Arrival and Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park – Ziwa Rhino Tracking and Top of the Falls

Your 12-Day Uganda Wildlife & Gorilla Safari adventure begins at Entebbe International Airport, where Terenga Safaris’ friendly driver-guide will welcome you and assist with luggage. After a warm greeting, you embark on a scenic drive northwest to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, a landmark in Uganda’s conservation history. This sanctuary was established to reintroduce the near-extinct white rhino to Uganda after decades of poaching decimated local populations. Today, thanks to concerted conservation efforts, visitors have the unique opportunity to track rhinos on foot in their natural environment.

Upon arrival at Ziwa, you will join expert guides for an invigorating one-hour rhino tracking walk. This experience involves trekking on marked trails while scanning the bush for signs of these majestic creatures. Seeing rhinos roaming freely, sometimes with their young calves, is a rare and rewarding wildlife encounter. The sanctuary also supports other wildlife and bird species, enhancing the richness of this experience.

After rhino tracking, the 12-Day Uganda Wildlife & Gorilla Safari journey continues to Masindi town for lunch, offering a taste of local cuisine in a comfortable setting. Refreshed, you proceed to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and arguably most dramatic park. The park is named after the powerful waterfall where the Nile River squeezes through a narrow gorge, plunging into a roaring cascade—a breathtaking spectacle that embodies the wild heart of Uganda.

Depending on your arrival time and energy, you may opt for a late afternoon game drive to spot elephants, lions, giraffes, and buffaloes amid the golden savannahs, or choose to check in and unwind at your lodge, soaking in views of the Nile or surrounding wilderness.

• Main Destination: Murchison Falls National Park
• Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge
• Meals & Drinks: All meals included
• Drinking Water: Provided (excluding other drinks)

Full Day Exploring Murchison Falls National Park – Morning and Afternoon Game Drives

Murchison Falls National Park offers an extraordinary diversity of wildlife against a backdrop of sweeping savannah plains, lush forests, and the majestic Nile River. Today is dedicated to immersive wildlife viewing with morning and afternoon game drives, conducted by 12-Day Uganda Wildlife & Gorilla Safari expert guides who know the best spots for sightings.

The morning drive begins early to catch animals at their most active. You’ll encounter large herds of elephants browsing in riverine forests, groups of buffaloes, agile Jackson’s hartebeests, and elusive leopards stealthily navigating the terrain. The park’s carnivores, including lions and spotted hyenas, often showcase thrilling predator-prey dynamics. Bird enthusiasts will delight in the vast array of species, including the iconic African fish eagle and numerous water birds along the Nile.

In the afternoon, after a leisurely lunch at the lodge, a second game drive offers another chance to explore the park’s ecosystems. The landscape transitions from open grasslands to dense woodlands, each habitat teeming with unique flora and fauna.

Optional Activity: For those seeking an adventurous addition, a boat cruise up the Nile to the base of Murchison Falls is highly recommended (additional cost applies). This cruise reveals hippos, crocodiles, and birds along the riverbanks, capped by a chance to hike to the top of the falls for panoramic views of the cascading water and surrounding wilderness.

Evening returns you to your lodge for a delicious dinner and rest, reflecting on the day’s wildlife encounters.

• Main Destination: Murchison Falls National Park
• Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge
• Meals & Drinks: All meals included
• Drinking Water: Provided

Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park – Scenic Countryside Drive and Optional Crater Lakes Visit

Following breakfast, you embark on a long but rewarding drive southeast to Kibale Forest National Park, renowned as Uganda’s primate capital. The drive offers spectacular views of Uganda’s rural landscape, from patchwork farmland to rolling hills cloaked in tea plantations and dotted with small villages. Along the way, your 12-Day Uganda Wildlife & Gorilla Safari guide shares insights into local culture and agriculture, enhancing the journey’s cultural dimension.

