Pearl of Africa Odyssey
20 DAYS | 19 NIGHTS
Uganda
Silver, Chimps and Beyond
This extraordinary 20-day safari across Uganda, blends adventure, wildlife, culture, and relaxation. From the thundering rapids of the Nile River to the misty mountains of Bwindi, this journey traverses Uganda’s most iconic landscapes. Explore Sipi Falls, track primates in Kibale and Bwindi, cruise along the Kazinga Channel, and immerse yourself in authentic cultural encounters. This safari is a perfect mix of luxury and adventure, offering enriching experiences in Uganda's most picturesque destinations.
Itinerary Details:
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe
Your safari begins with a warm welcome at Entebbe International Airport. After meeting your safari guide, transfer to Kampala, Uganda’s vibrant capital city. Settle into your hotel and prepare for a short city tour, visiting key landmarks such as the King’s Palace, National Mosque, Downtown Kampala and craft markets, where you can purchase authentic Ugandan souvenirs. Conclude the day with a delicious dinner and rest in your comfortable accommodation, ready to embark on your adventure.
Overnight at Papyrus Guesthouse or similar (HB)
Day 2: Transfer to Jinja
Today, leave the bustling city of Kampala and head east to Jinja, the adventure capital of East Africa. The scenic drive offers views of lush greenery and traditional homesteads. Upon arrival, check into The Haven Lodge, a tranquil riverside retreat offering stunning views of the Nile. Spend the rest of the day relaxing by the riverbank, enjoying the serene environment, and soaking in the beauty of the world’s longest river.
Overnight at Haven Lodge or similar (FB)
Day 3: White-Water Rafting on the Nile
Get ready for an adrenaline-packed day as you tackle the rapids of the mighty Nile River. With experienced guides, embark on a thrilling white-water rafting adventure, navigating through powerful rapids and calmer sections of the river. This full-day activity is both exhilarating and safe, offering an unforgettable experience. Return to The Haven Lodge in the evening to unwind after your adventure.
Overnight at Haven Lodge or similar (FB)
Day 4: Relaxation at The Haven Lodge
This day is all about unwinding and enjoying the tranquil surroundings of The Haven Lodge. Start the day with a leisurely breakfast before choosing optional activities such as a nature walk, fishing, or bird watching. Alternatively, spend your day relaxing by the lodge’s riverside, taking in the breathtaking views of the Nile, and listening to the soothing sounds of nature
Overnight at Haven Lodge or similar (FB)
Day 5: Visit Source of the Nile & Transfer to Sipi Falls
Begin your morning with a guided tour to the Source of the Nile, where you’ll learn about the historical and cultural significance of this legendary river. Afterward, embark on a journey to Sipi Falls, located on the slopes of Mount Elgon. Upon arrival, check into Rafiki Sipi Lodge, a cozy haven offering spectacular views of the falls and surrounding landscapes. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight at Rafiki Sipi Lodge or similar (FB)
Day 6: Sipi Falls Hike and Coffee Experience
Start your day with a guided hike exploring the three stunning waterfalls of Sipi, marveling at the lush vegetation and breathtaking views. Later, participate in a unique coffee immersion experience, where you’ll learn about the local coffee-making process, from harvesting to roasting. End the day with a relaxing sundowner, soaking in the sunset over the picturesque hills.
Overnight at Rafiki Sipi Lodge or similar (FB)
Day 7: Transfer to Moroto via Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve
Today, embark on a scenic journey to Moroto, passing through the remote and rugged Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve. Enjoy the changing landscapes and keep an eye out for wildlife along the way. This off-the-beaten-path route offers a glimpse into one of Uganda’s most untouched wilderness areas before reaching the heart of the Karamoja region.
Overnight at Kara-Tunga Safari Camp or similar (FB)
Day 8: Transfer to Kidepo Valley National Park
Today, travel north to the remote and breathtaking Kidepo Valley National Park. The journey takes you through dramatic landscapes and traditional homesteads, offering a glimpse into the culture of the Karamoja region. Arrive at your lodge in time to relax and take in the wild beauty of one of Africa’s most untouched safari destinations.
