17 Days Big 5 Wildlife Safari Uganda

This 17 Days Big 5 Wildlife Safari is a magical journey into the isolated jungles of East Africa where you should expect an experience like no other; the journey starts and ends in Kampala/ Entebbe on this safari you will be able to trek gorillas, Golden Monkeys, chimpanzees, enjoy boat cruises, game drives and cultural experiences.

17 Days Big 5 Wildlife Safari

This 17 Days Big 5 Wildlife Safari is designed to allow every traveler to have a chance to spend time in the wilderness. If you’re a luxury traveler, don’t be bounced off yet. This Uganda safari can be tailor made to suit your style too. Inquire with the Nextgen Safaris’ team of experts to make sure you get your desired safari package – including the right accommodation, transportation and meals

Game Drive in Murchison Falls National Park

Things to Note About this 17 Days Big 5 Wildlife Safari

Gorilla Trekking Permit; USD800
Chimpanzee Permit USD300
Golden Monkey Trekking USD100
Small Group Safari: Max 6 People per Group
Tour Can Depart Any Day
Tour Can Be Customized
Solo Travelers Can Join This Tour

Summary of the 17 Days Big 5 Wildlife Safari.

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe

Day 2: Jinja day tour: visit Sezibwa Falls, Mabira forest, Source of the Nile and quad biking along the Nile

Day 3: Transfer to Sipi for the Sipi Falls hike and abseiling and coffee tour

Day 4: Drive Kidepo Valley National Park Day 5: Full day Game Drive – Kidepo Valley Park

Day 6: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park

Day 7: Explore Murchison Falls National Park – Game Drive – Boat ride

Day 8: Murchison Falls to Albertine Rift Valley to Kibale Forest

Day 9: Primates Tracking and Bird Watching

Day 10: Departure for Queen Elizabeth National Park

Day 11: Wildlife Exploration in Queen Elizabeth

Day 12: Kyambura Gorge – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Day 13: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Day 14: Bwindi Forest to Lake Bunyonyi

Day 15: Lake Bunyonyi to Lake Mburo National Park

Day 16: Boat Ride on Lake Mburo

Day 17: Transfer Back to Entebbe Airport

Detailed 17 Days Big 5 Wildlife Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe

Your Ugandan adventure begins with a warm reception at Entebbe International Airport, where the vibrant culture and hospitality of the country immediately greet you. As you step off the plane, the tropical air embraces you, setting the tone for the experiences ahead. From the airport, you’ll be transferred to your chosen accommodation, offering a comfortable sanctuary after your journey. If you opt for the mid-range option, The Boma Hotel awaits, located conveniently near Entebbe International Airport.

This hotel combines modern comfort with colonial charm, providing beautiful gardens and excellent dining options to unwind and rejuvenate. Alternatively, indulge in luxury at the Protea Hotel by Marriott Entebbe, which overlooks the serene Lake Victoria. Here, you’ll be treated to luxurious rooms and suites offering breathtaking lake views. Enjoy the outdoor pool and fine dining options to relax and savor the beginning of your Ugandan escapade. As you settle into your accommodation, glimpses of Lake Victoria offer a tranquil backdrop, hinting at the natural wonders that await you in the coming days.

Accommodation

Budget: Namirembe Guest House

Mid-Range: Acacia lodge

Luxury: Protea Hotel

Meal plan: Dinner

Day 2: Jinja day tour

You will be picked up from your residence and drive through Kampala taking the route to eastern Uganda. The first place to visit is the Sezibwa Falls that you will reach after 1 hour’s drive from Kampala. Have 1 hour walk at these cultural grounds and enjoy the beautiful waterfalls, lush scenery and observe some wildlife including birds, butterflies, monkeys, etc. After the Sezibwa Falls tour get back on the road and continue to Mabira forest for yet another exciting nature experience. Set out on a 2 hour trek into the forest and enjoy an up-close encounter with an array of wildlife including monkeys, birds, trees, butterflies, etc…

Optional: Zip-line in Mabira forest – in addition to the nature walk in Mabira forest you can do the thrilling Canopy Super Skyway zip-line. This adventure has you cruise through the forest tops like a monkey give you such an adrenaline rush. The zip-line also gives you an insight into canopy and see wildlife such as monkeys and birds which are not easy to see from the ground. However note that if you decide to include the zip line you may have to forego the visit to the Sezibwa Falls due to limitation by time.

After the Mabira forest tour get back on the road and drive to Jinja for your lunch. You will then transfer to the Source of the Nile for a 1 hour boat ride on the Nile to Source of the Nile monument, enjoy nice views across Lake Victoria and observe plenty of water birds and other wildlife.

