10 Days Western Uganda Ultimate Safari

Your adventure begins with a long but beautiful drive southwest toward Kibale Forest National Park, famously known as the primate capital of the world. The journey takes you through charming small towns, traditional farms, and rolling hills, with a convenient stop for lunch en route. As you approach Fort Portal, the scenery transforms into lush landscapes, dotted with picturesque crater lakes and offering distant views of the majestic Rwenzori Mountains. Arrive in the late afternoon and check into your tranquil lodge, perfectly nestled near the edge of the forest, where you can enjoy a quiet evening surrounded by nature's serenity.

Accommodation: Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse (Mid-Range) / Kyaninga Lodge (Luxury)

Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner

Today marks a thrilling highlight for primate enthusiasts! After an early breakfast, head into Kibale Forest for your much-anticipated chimpanzee tracking expedition. Guided by expert rangers, you’ll trek through the dense forest, listening intently for the rustles and calls that indicate the chimps' presence. Once you locate these fascinating creatures, you'll spend an unforgettable hour observing their complex social behaviors, playful interactions, and incredibly human-like expressions. In the afternoon, you'll explore the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a commendable community-run conservation area celebrated for its abundant birdlife, various monkey species, and enriching cultural interactions. This guided nature walk offers valuable insights into local ecosystems and the benefits of sustainable tourism. Return to your lodge for dinner and a peaceful overnight stay.

Accommodation: Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse (Mid-Range) / Kyaninga Lodge (Luxury)

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After a relaxed breakfast, depart from Kibale and drive south through the picturesque crater lake region, making your way towards Queen Elizabeth National Park. Along the journey, you'll be treated to stunning scenic views of volcanic landscapes, sprawling tea plantations, and the ever-present, towering peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains. Arrive in the park by early afternoon and immediately embark on an exhilarating game drive through the Kasenyi Plains, renowned for sightings of Uganda kob, buffaloes, elephants, and with a bit of luck, even big cats roaming the golden savannah. Settle into your lodge, offering splendid views of the park or the iconic Kazinga Channel, and enjoy a peaceful evening.

Accommodation: Enganzi Game Lodge (Mid-Range) / Mweya Safari Lodge (Luxury)

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Begin your day with a captivating sunrise game drive through Queen Elizabeth’s incredibly diverse habitats, well-known for its excellent sightings of elephants, lions, hyenas, and a wide variety of antelope species. After a delicious breakfast and some well-deserved relaxation, you’ll head out for a memorable boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a vital natural waterway connecting Lake Edward and Lake George. This unique experience boasts one of the highest concentrations of hippos in Africa, along with formidable crocodiles, robust buffalo, and an impressive variety of birdlife, making for spectacular photographic opportunities. Return to your lodge in time for a delightful dinner and a night spent under a canopy of stars.

Accommodation: Enganzi Game Lodge (Mid-Range) / Mweya Safari Lodge (Luxury)

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today’s journey takes you through the southern Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, famously known for its elusive tree-climbing lions. Keep your eyes peeled on the fig trees and acacia branches as you enjoy a thrilling game drive en route through this remote and wild region. After your dedicated wildlife search, continue southwest toward the misty highlands of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the revered home of the critically endangered mountain gorillas. Arrive at your charming lodge, nestled amidst the verdant forested hills, and rest up for tomorrow’s once-in-a-lifetime encounter.

Accommodation: Buhoma Haven Lodge (Mid-Range) / Bwindi Lodge (Luxury)

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Rise early for an essential briefing at the park headquarters before setting off into the dense jungle on a guided trek to find one of Bwindi’s habituated gorilla families. The trek can be challenging, involving navigating muddy trails and steep terrain, but the reward is truly extraordinary: spending a full, mesmerizing hour observing these gentle giants as they feed, groom, and interact in their pristine natural habitat. After this unforgettable experience, return to the trailhead, enjoy a well-deserved lunch, and then transfer to the tranquil shores of Lake Bunyonyi, often hailed as one of Uganda’s most beautiful and peaceful lakes. Unwind at your lodge overnight, savoring the stunning views of the lake.

Accommodation: Lake Bunyonyi Rock Resort (Mid-Range) / Arcadia Cottages (Luxury)

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today is dedicated to relaxation and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of Lake Bunyonyi. Known as the “Lake of a Thousand Islands,” this serene destination offers a variety of optional activities. You can embark on serene canoe excursions, enjoy rewarding birdwatching, visit some of the lake’s 29 islands, or simply unwind at the lodge with spectacular panoramic views. It's the perfect place to reflect on your incredible safari experiences and recharge. Take a leisurely boat cruise to explore the lake's myriad islands, get an adrenaline rush with zip lining across the lake, or try your hand at traditional canoeing. The choice is yours for a day of rejuvenation and discovery.

Accommodation: Lake Bunyonyi Rock Resort (Mid-Range) / Arcadia Cottages (Luxury)

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After breakfast by the serene waters of Lake Bunyonyi, depart for Lake Mburo National Park—Uganda’s smallest savannah park, yet remarkably rich in biodiversity. The scenic 4–5 hour drive winds through picturesque highlands and vibrant local communities, offering a glimpse into rural Ugandan life. Upon arrival, enjoy an exhilarating afternoon game drive where you may encounter abundant zebras, graceful impalas, majestic elands, distinct topis, formidable buffaloes, and towering giraffes. Lake Mburo holds the unique distinction of being the only park in Uganda with a significant impala population and stands out as one of the best places to view plains game up close. In the evening, consider an optional guided night game drive for a rare chance to spot elusive nocturnal creatures such as leopards, bush babies, and genets. Overnight at a comfortable lodge situated within or near the park.

Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock Lodge (Mid-Range) / Mihingo Lodge (Luxury)

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Start your day with an immersive guided nature walk or an exciting horseback safari—an exhilarating and unique way to explore the park’s diverse landscape without a vehicle. These activities often bring you remarkably close to the park's resident wildlife, such as zebras and various antelopes, offering unparalleled photo opportunities. Later in the day, enjoy a tranquil boat cruise on Lake Mburo itself, a vibrant habitat teeming with hippos, crocodiles, and an impressive array of birdlife, including the iconic African fish eagles and a variety of colorful kingfishers. Return to your lodge for some well-deserved relaxation and your final overnight stay in the heart of Uganda's wild.

Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock Lodge (Mid-Range) / Mihingo Lodge (Luxury)

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After a final breakfast, begin your journey back to Kampala. Enjoy a scenic drive with a memorable stop at the Equator in Kayabwe for fantastic photo opportunities, refreshments, and some last-minute souvenir shopping. Upon arrival in Kampala in the afternoon, depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a brief city tour, visiting significant landmarks such as the impressive Gaddafi Mosque, the informative Uganda Museum, or vibrant local craft markets. Later, proceed to Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight, bringing your incredible Ugandan safari adventure to a fulfilling close.

Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch