5 Days Murchison Falls & Bwindi Overview of the Trip

This 5 Days Murchison Falls & Bwindi itinerary combines two of Uganda’s most iconic and diverse destinations: Murchison Falls National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The trip offers an exciting blend of wildlife safaris, breathtaking scenery, and the unforgettable experience of gorilla trekking. Murchison Falls, known for its stunning waterfall and abundant wildlife, and Bwindi, home to the endangered mountain gorillas, will provide a true adventure for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

The itinerary is designed for those who want to experience the best of Uganda’s natural wonders within a short time. From game drives and boat cruises on the Nile River to the life-changing opportunity to track and spend time with gorillas in the wild, this trip will leave you with lasting memories of Uganda’s beauty and wildlife.

5 Days Murchison Falls & Bwindi Trip Highlights

  • Murchison Falls National Park:
    • Game drives 
    • Boat cruise 
    • Murchison Falls 
  • Bwindi Impenetrable National Park:
    • gorilla trekking experience, 
    • Batwa pygmies 
    • Nature walks
    •  bird watching

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe and Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park

Arrive at Entebbe International Airport in the morning, and begin your journey to Murchison Falls National Park, which takes around 5-6 hours by road. Alternatively, a flight to Pakuba Airstrip offers a quicker transfer. Upon arrival, check in to your accommodation in Murchison Falls. In the evening, you can relax and enjoy the sunset over the Nile River, or take a boat cruise to the base of Murchison Falls if time permits. Spend the night at your lodge or camp.

Day 2 of 5 Days Murchison Falls & Bwindi : Murchison Falls National Park – Wildlife Safari and Boat Cruise

Start the day with an early morning game drive to explore the savannah of Murchison Falls National Park. Spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, lions, buffaloes, and antelopes. Afterward, return to the lodge for lunch and rest. In the afternoon, embark on a boat cruise along the Nile River, heading toward the base of the falls. The cruise provides opportunities to see hippos, crocodiles, and an array of bird species. Return to the lodge for dinner and relax for the night.

Day 3: Transfer from Murchison Falls to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After breakfast, depart from Murchison Falls and begin the scenic journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a trip that typically takes about 7-8 hours by road. Alternatively, you can catch a flight to Kihihi or Kisoro Airstrip for a faster transfer. Along the way, enjoy lunch and continue the drive through Uganda’s rural landscapes. Arrive in Bwindi late in the afternoon and check in to your lodge or campsite. Enjoy a relaxing evening at the lodge and settle in for the night.

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

On this day, wake up early for your highly anticipated gorilla trekking experience. After breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing before starting the trek. The trek itself can last anywhere from 2-8 hours, depending on where the gorillas are located, and involves walking through dense forest. Once you find the gorillas, you’ll spend an hour observing them in their natural habitat. After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch and rest. If you have extra energy, consider taking a short walk to explore the surroundings or visit a local community. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Ugandan dinner and relax at your lodge.

Day 5: Optional Activities in Bwindi and Return to Entebbe

On your final day, if time allows, you can participate in optional activities such as a nature walk in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a cultural tour of the Batwa pygmies, or bird watching in the forest. After lunch, begin the journey back to Entebbe, which will take around 8-9 hours by road. Alternatively, you can catch a flight from Kihihi or Kisoro Airstrip back to Entebbe for a quicker return. If needed, spend the night in Entebbe or at a nearby airport hotel if your flight is late in the evening.

Accommodation Options

In Murchison Falls National Park:

  1. Paraa Safari Lodge (Luxury)
  2. Murchison River Lodge (Mid-range)
  3. Red Chilli Rest Camp (Budget)

In Bwindi Impenetrable National Park:

  1. Bwindi Lodge (Luxury)
  2. Engagi Lodge (Mid-range)
  3. Gorilla Mist Camp (Budget range)

End of Safari