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16 days pearls of Uganda and Rwanda safari
18 days comprehensive safari in Uganda
18 days comprehensive safari in Uganda
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Kampala, Uganda
$8,149
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Overview
The 18 Days comprehensive Safari in Uganda as the name suggests features an extended encounter allowing you to explore a range of Uganda safari sites in detail. The 18 Days Safari commences and ends in Entebbe incorporating adventure, culture, wildlife, primates like gorillas and chimpanzees, recreation and the famous Prime Safaris Africa Home Experience. The destinations featured include; Jinja which is the source of the world’s longest River and a haven for white water rafting, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for Rhino tracking, Murchison Falls National Park for sightseeing Murchison Falls, wild game viewing including; Rothschild giraffes, elephants, Buffaloes, Jackson’s Hartebeest, the Nile Launch Cruise or sights of Nile crocodiles, Hippos and Shoebill stork, Kibale National Park for chimpanzee trekking, Mpanga tea estates for cycling, Rwenzori Mountains and Virunga Volcanoes for adventure mountain climbing, Semliki National Park for the Sempaya hot spring tour, Queen Elizabeth National Park for tree climbing lions and the Kazinga Channel, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for tracking the critically endangered mountain gorillas, the Lake Bunyonyi for recreational encounter, Lake Mburo National Park for magical savannah game including the Impala antelope, eland, Rothschild giraffe, Topis, Burchell’s Zebra among others and the cultural tours to the Banyankole community, Batwa of Ntandi and Bakonzo of Rwenzori. The Prime Safaris Africa Home Experience presents an authentic experiential touch of the local African homestead.
Safari Highlight
Day 1: Arrive in Uganda (Entebbe International Airport) & transfer to the lodge
Day 2: Drive to Jinja – the source of the mystical Nile River which is the world’s longest and the center of white water rafting adventure in Uganda
Day 3: Drive to Murchison falls National Park. Make a stop en route at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary which is the only home of white Rhinos in Uganda for white Rhino tracking
Day 4: Undertake a game drive in the savannah landscapes of Murchison Falls National Park & an afternoon launch cruise along the Nile River
Day 5: Visit the top of the Murchison Falls – the world’s powerful water fall and drive to Hoima. Make a stop at Kibiro Salt Gardens en route
Day 6: Drive to Fort Portal Area, settle for lunch in Fort Portal town and do either cycling in Mpanga tea estates or visit the Amabere g’Nnyinamwiru caves, hike the Fort Portal Crater lake and then transfer to Kibale National Park
Day 7: Do morning chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest National Park and do an afternoon eco-tour walk in the adjacent Bigodi wetland
Day 8: Drive to Semliki National Park. Visit the Sempaya hot springs, Batwa of Ntandi & drive to Kasese. Upon arrival, tour the Africa’s only bronze casting center – the Rwenzori Art Foundation and Ruboni Community craft village
Day 9: Undertake a whole day adventure hiking to Rwenzori Mountains commonly known as the mountains of the moon the 3rd tallest in Africa rising to 5,109m above sea level with snowcapped peaks
Day 10: Do game drive in the morning in Queen Elizabeth National Park with sights of elephants, lions, buffaloes, leopard, Antelopes etc. settle for lunch at Mweya and undertake the Kazinga Channel launch cruise in the afternoon with sights of Hippos and Nile Crocodiles
Day 11: Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Undertake a game drive in Ishasha sector in the south of Queen Elizabeth National Park in search of tree climbing lions and other wild game
Day 12: Undertake the mountain gorilla trekking in the hilly forested landscapes of Bwindi Impenetrable with a minimum of 400 out of the 880 mountain gorillas that are known to thrive in the wild & then drive to Mgahinga National Park
Day 13: Undertake an adventure climb to any of the three Volcanoes of Gahinga, (3,474m), Muhabura (4,127m) and Sabyinyo (3,669m) or undertake the golden monkey tracking
Day 14: Undertake the Batwa Heritage Exploration and transfer to Lake Bunyonyi driving through the fascinating Kisoro – Kabale Road
Day 15: Whole day authentic encounter in a home of a Mukiga gaining an experiential touch whatever takes place in an ordinary African homestead
Day 16: Undertake a coffee tour and drive to Lake Mburo National Park, settle for traditional lunch at Igongo Cultural Center and do a night game drive in Lake Mburo National Park. Explore the Nocturnal animals like hare, porcupine, Aardvack, white-tailed mongoose, honey badger, side – stripped jackal, bush pig, spotted hyena, serval cat, jenet cat, civet, thick – tailed Galago and black galago.
Day 17: Undertake the cultural tour to the Banyankole community at Enyemebwa center exploring the Ankole long horned cattle, its surrounding heritage and in the afternoon drive back to Kampala. Make a stop at Uganda Equator Crossing Kayabwe en route
Day 18: Departure.
Detailed Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Uganda (Entebbe International Airport) & transfer to the lodge
Arrive in Uganda following the flight from your respective country of origin. You land at Entebbe International Airport which is the main gateway to Uganda where you will find the company representative dedicated to offer you a courteous welcome. The amazing weather and brightening atmosphere on the shores of Lake Victoria give you a remarkable first impression of Uganda. After briefing about Uganda and the safari, you will connect to the respective hotel for relaxation, dinner and overnight
Accommodation:
Upmarket / Luxury: Kampala Sheraton Hotel / Speke Resort Hotel Munyonyo
Midrange / Standard: Cassia Lodge / Humura Resort
Budget / Basic: Banda Inn / Nexus Resort Hotel
Camping @Back Packers Hostel
Day 2: Drive to Jinja – the source of the mystical Nile River which is the world’s longest and the center of white water rafting adventure in Uganda
After breakfast, transfer to Jinja driving 80km from the Uganda’s capital City Kampala which takes about 2 hours. The drive takes you past the impressive landscapes of the city outskirts before entering into the sugarcane plantations at Lugazi, the forested lands of Mabira and eventually arriving in Jinja for impressive white water rafting. The Nile River moves out the Victoria Lake at the submerged Rippon falls heading to the north of Uganda before continuing to empty into Mediterranean Sea. On its course it meets series of impermeable rocks that form cascades and rapids. Thus, getting onto the rafts to undertake such challenging adventure is worthy undertaking. You raft in the company of expert guides who are at your rescue in case the waters push you off the raft. The crowd cheers from the locals on the river bank enjoying the free sights of your struggle with waters makes you part of the community and loved more. This adventure goes for the half day after which you relax a little and then connect to the source of the Nile in the afternoon. The boat cruise to the source of the Nile is a rewarding adventure as it exposes you to opportunities of exploring counts of birds including beautiful Kingfishers. Stepping the point where John Speke stood as the first European to discover the source of the River Nile takes you back to the ancient times when the mystical Nile River Source lured great men into the world of the unknown. Retreat from Jinja and settle in Kampala for overnight
Accommodation:
Upmarket / Luxury: Kampala Sheraton Hotel / Speke Resort Hotel Munyonyo
Midrange / Standard: Cassia Lodge / Humura Resort
Budget / Basic: Banda Inn / Nexus Resort Hotel
Camping @Back Packers Hostel
Day 3: Drive to Murchison falls National Park. Make a stop en route at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary which is the only home of white Rhinos in Uganda for white Rhino tracking
After breakfast, embark on the drive to Murchison Falls National Park covering 311km around 5 hours’ drive. You branch off at Nakitoma after 115km drive from Kampala diverting from the main road for 7km to Ziwa Rhino Headquarters where you are welcomed and taken to the wild on foot to track the white Rhinos. Here, you have the opportunity to encounter the white Rhinos only here in the whole of Uganda that were reintroduced in the year 2005 following their extinction in the year 1983. Trekking the fifteen (15) southern white Rhinos thriving in their natural savannah thicket of Ziwa Sanctuary while walking past beautiful flora, amazing landscapes and birds present a rewarding encounter that is worth undertaking. It marks the beginning of your moments with the big 5 of land animals. Retreat from the activity and continue on the drive to Murchison Falls National Park arriving in the evening for relaxation, dinner and overnight.
