Overview

15 Days Roundup Uganda Safari : Uganda is a bunch of vast savannahs, rainforests, wilderness game reserves, scenic landscapes, and beautiful weather. This is the reason we prearranged this somewhat long safari to allow you to explore more of the Pearl of Africa. The 15 Day Uganda Adventure tour takes you to Sipi, Pian Upe Game Reserve, Kidepo Valley National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale, Queen Elizabeth national park, and Bwindi. The safari will start and end in Entebbe or Kampala.

The safari highlights include the Sipi Falls hike, abseiling, gorilla trekking, chimp tracking, hiking, nature walks, game drives, boat cruises, and community visits.

Highlights

Sipi Falls Hike and Abseiling: Hike to the picturesque Sipi Falls located on the foothills of Mount Elgon, with stunning views of the falls and surrounding landscapes. Abseiling down the waterfalls for an exhilarating adventure and fantastic photo opportunities.
Pian Upe Game Reserve: Explore Pian Upe Game Reserve, Uganda’s second-largest game reserve, known for its wildlife encounters including kudu, impala, zebra, and cheetah. Enjoy game drives and spot a variety of wildlife in this more remote and off-the-beaten-path reserve.
Kidepo Valley National Park: Visit Kidepo Valley National Park, one of Uganda’s most scenic and remote national parks, renowned for its rich wildlife including lions, elephants, giraffes, and buffaloes. Game drives through the vast savannah and nature walks with experienced guides. Visit Karamojong homesteads to learn about the culture of the indigenous people living in this region.
Murchison Falls National Park: Explore Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest national park, famous for its spectacular waterfalls and boat cruises along the Nile River to view hippos, crocodiles, and diverse bird species. Game drives to see the big five, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, and leopards.
Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale National Park: Trek through the rainforests of Kibale National Park in search of chimpanzees, one of the best locations in the world to see wild chimpanzees. Spot other primates like colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and blue monkeys during the trek.
Queen Elizabeth National Park: Explore Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most visited park, and enjoy game drives to see the park’s wide range of wildlife including tree-climbing lions, elephants, buffaloes, and hippos. Boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel to observe hippos, crocodiles, and a wide array of bird species. Visit the Kyambura Gorge for a chimpanzee trek and stunning views of the park.
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Embark on a life-changing gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Spend an hour in the presence of these incredible creatures in their natural habitat, learning about their behavior and conservation efforts.
Nature Walks and Scenic Views: Enjoy nature walks in the various parks, taking in the stunning landscapes and learning about the rich flora and fauna from your knowledgeable guide. Visit scenic viewpoints, crater lakes, and hiking spots across Uganda’s diverse landscapes.
Community Visits: Experience local cultures with community visits to the Batwa pygmies in Bwindi, Karamojong people in Kidepo, and Batooro and Bakiga communities near Kibale. Engage with the locals through traditional music and dance, homestead visits, and cultural exchanges.
Scenic Road Trip Across Uganda: Enjoy a scenic drive through Uganda’s diverse landscapes, including lush rainforests, rolling hills, savannahs, and wetlands. Stop at various viewpoints, villages, and local markets to experience Uganda’s vibrant culture and way of life.
Wildlife Viewing Across Multiple National Parks: With this safari, you’ll have a chance to explore some of Uganda’s best-known parks and reserves, including Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, Kidepo, and Bwindi, all while encountering a wide variety of wildlife from big game to birds.
Bird Watching: Uganda is one of the best bird-watching destinations in Africa. Throughout the safari, enjoy the opportunity to spot rare and endemic species such as Shoebills, African Fish Eagles, and Grey-Crowned Cranes.

Day 01 :

Arrival at the airport, pick up, and transfer to hotel in Entebbe or Kampala

On your day of arrival in Uganda, our company representative will wait for you at the airport, receive you, and transfer you to your booked hotel in Entebbe or Kampala. Before he leaves, he will give a briefing on the safari more so the program for the next day.

You will have your dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 02 :

Transfer to Kapchorwa, Sipi falls via Jinja

After having breakfast, you will meet your safari driver and set off to Kapchorwa in eastern Uganda. The journey will take you through Mabira forest and the great Jinja city where you will have a boat cruise to the source of the Nile after which you will have lunch and proceed to Sipi. You will arrive in Kapchorwa in the evening. Check-in at the lodge and freshen. Then sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful views of the scenery. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Day 03 :

Hike to Sipi Falls, Abseiling, and a community walk

Your morning activity will be a hike to Sipi Falls. It will take you through coffee farms where you might find the locals doing some garden activities. Then proceed and hike to the beautiful falls for scenic viewing and photo moments as the water thrillingly splashes over. You will also face your fears when you abseil just beside the Sipi waterfalls, an experience you ought not to miss while on this Uganda adventure tour. After having lunch at the lodge, you will relax and later on head out for a guided community walk in the evening. This will involve taking part in the preparation of and taking organically made coffee. It gives an incredible taste. On return to the lodge, you will freshen up and relax.

Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Day 04 :

Transfer to Pian Upe

Check out of the lodge after breakfast and set off to Pian Upe Game Reserve. The journey takes about 4 hours. You will have lunch on arrival at your booked lodge. Later on in the evening, you will head out for an evening game drive. You might spot some of the reserve’s wildlife such as the Uganda kobs, waterbucks, Klipspringers, buffaloes, Gunther’s Dik Dik, National Park, and the oribi among others. It is home to cheetahs and on a lucky day, nature may bring them out for you to watch.

Dinner and overnight at the lodge

Day 05 :

Morning game drive and transfer to Kidepo Valley National Park

An early morning game drive will give us a chance to see more of the park’s wonderous treasures including wildlife such as lions, cheetahs, antelopes, birds like the ostriches, and then the clear views of the unspoiled fascinating landscape.

After the 4-5 hours game drive, you will set off to Kidepo Valley National Park, have an en route lunch in Moroto, and access Kidepo through the southern part. You will arrive in the evening. Dinner and overnight at the lodge in Kidepo.

Day 06 :

Morning game drive and Karamojong cultural experience

Another day to go and look out for wild animals. The day starts early morning with breakfast and you will drive to the vast plains of Kidepo. From the wildlife to the landscape, Kidepo is an interesting safari destination unique from most of Uganda’s parks. Animals can be seen from a distance because of the open plains, hills are watched at a glance and the weather is just perfect for scenic viewing. Animals commonly seen that we may also spot include elephants, buffaloes, zebras, Eland, Oribi, Jackson’s Hartebeest, and the klipspringer. We may also spot predators such as lions and cheetahs. after the game drive, you will return to the lodge and relax. Later on, have lunch and drive to the Karamojong homesteads for a cultural experience. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Day 07 :

Hiking Mount Morungole for a tour of the IK community

The IK is the smallest tribe in Uganda. They are the main settlers on Mt. Morungole and are believed to have migrated from Ethiopia to Kenya and later to Northern Uganda. Your hike allows you to meet this group of people who were cattle keepers but lost their cattle to the Karamojongs during cattle raiding. They still live a typical ancient life and have not embraced civilization. You will see how they live their day-to-day lives in the mountains and be entertained by their stories, cultural dances, and music. Remember to carry your camera to capture the captivating views of the park while up on the mountain.

Return to the lodge, have lunch, and relax. You may go for one more game drive for a chance to see animals that you did not see in the last drive. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Day 08 :

Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park

You will spend this day on the road as you transfer from Kidepo to Murchison Falls National Park: check out after breakfast and set off to Uganda’s biggest national park. En enroute lunch and arrive at the park in the evening. Check in at the lodge, freshen up, and enjoy the new fresh breath and tranquility.

Day 09 :

Game drive and boat cruise

Right after an early morning breakfast, you will head out for a game drive in the northern part of Murchison Falls National Park. Some of the animals that you may encounter are the hippos as they return to the water. Then grazers including herds of buffaloes, Uganda kobs, and Jackson’s Hartebeests are common. The giraffe population is somewhat small but at least often seen. You will have a chance to see predators including lions, leopards and hyenas. Savannah birds are also present with the Abyssinian hornbill being a common sight.

After the game drive, you will return to the lodge, later on, have lunch, and go for the afternoon boat cruise on the Nile. The boat cruise to the bottom of the falls takes us to where the water of the Victoria Nile pours after penetrating through the 7m gorge, a thrilling site that you ought not to miss while at the park. It also exposes you to different wildlife including hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. At the end of the launch cruise, your safari driver will drive you to the top of the falls; a scenic site with thundering loud waterfalls.

You will get back to the lodge in the evening.

Day 10 :

Transfer to Kibale National Park

When you wake up in the morning, you will pack all your luggage and check out. Set off to Kibale National Park via Hoima. En route, you will enjoy views of the scenic Rift Valley escarpment, have lunch in one of the towns, and arrive at your lodge in Kibale in the evening. Check-in, have dinner, relax, and later rest overnight.