Upon arrival at Kibale, you check into your lodge nestled near the forest edge. The afternoon is free to relax or explore nearby attractions. For those interested, an optional excursion to the Crater Lakes offers a tranquil retreat to several small volcanic lakes surrounded by verdant hills. The area is perfect for bird watching, nature walks, and photography, providing a peaceful contrast to the dense forest trekking ahead.

Kibale’s rich biodiversity includes not only primates but also a variety of birds, butterflies, and forest flora, making it an ideal base for nature enthusiasts.

• Main Destination: Kibale Forest National Park
• Accommodation: Turaco Treetops Lodge
• Meals & Drinks: All meals included
• Drinking Water: Provided

Bigodi Wetlands Excursion and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park with Evening Game Drive

The day starts with a refreshing visit to the Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary, a community-run conservation area adjacent to Kibale Forest. The wetlands support a diverse ecosystem where several primate species thrive, including black-and-white colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys. This guided walk through papyrus swamps and forest patches also delights birdwatchers, with sightings of species like the great blue turaco and hammerkop.

Optional: Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest is available as an alternative to Bigodi Wetlands, but requires prior permit booking.

After the wetlands excursion, you transfer to the expansive Queen Elizabeth National Park, arriving in time for an afternoon game drive. This park is famous for its variety of habitats and wildlife, from savannah plains to crater lakes. During the game drive, keep a keen eye out for elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and possibly leopards and lions stalking the grasslands.

The evening sets in with a stunning African sunset as you check into your lodge and prepare for another day of 12-Day Uganda Wildlife & Gorilla Safari adventures.

• Main Destination: Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Accommodation: Aardvark Safari Lodge
• Meals & Drinks: All meals included
• Drinking Water: Provided

Today begins with an early morning game drive in the Kasenyi Plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park. This wide open grassland is home to numerous herbivores, including Cape buffalo, elephants, topi antelopes, and with luck, elusive leopards and lions. The park is known for its predator-prey dynamics and excellent wildlife diversity.

Following the game drive and lunch, embark on a memorable two-hour boat safari on the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway connecting Lakes George and Edward. The cruise is a wildlife spectacle, offering close views of massive hippo pods, crocodiles basking on riverbanks, and a spectacular array of water birds, including fish eagles, kingfishers, and herons.

The gentle river scenery contrasts beautifully with the game drives, offering relaxation and excellent photographic opportunities. After the boat trip, choose to rest or take a brief late afternoon game drive before dinner at the lodge.

• Main Destination: Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Accommodation: Aardvark Safari Lodge
• Meals & Drinks: All meals included
• Drinking Water: Provided

Transfer Through Ishasha Sector to Bwindi – Tree-Climbing Lions and Cultural Experience

After breakfast, you journey southwards through the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, famed for its rare tree-climbing lions. These lions defy typical feline behavior by resting in fig and acacia trees, a sight that delights wildlife watchers. Your 12-Day Uganda Wildlife & Gorilla Safari guide will seek them out; the chances of sightings range between 60-70%, making this a thrilling and photographic highlight.

From Ishasha, continue to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, arriving at your lodge situated near the park’s edge. The drive features breathtaking views of terraced hills and traditional communities. Upon arrival, you can relax or choose an optional late afternoon cultural encounter. This community experience offers interactive traditional dances, crafts like weaving, and cooking demonstrations, providing a deeper appreciation of the Batwa people and local heritage.

• Main Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
• Accommodation: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
• Meals & Drinks: All meals included
• Drinking Water: Provided

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Rise early for a hearty breakfast before heading to the Bwindi Gorilla Tracking headquarters. At the ranger briefing, you’ll receive detailed instructions on how to conduct yourself during the trek to protect both yourself and the gorillas. Bwindi’s dense rainforest terrain is challenging but rewarding, with hiking times between 4 and 8 hours depending on gorilla movements.

Trekking through this ancient forest, you traverse steep slopes, thick undergrowth, and wildlife trails, culminating in an unforgettable hour observing a habituated gorilla family. Watching these gentle giants feed, groom, and interact offers an unparalleled connection with nature.