Accommodation:
Upmarket / Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge / Baker’s Lodge
Midrange / Standard: Pakuba Safari Lodge / Murchison River Lodge
Budget / Basic: Heritage Safari Lodge / Fort Murchison (Tent)
Wild Camping
Day 4: Undertake a game drive in the savannah landscapes of Murchison Falls National Park & an after launch cruise along the Nile River
Head to the rolling savannah landscapes of Murchison Falls National Park for an impressive morning game drive in the northern part of the park. The activity which commences at 7am takes you to the haven of wild game catching up with them before they disperse off completely to graze and hunt. You follow the designated tracks including the Buligi, Albert, Queen, Pakuba among others stretching to the delta area gaining impressive views of wildlife and the landscapes. The possible sights include Rothschild Giraffes, the Jackson’s Hartebeest, the lions, the leopards, the elephants, the Cape Buffaloes, the Oribis, Kobs among others. You retreat from the activity that lasts 3 – 4 hours and get back to the lodge for relaxation and lunch after which you gather at Paraa jetty for an afternoon boat cruise commencing at 2pm. The Nile launch cruise offers you an opportunity to explore the calm waters of Nile River as they approach the delta gaining views of the aquatic Species like Nile crocodiles and Hippos not forgetting the lucky sights of the most sought after shoebill stork. The boat stops at the bottom of Murchison Falls – the world’s powerful water fall enjoying one of the magical sceneries in Uganda. Retreat from the activity and connect to the lodge for relaxation, dinner and overnight.
Accommodation:
Upmarket / Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge / Baker’s Lodge
Midrange / Standard: Pakuba Safari Lodge / Murchison River Lodge
Budget / Basic: Heritage Safari Lodge / Fort Murchison (Tent)
Wild Camping
Day 5: Visit the top of the Murchison Falls – the world’s powerful water fall and drive to Hoima. Make a stop at Kibiro Salt Gardens en route
After breakfast, cross with the ferry to the southern section and drive to the top of the falls to explore the famous Murchison Falls. You encounter the world’s longest Nile River as squeezes itself to pass through an 8m ravine forming a plume of spray marked by a thunderous roar and a trade mark rainbow as it falls 43m below to the Devils Cauldron. The site is impressive for photography. Retreat from the activity and embark on the transfer to Hoima after breakfast. You make a stop en route at Kibiro Salt Gardens to encounter the heritage of this historic site. The Kibiro Salt Gardens has supported the livelihoods of the surrounding community dating far back to 900 years ago far before the coming of Europeans. The locals extract fine salt which they then exchange with the other communities for food and other items. The work of salt extraction at this site has for long been a dominant of female. The process of extracting is rather long and technical than the ordinary but it is amazing to see how the indigenous knowledge is put into use to have a product out well made. Accessing the site exposes you to walking on steep and challenging landscapes with narrow paths that can only be accessed by foot. Retreat from the encounter and transfer to Hoima arriving in the afternoon for relaxation, dinner and overnight
Accommodation: Hoima Cultural Lodge
Day 6: Drive to Fort Portal Area, settle for lunch in Fort Portal town and do either cycling in Mpanga tea estates or visit the Amabere g’ Nnyinamwiru caves, hike the Fort Portal Crater lake and then transfer to Kibale National Park
Transfer to Fort Portal Area after breakfast following five (5) hours’ drive passing through the impressive countryside landscapes of Kagadi and Kyenjojo that are dotted with lush green, rural homesteads and farmlands. Upon arriving in Fort Portal Area, you settle for lunch in one of best restaurants in Fort Portal town after which you embark on the cycling in the Mpanga tea estates. The green tea plantation is spread over a beautiful undulating landscape with endless scenic views which makes it ideal to encounter on your mountain bikes. On your cycling, you encounter the estate staff plucking tea and you are free to participate in the exercise to gain the exact touch.
Alternatively, you can opt to visit the Amabere g’ Nyinamwiru Caves and hike the Fort Portal Crater Lake field. Upon arrival, you are welcomed by the local inhabitants of the place with deep understanding and history of the place. You visit the Amabere g’ Nnyinamwiru caves – the breast like features believed to have belonged to Nyinamwiru the daughter of Bukuku who was a self-enthroned King of the Bachwezi. She was denied the opportunity to breastfeed her baby Ndahura as the father had been alerted that the child will take over his throne. The milk continues to flow out of Nyinamwiru’s breasts. Retreat from this encounter and embark on the hike to the Fort Portal Crater Lake field where you traverse the challenging slopes of Kyeganywa hill surrounded by a range of crater lakes and crater hollows presenting one of the beautiful scenic sites in Uganda. The top of Kyeganywa hill offers the views of Rwenzori Mountains on a clear day. Retreat from the chosen activity and transfer to Kibale National Park for relaxation, dinner and overnight
Accommodation:
Upmarket / Luxury: Primate Lodge – Luxury Cottages / Ndali Lodge
Midrange / Standard: Kibale Forest Camp – Safari Tent / Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse – Cottages
Budget / Basic: Rwenzori View Guesthouse
Wild Camping
Day 7: Do morning chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest National Park and do an afternoon eco-tour walk in the adjacent Bigodi wetland
Gather at Kanyanchu Tourism Center in Kibale National Park to catch up with Chimpanzee trekking which begins at 8am. The encounter commences with a briefing from the respective park rangers who will be your guides through the activity detailing the conduct of the exercise. After this, you head to the forest in search of the man’s closest relative. The dense forests of Kibale comprise of lush flora with mature trees marked with huge buttress and climbers, impressive bird species including the African Pitta, Afep Pigeon, Green-breasted Pitta, White-naped Pigeon, Red-chested Owlet, Crowned Eagle, Black Bee-eater, Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird, Western Nicator, Little Greenbul, Blue-breasted Kingfisher, Brown-chested Alethe, African Grey Parrot, Brown Illadopsis, Scaly-breasted Illadopsis, Black-capped Apalis, Collared Apalis, Blue-headed Sunbird, Dusky Crimsonwing, Red-faced Woodland Warbler, Purple-breasted Sunbird, Yellow Spotted Nicator, Black-eared Ground Thrush Little Green Bul and Abyssinian Ground-thrush among others. Apart from chimps, Kibale also supports other 12 Primate Species including the threatened red colobus with the highest population thriving in Kibale, the rare I’Hoest’s monkey, black-and-white colobus, grey-cheeked mangabey, red-tailed and blue monkeys, bush baby, olive baboon and potto which may be viewed during the trek. Finally you approach the common chimpanzees which have been fully habituated and thus offering you an opportunity to draw closer to them and take pictures. Viewing them as they munch fruit, swinging in trees, socializing, patrolling, mating and making pant hooting calls may lure you into unforgettable excitement. You have hour availed to you to encounter these precious apes and you are free to take as many photos as you can. Retreat from the activity which tend to last 2 – 5 hours and get back to the starting point where you will rejoin your company safari guide, settle for your packed lunch after which you transfer to Bigodi Wetland for an afternoon eco-walk. The Bigodi wetland is an eco-community initiative offering impressive nature walk in the community controlled wetland which features over 138 species of birds including the famous Great Blue Turaco and a range of hornbills. The swamp also shelters the swamp dwelling sitatunga antelope and other primate species like monkeys with chimpanzees making occasional visit. Retreat from the activity and drive back to the lodge for relaxation, dinner and overnight
Accommodation:
Upmarket / Luxury: Primate Lodge – Luxury Cottages / Ndali Lodge
Midrange / Standard: Kibale Forest Camp – Safari Tent / Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse – Cottages