Day 11 :

Chimpanzee tracking and swamp guided walk

Your day will be an active one starting with a cup of coffee and then head out for chimp tracking in Kibale forest. The adventure starts with a briefing at the park headquarters. You will enter the forest with ranger guides and start the search for the community of apes allocated. Once spotted, you will stay with them for one hour, see how they spend their time in the forest, and learn about their behaviors. You have a chance to come across other animals such as the grey-cheeked mangabeys, red-tailed monkey, blue monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys and elephants among others. After the trek, return to your lodge, later on, have lunch and relax.

In the late afternoon, you will go for a guided walk through Bigodi swamp which is home to over 130 bird species. The swamp is mostly known for the great blue turaco. You should expect to see birds including the African pitta, Black-capped Apalis, Pin-tailed whydah, Kingfishers, and Western nicator among others. You will return to the lodge for dinner and overnight in the evening.

Day 12 :

Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Day 12 of your safari starts with breakfast at your lodge and then set off to Queen Elizabeth National Park. The journey includes a short visit to Tooro palace whose king holds the world record for the youngest reigning monarch. you will learn about the history of the Tooro kingdom, and watch the surroundings of Fort Portal town while at the palace which is pitched on a hill and therefore offers unobstructed views. From here, you will continue to Queen Elizabeth National Park, have lunch, and go for the afternoon boat cruise.

The 2-hour boat cruise on the Kazinga channel is a great chance to see a variety of wildlife including hippos, elephants, crocodiles, buffaloes and many bird species.

You will have dinner and overnight at your booked lodge.

Day 13 :

Game drive and transfer to Bwindi

Kasenyi plains in the north of Queen Elizabeth National Park hosts herds of Uganda kobs and buffaloes. These attract predators including lions and leopards which you may spot while on your morning game drive. You will later set off to Bwindi where you will arrive in the evening.

Check-in, have dinner, and rest.

Day 14 :

Gorilla trekking and Batwa community visit

You will make sure you are up early, have breakfast, carry your packed lunch, and head to the park offices. Gorilla trekking starts with a briefing. You will know the dos and don’ts when trekking and these will guide you when you come across the mountain gorillas. An hour with the gorillas and return to the park offices to pick up your trekking certificates.

In the evening, you will visit the Batwa for a cultural experience. The visit entails storytelling about their history in the forest with gorillas and their current life plus, a cultural dance. The day will be closed with a sumptuous dinner at your lodge.

Day 15 :

Transfer to Kampala or Entebbe

About 9 or 11 hours driving from Bwindi to Kampala depending on your trekking sector. You will have an e-route lunch, stopover at Kayabwe for the equator experience, and arrive in Kampala or Entebbe in the evening.

End of safari

Includes/Excludes

Includes

Accommodation:
Accommodation in lodges, hotels, and tented camps throughout the safari, based on the chosen package.
Transport:
Round-trip transport from Entebbe or Kampala to all destinations in a comfortable 4x4 safari vehicle.
All fuel and transportation costs throughout the safari.
Park Entry Fees:
Park entry fees to all national parks and reserves, including Kidepo Valley, Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi Impenetrable, Kibale, Pian Upe, and Sipi Falls.
Safari Activities:
Game drives in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, Kidepo, and other parks to spot wildlife.
Boat cruises along the Nile River in Murchison Falls, Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth, and other waterways.
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park.
Hiking and abseiling at Sipi Falls and other scenic hiking locations.
Nature walks with trained guides in various parks, including Kidepo and Murchison Falls.
Cultural Experiences:
Community visits to meet the Batwa pygmies in Bwindi, the Karamojong people in Kidepo, and the Batooro and Bakiga cultures near Kibale.
Traditional music, dance, and cultural performances during community interactions.
Meals:
Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) at the lodges and camps during the safari.
Guide Services:
Professional English-speaking safari guide throughout the safari.
Wildlife Viewing:
Opportunities to see a wide range of wildlife, including the Big Five, primates, and bird species in national parks and game reserves.
All Government Taxes:
All applicable government taxes and fees related to the safari.
Emergency Services:
First aid and emergency services in case of any medical issues during the safari.

