The Ultimate Journey: Rhinos, Murchison Falls, Tree-Climbing Lions & Mountain Gorillas
Experience the absolute best of the Pearl of Africa. This 9-day exclusive safari offers a rare insight into Uganda’s most secluded and breathtaking sceneries. From the tranquility of tracking rhinos on foot at Ziwa to the thunderous power of Murchison Falls, and from the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha to the life-changing encounter with Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi, this journey is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
Safari Highlights
- Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: The only place in Uganda to track rhinos on foot.
- Murchison Falls: A hike to the top of the world’s most powerful waterfall.
- Kibale & Kyambura: Primate encounters including the iconic Chimpanzee tracking.
- Queen Elizabeth N.P.: Boat cruises on the Kazinga Channel and searches for the rare tree-climbing lions.
- Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: An intimate, eye-to-eye encounter with the endangered Mountain Gorillas.
- Cultural Immersion: Meet the Batwa forest pygmies and learn about ancient forest lore.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe International Airport
Upon arrival, you will be met by our professional guide and transferred to your preferred hotel in Entebbe. Take this time to rest and prepare for the adventure ahead.
- Accommodation: Entebbe Botanical Beach Hotel (or similar).
- Meal Plan: Dinner.
Day 2: Kampala to Murchison Falls via Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
After an early breakfast and briefing, head north toward Murchison Falls. Stop at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for a 2-3 hour trek to see Uganda’s only wild rhinos. Continue to Murchison Falls National Park, where you will hike to the “Top of the Falls” to witness the Nile squeeze through a 7-meter gorge.
- Accommodation Options: Paraa Safari Lodge (Luxury) / Pakuba Safari Lodge (Mid-range) / Red Chilli Rest Camp (Budget).
- Meal Plan: Full Board.
Day 3: Murchison Falls Game Drive & Nile Boat Cruise
- Morning: Head into the savannah for a game drive. Spot lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, and various antelopes.
- Afternoon: Embark on a 2-hour boat cruise to the bottom of Murchison Falls. View hippos, Nile crocodiles, and countless water birds against the backdrop of the orange sunset.
- Meal Plan: Full Board.
Day 4: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
A scenic drive takes you through Fort Portal and along the Albertine Escarpment of the Western Rift Valley. This route offers stunning views of rolling tea plantations and diverse local cultures.
- Accommodation Options: Mweya Safari Lodge (Luxury) / Bush Lodge (Mid-range) / Mweya Hostels (Budget).
- Meal Plan: Full Board.
Day 5: Savannah Game Drives in Queen Elizabeth N.P.
Spend the day exploring the plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park. This is the prime time to see early risers like lions and leopards, alongside massive herds of buffalo and elephants. The park is also a birder’s paradise with many endemic species.
Day 6: Kazinga Channel Cruise & Kyambura Chimpanzee Tracking
- Morning: A boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel offers close-up views of hippos and crocodiles.
- Afternoon: Head to the “underground forest” of Kyambura Gorge for a thrilling chimpanzee tracking experience. Optionally, explore the Maramagambo forest to see bat caves and pythons.
- Meal Plan: Full Board.
Day 7: Ishasha Sector (Tree-Climbing Lions) to Bwindi
Travel through the Ishasha sector, famous for its unique tree-climbing lions. Continue to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. In the evening, visit the Batwa community for a cultural experience featuring traditional music and storytelling.
- Accommodation Options: Silverback Lodge (Luxury) / Bakiga Lodge (Mid-range) / Buhoma Community (Budget).
- Meal Plan: Full Board.
Day 8: The Gorilla Tracking Experience
The pinnacle of your safari. After a briefing, enter the thick, verdant forest with a ranger. Once you locate the gorilla family, you will spend one hour observing their social structures, feeding habits, and interactions.
Day 9: Return to Kampala / Entebbe
After breakfast, begin the journey back to central Uganda. Stop in Mbarara for lunch and at the Equator for photographs. Arrive in Kampala in the afternoon for your flight departure or hotel transfer.
- Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch.
Inclusions & Exclusions
| Included in Price |
Not Included |
| Mountain Gorilla Permit |
International Flights |
| Chimpanzee Tracking Permit |
Entry Visas |
| Professional English-Speaking Guide |
Personal Travel Insurance |
| 4WD Ground Transportation |
Tips and Gratuities |
| All Park Entrance & Ranger Fees |
Laundry Services |
| All Accommodations & Meals Listed |
Alcoholic & Extra Drinks |
| Ziwa Rhino Tracking Fees |
Items of a Personal Nature |
Important Safari Notes
- Gear: We recommend strong waterproof hiking boots, gardening gloves for trekking, and long-sleeved safari clothing.
- Health: Please ensure you have the necessary vaccinations (Yellow Fever is mandatory for entry to Uganda).
- Photography: Charge your devices and bring extra batteries; flash photography is strictly prohibited during primate encounters.
Discover the untamed beauty of Uganda. Contact Ranger Lead Travel Africa to book this 9-day exclusive primate experience today.