Budget / Basic: Rwenzori View Guesthouse
Wild Camping
Day 8: Drive to Semliki National Park. Visit the Sempaya hot springs, Batwa of Ntandi & drive to Kasese. Upon arrival, tour the Africa’s only bronze casting center – the Rwenzori Art Foundation and Ruboni Community craft village
Drive to Semliki National Park after breakfast at your lodge 78km about 2 – 3 hours’ drive. You drive passed the town of Fort Portal which is one of the organized beautiful towns of Uganda before proceeding to Bundibugyo area welcomed by the views of the Mount Rwenzori block. On arriving in Semliki National Park, you undertake the famous Sempaya Nature walk to explore the hot springs both the female and the male hot springs. The male hot spring also known as Bitente has a wider pool while the female hot spring Nyansimbi features hot boiling geyser that sprouts up to 2m high and boiling to more than 100 degrees Celsius. You can boil some plantain or eggs to have picnic bites. The walk to the hot springs also exposes to the lush flora of Semliki Forest which is an extension of Congo forest biome. The Primate species like Black and white colobus monkeys might also be viewed. Retreat from the activity and connect to Ntandi to visit the Batwa people who are initially forest dwellers that were evicted to pave way for conservation. They dance for you and tell you stories of their ancient heritage. From Semliki, you connect back to Fort Portal and transfer to Kasese. Upon arrival in Kasese, visit the Rwenzori Art Foundation which is the only bronze casting center in the whole of Africa where you have an opportunity to explore the gallery with a collection of beautiful artworks. The foundation also offers an experiential touch and allows you to participate in casting process. From the art foundation, if you still have time, you visit the Ruboni Craft village and encounter the local women putting together different material to produce one of the best craft products in Uganda. You can learn a skill like basket weaving. Retire for relaxation, dinner and overnight on the foothills of Rwenzori Mountains.
Accommodation:
Upmarket / Luxury: Equator Snow Lodge
Midrange / Standard: Ihamba Safari Lodge
Budget / Basic: Ruboni Community Camp
Wild Camping
Day 9: Undertake a whole day adventure hiking to Rwenzori Mountains commonly known as the mountains of the moon the 3rd tallest in Africa rising to 5,109m above sea level with snowcapped peaks
Gather at Nyakalengija park station early in the morning to embark on the whole day hike to the Rwenzori Mountains. The Rwenzori Mountain rises to 5,109m above sea level with snowcapped peaks despite its closeness to the world’s main latitude – the Equator. Encounter the world heritage site which is greatly known for its impressive flora other than fauna. The impressive giant lobelias and groundsels are lovely to encounter. The sights of the peaks can be viewed at a distance, the sights of glaciers flowing down the mountain is beautiful not forgetting the savannah landscapes of Queen Elizabeth National Park, the rift valley lakes of George and Edward and Kasese town below. You have lunch on the mountain and retreat in the evening around 5pm for relaxation, dinner and overnight
Accommodation:
Upmarket / Luxury: Equator Snow Lodge
Midrange / Standard: Ihamba Safari Lodge
Budget / Basic: Ruboni Community Camp
Wild Camping
Day 10: Do game drive in the morning in Queen Elizabeth National Park with sights of elephants, lions, buffaloes, leopard, Antelopes etc. settle for lunch at Mweya and undertake the Kazinga Channel launch cruise in the afternoon with sights of Hippos and Nile Crocodiles
After breakfast, drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park for a morning game drive exploring the park’s rolling savannah landscapes dotted with counts of wild game including the big four of the big five like lions, leopards, buffaloes and elephants, antelope species like water bucks, Kobs, bushbucks among others, jackals among other wild game. The stretch to Kasenyi and the Mweya peninsular offers you the best of these. You settle for lunch at Mweya lodge after which you gather at the Mweya jetty to embark on a thrilling boat cruise on the 45km long Kazinga Channel. The cruise takes 2 hours with possibilities of encountering the aquatic species such as Nile Crocodiles and Hippos not forgetting other wild game that tends to congregate on the channel shores to consume water. Retreat from the activity and do a game drive along the channel track as you head to the lodge for relaxation, dinner and overnight
Accommodation
Upmarket / Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge / Katara Lodge
Midrange / Standard: Enganzi Game Lodge / Marafiki Safari Lodge – Private Tent/ Kasenyi Safari Camp
Budget / Basic: Pumba Safari Cottages
Wild Camping
Day 11: Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Undertake a game drive in Ishasha sector in the south of Queen Elizabeth National Park in search of tree climbing lions and other wild game
After breakfast, embark on the transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park driving through southern sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park named Ishasha well known for its tree climbing lions. The Ishasha sector presents a remarkable encounter with the unique tree climbing lions which are only existing in two spots in the whole world with Ishasha sector having the best viewing opportunities. You continue on the drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park arriving in the evening for relaxation, dinner and overnight
Accommodation
Upmarket / Luxury: Chameleon Hill Lodge / Buhoma Lodge
Midrange / Standard: Gorilla Mist Camp / Gorilla Valley Lodge
Budget / Basic: Broadbill Forest Camp
Wild Camping
Day 12: Undertake the mountain gorilla trekking in the hilly forested landscapes of Bwindi Impenetrable with a minimum of 400 out of the 880 mountain gorillas that are known to thrive in the wild & then drive to Mgahinga National Park
Embark on the mountain gorilla exploration in the Impenetrable forest of Bwindi. The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park supports a minimum of 400 mountain gorillas which on global scale are given as critically endangered. Therefore, undertaking the gorilla trekking experience in the hilly forested landscapes of Bwindi is such a life time endeavor that will create lasting memories. You gather at the respective park headquarters for briefing in the morning at 8am where you are also allocated the respective gorilla families to track. From here, you head to the forest in the company of the armed ranger guides that will lead you up the gorillas. The walk is beyond the ordinary as it involves traversing the dense jungle whose thickness would at some points necessitate using a machete to make a path, hiking the challenging landscapes some of which are steep and slippery at times under the canopy of the mature forest which forms darkness even during the day. You are treated to the impressive bird songs and beautiful flowers through the experience. The encounter tends to take 2 – 8 hours depending on the gorilla movements and one hour is availed to you to have a direct touch with the gorillas. Upon approaching gorillas, their reaction is not predictable as it can include them giving you a courteous welcome, minding less about you and charging against you. However, as a result of habituation, Mountain gorillas are always welcoming with the Silverback beating a little of his chest to demonstrate his might and also welcoming to you to the group. The young gorillas are very playful and are at times not aware of the 7m rule thus can try to draw closer to even touching on your body – save it by taking some steps away to observe the distance. You are not limited in any way to ask as many questions about gorillas and their habitats along with taking pictures so long as you have the opportunity to do so. Retreat from the activity and transfer to the starting point to embark on the transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park to the extreme south west of Uganda in the Virunga massif where it shelters three peaks of the eight mountain chain. You drive through impressive Kigezi highlands while enjoying the sights of the Virunga Volcanoes arriving at your lodge in the evening for relaxation, dinner and overnight.