Overnight at Savannah Lodge or similar (FB)
Day 9: Morning & Afternoon Game Drives in Kidepo
Spend the day exploring the wild and vast landscapes of Kidepo Valley National Park on both morning and afternoon game drives. Traverse the Narus and Kidepo Valleys in search of lions, elephants, cheetahs, giraffes, and large herds of buffalo. With sweeping savannahs and dramatic mountain backdrops, each game drive offers a new perspective and unforgettable wildlife encounters in one of Africa’s most remote parks.
Overnight at Savannah Lodge or similar (FB)
Day 10: Morning Walking Safari & Afternoon Community Experience
Begin your day with a walking safari through the rugged beauty of Kidepo Valley National Park. Led by a skilled ranger, this immersive experience brings you closer to nature—tracking wildlife on foot, learning about plants, animal behavior, and traditional uses of the land.
In the afternoon, step into the vibrant culture of the Karamoja region with an authentic community visit. Engage with local elders, learn about traditional crafts, dance, and the unique way of life that has been preserved for generations. It’s a meaningful opportunity to connect, learn, and share stories across cultures.
Overnight at Savannah Lodge or similar (FB)
Day 11: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
Today, set off on a -/+ 6hr drive to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area. Enjoy the changing scenery along the way, from the remote plains of Karamoja to the lush savannahs of the northwestern region. Arrive at your lodge in the evening, ready to explore the powerful landscapes and rich wildlife of Murchison the next day.
Overnight at Pakuba Safari Lodge or similar (FB)
Day 12: Morning Game Drive & Afternoon Boat Cruise
Begin your day with a morning game drive across the northern section of Murchison Falls National Park, home to elephants, lions, giraffes, buffaloes, and a variety of antelope species. The open savannah and riverine landscapes offer incredible wildlife viewing opportunities.
In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic boat cruise along the Nile River towards the base of the mighty Murchison Falls. Watch for hippos, crocodiles, and water birds along the banks before witnessing the dramatic power of the falls as the Nile forces its way through a narrow gorge—an unforgettable sight.
Overnight at Pakuba Safari Lodge or similar (FB)
Day 13: 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 Turaco Treetops or similar (FB)
Day 14: 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 Turaco Treetops or similar (FB)
Day 15: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth NP & Evening Game Drive
After breakfast, depart for Queen Elizabeth National Park, driving through scenic landscapes, crater lakes, and traditional villages. Arrive in time for an evening game drive, where you may spot elephants, antelopes, and predators beginning to stir as the sun sets over the savannah.
Overnight at Buffalo Safari Lodge or similar (FB)
Day 16: Morning Game Drive & Afternoon Boat Ride
Kick off the day with a morning game drive through Queen Elizabeth National Park’s Kasenyi Plains, known for its lion prides, large herds of Uganda kob, elephants, and buffaloes.
In the afternoon, enjoy a boat ride along the Kazinga Channel, a haven for hippos, crocodiles, and a stunning array of birdlife. It’s the perfect way to experience the park’s rich biodiversity from a different perspective.
Overnight at Buffalo Safari Lodge or similar (FB)
Day 17: 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 Haven Lodge or similar (FB)
Day 18: 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 Haven Lodge or similar (FB)
Day 19: Transfer to Lake Mburo & Afternoon Game Drive
After breakfast, journey to the compact but wildlife-rich Lake Mburo National Park. Arrive in time for an afternoon game drive, where you can spot zebras, impalas, elands, topis, and various bird species among the rolling acacia-dotted hills. Keep your eyes open for the rare leopard as the sun begins to set over the park.
Overnight at Rwakobo Rock or similar (FB)
Day 20: Morning Walking Safari & Transfer to Entebbe
Start your day with a guided walking safari in Lake Mburo National Park—an intimate way to explore the bush and encounter wildlife up close, from zebras to antelopes, while learning about the ecosystem from an expert ranger.
After the walk, begin your transfer back to Entebbe, arriving in the evening with your heart full of memories from an unforgettable Ugandan journey.
Overnight at Day Room use can be arranged upon request (HB)
More Journey Inspirations