors, it's best to research the optimal time for those experiences. Overall, visiting Uganda during the dry seasons provides the most comfortable and enjoyable travel experience.
The cost of a Uganda safari varies based on duration, accommodations, and activities. Mond Safaris Uganda offers customizable packages to suit your budget while ensuring an exceptional experience
Uganda offers a diverse range of safari destinations, each with its own unique attractions and wildlife experiences. Some popular safari destinations in Uganda include Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking, Queen Elizabeth National Park for game viewing and boat safaris, Murchison Falls National Park for wildlife encounters and scenic landscapes, and Kibale National Park for chimpanzee tracking and birdwatching. Additionally, smaller reserves like Lake Mburo National Park and Kidepo Valley National Park offer off-the-beaten-path experiences for adventurous travelers.
Other Popular African Safari Destinations
Are you still in search of inspiration? we believe you may also enjoy exploring these other East African safari destinations.
Why Mond?
Why Safari with Mond
We understand that every traveler is unique, with different interests, preferences, and expectations. That’s why we specialize in creating tailor-made tours
Our team works diligently to negotiate the best rates with our partners
and suppliers, allowing us to pass on the savings directly to you
Our experienced team of travel experts is readily available to answer any questions
What Our Clients Say
Mond Safaris Reviews