Accommodation
Upmarket / Luxury: Mount Gahinga Lodge
Midrange / Budget: Travelers’ Rest Kisoro
Wild Camping
Day 13: Undertake an adventure climb to any of the three Volcanoes of Gahinga, (3,474m), Muhabura (4,127m) and Sabyinyo (3,669m) or undertake the golden monkey tracking
Gather at the Ntebeko Park Headquarters for briefing from the park rangers at 8am and then embark on the adventure Volcano climbing to the mountain of our choice. At this time, you would have chosen which mountain to climb between Muhabura, Gahinga and Sabyibyo. The 3,669m Sabyinyo Mountain takes around 8 hours to make a 14km round trip with series of peaks at the top, Gahinga towering up to 3,474m taking about 6 hours with the opportunity to spot the golden monkey if lucky in the Bamboo forest on the mountain slopes and Muhabura Mountain which rises to 4,127m taking about 8 hours to make a 12km round trip involving a steep climb to the top and the peak offers distant views of Bwindi forest, the Rwenzori Mountains on a clear day, the entire Virunga Mountain chain and the three countries of Uganda, Congo and Rwanda.
Alternatively, embark on the golden monkey tracking where you have opportunity to explore the endangered golden monkeys are confined to the Virunga massif on a world scale. The habituated groups thrive in the Bamboo zone on the slopes of Mount Gahinga and their golden patch and playful tactics makes them interesting to encounter on Uganda safaris.
Retreat from the day adventure and connect to the lodge for evening relaxation, dinner and overnight.
Accommodation
Upmarket / Luxury: Mount Gahinga Lodge
Midrange / Budget: Travelers’ Rest Kisoro
Wild Camping
Day 14: Undertake the Batwa Heritage Exploration and transfer to Lake Bunyonyi driving through the fascinating Kisoro – Kabale Road
Mgahinga Mountain forest was one of the ancient habitats for the Batwa people before they were evicted to settle on the margins of the gazetted park. The trail has been developed to enable you explore the heritage of the Batwa under the company of the Batwa guides who are well set to give an interesting themed interpretation of their past and the present. You start off at Ntebeko visitor center in the morning following the designated trail with the Batwa showing you a range of items and what they meant to their traditional life including medicinal plants, the edible plants and roots, the wild honey extraction, the Bamboo cup making, the tree houses, forest hunting techniques until you reach the Ngarama Cave which was their center and the home to their chief. The Batwa women will sing a range of traditional songs that will take you back to the life in the forest and their remarkable culture and heritage. It is a journey back to the authentic culture that now facing the risk of extinction. Retreat from the encounter taking about 5 – 6 hours and embark on the transfer to Lake Bunyonyi driving along the scenic Kisoro – Kabale Road with tits challenging road sections, branch off at Muko and connect to Lake Bunyonyi for relaxation, dinner and overnight
Accommodation
Upmarket / Luxury: Birdnest @Lake Bunyonyi Resort
Midrange / Budget: Lake Bunyonyi Eco – resort
Wild Camping
Day 15: Whole day authentic encounter in a home of a Mukiga gaining an experiential touch whatever takes place in an ordinary African homestead
Wake up very early and connect to the home of a Mukiga family to catch up with them as they wake up to embark on their daily routine. This is an opportunity to gain an experiential touch of the authentic African homestead mixing up with them according to the respective roles. The man joins the men while the woman joins the women group. Activities include cultivating on the steep slopes of Kigezi Highlands using traditional hoes, fishing on Lake Bunyonyi, brewing of local beer, live stock rearing, traditional food preparation, the art and craft making encounter and the traditional entertainment including music, dance and drama. You enjoy all the meals with the family and settle with them for overnight
Accommodation: Home stay
Day 16: Undertake a coffee tour and drive to Lake Mburo National Park, settle for traditional lunch at Igongo Cultural Center and do a night game drive in Lake Mburo National Park. Explore the Nocturnal animals like hare, porcupine, Aardvack, white-tailed mongoose, honey badger, side – stripped jackal, bush pig, spotted hyena, serval cat, jenet cat, civet, thick – tailed Galago and black galago.
After breakfast, embark on the coffee tour experience in the shadows of Virunga Mountains. The fertile volcanic soils present a rich ground for the growing of coffee which is among the first three foreign exchange earners for Uganda. The coffee tour is a typical experiential tour where the coffee farmers themselves take you through the process of coffee growing right from planting to maintenance, harvesting, processing, the final products and their respective use. You can engage actively in the process to gain an authentic touch of this remarkable cash crop. Chill for a cup of coffee and then embark on the transfer to Lake Mburo National Park 199km about 5 - 6 hours’ drive. You drive through impressive countryside landscapes of south western Uganda before approaching Mbarara town – the largest in the sub region 45km to Lake Mburo NP continuing on the drive to make a stop at Igongo Cultural Center for lunch 12km past Mbarara town also standing as the largest private Museum in Uganda with a range of artifacts featuring the tribes of southwestern Uganda and the 1520AD Eclipse monument. You visit these sites as optional activities. Continue on the drive to Lake Mburo National Park checking in at your lodge and relax until dinner time. At 7pm, you embark on the night game drive in the savannah landscapes of Lake Mburo National Park with possibilities of exploring nocturnal Species including hare, porcupine, Aardvack, white-tailed mongoose, honey badger, side – stripped jackal, bush pig, spotted hyena, serval cat, jenet cat, civet, thick – tailed Galago and black galago. You also have chances of viewing the day hunters and grazers having in a night rest. Retire for overnight
Accommodation
Upmarket / Luxury: Mihingo Safari Lodge
Midrange / Standard: Rwakobo Rock
Budget / Basic: Eagles Nest
Wild Camping
Day 17: Undertake the cultural tour to the Banyankole community at Enyemebwa center exploring the Ankole long horned cattle, its surrounding heritage and in the afternoon drive back to Kampala. Make a stop at Uganda Equator Crossing Kayabwe en route
Wake up 6am and connect to the Enyemebwa center to catch up with the herds men getting up to do the milking and their daily routine. You arrive and get the milking equipment including the tying rope and the milking pot to actively participate in the traditional hand milking of the Ankole long horned cattle, from milking you participate in sick animal treating, caring for cows like brushing their body using the locally made fiber brush (Enkuyo) and set out to graze in the wilderness. You enjoy the stimulating sounds that are made by the herds men as they set out to the grazing field and be mesmerized by the cows know how to align themselves forming a line headed by those that have special character of leading others. You retreat back and visit the traditional hut where you find the women churning milk in the churning gourd, from here the guide can take you to explore the crop bit of it exploring the extensive banana plantations where you learn about various banana types and their respective use participate in pruning and weeding using local methods and then participate in initial arrangements for traditional lunch. You take a break from that and rush to the well with red soil that is used for smearing the soil made water trough, smear the trough and fill it with water and then wait for the cattle to come and water them accordingly. You can opt to have a bull slaughtered and grilled traditionally for you where you can also have it alongside the delicious local sauce that is made without fire called Eshabwe. Retreat from the activity and embark on the transfer back to Entebbe in the afternoon 280km about 4 hours’ drive making a stop at Uganda Equator crossing Kayabwe for amazing photo shoots where you have opportunity to taking photos with one leg in the northern hemisphere and another one in the southern hemisphere. Continue to arrive in Entebbe in the evening for relaxation, dinner and overnight
Accommodation:
Upmarket / Luxury: Lake Victoria Serena Hotel
Midrange / Standard: Boma Hotel
Budget / Basic: Airport Guesthouse
Day 18: Departure.
