16 Days Uganda Safari Tour on an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Uganda, where the wonders of nature, wildlife, and cultural heritage come together to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This meticulously crafted journey invites you to explore Uganda’s pristine wilderness, from the dramatic landscapes of Kidepo Valley to the captivating gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Along the way, you’ll encounter a rich diversity of wildlife, from the iconic big cats and elephants of Murchison Falls National Park to the rare rhinos of Ziwa Sanctuary, and the lively chimpanzees of Kibale.
But this safari isn’t just about the animals—it’s also about immersing yourself in the vibrant cultures that define Uganda. You’ll meet the indigenous Karamojong people in Kidepo, learn about traditional coffee farming in Bwindi, and connect with the Batwa community, who have lived alongside the forest for centuries. Explore the untouched beauty of Lake Bunyonyi, hike to the top of Murchison Falls for a breathtaking view, and traverse the open plains of Lake Mburo while on horseback or bike.
Each day is designed to inspire awe and admiration for Africa’s diverse ecosystems and resilient cultures, offering an unparalleled connection with nature. Whether you’re spotting a rare shoebill at Mabamba Swamp, watching a lion hunt in Queen Elizabeth, or marveling at the intimate moments shared with mountain gorillas, this tour offers more than just sightseeing—it’s a transformative journey into the heart of Uganda. Let the wild call you to experience this extraordinary land in all its glory.
Highlights of the 16 days Uganda Safari
- Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
- Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
- Game Drives in Murchison Falls National Park.
- Boat Cruise on the Nile River
- Cultural Encounters with the Karamojong and Batwa Communities
- Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest
- Visit to Lake Bunyonyi
- Hot Springs and Ostrich Watching in Kidepo
- Tree-Climbing Lions in Ishasha Sector
- Nature Walks and Cycling Safaris at Lake Mburo
- Scenic Views of the Rwenzori Mountains
- The Uganda Equator Crossing
Detailed 16 Days Uganda Safari Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe International Airport
Arrive at Entebbe Airport, where you’ll be warmly welcomed by your guide. Transfer to your hotel and check in. If you arrive early, you may explore nearby attractions. You can visit the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, home to over 300 plant species and indigenous birds, or the Uganda Wildlife Education Center for a closer look at Uganda’s wildlife. Alternatively, head to Ngamba Island for chimpanzee encounters, or Mabamba Swamp for rare shoebill sightings. You may also visit Kampala city for a tour of landmarks like the Bahai Temple, Gaddafi Mosque, Namugongo Martyrs Shrine, Kasubi Tombs, and Kabaka’s Palace.
Day 2: Visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary & Transfer to Gulu
After an early breakfast, begin your 7:00 AM journey to Gulu (11 hours). Stop en route at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Nakasongola district to track rhinos. A ranger will brief you on the rhinos and their environment, followed by a 2-3 hour tracking experience. You’ll encounter various species such as giraffes, Uganda kobs, and waterbucks. Afterward, continue to Gulu, arriving in the late afternoon for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 3: Transfer to Kidepo Valley National Park
Start the 3rd day of 16 Days Uganda Safari with an early breakfast before embarking on a 4-hour drive to Kidepo Valley National Park, a semi-arid savannah bordered by mountains and wooded hills. On the way, visit local villages such as Karenna and Kapedo to interact with the Karamojong people and learn about their culture. Check in at your lodge, have lunch, and then enjoy an evening game drive to view wildlife including giraffes, zebras, hyenas, and buffaloes.
Day 4: Morning Game Drive & Visit Hot Springs
Wake up for an early game drive through the Narus River Valley to see cheetahs and other grassland mammals. Enjoy the picturesque landscape with panoramic views. After lunch, drive to Kidepo Valley near the South Sudan border to visit the hot springs and spot ostriches.
Day 5: Transfer to Murchison Falls
After breakfast, start your 440 km (7-8 hours) drive to Murchison Falls National Park, passing through Gulu. Stop for lunch in Gulu before continuing your journey to the park.
Day 6: Game Drive & Boat Cruise
In the morning, set off for a 3-4 hour game drive through Murchison Falls, looking for lions, giraffes, elephants, and a variety of birds. After lunch, enjoy a boat cruise along the Nile River to the base of the falls. This 3-hour boat trip provides opportunities to observe hippos, Nile crocodiles, buffaloes, and waterbirds.
Day 7: Hike to the Top of the Falls & Transfer to Kibale National Park
After breakfast, take a 45-minute hike to the top of Murchison Falls, known for being the world’s most powerful waterfall. Afterward, begin the 9-hour journey (441 km) to Kibale National Park, passing through scenic landscapes and rural villages.
Day 8: Chimpanzee Trekking & Bigodi Swamp Walk
After breakfast, head to Kanyanchu Park Headquarters for a briefing before trekking to see chimpanzees in the forest. The park is home to over 1,500 chimps, and you’ll spend up to an hour with them. After lunch, embark on a nature walk through the Bigodi Swamp, known for its rich birdlife and water-loving species.
Day 9: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park & Evening Game Drive
Depart Kibale and drive 157 km (2-3 hours) to Queen Elizabeth National Park, passing the Rwenzori Mountains. Upon arrival, enjoy an afternoon game drive, seeking out elephants, waterbucks, and other wildlife.
Day 10: Morning Game Drive & Boat Cruise.
After breakfast, set off for an early morning game drive across the Kasenyi Plains and Queen’s Mile, spotting side-striped jackals, hyenas, buffaloes, and leopards. After lunch, enjoy a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, where you can observe hippos, buffaloes, crocodiles, and various bird species. You may also opt for an evening game drive along the channel track.
Day 11: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After breakfast, depart for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a 5-6 hour drive. En route, visit the Ishasha Wildlife Sector in Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions. Stop for lunch in Kihihi before continuing to Bwindi.
Day 12: Gorilla Trekking & Batwa Community Visit
After breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for your briefing on gorilla trekking. Groups of up to 8 people are guided into the forest to track the mountain gorillas. Depending on where the gorillas are, the trek may take up to 3 hours. After observing the gorillas, visit the Batwa community to learn about their culture and traditions
Day 13: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi & Island Exploration
Drive to Lake Bunyonyi, the second-deepest lake in Africa. Explore islands, including Bucuranuka Island (Upside-Down Island) and Akampene Island (Punishment Island), with a rich cultural history. Enjoy a boat ride to Kyahugye Island, hike Kyahugye Hill, and visit local schools.
Day 14: Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park & Night Game Drive
Travel to Lake Mburo National Park (4 hours), with a stop at Igongo Cultural Center for a traditional meal. Upon arrival, take a boat cruise on Lake Mburo, observing hippos, giraffes, and buffaloes. Later, enjoy a night game drive to spot nocturnal creatures like genet cats, bush pigs, and possibly a leopard.
Day 15: Nature Walk & Banyankole Community Visit
Begin your morning with a nature walk in Lake Mburo to see Rothschild giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. After lunch, visit the Enyemebwa Cultural Center to experience the Banyankole culture. Explore homesteads, kraals, and banana plantations. In the evening, observe traditional milking practices and enjoy a cultural performance.
Day 16: Transfer to Entebbe Airport
After breakfast, drive back to Kampala or Entebbe (4 hours). Stop at the Uganda Equator in Kayabwe for a photo opportunity and souvenir shopping. Continue to your destination for your departure and end you 16 Days Uganda Safari