This 5 days safari offers the perfect blend of Uganda’s iconic wildlife experiences, starting with the majestic Murchison Falls National Park and then heading to the lush Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for gorilla trekking. Explore Murchison Falls, home to the big five and a variety of wildlife, and then journey through the Albertine Rift to Bwindi, where you will encounter the rare and endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
Tour Highlights
- Game drives and boat cruise in Murchison Falls National Park
- Mountain gorilla tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
- Visit to the Iby’iwacu Cultural Center
- Optional activities: Golden monkey trekking, Musanze caves, Dian Fossey hike, and a visit to the Twin Lakes
- Kigali city tour
Day 1: Depart Kampala to Murchison Falls National Park
After breakfast, depart Kampala for Murchison Falls National Park, a scenic 5-hour drive via Bombo road. Upon arrival, head directly to the Top of the Falls, where you’ll witness the mighty Nile River cascading down the powerful Murchison Falls. Enjoy the stunning views of this natural wonder before heading to your accommodation for the night.
Accommodation Options:
- Budget: Heritage Safari Lodge, Red Chilli Safari Lodge, Parkside Safari Lodge
- Mid-range: Murchison River Lodge, Pakuba Safari Lodge
- Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge, Chobe Safari Lodge
Day 2: Game Drive at Murchison Falls National Park
Start the day with an early morning game drive through the Northern Delta Nile, where you can spot wildlife such as lions, buffaloes, Rothschild’s giraffe, Jackson’s hartebeest, and baboons. After breakfast, enjoy a 2-hour boat cruise on the Nile, where you’ll encounter hippos, crocodiles, and a wide variety of birdlife, including the rare shoebill stork. Witness the stunning views of the falls as the water gushes down with tremendous force. Afterward, return to your lodge for lunch, relaxation, and dinner.
Day 3: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
After breakfast, begin your journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to the mountain gorillas. Enjoy a scenic drive, passing through Lake Albert, the Rwenzori ranges, and Kibale Forest. Along the way, you’ll also see the beautiful Lakes George and Edward and interact with local communities. Upon arrival at Bwindi, check in to your lodge for the night.
Accommodation Options:
- Budget: Broadbill Camp, Trekkers Tervan Cottages, Rushaga Haven Lodge
- Mid-range: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge, Gorilla Mist Camp, Buhoma Haven Lodge
- Luxury: Chameleon Hill Lodge, Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Bwindi Lodge
Day 4: Mountain Gorilla Tracking
After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing before beginning your gorilla trek. You will be assigned to a gorilla family to track through the dense and impenetrable forest. Upon finding the gorillas, you will have an hour to observe their interactions in their natural habitat. After the trek, if time permits, you can visit the Batwa community for a cultural experience. Return to your lodge for dinner and a restful night.
Day 5: Return to Kampala
After breakfast, pack your bags and begin your journey back to Kampala. Enjoy a lunch stop along the way, and arrive in Kampala in the late afternoon or early evening, marking the end of your unforgettable safari.
End of Tour
This 5 days Gorilla safari offers a balanced combination of Uganda’s wildlife and cultural experiences, ensuring a memorable adventure that includes everything from the powerful Murchison Falls to the rare and majestic mountain gorillas of Bwindi.