After the trek, you will transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, known for its stunning volcanic landscapes and golden monkey tracking (available on Day 8). This transition offers a change of scenery and a chance to relax after the intense trekking.

Main Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest & Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Accommodation: Mutanda Lake Resort

Meals & Drinks: All meals included

Drinking Water: Provided

Golden Monkey Tracking and Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi for Relaxation

After breakfast, head into the bamboo forests of Mgahinga for the unique experience of golden monkey tracking. These playful and colorful primates are less famous than gorillas but no less fascinating, known for their agility and social behavior. The trek is less strenuous and shorter, making it accessible for many visitors.

Following the tracking, transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, a spectacular crater lake framed by terraced hills and dotted with 29 islands. The lake’s serene waters and tranquil environment provide the perfect place to unwind after days of trekking. Learn about the rich cultural history of the region as you relax by the lake, enjoying boat rides or island visits.

• Main Destination: Lake Bunyonyi
• Accommodation: Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort
• Meals & Drinks: All meals included
• Drinking Water: Provided

Canoe Ride on Lake Bunyonyi and Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park for Evening Game Drive

Start the day with a peaceful canoe ride on Lake Bunyonyi, gliding past terraced hills and islands while observing local birdlife and fishing activities. The experience offers a serene connection to nature and local culture.

Afterward, transfer to Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda’s smallest savannah park, known for its diversity of animals and birds despite its size. Upon arrival, relax before heading out for a late afternoon to evening game drive. Lake Mburo is home to zebras, impalas, giraffes, and the elusive leopard. The park’s mix of woodlands, lakes, and savannah make for varied and rewarding wildlife viewing.

Main Destination: Lake Mburo National Park

Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock Lodge

Meals & Drinks: All meals included

Drinking Water: Provided

Morning Game Drive and Transfer to Mpogo Dairy Farm for Cultural Farm Experience

After an early breakfast, embark on a morning game drive or guided bush walk with a park ranger in Lake Mburo National Park. The walks offer close-up views of the park’s smaller fauna, bird species, and scenic landscape. The park boasts over 300 bird species, including the rare shoebill stork.

Post game drive, travel to Mpogo Dairy Farm for a hands-on cultural farm experience. Learn traditional milking techniques, taste fresh milk and tea, and gain insight into rural Ugandan agriculture. This farm visit is a unique opportunity to engage with local life beyond the parks.

• Main Destination: Lake Mburo National Park and Mpogo Dairy Farm
• Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock Lodge
• Meals & Drinks: All meals included
• Drinking Water: Provided

Morning Farm Experience and Transfer to Kampala via the Equator Monument

After breakfast at the farm, you have another chance to participate in farm activities or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Later, begin the scenic drive back to Kampala, Uganda’s bustling capital.

En route, stop at the Equator Monument in Kayabwe, a popular tourist spot where visitors can stand with one foot in each hemisphere. This brief stop offers photo opportunities and explanations of the equatorial phenomena.

Arrive in Kampala, where you will check into your hotel or continue with onward travel arrangements.

• Main Destination: Kampala
• Accommodation: Airport Guest House
• Meals & Drinks: All meals included
• Drinking Water: Provided

Mabamba Bay Wetland Shoebill Experience and Transfer to Entebbe International Airport

Your final day begins with an early morning transfer to Mabamba Bay Wetland, one of Uganda’s premier birdwatching sites. Mabamba is famous for its elusive shoebill stork, a prehistoric-looking bird known for its large, shoe-shaped bill and solitary nature. The wetland’s guided boat trips provide excellent chances to observe this rare species as well as other water birds.

After the birdwatching excursion, you will be driven back to Entebbe International Airport for your onward flight, concluding your epic 12-day wildlife and gorilla safari adventure.

• Main Destination: Entebbe International Airport
• Meals & Drinks: Breakfast and lunch included
• Drinking Water: Provided