Transfer to Entebbe International Airport for the flight departure back home.
End of Safari
Overview
The 18 Days comprehensive Safari in Uganda as the name suggests features an extended encounter allowing you to explore a range of Uganda safari sites in detail. The 18 Days Safari commences and ends in Entebbe incorporating adventure, culture, wildlife, primates like gorillas and chimpanzees, recreation and the famous Prime Safaris Africa Home Experience. The destinations featured include; Jinja which is the source of the world’s longest River and a haven for white water rafting, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for Rhino tracking, Murchison Falls National Park for sightseeing Murchison Falls, wild game viewing including; Rothschild giraffes, elephants, Buffaloes, Jackson’s Hartebeest, the Nile Launch Cruise or sights of Nile crocodiles, Hippos and Shoebill stork, Kibale National Park for chimpanzee trekking, Mpanga tea estates for cycling, Rwenzori Mountains and Virunga Volcanoes for adventure mountain climbing, Semliki National Park for the Sempaya hot spring tour, Queen Elizabeth National Park for tree climbing lions and the Kazinga Channel, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for tracking the critically endangered mountain gorillas, the Lake Bunyonyi for recreational encounter, Lake Mburo National Park for magical savannah game including the Impala antelope, eland, Rothschild giraffe, Topis, Burchell’s Zebra among others and the cultural tours to the Banyankole community, Batwa of Ntandi and Bakonzo of Rwenzori. The Prime Safaris Africa Home Experience presents an authentic experiential touch of the local African homestead.
Safari Highlight
Day 1: Arrive in Uganda (Entebbe International Airport) & transfer to the lodge
Day 2: Drive to Jinja – the source of the mystical Nile River which is the world’s longest and the center of white water rafting adventure in Uganda
Day 3: Drive to Murchison falls National Park. Make a stop en route at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary which is the only home of white Rhinos in Uganda for white Rhino tracking
Day 4: Undertake a game drive in the savannah landscapes of Murchison Falls National Park & an afternoon launch cruise along the Nile River
Day 5: Visit the top of the Murchison Falls – the world’s powerful water fall and drive to Hoima. Make a stop at Kibiro Salt Gardens en route
Day 6: Drive to Fort Portal Area, settle for lunch in Fort Portal town and do either cycling in Mpanga tea estates or visit the Amabere g’Nnyinamwiru caves, hike the Fort Portal Crater lake and then transfer to Kibale National Park
Day 7: Do morning chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest National Park and do an afternoon eco-tour walk in the adjacent Bigodi wetland
Day 8: Drive to Semliki National Park. Visit the Sempaya hot springs, Batwa of Ntandi & drive to Kasese. Upon arrival, tour the Africa’s only bronze casting center – the Rwenzori Art Foundation and Ruboni Community craft village
Day 9: Undertake a whole day adventure hiking to Rwenzori Mountains commonly known as the mountains of the moon the 3rd tallest in Africa rising to 5,109m above sea level with snowcapped peaks
Day 10: Do game drive in the morning in Queen Elizabeth National Park with sights of elephants, lions, buffaloes, leopard, Antelopes etc. settle for lunch at Mweya and undertake the Kazinga Channel launch cruise in the afternoon with sights of Hippos and Nile Crocodiles
Day 11: Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Undertake a game drive in Ishasha sector in the south of Queen Elizabeth National Park in search of tree climbing lions and other wild game
Day 12: Undertake the mountain gorilla trekking in the hilly forested landscapes of Bwindi Impenetrable with a minimum of 400 out of the 880 mountain gorillas that are known to thrive in the wild & then drive to Mgahinga National Park
Day 13: Undertake an adventure climb to any of the three Volcanoes of Gahinga, (3,474m), Muhabura (4,127m) and Sabyinyo (3,669m) or undertake the golden monkey tracking
Day 14: Undertake the Batwa Heritage Exploration and transfer to Lake Bunyonyi driving through the fascinating Kisoro – Kabale Road
Day 15: Whole day authentic encounter in a home of a Mukiga gaining an experiential touch whatever takes place in an ordinary African homestead
Day 16: Undertake a coffee tour and drive to Lake Mburo National Park, settle for traditional lunch at Igongo Cultural Center and do a night game drive in Lake Mburo National Park. Explore the Nocturnal animals like hare, porcupine, Aardvack, white-tailed mongoose, honey badger, side – stripped jackal, bush pig, spotted hyena, serval cat, jenet cat, civet, thick – tailed Galago and black galago.
Day 17: Undertake the cultural tour to the Banyankole community at Enyemebwa center exploring the Ankole long horned cattle, its surrounding heritage and in the afternoon drive back to Kampala. Make a stop at Uganda Equator Crossing Kayabwe en route
Day 18: Departure.
Detailed Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Uganda (Entebbe International Airport) & transfer to the lodge
Arrive in Uganda following the flight from your respective country of origin. You land at Entebbe International Airport which is the main gateway to Uganda where you will find the company representative dedicated to offer you a courteous welcome. The amazing weather and brightening atmosphere on the shores of Lake Victoria give you a remarkable first impression of Uganda. After briefing about Uganda and the safari, you will connect to the respective hotel for relaxation, dinner and overnight
Accommodation:
Upmarket / Luxury: Kampala Sheraton Hotel / Speke Resort Hotel Munyonyo
Midrange / Standard: Cassia Lodge / Humura Resort
Budget / Basic: Banda Inn / Nexus Resort Hotel
Camping @Back Packers Hostel
Day 2: Drive to Jinja – the source of the mystical Nile River which is the world’s longest and the center of white water rafting adventure in Uganda
After breakfast, transfer to Jinja driving 80km from the Uganda’s capital City Kampala which takes about 2 hours. The drive takes you past the impressive landscapes of the city outskirts before entering into the sugarcane plantations at Lugazi, the forested lands of Mabira and eventually arriving in Jinja for impressive white water rafting. The Nile River moves out the Victoria Lake at the submerged Rippon falls heading to the north of Uganda before continuing to empty into Mediterranean Sea. On its course it meets series of impermeable rocks that form cascades and rapids. Thus, getting onto the rafts to undertake such challenging adventure is worthy undertaking. You raft in the company of expert guides who are at your rescue in case the waters push you off the raft. The crowd cheers from the locals on the river bank enjoying the free sights of your struggle with waters makes you part of the community and loved more. This adventure goes for the half day after which you relax a little and then connect to the source of the Nile in the afternoon. The boat cruise to the source of the Nile is a rewarding adventure as it exposes you to opportunities of exploring counts of birds including beautiful Kingfishers. Stepping the point where John Speke stood as the first European to discover the source of the River Nile takes you back to the ancient times when the mystical Nile River Source lured great men into the world of the unknown. Retreat from Jinja and settle in Kampala for overnight
Accommodation:
Upmarket / Luxury: Kampala Sheraton Hotel / Speke Resort Hotel Munyonyo
Midrange / Standard: Cassia Lodge / Humura Resort
Budget / Basic: Banda Inn / Nexus Resort Hotel
Camping @Back Packers Hostel
Day 3: Drive to Murchison falls National Park. Make a stop en route at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary which is the only home of white Rhinos in Uganda for white Rhino tracking
After breakfast, embark on the drive to Murchison Falls National Park covering 311km around 5 hours’ drive. You branch off at Nakitoma after 115km drive from Kampala diverting from the main road for 7km to Ziwa Rhino Headquarters where you are welcomed and taken to the wild on foot to track the white Rhinos. Here, you have the opportunity to encounter the white Rhinos only here in the whole of Uganda that were reintroduced in the year 2005 following their extinction in the year 1983. Trekking the fifteen (15) southern white Rhinos thriving in their natural savannah thicket of Ziwa Sanctuary while walking past beautiful flora, amazing landscapes and birds present a rewarding encounter that is worth undertaking. It marks the beginning of your moments with the big 5 of land animals. Retreat from the activity and continue on the drive to Murchison Falls National Park arriving in the evening for relaxation, dinner and overnight.
Accommodation:
Upmarket / Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge / Baker’s Lodge
Midrange / Standard: Pakuba Safari Lodge / Murchison River Lodge
Budget / Basic: Heritage Safari Lodge / Fort Murchison (Tent)
Wild Camping
Day 4: Undertake a game drive in the savannah landscapes of Murchison Falls National Park & an after launch cruise along the Nile River
Head to the rolling savannah landscapes of Murchison Falls National Park for an impressive morning game drive in the northern part of the park. The activity which commences at 7am takes you to the haven of wild game catching up with them before they disperse off completely to graze and hunt. You follow the designated tracks including the Buligi, Albert, Queen, Pakuba among others stretching to the delta area gaining impressive views of wildlife and the landscapes. The possible sights include Rothschild Giraffes, the Jackson’s Hartebeest, the lions, the leopards, the elephants, the Cape Buffaloes, the Oribis, Kobs among others. You retreat from the activity that lasts 3 – 4 hours and get back to the lodge for relaxation and lunch after which you gather at Paraa jetty for an afternoon boat cruise commencing at 2pm. The Nile launch cruise offers you an opportunity to explore the calm waters of Nile River as they approach the delta gaining views of the aquatic Species like Nile crocodiles and Hippos not forgetting the lucky sights of the most sought after shoebill stork. The boat stops at the bottom of Murchison Falls – the world’s powerful water fall enjoying one of the magical sceneries in Uganda. Retreat from the activity and connect to the lodge for relaxation, dinner and overnight.
Accommodation:
Upmarket / Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge / Baker’s Lodge
Midrange / Standard: Pakuba Safari Lodge / Murchison River Lodge
Budget / Basic: Heritage Safari Lodge / Fort Murchison (Tent)
Wild Camping
Day 5: Visit the top of the Murchison Falls – the world’s powerful water fall and drive to Hoima. Make a stop at Kibiro Salt Gardens en route
After breakfast, cross with the ferry to the southern section and drive to the top of the falls to explore the famous Murchison Falls. You encounter the world’s longest Nile River as squeezes itself to pass through an 8m ravine forming a plume of spray marked by a thunderous roar and a trade mark rainbow as it falls 43m below to the Devils Cauldron. The site is impressive for photography. Retreat from the activity and embark on the transfer to Hoima after breakfast. You make a stop en route at Kibiro Salt Gardens to encounter the heritage of this historic site. The Kibiro Salt Gardens has supported the livelihoods of the surrounding community dating far back to 900 years ago far before the coming of Europeans. The locals extract fine salt which they then exchange with the other communities for food and other items. The work of salt extraction at this site has for long been a dominant of female. The process of extracting is rather long and technical than the ordinary but it is amazing to see how the indigenous knowledge is put into use to have a product out well made. Accessing the site exposes you to walking on steep and challenging landscapes with narrow paths that can only be accessed by foot. Retreat from the encounter and transfer to Hoima arriving in the afternoon for relaxation, dinner and overnight
Accommodation: Hoima Cultural Lodge
Day 6: Drive to Fort Portal Area, settle for lunch in Fort Portal town and do either cycling in Mpanga tea estates or visit the Amabere g’ Nnyinamwiru caves, hike the Fort Portal Crater lake and then transfer to Kibale National Park
Transfer to Fort Portal Area after breakfast following five (5) hours’ drive passing through the impressive countryside landscapes of Kagadi and Kyenjojo that are dotted with lush green, rural homesteads and farmlands. Upon arriving in Fort Portal Area, you settle for lunch in one of best restaurants in Fort Portal town after which you embark on the cycling in the Mpanga tea estates. The green tea plantation is spread over a beautiful undulating landscape with endless scenic views which makes it ideal to encounter on your mountain bikes. On your cycling, you encounter the estate staff plucking tea and you are free to participate in the exercise to gain the exact touch.
Alternatively, you can opt to visit the Amabere g’ Nyinamwiru Caves and hike the Fort Portal Crater Lake field. Upon arrival, you are welcomed by the local inhabitants of the place with deep understanding and history of the place. You visit the Amabere g’ Nnyinamwiru caves – the breast like features believed to have belonged to Nyinamwiru the daughter of Bukuku who was a self-enthroned King of the Bachwezi. She was denied the opportunity to breastfeed her baby Ndahura as the father had been alerted that the child will take over his throne. The milk continues to flow out of Nyinamwiru’s breasts. Retreat from this encounter and embark on the hike to the Fort Portal Crater Lake field where you traverse the challenging slopes of Kyeganywa hill surrounded by a range of crater lakes and crater hollows presenting one of the beautiful scenic sites in Uganda. The top of Kyeganywa hill offers the views of Rwenzori Mountains on a clear day. Retreat from the chosen activity and transfer to Kibale National Park for relaxation, dinner and overnight
Accommodation:
Upmarket / Luxury: Primate Lodge – Luxury Cottages / Ndali Lodge
Midrange / Standard: Kibale Forest Camp – Safari Tent / Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse – Cottages
Budget / Basic: Rwenzori View Guesthouse
Wild Camping
Day 7: Do morning chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest National Park and do an afternoon eco-tour walk in the adjacent Bigodi wetland
Gather at Kanyanchu Tourism Center in Kibale National Park to catch up with Chimpanzee trekking which begins at 8am. The encounter commences with a briefing from the respective park rangers who will be your guides through the activity detailing the conduct of the exercise. After this, you head to the forest in search of the man’s closest relative. The dense forests of Kibale comprise of lush flora with mature trees marked with huge buttress and climbers, impressive bird species including the African Pitta, Afep Pigeon, Green-breasted Pitta, White-naped Pigeon, Red-chested Owlet, Crowned Eagle, Black Bee-eater, Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird, Western Nicator, Little Greenbul, Blue-breasted Kingfisher, Brown-chested Alethe, African Grey Parrot, Brown Illadopsis, Scaly-breasted Illadopsis, Black-capped Apalis, Collared Apalis, Blue-headed Sunbird, Dusky Crimsonwing, Red-faced Woodland Warbler, Purple-breasted Sunbird, Yellow Spotted Nicator, Black-eared Ground Thrush Little Green Bul and Abyssinian Ground-thrush among others. Apart from chimps, Kibale also supports other 12 Primate Species including the threatened red colobus with the highest population thriving in Kibale, the rare I’Hoest’s monkey, black-and-white colobus, grey-cheeked mangabey, red-tailed and blue monkeys, bush baby, olive baboon and potto which may be viewed during the trek. Finally you approach the common chimpanzees which have been fully habituated and thus offering you an opportunity to draw closer to them and take pictures. Viewing them as they munch fruit, swinging in trees, socializing, patrolling, mating and making pant hooting calls may lure you into unforgettable excitement. You have hour availed to you to encounter these precious apes and you are free to take as many photos as you can. Retreat from the activity which tend to last 2 – 5 hours and get back to the starting point where you will rejoin your company safari guide, settle for your packed lunch after which you transfer to Bigodi Wetland for an afternoon eco-walk. The Bigodi wetland is an eco-community initiative offering impressive nature walk in the community controlled wetland which features over 138 species of birds including the famous Great Blue Turaco and a range of hornbills. The swamp also shelters the swamp dwelling sitatunga antelope and other primate species like monkeys with chimpanzees making occasional visit. Retreat from the activity and drive back to the lodge for relaxation, dinner and overnight
Accommodation:
Upmarket / Luxury: Primate Lodge – Luxury Cottages / Ndali Lodge
Midrange / Standard: Kibale Forest Camp – Safari Tent / Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse – Cottages
Budget / Basic: Rwenzori View Guesthouse
Wild Camping
Day 8: Drive to Semliki National Park. Visit the Sempaya hot springs, Batwa of Ntandi & drive to Kasese. Upon arrival, tour the Africa’s only bronze casting center – the Rwenzori Art Foundation and Ruboni Community craft village
Drive to Semliki National Park after breakfast at your lodge 78km about 2 – 3 hours’ drive. You drive passed the town of Fort Portal which is one of the organized beautiful towns of Uganda before proceeding to Bundibugyo area welcomed by the views of the Mount Rwenzori block. On arriving in Semliki National Park, you undertake the famous Sempaya Nature walk to explore the hot springs both the female and the male hot springs. The male hot spring also known as Bitente has a wider pool while the female hot spring Nyansimbi features hot boiling geyser that sprouts up to 2m high and boiling to more than 100 degrees Celsius. You can boil some plantain or eggs to have picnic bites. The walk to the hot springs also exposes to the lush flora of Semliki Forest which is an extension of Congo forest biome. The Primate species like Black and white colobus monkeys might also be viewed. Retreat from the activity and connect to Ntandi to visit the Batwa people who are initially forest dwellers that were evicted to pave way for conservation. They dance for you and tell you stories of their ancient heritage. From Semliki, you connect back to Fort Portal and transfer to Kasese. Upon arrival in Kasese, visit the Rwenzori Art Foundation which is the only bronze casting center in the whole of Africa where you have an opportunity to explore the gallery with a collection of beautiful artworks. The foundation also offers an experiential touch and allows you to participate in casting process. From the art foundation, if you still have time, you visit the Ruboni Craft village and encounter the local women putting together different material to produce one of the best craft products in Uganda. You can learn a skill like basket weaving. Retire for relaxation, dinner and overnight on the foothills of Rwenzori Mountains.
