14-Day Ultimate Uganda Safari Experience

Uganda, often referred to as the “Pearl of Africa,” is a land of astonishing natural beauty and unparalleled wildlife diversity. This 14-Day Ultimate Uganda Safari journey is designed for travelers seeking both adventure and immersive wildlife encounters, blending thrilling activities, serene landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. From the wetlands of Mabamba Swamp to the rugged cliffs of Murchison Falls, from the dense rainforests of Kibale and Bwindi to the expansive savannahs of Queen Elizabeth and Lake Mburo National Parks, this itinerary offers a comprehensive exploration of Uganda’s most iconic destinations.

The 14-Day Ultimate Uganda Safari begins with the serene birdlife of Mabamba Swamp, where the elusive Shoebill awaits. It transitions into adrenaline-pumping activities such as white water rafting on the mighty Nile and the discovery of Murchison Falls’ grandeur. Cultural immersion is woven seamlessly throughout the journey, including encounters with the indigenous Batwa community in Bwindi and opportunities to explore Uganda’s vibrant towns and markets.

Go Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest National Park

Wildlife highlights are plentiful. You will witness gorilla families in their natural habitat, observe chimpanzees in the canopy of Kibale Forest, and track lions, elephants, buffaloes, and countless other species across Uganda’s national parks. Boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel and the Victoria Nile reveal hippos, crocodiles, and countless bird species, while the vast savannahs provide unforgettable photographic moments.

The 14-Day Ultimate Uganda Safari balances adventure, wildlife observation, and relaxation. Carefully selected lodges and camps ensure comfort while maintaining proximity to nature. Professional guides accompany every step, offering expert knowledge of animal behavior, conservation issues, and cultural history. By the end of this 14-Day Ultimate Uganda Safari journey, travelers will not only have experienced Uganda’s natural wonders but will have developed a profound connection with its landscapes, people, and wildlife a safari that lingers in memory long after departure.

14-Day Ultimate Uganda Safari Highlights

Day	Activities	Accommodation
Day 1	Arrival at Entebbe Airport and Check in the Hotel for Relaxation	Airport Guest House
Day 2	Go Morning Shoebill Tracking on a Canoe in Mabamba Swamp and Afternoon Road Transfer to Jinja City for a Sunset Boat Cruise to the Source of the River Nile	2Friends Guest House Jinja Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 3	Have a Full Day White Water Rafting on Itanda Falls in Jinja and Afternoon Drive to Kampala for Overnight	Kabira Country Club Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 4	Morning Road Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park (Stopover at Ziwa Rhino Tracking, Hike to the Top of Murchison Falls and Check-in the Hotel)	Savannah Murchison Lodge Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 5	Adventure in Murchison Falls National Park (Game Drives and Boat Cruise on the Victoria Nile)	Savannah Murchison Lodge Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 6	Morning Road Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park and Afternoon Relaxation at the Lodge	Kibale Forest Camp Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 7	Go Morning Chimpanzee Tracking and Afternoon Bigodi Swamp Walk in Kibale Forest National Park	Kibale Forest Camp Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 8	Morning Road Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park via the Crater Lakes and Tea Plantations in Fort Portal, Have Evening Game Drives in the Park	The Bush Lodge Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 9	Adventure in Queen Elizabeth National Park (Game Drives in Kasenyi Plains and Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel)	The Bush Lodge Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 10	Morning Game Drives in Kasenyi Plains and Afternoon Game Drives in Ishasha Sector to Spot the Tree-Climbing Lions	The Bush Lodge Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 11	Morning Road Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park (Rushaga Sector) and Have Afternoon Batwa Cultural Experience	Rushaga Gorilla Lodge Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 12	Go Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Afternoon Road Drive to Lake Bunyonyi for Scenic Lake Views and Relaxation	Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 13	Morning Road Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park and have Afternoon Game Drives, Nature Walks, and Relaxation	Mpogo Safari Lodge Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 14	Morning Game Drive and Later Transfer to Entebbe Airport for Departure	None

Tour Quotation Based on Budget Safari: US$5,190pp

Detailed 14-Day Ultimate Uganda Safari

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe Airport and Hotel Check-In

Your 14-Day Ultimate Uganda Safari begins as you arrive at Entebbe International Airport, where you are warmly welcomed by your Deks Safaris guide. The tropical climate, vibrant greenery, and the faint scent of Lake Victoria create an immediate sense of immersion in Africa. After clearing customs and immigration, you are transferred to Airport Guest House, a tranquil setting ideal for relaxation after your flight.

The afternoon is reserved for unwinding and acclimatization. You may stroll through the gardens, enjoy a refreshing drink, or simply observe the lush surroundings. The calmness of the environment contrasts beautifully with the adventure that lies ahead, offering a gentle introduction to Uganda’s rhythm of life. Dinner is served in a peaceful setting, featuring fresh, locally inspired cuisine, setting the stage for the wildlife-filled days to come.

