5 Days Uganda Safari

Discover the diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife of Uganda on a comprehensive 5-days safari that takes you through some of the country’s most renowned national parks and reserves. This adventure offers an immersive experience, combining thrilling game drives, scenic boat cruises, and cultural encounters. Starting from Entebbe or Kampala, you’ll explore Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions and diverse wildlife, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas. Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or a first-time traveler, this tour provides a rich and varied taste of Uganda’s natural beauty and wildlife.

Highlights

• Game Drives: Enjoy multiple game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, known for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.
• Tree-Climbing Lions: Visit the Ishasha sector to see the unique tree-climbing lions.
• Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise: Experience a boat ride along the Kazinga Channel, famous for its high concentration of hippos and birdlife.
• Gorilla Trekking: Spend a day trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to encounter the majestic mountain gorillas.
• Scenic Views: Explore volcanic craters, lush rainforests, and picturesque landscapes.
• Cultural Interactions: Engage with local communities to learn about their traditions and conservation efforts.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Arrival in Entebbe or Kampala

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport or in Kampala, you will be met by your safari guide. After a brief introduction, begin your journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park, located in southwestern Uganda.

Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park

The drive takes approximately 6-7 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Along the way, you will pass through the beautiful Ugandan countryside, with rolling hills, tea plantations, and vibrant local markets.

Equator Stopover

Make a stop at the Equator Crossing in Kayabwe for photos and to experience the water experiment demonstrating the Coriolis effect. This stop is also an opportunity to purchase souvenirs and enjoy a short break.

Arrival and Check-in

Arrive at Queen Elizabeth National Park in the late afternoon. Check into your lodge or campsite, where you can enjoy stunning views of the park and its surroundings. Choose from various accommodation options, including luxury lodges and budget-friendly campsites.

Evening Game Drive

After checking in, embark on an evening game drive. As the sun sets, animals become more active, providing excellent opportunities to spot elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and various bird species. Your experienced guide will help you locate and identify the wildlife, enhancing your safari experience.

Dinner and Overnight

Return to your lodge for dinner, featuring local and international cuisine. Spend the evening relaxing and preparing for the exciting days ahead.

Day 2: Full-Day Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Morning Game Drive

Start your day with an early morning game drive in the Kasenyi Plains. This area is known for its large herds of Uganda kob, which attract predators like lions and leopards. The early morning light provides excellent conditions for wildlife photography and viewing.

Visit to Katwe Explosion Crater

After the morning drive, visit the Katwe Explosion Crater. This volcanic crater offers panoramic views of the park and the surrounding landscape. The craters are surrounded by lush vegetation and provide a unique landscape for exploration and photography.

Lunch and Relaxation

Return to your lodge for lunch and a brief rest. Enjoy the tranquil environment and take some time to relax before the afternoon activities.

Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

In the afternoon, head to the Mweya Peninsula for a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel. The channel connects Lake Edward and Lake George and is renowned for its high concentration of hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of water birds. The boat cruise provides a unique perspective of the park and excellent opportunities for wildlife photography.

Sunset Views and Return to Lodge

Enjoy the stunning sunset over the Kazinga Channel as you return from the boat cruise. The changing colors of the sky and water create a breathtaking scene, perfect for capturing memorable moments.

Dinner and Overnight

Return to your lodge for dinner and a relaxing evening. Share stories of the day’s sightings and prepare for the next day’s adventures.

Day 3: Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After breakfast, embark on a drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The journey takes approximately 6-7 hours, passing through scenic landscapes and rural areas. Enjoy views of the lush forests and terraced hills along the way.

Lunch En Route

Stop for a picnic lunch or at a local restaurant en route. This provides an opportunity to stretch your legs and enjoy the local cuisine.

Arrival and Check-in

Arrive at Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in the late afternoon. Check into your lodge or campsite, situated amidst the forested hills of Bwindi. Choose from a range of accommodations, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly options.

Dinner and Overnight

Have dinner at your lodge, featuring local and international dishes. Spend the evening relaxing and preparing for the exciting gorilla trekking experience the next day.

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Gorilla Trekking

After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking protocols. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, and the trek provides a unique opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures up close.

Accompanied by experienced guides and trackers, venture into the dense rainforest in search of a gorilla family. The trek can vary in duration and difficulty, but the reward of encountering the gorillas and witnessing their social interactions is well worth the effort.

Lunch in the Forest

Enjoy a packed lunch in the forest, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Reflect on the morning’s gorilla encounter and share experiences with fellow trekkers and guides.

Visit to Local Community

In the afternoon, visit a nearby local community to learn about their traditions and conservation efforts. Engage with local residents, artisans, and conservationists working to protect Bwindi’s natural heritage. Gain insights into sustainable livelihoods and the impact of conservation on local communities.

Dinner and Overnight

Return to your lodge for dinner and a relaxing evening. Reflect on your gorilla trekking experience and enjoy the serene environment of Bwindi.

Day 5: Return to Entebbe or Kampala

Breakfast and Departure

After breakfast, begin your journey back to Entebbe or Kampala. The drive takes approximately 8-10 hours, offering one last chance to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Uganda.

Lunch En Route

Stop for lunch en route, providing an opportunity to relax and enjoy a meal before continuing your journey.

Arrival in Entebbe or Kampala

Arrive in Entebbe or Kampala in the late afternoon or evening. Transfer to your hotel or the airport for your onward journey, concluding your 5-days safari adventure in Uganda.

Conclusion

The 5-days Uganda Safari offers a comprehensive and immersive experience in some of the country’s most iconic wildlife destinations. From thrilling game drives and scenic boat cruises in Queen Elizabeth National Park to the awe-inspiring gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, this tour provides a rich blend of wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, and cultural experiences. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first-time safari-goer, Uganda promises an adventure filled with unforgettable moments and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.