The Complete “Pearl of Africa” Experience: Big Five & Great Apes
If you are looking for the ultimate adventure, this 9-day safari is the definitive choice for exploring the Pearl of Africa. This comprehensive journey traverses Uganda’s most famous conservation areas, from the home of the only surviving wild rhinos at Ziwa to the mist-shrouded peaks of Bwindi for a magical mountain gorilla encounter. Track chimpanzees, search for the rare tree-climbing lions of Ishasha, and witness the power of Murchison Falls in one seamless expedition.
Safari Highlights
- Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: Track the only wild rhino population in Uganda on foot.
- Murchison Falls N.P.: Discover four of the “Big Five” and the world’s most powerful waterfall.
- Kibale Forest: Meet man’s closest relatives during an immersive chimpanzee trek.
- Queen Elizabeth N.P.: Search for the legendary tree-climbing lions of Ishasha.
- Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: Stand eye-to-eye with the majestic mountain gorillas.
- Lake Mburo N.P.: Spot zebras, giraffes, and impalas in a stunning savannah-wetland mosaic.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Welcome
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Prepare for a briefing on the incredible journey ahead.
- Accommodation: (Based on your chosen tier).
- Meal Plan: Dinner.
Day 2: Kampala to Murchison Falls via Ziwa
Depart early for Murchison Falls National Park. En route, stop at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for a 2-hour guided trek to see rhinos in the wild. After lunch at Kabalega Dinners, proceed to the park and visit the “Top of the Falls.”
- Accommodation Options: * Luxury: Chobe Safari Lodge / Paraa Safari Lodge
- Mid-range: Pakuba Safari Lodge / Murchison River Lodge
- Budget: Red Chilli Rest Camp / Heritage Safari Lodge
Day 3: Murchison Falls Game Drive & Nile Boat Cruise
- Morning: Game drive on the northern bank. Spot lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and Rothschild giraffes.
- Afternoon: A 3-hour boat cruise to the base of the falls. Expect to see massive Nile crocodiles, hippos, and rare birds like the Shoebill Stork.
- Meal Plan: Full Board.
Day 4: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
Drive through the scenic Albertine Rift, passing through traditional villages and lush tea plantations near Fort Portal.
- Accommodation Options: * Luxury: Kyaninga Lodge / Primate Lodge
- Mid-range: Chimpanzee Forest Guest House / Kibale Forest Camp
- Budget: Isunga Lodge / Rweteera Safari Park
Day 5: Chimpanzee Tracking & Bigodi Nature Walk
- Morning: Head to the Kanyachu visitor center for a briefing before entering the forest to track chimpanzees.
- Afternoon: Nature walk in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a paradise for birders and home to eight species of primates including the Red Colobus monkey.
- Meal Plan: Full Board.
Day 6: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth N.P. & Kazinga Channel
Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, which connects Lakes Edward and George, featuring one of the world’s highest concentrations of hippos.
- Accommodation Options: * Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge / Katara Lodge
- Mid-range: Enganzi Game Lodge / Parkview Safari Lodge
- Budget: Pumba Safari Cottages / Bush Lodge
Day 7: Ishasha Sector (Tree-Climbing Lions) to Bwindi
Travel through the Ishasha sector of the park, keeping a keen eye on the fig trees for the famous tree-climbing lions. Continue the journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.
- Accommodation Options: * Luxury: Buhoma Lodge / Gorilla Safari Lodge
- Mid-range: Silverback Lodge / Bakiga Lodge
- Budget: Buhoma Community Rest Camp / Broadbill Forest Camp
Day 8: Mountain Gorilla Trekking
The pinnacle of your safari. After a briefing, enter the ancient jungle in search of mountain gorillas. Once located, you will spend one hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
Day 9: Lake Mburo National Park & Departure
Drive to Lake Mburo National Park for a final boat cruise or game drive to see zebras, giraffes, and elands. Enjoy a traditional lunch at the park before your transfer to Kampala or Entebbe for your outbound flight.
- Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch.
Safari Pricing & Tiers
| Tier |
Per Person (Solo) |
Group Rate |
| Budget |
$2,500 |
$2,200 |
| Mid-Range |
$3,500 |
$3,000 |
| Luxury |
$4,600 |
$4,000 |
Important Information
- Includes: Gorilla & Chimpanzee permits, professional guide, 4WD transport, all park fees, and full board accommodation.
- Excludes: International flights, visas, tips, and items of a personal nature.
Ready to explore the Pearl of Africa? Contact Ranger Lead Travel Africa today to secure your booking.