Thereafter you shall go out and wind up the day with a thrilling evening quad bike in the countryside along the River Nile. The quad bike adventure will take you through the lush countryside and see how the people live, enjoy wonderful views of the Nile as it simmers through the beautiful landscape. The quad bikes are safe and you get to have some training before setting off.

Main Destination: Source of the Nile

Accommodation

Budget: Jinja Grand Hotel

Mid range: Jinja Nile Resort Hotel

Luxury: Green Source Guest House

Meals: All meals included

Day 3: Transfer to Sipi for the Falls hike, abseiling and coffee tour

After breakfast you shall transfer to Sipi for the for the Sipi Falls hiking adventure! The trek to each of the 3 waterfalls covers an approximately 7km trail and can be covered in 3 hours on average. Each of the waterfalls offers unique experience. Along the trail you access wonderful views of the Mt. Elgon slopes and panoramic views of the distant Karamoja plains. The hike also goes through coffee plantations and local communities which gives a brief encounter with the local people.

On the last waterfall which is also the biggest or longest falling 100 meters, you shall do the thrilling abseiling adventure dropping just 5 meters from the falls giving you shall an adrenaline experience. Later, after lunch and relaxing, you shall go on the “life style of coffee” tour which takes you through the local coffee garden to learn about how coffee is grown, harvested and then continue to see how it is locally processed. At the end of Sipi coffee tour you shall make a cup of coffee from the coffee you harvested and processed.

Main Destination: Sipi Falls

Accommodation:

Budget: Rock Garden Sipi

Mid-range: Sunrise Homestay Sipi

Luxury: Home of Friends

Meals: All meals included

Day 4: Drive to Kidepo Valley National Park

As the sun rises, enjoy a delicious breakfast before embarking on a scenic drive northwards to Kidepo Valley National Park. This journey will take you through rugged terrain and remote landscapes, providing a glimpse into the untamed beauty of Uganda’s wilderness. Traverse through Kitgum, experiencing the unique charm of the Karamoja region along the way.

Arrive at Kidepo Valley National Park, one of Africa’s last untouched wilderness areas, and settle in at your Lodge, your home amidst the wilderness. Relax and unwind after your journey, anticipating the adventures that await you in the days ahead. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the lodge, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African bush.

Main Destination: Kidepo Valley National Park

Accommodation

Budget: Kidepo Savannah Lodge

Mid-range: Mara Safari Lodge Kidepo

Luxury: Adere Safari Lodge

Meals: All meals included

Day 5: Full day Game Drive – Kidepo Valley Park

Awaken to the call of the wild and fuel up with a delicious breakfast before embarking on a full day of adventure in Kidepo Valley National Park. Prepare for a photographic game drive through the park’s diverse landscapes, as you seek out its resident wildlife. Kidepo is renowned for its abundance of wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and more. Keep your camera ready as you traverse the park’s rugged terrain, capturing memorable moments.

Explore the Narus Valley, known for its rich biodiversity, and opportunities to spot rare and elusive species such as the bat-eared fox, striped hyena, and caracal. Marvel at the spectacular scenery as you journey through this pristine wilderness, encountering a myriad of wildlife along the way. Stop for a picnic lunch amidst the beauty of the park, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African bush. Continue your game drive into the afternoon, exploring different habitats and searching for elusive predators.

Main Destination: Kidepo Valley National Park

Accommodation:

Mara Safari Lodge Kidepo

Budget: Kidepo Savannah Lodge

Mid-range: Mara Safari Lodge Kidepo

Luxury: Adere Safari Lodge

Meals: All meals included

Day 6: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park

After a hearty breakfast, bid farewell to Kidepo Valley National Park and embark on a scenic journey to Murchison Falls National Park. This drive will take you through diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to lush forests, offering stunning views along the way. Arrive at Murchison Falls National Park in time for lunch, ready to explore Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area. Check-in at Murchison River Lodge, a charming retreat nestled on the banks of the majestic River Nile.

Settle into your accommodation and take some time to relax amidst the tranquil surroundings. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at the lodge, savoring the flavors of Ugandan cuisine prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. After dinner, unwind with a stroll along the riverbank, taking in the sights and sounds of the African bush as the sun sets on another day of adventure.

Main Destination: Murchison Falls National Park

Accommodation:

Budget: Fort Murchison

Mid-range: Pakuba Safari Lodge

Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge

Meals: All meals included

Day 7: Explore Murchison Falls National Park – Game Drive – Boat ride

After breakfast, begin your adventure with an exhilarating game drive on the northern bank of the River Nile, where you’ll have the opportunity to encounter a diverse array of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for iconic African species such as elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, lions, leopards, and more as you traverse the park’s vast savannah plains and dense woodlands. Capture stunning wildlife moments with your camera, immortalizing your encounters with Africa’s majestic animals.

After your game drive, return to the lodge, where you can relax and recharge before your afternoon adventure. Embark on a scenic boat ride where you see crocodiles and other wildlife coming to the river to drink. Cruise along the river’s calm waters, taking in the sights and sounds of the surrounding wilderness as you search for hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife. As you approach the falls, feel the spray of water on your face and marvel at the sheer power and beauty of this natural wonder.

Main Destination: Murchison Falls National Park

Accommodation:

Budget: Fort Murchison

Mid-range: Pakuba Safari Lodge

Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge

Meals: All meals included

Day 8: Murchison Falls to Albertine Rift Valley to Kibale Forest

After a leisurely breakfast, bid farewell to Murchison Falls National Park and embark on a scenic drive towards the Albertine Rift Valley. Pass by Lake Albert, a shimmering expanse of water surrounded by lush vegetation, and marvel at the panoramic views of the Rift Valley escarpment as you journey towards Fort Portal. Arrive in Fort Portal, the gateway to Uganda’s famed Rwenzori Mountains, and check in at Ndali Lodge, a luxurious retreat nestled amidst rolling hills and tea plantations.

Spend the evening relaxing at the lodge, enjoying the serene atmosphere and picturesque surroundings. Indulge in a delicious dinner, savoring the flavors of local and international cuisine prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients. After dinner, retire to your comfortable accommodation for a restful night’s sleep, rejuvenating your body and mind for the adventures that lie ahead.

Main Destination: Kibale National Park (Chimps)

Accommodation:

Budget: Kibale Forest Camp

Mid-range: Kibale Forest Lodge

Luxury: Crater Safari Lodge

Meals: All meals included

Day 9: Primates Tracking and Bird Watching

After breakfast, make your way to Kanyanchu Tourist Center for a thrilling chimpanzee tracking experience in Kibale Forest National Park. Join experienced guides as you trek through the dense forest, listening for the calls of chimpanzees and keeping an eye out for other primate species such as black-and-white colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and vervet monkeys. After an exhilarating morning of tracking chimpanzees, return to the lodge for lunch, where you can relax and recharge before your afternoon adventure.

In the afternoon, embark on a bird-watching excursion to Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a haven for birdlife and other wildlife species. Keep an eye out for colorful bird species such as the great blue turaco, African grey parrot, and black-crowned waxbill. As you explore the sanctuary, listen to the calls of birds and learn about their behaviors and habitats from your knowledgeable guide.

Main Destination: Kibale National Park (Chimps)

Budget: Kibale Forest Camp

Mid-range: Kibale Forest Lodge

Luxury: Crater Safari Lodge

Meals: All meals included

Day 10: Departure for Queen Elizabeth National Park

After breakfast, bid farewell to Kibale Forest National Park and embark on a scenic journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Along the way, soak in the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife as you traverse through Uganda’s picturesque countryside. Arrive at Queen Elizabeth National Park in time for lunch, where you’ll be greeted by the park’s breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife. A charming lodge nestled on the edge of the park, and settle into your comfortable accommodation.

In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling game drive through the park’s vast savannah plains, where you’ll have the opportunity to encounter a variety of wildlife species, including elephants, buffaloes, lions, leopards, and more. Capturing stunning wildlife moments against the backdrop of the African bush. After your game drive, return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay, savoring the flavors of Ugandan cuisine prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Main Destination: Queen Elizabeth National Park

Accommodation

Budget: Kasenyi Lake Retreat Lodge

Mid-range: Queen Elizabeth Safari Lodge

Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge

Meals: All meals included

Day 11: Wildlife Exploration in Queen Elizabeth

Wake up to the sounds of the bush and enjoy a delicious breakfast before setting out on another exciting day of wildlife exploration in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Begin your adventure with an early morning game drive along the park’s tracks, where you’ll have the opportunity to encounter a diverse array of wildlife species in their natural habitat. After your game drive, return to the lodge for a late breakfast, where you can relax and recharge before your afternoon adventure. In the afternoon, embark on a boat ride along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway that connects Lake Edward and Lake George.

Here you will see the highest concentration of hippopotami among many other species Cruise along the channel’s calm waters, taking in the sights and sounds of the surrounding wilderness as you spot crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife. Listen to the calls of birds and the splash of water. After your boat safari, return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Main Destination: Queen Elizabeth National Park

Accommodation:

Budget: Kasenyi Lake Retreat Lodge

Mid-range: Queen Elizabeth Safari Lodge

Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge

Meals: All meals included

Day 12: Kyambura Gorge – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

After breakfast, embark on an adventure to Kyambura Gorge for a thrilling chimpanzee tracking experience. Join experienced guides as you trek through the dense forest, listening for the calls of chimpanzees and keeping an eye out for other primate species such as black-and-white colobus monkeys and red-tailed monkeys. As you explore the gorge, take in the sights and sounds of the jungle, marveling at the diverse plant and animal life that calls this area home.

