11-Day Uganda Safari Adventure: Murchison, Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi & Lake Mburo - Pita Safaris
Location
Full Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kampala/Entebbe
Welcoming the Pearl of Africa
Upon your arrival at Entebbe International Airport, a warm greeting from Pita Safaris awaits. As you are chauffeured to your hotel in Kampala, absorb the vibrant scenes of city life juxtaposed with the serene expanses of Lake Victoria. Settle into the comfort of your chosen accommodation, with the anticipation of the safari adventure that lies ahead.
Accommodation Options:
BUDGET: Airport Guest House
MID-RANGE: Cassia Lodge
SEMI-LUXURY: Kampala Serena Hotel
LUXURY: Protea Hotel by Marriott
Day 2: Depart to Murchison Falls via Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Journey to Murchison Falls - The Gateway to the Wild
Today, the safari begins as you drive northwest towards Murchison Falls National Park. En route, you'll stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, a conservation success story where you can observe rhinos in their natural habitat. Continue to the park and check into your lodge, nestled amidst the wilderness, preparing for the thrilling wildlife encounters that await.
Accommodation Options:
BUDGET: Fort Murchison
MID-RANGE: Murchison River Lodge
SEMI-LUXURY: Paraa Safari Lodge
LUXURY: Nile Safari Lodge
Day 3: Game Drive and Boat Ride in Murchison Falls
Murchison's Majestic Wildlife and the Thundering Falls
Awaken to the sounds of the savannah. Embark on a morning game drive across Murchison Falls’ vast plains, where lions, giraffes, and elephants roam. In the afternoon, a boat ride along the Nile brings you to the base of the powerful Murchison Falls, where the river's might is on full display. Relish the spray and the spectacle of the cascading waters.
Following an exciting day of game drive, return to your accommodation for another restful night (see above).
Day 4: Depart to Kibale Forest
Enroute to the Primate Capital - Kibale Forest
As you bid farewell to Murchison Falls, the journey southward to Kibale Forest begins. Your drive is a scenic sojourn through rural Uganda, with landscapes that shift and cultures that welcome. Arriving at Kibale, you'll be embraced by the cool air of the forest as you settle into your lodge, a sanctuary amidst the trees.
Accommodation Options:
BUDGET: Kibale Forest Camp
MID-RANGE: Crater Safari Lodge
SEMI-LUXURY: Turaco Treetops
LUXURY: Primate Lodge
Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest
Encounters with Kibale’s Chimps and Bigodi’s Birds
Venture into the heart of Kibale Forest for an intimate chimpanzee trekking experience. Witness these remarkable primates in their natural habitat, an unforgettable sight. Later, a guided nature walk in the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary allows you to spot an array of bird species and perhaps the elusive sitatunga antelope.
Following an exciting day of Chimpanzee trekking, return to your accommodation for another restful night (see above).
Day 6: Depart to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Setting Foot in the Royal Wilderness
Transition from the forest to the open savannah as you make your way to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Check into your lodge and refresh before an afternoon game drive. Traverse through the park, eyeing for elephants, buffaloes, and a possible glimpse of the elusive leopard.
Accommodation Options:
BUDGET: Bush Lodge
MID-RANGE: Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge
SEMI-LUXURY: Mweya Safari Lodge
LUXURY: Kyambura Gorge Lodge
Day 7: Game Drive and Boat Ride in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Kasenyi Plains’ Morning Marvels and Kazinga’s Aquatic Life
The day starts with a sunrise game drive along the Kasenyi Plains, where the park's predators are most active. In the afternoon, a boat ride along the Kazinga Channel offers close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and a congregation of waterbirds, all with the backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains.
Following an exciting day of game drive, return to your accommodation for another restful night (see above).
Day 8: Depart to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Bwindi's Mountain Gorillas Beckon
Today's journey leads you through the southern sector of Queen Elizabeth, known as Ishasha, famous for its tree-climbing lions. Continue to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where mist-covered hillsides offer sanctuary to half the world's population of mountain gorillas. Your lodge provides a tranquil retreat before tomorrow’s adventure.
Accommodation Options:
BUDGET: Buhoma Community Rest Camp
MID-RANGE: Engagi Lodge
SEMI-LUXURY: Mahogany Springs Lodge
LUXURY: Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge
Day 9: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest
The Ultimate Encounter - Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
The highlight of your safari, gorilla trekking in Bwindi Forest, is a transformative experience. Trek through the dense forest with expert guides and encounter the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural environment. Witnessing their social interactions and gentle demeanor is an awe-inspiring moment that will etch itself into your memory forever. Return to the lodge to reflect on a profound day in the heart of the African jungle.
Following an exciting day of gorilla trekking, return to your accommodation for another restful night (see above).
Day 10: Depart to Lake Mburo National Park
The Serenity of Lake Mburo and its Acacia Woodland
After the exhilarating gorilla encounter, you'll embark on a scenic drive to Lake Mburo National Park. This tranquil haven is dotted with acacia woodlands, rocky ridges, and open savanna, all surrounding the eponymous lake. Upon arrival, you may opt for an evening game walk, which offers the chance to see zebras, topis, and elands up close. Spend the night in a lodge with commanding views of the park.
BUDGET: Eagle's Nest Camp
MID-RANGE: Rwakobo Rock
SEMI-LUXURY: Mantana Tented Camp
LUXURY: Mihingo Lodge
Day 11: Safari Walk and Departure to Kampala/Entebbe
Walking with Wildlife and a Fond Farewell
Your final day begins with a guided safari walk, an opportunity to connect with the wilderness on foot. You'll encounter wildlife at a pace that lets you appreciate the smaller wonders of the bush. After the walk, begin your journey back to Kampala or Entebbe, carrying with you the Spirit of Uganda, alive in your heart. Depending on your flight schedule, Pita Safaris will ensure you are comfortably transferred to Entebbe International Airport for your departure
Inclusions:
- Accommodation: 10 nights of lodging at a mix of quality hotels and safari lodges as per the itinerary.
- Transportation: All ground transportation in a comfortable 4x4 safari vehicle suitable for game viewing, photography, and touring.
- Airport Transfers: Pickup and drop-off at Entebbe International Airport.
- Park Fees: Entrance fees to all national parks and wildlife reserves as mentioned in the itinerary.
- Professional Guide: Services of an experienced English-speaking safari guide/driver.
- Safari Activities: Game drives, boat trips, chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest, gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and a safari walk in Lake Mburo.
- Meals: Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) as indicated in the itinerary.
- Drinking Water: Bottled water in the safari vehicle during transfers and excursions.
- Rhino Tracking: Visit and rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
- Permits: One chimpanzee trekking permit and one gorilla trekking permit per person.
Exclusions:
- International Flights: Airfare to and from Uganda.
- Visas: Ugandan visa fees.
- Personal Insurance: Travel insurance and personal health insurance.
- Personal Expenses: Items of a personal nature such as souvenirs, tips for guides and lodge staff, laundry, drinks outside of mealtime provisions, and additional snacks.
- Optional Activities: Any additional activities not mentioned in the itinerary or those labeled as optional.
- Additional Permits: Extra permits for optional activities such as additional primate trekking.
- Vaccinations: Costs associated with vaccinations and medications required for travel.
- International Phone Calls: Charges for international calls and internet usage where available.
acks or beverages.