Accommodation:
Upmarket / Luxury: Equator Snow Lodge
Midrange / Standard: Ihamba Safari Lodge
Budget / Basic: Ruboni Community Camp
Wild Camping
Day 9: Undertake a whole day adventure hiking to Rwenzori Mountains commonly known as the mountains of the moon the 3rd tallest in Africa rising to 5,109m above sea level with snowcapped peaks
Gather at Nyakalengija park station early in the morning to embark on the whole day hike to the Rwenzori Mountains. The Rwenzori Mountain rises to 5,109m above sea level with snowcapped peaks despite its closeness to the world’s main latitude – the Equator. Encounter the world heritage site which is greatly known for its impressive flora other than fauna. The impressive giant lobelias and groundsels are lovely to encounter. The sights of the peaks can be viewed at a distance, the sights of glaciers flowing down the mountain is beautiful not forgetting the savannah landscapes of Queen Elizabeth National Park, the rift valley lakes of George and Edward and Kasese town below. You have lunch on the mountain and retreat in the evening around 5pm for relaxation, dinner and overnight
Accommodation:
Upmarket / Luxury: Equator Snow Lodge
Midrange / Standard: Ihamba Safari Lodge
Budget / Basic: Ruboni Community Camp
Wild Camping
Day 10: Do game drive in the morning in Queen Elizabeth National Park with sights of elephants, lions, buffaloes, leopard, Antelopes etc. settle for lunch at Mweya and undertake the Kazinga Channel launch cruise in the afternoon with sights of Hippos and Nile Crocodiles
After breakfast, drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park for a morning game drive exploring the park’s rolling savannah landscapes dotted with counts of wild game including the big four of the big five like lions, leopards, buffaloes and elephants, antelope species like water bucks, Kobs, bushbucks among others, jackals among other wild game. The stretch to Kasenyi and the Mweya peninsular offers you the best of these. You settle for lunch at Mweya lodge after which you gather at the Mweya jetty to embark on a thrilling boat cruise on the 45km long Kazinga Channel. The cruise takes 2 hours with possibilities of encountering the aquatic species such as Nile Crocodiles and Hippos not forgetting other wild game that tends to congregate on the channel shores to consume water. Retreat from the activity and do a game drive along the channel track as you head to the lodge for relaxation, dinner and overnight
Accommodation
Upmarket / Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge / Katara Lodge
Midrange / Standard: Enganzi Game Lodge / Marafiki Safari Lodge – Private Tent/ Kasenyi Safari Camp
Budget / Basic: Pumba Safari Cottages
Wild Camping
Day 11: Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Undertake a game drive in Ishasha sector in the south of Queen Elizabeth National Park in search of tree climbing lions and other wild game
After breakfast, embark on the transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park driving through southern sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park named Ishasha well known for its tree climbing lions. The Ishasha sector presents a remarkable encounter with the unique tree climbing lions which are only existing in two spots in the whole world with Ishasha sector having the best viewing opportunities. You continue on the drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park arriving in the evening for relaxation, dinner and overnight
Accommodation
Upmarket / Luxury: Chameleon Hill Lodge / Buhoma Lodge
Midrange / Standard: Gorilla Mist Camp / Gorilla Valley Lodge
Budget / Basic: Broadbill Forest Camp
Wild Camping
Day 12: Undertake the mountain gorilla trekking in the hilly forested landscapes of Bwindi Impenetrable with a minimum of 400 out of the 880 mountain gorillas that are known to thrive in the wild & then drive to Mgahinga National Park
Embark on the mountain gorilla exploration in the Impenetrable forest of Bwindi. The Bwindi Impenetrable National Park supports a minimum of 400 mountain gorillas which on global scale are given as critically endangered. Therefore, undertaking the gorilla trekking experience in the hilly forested landscapes of Bwindi is such a life time endeavor that will create lasting memories. You gather at the respective park headquarters for briefing in the morning at 8am where you are also allocated the respective gorilla families to track. From here, you head to the forest in the company of the armed ranger guides that will lead you up the gorillas. The walk is beyond the ordinary as it involves traversing the dense jungle whose thickness would at some points necessitate using a machete to make a path, hiking the challenging landscapes some of which are steep and slippery at times under the canopy of the mature forest which forms darkness even during the day. You are treated to the impressive bird songs and beautiful flowers through the experience. The encounter tends to take 2 – 8 hours depending on the gorilla movements and one hour is availed to you to have a direct touch with the gorillas. Upon approaching gorillas, their reaction is not predictable as it can include them giving you a courteous welcome, minding less about you and charging against you. However, as a result of habituation, Mountain gorillas are always welcoming with the Silverback beating a little of his chest to demonstrate his might and also welcoming to you to the group. The young gorillas are very playful and are at times not aware of the 7m rule thus can try to draw closer to even touching on your body – save it by taking some steps away to observe the distance. You are not limited in any way to ask as many questions about gorillas and their habitats along with taking pictures so long as you have the opportunity to do so. Retreat from the activity and transfer to the starting point to embark on the transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park to the extreme south west of Uganda in the Virunga massif where it shelters three peaks of the eight mountain chain. You drive through impressive Kigezi highlands while enjoying the sights of the Virunga Volcanoes arriving at your lodge in the evening for relaxation, dinner and overnight.