After your chimpanzee tracking experience, continue your journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to half of the world’s remaining population of endangered mountain gorillas. A luxurious retreat nestled amidst the forested slopes of Bwindi. Settle into your comfortable accommodation and enjoy a delicious dinner, savoring the flavors of Ugandan cuisine prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

After dinner, relax by the fireplace and listen to the sounds of the forest as you prepare for the next day’s adventure.

Main Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Gorillas)

Accommodation

Budget: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge

Mid-range: Gorilla Safari Lodge

Luxury: Gorilla Heights Lodge/ Nkuringo lodge

Meals: All meals included

Day 13: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After your early morning breakfast, you will be transferred to the park headquarters with your packed lunch to join other trackers for registration and briefing about Dos and don’ts during your trekking activity, you will be welcomed by the local community entertainment as they perform cultural dances.

Later, you will start your trekking activity escorted by the armed ranger, this trek may take half an hour or three quarters of the day depending on the movements of the mountain gorillas, once you find them you will be allowed to spend one hour interacting with them, taking pictures and you will later return to the headquarters to be awarded certificates and you will be driven back to the lodge for relaxation and overnight.

Main Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable National Parks

Accommodation

Budget: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge

Mid-Range: Gorilla Leisure lodge/ 4 Gorillas Lodge

Luxury: Gorilla Heights Lodge/ Nkuringo lodge

Meals: All meals included

Day 14: Bwindi Forest to Lake Bunyonyi

After breakfast, bid farewell to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and embark on a scenic journey to Lake Bunyonyi, known as the “Lake of a Thousand Islands.” As you travel through the picturesque countryside, soak in the stunning landscapes and vibrant local culture. Arrive at Lake Bunyonyi in time for lunch and check in at your lodge, a charming retreat nestled on the shores of the lake. Settle into your comfortable accommodation and enjoy a delicious lunch, savoring the flavors of Ugandan cuisine with a stunning view of the lake.

In the afternoon, embark on a boat excursion on Lake Bunyonyi, exploring its numerous birds and hidden coves. As you cruise along the tranquil waters, take in the breathtaking scenery and keep an eye out for birdlife such as kingfishers, herons, and egrets. Visit the famous Punishment Island and learn about its fascinating history before returning to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay, surrounded by the beauty of Lake Bunyonyi.

Main Destination: Lake Bunyonyi

Accommodation:

Budget: Bunyonyi Overland resort

Mid-range: Lake Bunyonyi Lodge

Luxury: Arcadia Cottages

Meals: All meals included

Day 15: Lake Bunyonyi to Lake Mburo National Park

After breakfast, bid farewell to Lake Bunyonyi and embark on a journey to Lake Mburo National Park, the smallest of Uganda’s savannah parks. Along the way, enjoy stunning views of the countryside and pass through charming villages and bustling market towns. Arrive at Lake Mburo National Park in time for lunch and check in at your lodge, a cozy lodge nestled on the shores of Lake Mburo.

Settle into your comfortable accommodation and enjoy a delicious lunch, savoring the flavors of Ugandan cuisine with a view of the lake. In the afternoon, embark on a game drive through the park, where you’ll have the opportunity to encounter a variety of wildlife species, including zebras, impalas, elands, and buffalo. Keep your camera ready as you traverse the park’s rolling hills and open savannah plains, capturing stunning wildlife moments against the backdrop of the African bush. After your game drive, return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Main Destination: Lake Mburo National Park

Accommodation:

Budget: Hyena Hill Lodge

Mid-range: Arcadia Lodge

Luxury: Kigambira Safari Lodge

Meals: All meals included

Day 16: Boat Ride on Lake Mburo

After breakfast, embark on a morning boat ride on Lake Mburo, where you’ll have the opportunity to encounter hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife. As you cruise along the tranquil waters, take in the breathtaking scenery and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of the lake. After your boat ride where you see hippos, crocos, and birds, return to the lodge for breakfast and rest until lunch and in the afternoon we return to the Park for another game drive. Returning later in the evening for dinner and overnight stay. Main

Destination: Lake Mburo National Park

Accommodation:

Budget: Hyena Hill Lodge

Mid-range: Arcadia Lodge

Luxury: Kigambira Safari Lodge

Meals: All meals included

Day 17: Transfer Back to Entebbe Airport

After breakfast, our professional driver guide will pick you from the hotel and transfer you back to Entebbe, you will have a stop in Kayabwe at the equator crossing for equator experience and photography and later proceed with your journey to the airport for a flight.

Main Destination: Entebbe Airport

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.

Book a Customized Safari

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