Exclusive Great Apes Journey
13 DAYS | 12 NIGHTS
Uganda
A mix of Gold & Silver
This 13-day luxury safari offers an intimate and exclusive experience of Uganda's top wildlife destinations. From rhino trekking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to the breathtaking views of Murchison Falls, the adventure continues with chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest and game viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The highlight is an exclusive mountain gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, complemented by a serene retreat at Lake Bunyonyi and a finale in Lake Mburo National Park. Luxurious lodges and personalized service elevate the experience, ensuring comfort amidst the wild.
Itinerary Details:
Day 1: Arrival in Uganda
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport and be warmly welcomed by your private guide. Transfer to your luxury hotel and relax after your journey. Enjoy fine dining and take in the views of Lake Victoria.
Overnight at Hotel No. 5 or similar (HB)
Day 2: Rhino Trekking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Depart for Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where you'll enjoy a guided rhino trekking experience. Walk through the bush alongside experienced rangers to get up close to the rhinos while learning about the sanctuary's successful conservation efforts since 2005.
Overnight at Amuka Lodge or similar (FB)
Day 3: Murchison Falls Hike & Afternoon Game Drive
Following a hearty breakfast in the heart of the Sanctuary, travel to Murchison Falls National Park and start your day with a thrilling hike to the top of Murchison Falls. Witness the powerful surge of the Nile as it forces through the gorge, creating a spectacular waterfall. After lunch, head out for an afternoon game drive, spotting elephants, lions, giraffes, and more. Return to your luxury lodge for dinner and sunset views over the park.
Overnight at Nile Safari Lodge or similar (FB)
Day 4: Morning Game Drive & Nile River Boat Cruise
Kick off the day with an early game drive, searching for predators like lions and leopards, along with large herds of buffaloes, elephants, and antelopes. In the afternoon, enjoy a luxury boat cruise on the Nile, where you can see hippos, Nile crocodiles, and vibrant birdlife. The cruise ends with a view of Murchison Falls from the bottom, giving you a unique perspective of the powerful cascade.
Overnight at Nile Safari Lodge or similar (FB)
Day 5: Transfer to Kibale National Park
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Kibale National Park, famous for its diverse primate population. Arrive at your exclusive lodge set amidst the forest, where you can unwind in luxurious surroundings before your next adventure.
Overnight at Primate Lodge or similar (FB)
Day 6: Chimpanzee Trekking & Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary
Start your day early with a briefing at Kibale Forest headquarters before venturing into the forest to track chimpanzees. Follow Uganda Wildlife Authority expert guides as they lead you through the dense jungle of Kibale, pointing out various primates and birds. Spend an hour observing the chimps' fascinating behaviors and interactions.
Return to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, take a guided nature walk in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, where you’ll encounter unique flora, bird species, and cultural stories from the local community.
Overnight at Primate Lodge or similar (FB)
Day 7: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth NP & Kazinga Channel Cruise
Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you’ll take an afternoon boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel. This channel is known for its large population of hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife, making it a highlight for wildlife lovers.
Overnight at The River Station or similar (FB)
Day 8: Game Drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Explore the Kasenyi Plains on an early morning game drive. Keep your camera ready for sightings of lions, buffaloes, elephants, and antelope species such as Ugandan kobs. In the evening, set out on a sunset game drive, offering excellent opportunities to witness more wildlife as the day fades.
Overnight at The River Station or similar (FB)
Day 9: Transfer to Bwindi via Ishasha for the Tree-Climbing Lions
Journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, stopping en route in the Ishasha Sector to search for the famed tree-climbing lions. Bwindi is home to half the world’s endangered mountain gorillas population.
Overnight at Gorilla Forest Lodge or similar (FB)
Day 10: Exclusive Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
This is the day you’ve been waiting for – a chance to stand in the presence of one of the planet’s most endangered and majestic creatures: the Mountain Gorilla. The day begins early with an energizing breakfast before heading to the park headquarters for a detailed briefing from expert rangers. Then, it’s time to trek into the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bwindi. Every step of the journey feels like an exploration into an ancient, untouched world, with towering trees, colorful bird species, and the occasional rustle of wildlife in the underbrush. After hours of anticipation, your patience pays off as you encounter a gorilla family in their natural habitat. Watch in awe as they play, groom, and move through the forest, their sheer presence leaving you breathless. The magic of locking eyes with a silverback is a moment that words can hardly capture.
After this once in a life-time experience, return to your lodge for an afternoon relaxation or a community visit to one of the community projects around the park.
Overnight at Gorilla Forest Lodge or similar (FB)
Day 11: Relax at Lake Bunyonyi
After your gorilla trekking adventure, transfer to the tranquil shores of Lake Bunyonyi. Spend the day relaxing, enjoying a boat ride, or exploring the scenic islands of this peaceful lake.
Overnight at Arcadia Lodge or similar (FB)
Day 12: Transfer to Lake Mburo NP & Evening Game Drive
Drive to Lake Mburo National Park, one of Uganda’s smallest but most beautiful parks, famous for its zebras, impalas, and eland antelopes. In the evening, embark on a game drive to spot the park’s wildlife and enjoy the serene landscapes.
Overnight at Mihingo Lodge or similar (FB)
Day 13: Walking Safari & Transfer to Entebbe Airport
Wake up to the sounds of nature and set off on an early walking safari in Lake Mburo National Park. This unique experience allows you to explore the park on foot with an experienced ranger, offering a chance to spot zebras, giraffes, elands, and other wildlife up close, while learning about animal tracks, birdlife, and the ecosystem of this beautiful savannah. After your walking safari, start your return drive to Entebbe (-/+ 6 hours). En route, stop for lunch and enjoy the changing scenery. Arrive in the evening to check in for your connecting flight or an overnight stay in Entebbe, marking the end of your Ugandan adventure.
Overnight at Day Room use can be arranged upon request (HB)
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