Accommodation
Upmarket / Luxury: Mount Gahinga Lodge
Midrange / Budget: Travelers’ Rest Kisoro
Wild Camping
Day 13: Undertake an adventure climb to any of the three Volcanoes of Gahinga, (3,474m), Muhabura (4,127m) and Sabyinyo (3,669m) or undertake the golden monkey tracking
Gather at the Ntebeko Park Headquarters for briefing from the park rangers at 8am and then embark on the adventure Volcano climbing to the mountain of our choice. At this time, you would have chosen which mountain to climb between Muhabura, Gahinga and Sabyibyo. The 3,669m Sabyinyo Mountain takes around 8 hours to make a 14km round trip with series of peaks at the top, Gahinga towering up to 3,474m taking about 6 hours with the opportunity to spot the golden monkey if lucky in the Bamboo forest on the mountain slopes and Muhabura Mountain which rises to 4,127m taking about 8 hours to make a 12km round trip involving a steep climb to the top and the peak offers distant views of Bwindi forest, the Rwenzori Mountains on a clear day, the entire Virunga Mountain chain and the three countries of Uganda, Congo and Rwanda.
Alternatively, embark on the golden monkey tracking where you have opportunity to explore the endangered golden monkeys are confined to the Virunga massif on a world scale. The habituated groups thrive in the Bamboo zone on the slopes of Mount Gahinga and their golden patch and playful tactics makes them interesting to encounter on Uganda safaris.
Retreat from the day adventure and connect to the lodge for evening relaxation, dinner and overnight.
Accommodation
Upmarket / Luxury: Mount Gahinga Lodge
Midrange / Budget: Travelers’ Rest Kisoro
Wild Camping
Day 14: Undertake the Batwa Heritage Exploration and transfer to Lake Bunyonyi driving through the fascinating Kisoro – Kabale Road
Mgahinga Mountain forest was one of the ancient habitats for the Batwa people before they were evicted to settle on the margins of the gazetted park. The trail has been developed to enable you explore the heritage of the Batwa under the company of the Batwa guides who are well set to give an interesting themed interpretation of their past and the present. You start off at Ntebeko visitor center in the morning following the designated trail with the Batwa showing you a range of items and what they meant to their traditional life including medicinal plants, the edible plants and roots, the wild honey extraction, the Bamboo cup making, the tree houses, forest hunting techniques until you reach the Ngarama Cave which was their center and the home to their chief. The Batwa women will sing a range of traditional songs that will take you back to the life in the forest and their remarkable culture and heritage. It is a journey back to the authentic culture that now facing the risk of extinction. Retreat from the encounter taking about 5 – 6 hours and embark on the transfer to Lake Bunyonyi driving along the scenic Kisoro – Kabale Road with tits challenging road sections, branch off at Muko and connect to Lake Bunyonyi for relaxation, dinner and overnight
Accommodation
Upmarket / Luxury: Birdnest @Lake Bunyonyi Resort
Midrange / Budget: Lake Bunyonyi Eco – resort
Wild Camping
Day 15: Whole day authentic encounter in a home of a Mukiga gaining an experiential touch whatever takes place in an ordinary African homestead
Wake up very early and connect to the home of a Mukiga family to catch up with them as they wake up to embark on their daily routine. This is an opportunity to gain an experiential touch of the authentic African homestead mixing up with them according to the respective roles. The man joins the men while the woman joins the women group. Activities include cultivating on the steep slopes of Kigezi Highlands using traditional hoes, fishing on Lake Bunyonyi, brewing of local beer, live stock rearing, traditional food preparation, the art and craft making encounter and the traditional entertainment including music, dance and drama. You enjoy all the meals with the family and settle with them for overnight
Accommodation: Home stay
Day 16: Undertake a coffee tour and drive to Lake Mburo National Park, settle for traditional lunch at Igongo Cultural Center and do a night game drive in Lake Mburo National Park. Explore the Nocturnal animals like hare, porcupine, Aardvack, white-tailed mongoose, honey badger, side – stripped jackal, bush pig, spotted hyena, serval cat, jenet cat, civet, thick – tailed Galago and black galago.
After breakfast, embark on the coffee tour experience in the shadows of Virunga Mountains. The fertile volcanic soils present a rich ground for the growing of coffee which is among the first three foreign exchange earners for Uganda. The coffee tour is a typical experiential tour where the coffee farmers themselves take you through the process of coffee growing right from planting to maintenance, harvesting, processing, the final products and their respective use. You can engage actively in the process to gain an authentic touch of this remarkable cash crop. Chill for a cup of coffee and then embark on the transfer to Lake Mburo National Park 199km about 5 - 6 hours’ drive. You drive through impressive countryside landscapes of south western Uganda before approaching Mbarara town – the largest in the sub region 45km to Lake Mburo NP continuing on the drive to make a stop at Igongo Cultural Center for lunch 12km past Mbarara town also standing as the largest private Museum in Uganda with a range of artifacts featuring the tribes of southwestern Uganda and the 1520AD Eclipse monument. You visit these sites as optional activities. Continue on the drive to Lake Mburo National Park checking in at your lodge and relax until dinner time. At 7pm, you embark on the night game drive in the savannah landscapes of Lake Mburo National Park with possibilities of exploring nocturnal Species including hare, porcupine, Aardvack, white-tailed mongoose, honey badger, side – stripped jackal, bush pig, spotted hyena, serval cat, jenet cat, civet, thick – tailed Galago and black galago. You also have chances of viewing the day hunters and grazers having in a night rest. Retire for overnight
Accommodation
Upmarket / Luxury: Mihingo Safari Lodge
Midrange / Standard: Rwakobo Rock
Budget / Basic: Eagles Nest
Wild Camping
Day 17: Undertake the cultural tour to the Banyankole community at Enyemebwa center exploring the Ankole long horned cattle, its surrounding heritage and in the afternoon drive back to Kampala. Make a stop at Uganda Equator Crossing Kayabwe en route
Wake up 6am and connect to the Enyemebwa center to catch up with the herds men getting up to do the milking and their daily routine. You arrive and get the milking equipment including the tying rope and the milking pot to actively participate in the traditional hand milking of the Ankole long horned cattle, from milking you participate in sick animal treating, caring for cows like brushing their body using the locally made fiber brush (Enkuyo) and set out to graze in the wilderness. You enjoy the stimulating sounds that are made by the herds men as they set out to the grazing field and be mesmerized by the cows know how to align themselves forming a line headed by those that have special character of leading others. You retreat back and visit the traditional hut where you find the women churning milk in the churning gourd, from here the guide can take you to explore the crop bit of it exploring the extensive banana plantations where you learn about various banana types and their respective use participate in pruning and weeding using local methods and then participate in initial arrangements for traditional lunch. You take a break from that and rush to the well with red soil that is used for smearing the soil made water trough, smear the trough and fill it with water and then wait for the cattle to come and water them accordingly. You can opt to have a bull slaughtered and grilled traditionally for you where you can also have it alongside the delicious local sauce that is made without fire called Eshabwe. Retreat from the activity and embark on the transfer back to Entebbe in the afternoon 280km about 4 hours’ drive making a stop at Uganda Equator crossing Kayabwe for amazing photo shoots where you have opportunity to taking photos with one leg in the northern hemisphere and another one in the southern hemisphere. Continue to arrive in Entebbe in the evening for relaxation, dinner and overnight
Accommodation:
Upmarket / Luxury: Lake Victoria Serena Hotel
Midrange / Standard: Boma Hotel
Budget / Basic: Airport Guesthouse
Day 18: Departure.
Transfer to Entebbe International Airport for the flight departure back home.
End of Safari
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