17 Days Uganda Safari – Ultimate Wildlife, Primate & Adventure Journey
17 Days Uganda Safari Overview
This 17 Days Uganda Safari is the most complete and immersive way to experience the Pearl of Africa. Carefully designed to move at a rewarding pace, this journey takes you deep into Uganda’s most remote wilderness areas, iconic national parks, primate forests, crater lakes, and cultural heartlands.
Starting and ending in Entebbe, this 17 Days Uganda Safari combines gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, golden monkey encounters, Big Game safaris, boat cruises, walking safaris, cultural experiences, and scenic adventure activities all in one seamless itinerary.
Unlike rushed tours, this 17 Days Uganda Safari allows time to feel each destination: from the wild isolation of Kidepo Valley National Park, to the thunder of Murchison Falls National Park, the primate-rich forests of Kibale National Park, and the misty jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
This safari is ideal for travelers who want everything Uganda is famous for done properly, ethically, and at a comfortable pace.
Why Choose This 17 Days Uganda Safari
- Covers Uganda’s top wildlife & primate destinations
- Gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking & golden monkey trekking included
- Big Game safaris in Kidepo, Murchison, Queen Elizabeth & Lake Mburo
- Boat cruises on the Nile, Kazinga Channel & Lake Mburo
- Cultural experiences with local communities
- Adventure highlights (Sipi Falls hike, abseiling, quad biking)
- Can be tailored to budget, mid-range, or luxury
- Small group safari (max 6 guests) or private option
- Suitable for solo travelers, couples & small groups
Important Information – 17 Days Uganda Safari
- Gorilla Permit: USD 800 per person
- Chimpanzee Permit: USD 300 per person
- Golden Monkey Permit: USD 100 per person
- Group Size: Max 6 guests
- Departure: Any day of the year
- Customization: Fully customizable
- Solo Travelers: Welcome
17 Days Uganda Safari – Summary Itinerary (At a Glance)
- Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Welcome & overnight
- Day 2: Jinja adventure – Sezibwa Falls, Mabira Forest, Source of the Nile & quad biking
- Day 3: Sipi Falls – Hiking, abseiling & coffee experience
- Day 4: Transfer to Kidepo Valley National Park
- Day 5: Full-day game drives in Kidepo Valley
- Day 6: Kidepo → Murchison Falls National Park
- Day 7: Murchison Falls – Game drive & Nile boat cruise
- Day 8: Murchison → Albertine Rift Valley → Kibale Forest
- Day 9: Chimpanzee tracking & Bigodi Wetlands
- Day 10: Kibale → Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Day 11: Queen Elizabeth – Game drive & Kazinga Channel cruise
- Day 12: Kyambura Gorge → Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
- Day 13: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Forest
- Day 14: Bwindi → Lake Bunyonyi
- Day 15: Lake Bunyonyi → Lake Mburo National Park
- Day 16: Lake Mburo – Boat safari & game drive
- Day 17: Lake Mburo → Entebbe (Equator stop) & departure
17 Days Uganda Safari – Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Welcome to Uganda
Your 17 Days Uganda Safari begins with a warm and personal welcome at Entebbe International Airport. Upon arrival, you’ll be met by your professional Nextgen Safaris driver-guide, who will assist with your luggage and transfer you to your hotel near the shores of Lake Victoria.
The rest of the day is reserved for relaxation after your international flight. Enjoy the calm atmosphere of Entebbe, surrounded by tropical gardens and lake breezes, as you prepare for the adventure ahead.
Accommodation options (Entebbe):
- Budget: Namirembe Guest House
- Mid-range: Acacia Lodge Entebbe
- Luxury: Protea Hotel by Marriott Entebbe
Meal plan: Dinner
Day 2: Jinja Adventure Day – Source of the Nile & Countryside Experiences
After breakfast, your 17 Days Uganda Safari continues eastward toward Jinja, Uganda’s adventure capital. The day is filled with diverse experiences that combine nature, culture, and soft adventure.
Your first stop is Sezibwa Falls, a culturally significant site surrounded by lush forest and birdlife. Continue to Mabira Forest for a guided nature walk beneath towering trees, where monkeys, butterflies, and birds thrive.
After lunch in Jinja, enjoy a scenic boat ride to the Source of the Nile, followed by an exciting quad biking experience along the River Nile, riding through villages and farmland for an authentic countryside encounter.
Accommodation options (Jinja):
- Budget: Jinja Grand Hotel
- Mid-range: Jinja Nile Resort
- Luxury: Green Source Guest House
Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Sipi Falls – Hiking, Abseiling & Coffee Experience
Today’s journey takes you toward eastern Uganda and the foothills of Mount Elgon. This day of your 17 Days Uganda Safari is dedicated to scenery, adventure, and culture.