Excludes

International Flights:
Airfare to and from Uganda (International flights are not included).
Visa Fees:
Visa fees for Uganda (if applicable), which can be obtained online or at the airport.
Personal Expenses:
Personal spending money, including souvenirs, snacks, and items not part of the safari.
Tips for guides, drivers, and lodge staff (generally appreciated but not mandatory).
Optional Activities:
Optional activities not included in the itinerary, such as hot air balloon safaris, fishing trips, or additional park experiences (may be added upon request).
Travel Insurance:
Travel insurance covering cancellations, medical emergencies, lost luggage, etc. (recommended before departure).
Drinks and Alcohol:
Alcoholic drinks and non-inclusive beverages outside of those provided at the lodges or camps.
COVID-19 Related Costs:
Costs for COVID-19 testing, quarantine (if applicable), or required vaccinations (if any).
Gorilla or Chimp Trekking Permits:
Gorilla trekking permits and chimpanzee trekking permits for Bwindi and Kibale National Parks, which are not included and must be purchased separately in advance.

FAQs

Expand all

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for the 15 Days Roundup Uganda Safari

What is the best time to go on this safari?

The best time to visit Uganda for this safari is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February. These months provide better wildlife viewing opportunities, as the animals tend to gather around water sources. However, Uganda is a year-round destination, and even in the wet season, the parks remain accessible.

2. What is included in the cost of the safari?

The cost includes accommodation, park entry fees, safari activities (like game drives, boat cruises, and trekking), transport within Uganda, meals, and the services of an experienced guide. Optional activities and personal expenses are not included.

3. Are the gorilla trekking and chimpanzee trekking permits included?

No, the gorilla trekking permit for Bwindi and the chimpanzee trekking permit for Kibale are not included in the cost of the safari. These permits must be purchased separately and in advance. Your tour operator can assist you in arranging these permits.

4. How strenuous is the gorilla trekking and chimpanzee trekking?

Gorilla trekking can be physically demanding as it involves hiking through dense forest at high altitudes, often for several hours. However, the hike is rewarding, and the time spent with the gorillas is worth the effort. Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale is usually a bit less challenging but still requires a reasonable level of fitness for the trek through the forest.

5. What should I pack for the safari?

We recommend packing comfortable hiking boots, light but long-sleeved clothes for trekking, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a camera, binoculars for wildlife viewing, and a rain jacket (in case of unexpected rainfall). Don’t forget a valid passport, visa (if required), and travel insurance.

6. What type of accommodation will we stay in?

The safari includes a mix of lodges, tented camps, and hotels depending on the area. Accommodation is based on the chosen package (budget, mid-range, or luxury). All accommodations are selected for their proximity to the national parks and for offering comfort during your safari.

7. How long is the driving time between parks?

Driving times vary depending on the route and traffic, but typical driving distances between parks range from 3 to 6 hours. The safari is designed to allow for a comfortable experience, with frequent stops along the way for meals, sightseeing, and rest.

8. Can I extend my safari or add extra activities?

Yes, extra activities such as hot air balloon safaris, nature walks, or fishing trips can be added, subject to availability. Extensions to other destinations or additional park visits can also be arranged by your tour operator.

9. Are meals included in the safari?

Yes, meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) are included in the safari, typically provided by the lodges and camps where you will stay. Some meals may be packed for picnic stops during the safari activities.

10. Is it safe to travel in Uganda?

Yes, Uganda is considered a safe destination for tourists, and the safari operators take your safety seriously. It’s always advisable to follow your guide’s instructions, particularly during wildlife activities like trekking and game drives.

11. Do I need vaccinations for the safari?

It is recommended to consult with your doctor or travel clinic to ensure you are up to date with routine vaccinations. You may need vaccinations for Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A and B, and Typhoid. Malaria prophylaxis is also recommended for travel in Uganda.

12. What happens if I miss my gorilla trek or chimpanzee trek?

If you miss your scheduled gorilla trekking or chimpanzee trekking, the operator will make every effort to reschedule you, but this is subject to permit availability. Since these permits are limited, it is important to stick to the trekking schedule.

13. What is the minimum age for gorilla trekking?

The minimum age for gorilla trekking in Bwindi and other parks is 15 years. For chimpanzee trekking in Kibale, the minimum age is 12 years.

14. Are tips expected?

While tipping is not mandatory, it is highly appreciated by the guides, drivers, and lodge staff. A typical tip for the driver-guide is about $10 to $20 per day per person, and for lodge staff, $1 to $5 per person per day.

15. What is the group size for the safari?

The safari can be customized for both private and group tours. Group sizes typically range from 2 to 10 people, ensuring a more intimate and flexible experience. Private tours are available for an additional cost.

16. Is there Wi-Fi and mobile coverage during the safari?

Wi-Fi is available at some lodges and camps, but it may not be reliable or fast in remote areas. Mobile network coverage is generally available in major towns and some national parks, but it may be limited in more remote areas like Kidepo or Bwindi.