Accommodation: Airport Guest House – Full Board

Day 2: Mabamba Swamp Shoebill Tracking and Jinja Sunset Boat Cruise

An early morning departure brings you to the mystical Mabamba Swamp, one of Uganda’s most important wetland habitats. Here, on a traditional canoe, you glide silently along narrow channels lined with papyrus reeds and floating vegetation. The swamp is home to over 200 bird species, but the main attraction is the enigmatic Shoebill stork, a prehistoric bird known for its massive bill and statuesque posture. Observing the Shoebill in its natural habitat, often motionless for hours, evokes awe and a deep appreciation for Uganda’s diverse ecosystems.

After your birdwatching adventure, you embark on a scenic road transfer to Jinja, Uganda’s adventure capital, where the source of the River Nile awaits. A sunset boat cruise on the river offers spectacular views of its sparkling waters against a backdrop of golden hills. Hippos occasionally break the surface, while colorful African fish eagles soar above. The boat ride provides a reflective and serene counterpoint to the morning’s early adventure, capturing the essence of Uganda’s watery landscapes.

Accommodation: 2Friends Guest House, Jinja – Full Board

Day 3: White Water Rafting on Itanda Falls and Drive to Kampala

Today begins with the adrenaline-filled adventure of white water rafting on the Nile at Itanda Falls. The roaring rapids, swirling eddies, and rushing water provide a thrilling challenge for rafters, while guides ensure both safety and maximum enjoyment. The surrounding cliffs and lush riverbanks add dramatic scenery, offering incredible photographic opportunities during breaks in the rapids.

After an exhilarating morning, you embark on a scenic drive to Kampala, Uganda’s bustling capital. Along the way, rural villages, vibrant roadside markets, and rolling hills offer glimpses of local life. The contrast between the adrenaline of rafting and the relaxed pace of the drive showcases Uganda’s diverse landscapes and lifestyles. Overnight at Kabira Country Club, where modern comfort and lush gardens provide a restful retreat.

Accommodation: Kabira Country Club – Full Board

Day 4: Road Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park with Ziwa Rhino Tracking

A scenic morning road transfer takes you northwards to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest national park. En route, a stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary allows for close encounters with rare white rhinos, providing insight into ongoing conservation efforts. Observing these majestic creatures grazing in a safe habitat highlights Uganda’s commitment to wildlife preservation.

Upon arrival at Murchison Falls, a hike to the top of the falls offers spectacular panoramic views. The Victoria Nile narrows violently as it plunges over a cliff, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle of nature’s raw power. The roar of the waterfall, the spray of mist, and the lush surroundings make this a truly immersive experience. Accommodation at Savannah Murchison Lodge provides a tranquil base with breath-taking views over the Nile, ideal for reflection and relaxation after an active day.

Accommodation: Savannah Murchison Lodge – Full Board

Day 5: Murchison Falls National Park – Game Drives and Nile Boat Cruise

The day begins with a morning game drive across the northern sector of Murchison Falls National Park. Lions, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, and a variety of antelope species roam freely across expansive savannahs, providing exceptional wildlife viewing. The early morning light illuminates the landscape in golden hues, enhancing the photographic opportunities.

In the afternoon, a boat cruise along the Victoria Nile allows close observation of aquatic life, including hippos, crocodiles, and a myriad of bird species such as herons and kingfishers. The cruise takes you close to the base of Murchison Falls, where the Nile forces its way through a narrow gorge with tremendous force, a breath-taking sight that combines adventure and natural beauty in perfect harmony.

Accommodation: Savannah Murchison Lodge – Full Board

Affordable Uganda and Tanzania Safari

Day 6: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park and Lodge Relaxation

A scenic morning drive takes you to Kibale Forest National Park, renowned for its primate diversity, including a high concentration of chimpanzees. The route passes through rolling hills, tea plantations, and quaint villages, providing insight into Uganda’s rural life and agricultural practices. Upon arrival, you check into Kibale Forest Camp, a lodge immersed in lush rainforest, offering serene views and the soothing sounds of tropical wildlife.

The afternoon is reserved for relaxation and acclimatization. You may explore walking trails near the lodge, enjoy a cup of local coffee while observing the forest canopy, or simply rest in preparation for the next day’s chimpanzee tracking adventure.

Accommodation: Kibale Forest Camp – Full Board

Day 7: Chimpanzee Tracking and Bigodi Swamp Walk

Early morning, you embark on chimpanzee tracking within the dense rainforest. Guided by expert trackers, you follow the sounds of hoots, screeches, and branch snaps, tracing the movements of chimpanzee troops through towering trees. Observing these intelligent primates in their natural habitat, engaging in grooming, play, and feeding, is profoundly moving and offers insights into their complex social structure and behavior.