At Sipi Falls, embark on guided hikes to the three spectacular waterfalls, passing through coffee plantations and local communities. The highlight is a thrilling abseiling experience beside the tallest waterfall, offering an unforgettable adrenaline rush.
Later, enjoy a coffee-to-cup experience, learning how Arabica coffee is grown, harvested, processed, and brewed using traditional methods.
Accommodation options (Sipi):
- Budget: Rock Garden Sipi
- Mid-range: Sunrise Homestay Sipi
- Luxury: Home of Friends
Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Transfer to Kidepo Valley National Park
After breakfast, begin a long but rewarding drive north into the remote Karamoja region. This stage of the 17 Days Uganda Safari introduces you to one of Africa’s most isolated and dramatic landscapes.
Arrive at Kidepo Valley National Park, often described as Uganda’s wildest national park. After check-in, relax at your lodge and absorb the untouched wilderness that surrounds you.
Accommodation options (Kidepo):
- Budget: Kidepo Savannah Lodge
- Mid-range: Mara Safari Lodge Kidepo
- Luxury: Adere Safari Lodge
Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Full Day Safari in Kidepo Valley National Park
This day is dedicated entirely to wildlife exploration in Kidepo Valley. Venture deep into the Narus Valley, the park’s most wildlife-rich area, where permanent water sources attract large concentrations of animals.
During extensive game drives, expect sightings of lions, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and a variety of antelope species. Kidepo is also home to rare predators such as cheetahs, bat-eared foxes, and striped hyenas.
The vast open plains, distant mountain backdrops, and low visitor numbers make this one of the most rewarding days of your 17 Days Uganda Safari.
Accommodation: Same as Day 4
Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Kidepo → Murchison Falls National Park
After breakfast, depart Kidepo and journey south toward Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area.
Arrive in the park later in the day and enjoy a relaxed afternoon, with the possibility of a short game drive depending on arrival time. Watch the Nile flow quietly past your lodge as wildlife moves through the surrounding savannah.
Accommodation options (Murchison Falls):
- Budget: Fort Murchison
- Mid-range: Pakuba Safari Lodge
- Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge
Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7: Murchison Falls – Game Drive & Nile Boat Safari
Wake early for a morning game drive across the northern plains of Murchison Falls National Park. This area offers excellent chances to spot lions, giraffes, elephants, buffaloes, and a wide variety of birdlife.
In the afternoon, enjoy a classic boat safari on the Victoria Nile, cruising upstream to the base of the thunderous Murchison Falls. Along the riverbanks, observe hippos, Nile crocodiles, elephants, and water birds before witnessing the Nile explode through a narrow gorge.
This day perfectly blends wildlife and scenery, making it a highlight of your 17 Days Uganda Safari.
Accommodation: Same as Day 6
Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 8: Murchison Falls → Albertine Rift Valley → Kibale Forest
After breakfast, depart Murchison Falls and travel through the scenic Albertine Rift Valley, passing Lake Albert, rolling hills, and tea plantations.
Arrive near Kibale National Park, famous for having the highest concentration of primates in East Africa. The evening is spent relaxing at your lodge, surrounded by forest sounds and crater-lake landscapes.
Accommodation options (Kibale):
- Budget: Kibale Forest Camp
- Mid-range: Kibale Forest Lodge
- Luxury: Crater Safari Lodge
Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 9: Chimpanzee Tracking & Bigodi Wetlands – Kibale Forest
Today is dedicated to primates and biodiversity in Kibale National Park, often called the Primate Capital of the World. After an early breakfast, you will transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing before entering the forest with expert ranger guides.
During chimpanzee tracking, follow vocal calls through the rainforest as you search for habituated chimpanzee families. Once located, you will spend up to one hour observing their behavior feeding, grooming, playing, and interacting naturally in the wild.
In the afternoon, enjoy a guided walk through Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-run conservation area rich in birdlife and primates, including the Great Blue Turaco, colobus monkeys, and red-tailed monkeys.
This day offers an intimate forest experience and is a key highlight of the 17 Days Uganda Safari.
Accommodation options (Kibale):
- Budget: Kibale Forest Camp
- Mid-range: Kibale Forest Lodge
- Luxury: Crater Safari Lodge
Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 10: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After breakfast, depart Kibale and drive south to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most biologically diverse protected area.
Arrive in time for lunch at your lodge before heading out for an afternoon game drive, exploring savannah plains, crater lakes, and acacia woodland. Wildlife commonly spotted includes elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kob, warthogs, and, with luck, lions or leopards.
