12 days Uganda safari holiday (exclusive group tour)
12 days Uganda safari holiday, Uganda is home to the source of the Nile River, the world’s longest river, which offers thrilling white-water rafting experiences. Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest lake, provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and bird watching. The country also boasts several national parks and reserves, including Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, famous for its endangered mountain gorillas and Queen Elizabeth National Park, known for its tree-climbing lions and diverse ecosystems. Murchison Falls National Park features dramatic Murchison Falls and abundant wildlife. With over 1,000 bird species, Uganda is a paradise for birdwatchers and key spots include Mabamba Swamp, Bwindi, and Kibale Forest National Park. Experience Uganda’s cultural diversity showcased through various tribes and traditional practices. Tourists can engage with local communities, visit craft markets, and participate in cultural festivals.
Beyond wildlife safaris, Uganda offers activities like mountain trekking in the Rwenzori Mountains, exploring the caves and waterfalls of Mount Elgon and bungee jumping over the Nile.
Uganda is known for its friendly and welcoming people. The country has a growing infrastructure to support tourism, with lodges, hotels, and tour operators catering to various budgets. Overall, Uganda’s combination of natural wonders, wildlife encounters, and cultural richness makes it a compelling destination for travelers seeking diverse and enriching experiences.
Exploring Uganda on a 12-day safari is a fantastic adventure, offering diverse landscapes, rich wildlife, and unique cultural experiences. This itinerary can be customized based on your interests, budget, and travel preferences. Here’s a suggested itinerary that includes key highlights like gorilla trekking, game drives, and visits to national parks.
Highlights of 12 days Uganda safari holiday
- Day 1: arrival in Entebbe
- Day 2: transfer to Murchison falls national park
- Day 3: game drives and boat cruise
- Day 4: transfer to Kibale national park
- Day 5: chimpanzee tracking
- Day 6: transfer to Queen Elizabeth national park
- Day 7: game drive and boat cruise
- Day 8: transfer to Bwindi impenetrable national park
- Day 9: gorilla trekking
- Day 10: transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
- Day 11: explore Lake Bunyonyi
- Day 12: departure
Detailed itinerary for 12 days Uganda safari holiday
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe
Day 1 of 12 days Uganda safari holiday You will arrive at Entebbe International Airport and have a stay overnight in a comfortable hotel in Entebbe to prepare for the next day.
Day 2: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
On the second day of 12 days Uganda safari holiday, drive to Murchison Falls National Park which is approximately 6-7 hours. Arrive and check into your lodge and then take a boat cruise on the Nile to the base of Murchison Falls. Spot hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species along the way. Lodge in or near the park.
Day 3: Murchison Falls National Park
Early morning after breakfast, head to the park for a morning game drive on the northern bank of the Nile where you will look out for elephants, lions, giraffes, and more. In the afternoon, hike to the top of Murchison Falls for stunning views. Later, lodge in or near the park.
Day 4: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
In the morning after breakfast, drive to Kibale Forest National Park which is approximately 7-8 hours. You will arrive in the afternoon and check into your lodge. Relax at the lodge or take a nature walk in the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary. Later, lodge near the park.
Day 5: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest
On the fifth day of 12 days Uganda safari holiday, early morning after breakfast, go chimpanzees tracking in Kibale Forest. Kibale is known for having one of the highest concentrations of primates in Africa. In the afternoon, explore the forest further or visit nearby crater lakes and later return to the lodge for a night and dinner.
Day 6: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park (approximately 2-3 hours) and in the afternoon when you arrive, go on a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel. This area is known for its large populations of hippos, elephants, and birds. Lodge in or near Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Day 7: Game Drive and Boat Cruise
Early morning after a quick breakfast, head to Kasenyi Plains for a morning game drive in the Kasenyi Plains. This activity gives you a chance to explore wildlife which is active in the morning. Enjoy photography of the scenic landscapes and wildlife which is far and close in the plains. After lunch, in the afternoon, go for a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel. Head back to the lodge for a night.
Day 8: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Day 8 of 12 days Uganda safari holiday, In the morning after having a hot breakfast, drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park which will offer you a scenic view of greenery and local people around Kisoro. Your tour guide or driver will drive you while briefing you about gorillas and gorilla trekking as an activity. Check in at the booked lodge where you will be having dinner and spend a night for the next day.
Day 9: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
After an early hot breakfast, drive to Bwindi’s impenetrable national park which is a thick forested place harboring gorillas. This national park gives you a beautiful view of the mountains between the border of Uganda, Rwanda and Congo. Have a briefing and then head into the forest for gorilla trekking. Search for these great apes in the hilly vegetation of this park and later spend an hour with them taking pictures, feed them, study them among others. Later, head back to the lodge to freshen up, dinner and a night. Have an optional community visit or enjoy your leisure time at the lodge.
Day 10: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
On day 10 of 12 days Uganda safari holiday, after your relaxed breakfast, check-out of the lodge and drive to Lake Bunyonyi. Lodge by the lake, and later in the afternoon go for canoeing or choose to relax by the lake.
Day 11: Explore Lake Bunyonyi
Day 11 of 12 days Uganda safari holiday, after your relaxing breakfast, enjoy your full day exploring Lake Bunyonyi, visiting islands, and local communities. You are advised to carry your camera and binoculars to enjoy the scenic islands while on the lake and bird species that will leave you wanting more. Later in the evening, drive back to the lodge for dinner and a night.
Day 12: Return to Entebbe and Departure
On the last day of 12 days Uganda safari holiday, drive or fly back to Entebbe. Depending on your flight time, you may visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre or local markets and then transfer to the airport for your departure.
Additional Tips
- Packing: Includes light, breathable clothing, sturdy hiking boots, insect repellent, and waterproof gear.
- Health: Ensure you have the necessary vaccinations and carry anti-malarial medication.
- Permits: Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking permits should be arranged well in advance.
- Guides: Hiring knowledgeable guides enhances the experience.