In the afternoon, a walk-through Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary reveals a rich tapestry of birdlife, butterflies, and small primates. The walk offers both ecological and cultural insight, highlighting how local communities interact with and conserve their natural environment. Returning to Kibale Forest Camp, the evening is spent reflecting on the day’s unforgettable primate encounters.

Accommodation: Kibale Forest Camp – Full Board

Day 8: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park via Fort Portal and Crater Lakes

The 14-Day Ultimate Uganda Safari journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park takes you through Fort Portal, Uganda’s “City of Waterfalls,” and past numerous crater lakes formed by volcanic activity. Tea plantations and traditional villages dot the landscape, providing a vibrant backdrop to the drive. Upon arrival, an afternoon game drive allows you to encounter Uganda’s rich wildlife, from elephants and buffaloes to the occasional leopard hiding among rocky outcrops.

You check into The Bush Lodge, which combines comfort with proximity to wildlife, offering views over the savannah and immediate immersion into the park’s wild atmosphere. The evening is perfect for sundowners and photography, capturing the golden African sunset.

Accommodation: The Bush Lodge – Full Board

Day 9: Queen Elizabeth National Park – Kasenyi Plains and Kazinga Channel

Morning game drives across the Kasenyi Plains provide sightings of lions, elephants, antelope, and buffaloes grazing in the open savannah. The plains’ vastness offers spectacular photographic opportunities and a profound sense of the African wilderness.

In the afternoon, a boat cruise along Kazinga Channel showcases abundant hippos, crocodiles, and an array of birdlife. The tranquil waters, bordered by lush vegetation and wildlife-rich banks, offer a contrast to the open plains while maintaining the immersive 14-Day Ultimate Uganda Safari experience.

Accommodation: The Bush Lodge – Full Board

Day 10: Queen Elizabeth National Park – Tree-Climbing Lions in Ishasha

Today, you venture into the Ishasha Sector, famous for tree-climbing lions. Observing these majestic predators lounging in fig trees provides one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife experiences. Additional game drives across the savannah reveal elephants, Uganda kob, and other herbivores, further enriching the wildlife viewing experience. Returning to The Bush Lodge, the evening is spent reflecting on these rare and magical encounters.

Accommodation: The Bush Lodge – Full Board

Day 11: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Rushaga Sector) and Batwa Cultural Experience

A scenic drive through lush hills brings you to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to mountain gorillas. In the afternoon, you visit the Batwa pygmy community, witnessing traditional dances, crafts, and survival techniques. The Batwa’s storytelling and intimate connection with the forest provide a culturally enriching experience that complements the upcoming gorilla trekking.

Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge – Full Board

Day 12: Mountain Gorilla Trekking and Lake Bunyonyi Relaxation

The highlight of the 14-Day Ultimate Uganda Safari begins with gorilla trekking in Bwindi. Guided by trackers, you navigate the dense rainforest to observe habituated gorilla families. Witnessing the gentle interactions of silverbacks, mothers, and infants is profoundly moving and offers an unforgettable glimpse into one of Earth’s closest relatives.

After trekking, a scenic drive to Lake Bunyonyi allows relaxation amidst stunning lake views. At Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort, you enjoy panoramic vistas of terraced hills and islands, reflecting the calm serenity of this highland paradise. Optional activities include kayaking, boat rides, or simply unwinding by the lake.

Accommodation: Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort – Full Board

Day 13: Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park and Afternoon Game Drives

A morning road transfer brings you to Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda’s smallest savannah park known for its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife. Afternoon game drives and walking safaris allow encounters with zebras, impalas, hippos, and a variety of bird species. Mpogo Safari Lodge offers comfortable accommodations with proximity to nature, making it an ideal base for wildlife viewing.

Accommodation: Mpogo Safari Lodge – Full Board

Day 14: Final Game Drive and Departure to Entebbe Airport

On the final day, a morning game drive offers last glimpses of wildlife in the tranquil savannahs of Lake Mburo. Later, you embark on a road transfer to Entebbe International Airport, concluding the 14-Day Ultimate Uganda Safari adventure. Memories of gorillas, chimpanzees, tree-climbing lions, and Uganda’s rich landscapes linger, leaving a lasting imprint of the country’s unparalleled natural and cultural diversity.

Accommodation: None – Half Board

14-Day Ultimate Uganda Safari Inclusions and Exclusions

Safari Inclusions

Airport transfers and road transfers throughout Uganda
Accommodation as specified (full board where indicated)
All game drives, primate trekking, and forest walks
Guided canoe excursions (Mabamba Swamp, Kazinga Channel, Nile Cruise)
Park entrance fees and conservation levies
Cultural visits (Batwa community)
Professional English-speaking safari guide
Bottled water during game drives
White water rafting on the Nile at Itanda Falls

Safari Exclusions

International flights to/from Uganda
Visa fees for Uganda
Travel and medical insurance
Gratuities for guides, lodge staff, and drivers
Personal expenses (souvenirs, internet, laundry)
Optional activities not included in itinerary