Accommodation options (Queen Elizabeth):
- Budget: Kasenyi Lake Retreat
- Mid-range: Queen Elizabeth Safari Lodge
- Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge
Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 11: Queen Elizabeth – Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Safari
Begin the day with an early morning game drive in the Kasenyi Plains, one of the park’s prime wildlife areas. This is the best time to search for predators such as lions and leopards, alongside large herds of buffaloes and elephants.
In the afternoon, enjoy a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway connecting Lakes Edward and George. This cruise offers some of the best wildlife viewing in East Africa, with dense populations of hippos, Nile crocodiles, elephants, and an exceptional variety of water birds.
This classic safari combination makes Day 11 a standout moment of the 17 Days Uganda Safari.
Accommodation: Same as Day 10
Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 12: Kyambura Gorge → Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
After breakfast, head to Kyambura Gorge for an optional chimpanzee tracking experience in this dramatic forested ravine carved into the savannah floor. The gorge offers a different and scenic primate-tracking environment.
Following the activity, continue south toward Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, passing through changing landscapes and rural communities. Arrive at your lodge near the forest in the evening and relax in preparation for the next day’s major highlight.
Accommodation options (Bwindi):
- Budget: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge
- Mid-range: Gorilla Safari Lodge
- Luxury: Gorilla Heights Lodge / Nkuringo Lodge
Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 13: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
This is the most anticipated day of your 17 Days Uganda Safari. After an early breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for registration and a briefing by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers.
You will then enter the dense rainforest with experienced trackers to trek mountain gorillas. Trekking duration varies depending on the location of the gorilla family, but once found, you will spend a magical one hour observing them up close, a deeply emotional and unforgettable wildlife encounter.
After the trek, return to your lodge to rest and reflect on this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Accommodation: Same as Day 12
Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 14: Bwindi Forest → Lake Bunyonyi
After breakfast, depart Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and drive through the scenic highlands of southwestern Uganda to Lake Bunyonyi, famously known as the Lake of a Thousand Islands.
Arrive in time for lunch and later enjoy a relaxing boat ride, exploring the lake’s islands and learning about their cultural history, including the well-known Punishment Island. The peaceful setting makes this a perfect recovery day after gorilla trekking.
Accommodation options (Lake Bunyonyi):
- Budget: Bunyonyi Overland Resort
- Mid-range: Lake Bunyonyi Lodge
- Luxury: Arcadia Cottages
Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 15: Lake Bunyonyi → Lake Mburo National Park
After breakfast, continue east toward Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda’s smallest savannah park and the closest to Kampala.
Arrive in time for lunch before heading out on an afternoon game drive. Lake Mburo National Park is known for zebras, eland antelopes, impalas, topi, and buffaloes, offering a different safari atmosphere compared to larger parks.
Accommodation options (Lake Mburo):
- Budget: Hyena Hill Lodge
- Mid-range: Arcadia Lodge
- Luxury: Kigambira Safari Lodge
Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 16: Lake Mburo – Boat Safari & Game Drive
Begin the day with a boat safari on Lake Mburo, where you’ll see hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species along the shoreline.
After breakfast and rest time at the lodge, return to the park for a final game drive, enjoying the rolling savannah and open landscapes that characterize Lake Mburo National Park.
This relaxed yet wildlife-rich day brings your 17 Days Uganda Safari to a graceful close.
Accommodation: Same as Day 15
Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 17: Lake Mburo → Entebbe (Equator Stop)
After breakfast, depart Lake Mburo and begin the return journey to Entebbe. Stop at the Equator line in Kayabwe for photos and a brief demonstration before continuing to Entebbe.
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport in time for your onward flight, marking the end of an unforgettable 17 Days Uganda Safari.
FAQ – 17 Days Uganda Safari
What does the 17 Days Uganda Safari include?
The 17 Days Uganda Safari includes airport transfers, accommodation, all park entry fees, game drives, boat safaris, chimpanzee trekking, gorilla trekking, cultural experiences, ground transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle, and the services of a professional safari guide. Permits and activities are included unless stated as optional.
Does the 17 Days Uganda Safari include gorilla trekking?
Yes. The 17 Days Uganda Safari includes one unforgettable mountain gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where you spend one hour with a habituated gorilla family under the guidance of expert rangers.
Which national parks are visited on this 17 Days Uganda Safari?
This 17 Days Uganda Safari visits Kidepo Valley National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale Forest National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Lake Bunyonyi, and Lake Mburo National Park.
Is this 17 Days Uganda Safari suitable for first-time visitors?
Yes. This itinerary is ideal for first-time visitors to Uganda because it covers all major highlights at a relaxed pace, combining wildlife, primates, culture, scenery, and adventure without rushing between destinations.
Can the 17 Days Uganda Safari be customized?
Absolutely. The 17 Days Uganda Safari can be fully customized to suit budget, mid-range, or luxury travel styles, private or small-group travel, honeymoon safaris, photography-focused trips, or family travel.
What wildlife can I see on the 17 Days Uganda Safari?
You can expect to see lions, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, chimpanzees, mountain gorillas, and hundreds of bird species across Uganda’s diverse ecosystems.
How difficult is gorilla trekking on this safari?
Gorilla trekking requires moderate physical fitness. Trekking duration varies from 30 minutes to several hours depending on gorilla movements, but porters are available to assist and make the experience manageable for most travelers.
What is the best time to do the 17 Days Uganda Safari?
The best time for the 17 Days Uganda Safari is during the dry seasons (June–September and December–February), though Uganda is a year-round safari destination with excellent wildlife viewing throughout the year.
Is the 17 Days Uganda Safari suitable for solo travelers?
Yes. Solo travelers are welcome on this 17 Days Uganda Safari and can either join a small group or book a private safari depending on preference and budget.
How many people are in each safari group?
Small group safaris are limited to a maximum of 6 guests to ensure comfort, personalized guiding, and minimal environmental impact. Private safaris are also available.
Are meals included during the 17 Days Uganda Safari?
Yes. All meals are included as specified in the itinerary, typically on a full-board basis during the safari portion of the trip.
Why is this considered the ultimate 17 Days Uganda Safari?
This safari combines Uganda’s most remote wilderness, iconic wildlife parks, primate encounters, boat safaris, cultural experiences, and scenic landscapes into one seamless journey — offering unmatched depth, diversity, and value.
GENERAL INFORMATION
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
All visitors to Uganda must have a valid passport with at least 4 consecutive blanks pages. Any applicable visa and/or relevant documentation are the responsibility of the traveller. For further information on Visa requirements visitors are advised to contact their nearest Uganda Embassy or Consulate.Apply online here
LANGUAGE:
English
TIME:
GMT +3
VOLTAGE:
220 Volts/AC50Hz. Sockets are UK style, 3 pin square plugs. Power is from the UMEME in the city/major towns and generator with inverter back up in the Safari Lodges and Camps.
CURRENCY:
Foreign currency must be changed at the Bank, Bureau de Change, and Hotel/Safari lodge/Camp/Resort. Major Credit Cards, Master card, Visa, American Express, are usually accepted throughout the country. Where credit cards are accepted, the payment will normally be recorded in US$ regardless of the card’s default currency.
CLOTHING:
Dress is mainly informal and should be comfortable as well as practical. Something warm should be brought along for early morning and evenings. Safari clothes are available from hotels/lodges/camps.
BAGGAGE:
Where possible, travel light. Baggage space on safari is limited to medium suitcase or soft bag per person plus reasonable amount of hand luggage. There is 15 Kilogram per person limit on all flights to the wildlife sanctuaries. Excess luggage must be stored in your arrival hotel.
WATER:
You will find many different of opinion of what is safe and what is not. We recommend for peace of mind, to drink local Bottled Mineral water. It is important to drink plenty of water especially during the hotter months. We would recommend that guests drink at least 2 to 3 liters of water per day to limit the effects of dehydration.
HEALTH;
East Africa is a safe and secure destination; however, it is a good idea to take a few precautions. Kindly consult your GP or local doctor at least 6 weeks before you travel, with regards:
Malaria prophylactics. East Africa is a known malaria area and preventive measures are essential. You are advised to take one of the recommended anti-malarial drugs. Be sure to wear long sleeved shorts and trousers after sunset and spray the exposed parts of your body with a mosquito repellent spray
Remember to protect yourself from direct sun rays with sunscreen cream or safari hat.
DIETARY REQUIREMENTS:
For those guests with specific dietary requirement, please ensure we are notified prior to travel
GRATUITIES:
As a guideline and dependent on how happy you are, we would suggest the following:
The General Hotel/Lodge/Camp Staff – Approximately U$ 10.00 per person per day
Driver Guides – Approximately US$ 15.00 to US$ 20.00 per person per day
PHOTOGRAPHY:
Please be careful when photographing public buildings, airports, bridges, the national flag and people in uniform. Ensure that you have sought permission before photographing local people and their villages. If in doubt, please check with your guide.
Read about
10 Things you Should NOT DO on an African Safari.
What to expect on a safari in Uganda.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
How to Choose the Best Tour Operate for Your Safari in Africa
12-Day Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi
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