Your 12-Day Pearl of Africa - Uganda Safari begins as we pick you up at your hotel in Kampala or Entebbe and head for the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary which is a 4-hour drive from Entebbe. Our first stop is Mabamba Swamp which is the best spot for Shoebill Stork and other water-bird, swamp specialists sightings in Uganda. Mambamba Swamp is located along Lake Victoria and is a RAMSAR site. A fishing boat with an expert birding guide will take you into the swamp along narrow channels in order to spot the Shoebill Stork. The Shoebill Stork – Africa’s most sought-after bird can be spotted in the early mornings as he stands still in the swamp looking for lungfish and other prey, his beak swooping down and devouring the fish. You often get close and can get some great photos of the Shoebill Storks. We’re usually done by 10:30 am – 11 am. Continue to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in a 4-hour drive arriving at 3:30 pm. Check into Amuka Lodge, with a swimming pool and permanent tented cottages.

Here we track Rhinos on foot – a unique and one-of-a-kind experience with competent guides who will give you background and insight about the Rhinos and the restoration of Rhinos in Uganda. You get close to the Rhinos for some great photo – opportunities. On your trek, you will get as close as 10 meters to the massive Rhino. Rangers guide you during the 1½ hour Rhino Trek. The Rhinos are in a Sanctuary for eventual release into Murchison Falls Park.

Murchison Falls National Park

Our journey continues to Murchison Falls Park, where we reach the River Nile and cross to the northern bank. Before crossing the Nile, we shall take the top of the falls excursion. The Falls are an impressive display of the power of nature. The river is 50 meters wide above the falls, moves down through a 7-meter gorge, and falls 43 meters, the sound is loud, and the sight makes one realize how powerful nature can be. Murchison Falls is the most powerful waterfall in the world. Later, we will have lunch and then head out for our first game drive. On this drive, you might get to witness the awe-inspiring sight of lions, elephants, leopards, buffalos, antelopes, giraffes, warthogs, and savanna birds. Once the drive is over, we will settle into our accommodations.

Murchison Falls National Park

We go on a game drive early in the morning to spot wildlife at one of Uganda's finest wildlife parks. Murchison Falls Park boasts the biggest giraffe population in Africa, with over 1000 thriving in the area. The elephant population has also been increasing significantly due to the implementation of strict conservation methods and anti-poaching measures.

Waterfall Cruises - Murchison Falls

After Lunch, we embark on a renowned boat safari along the River Nile, cruising our way up to the falls. During the leisurely journey, we see numerous hippos, crocodiles, elephant herds, buffaloes, antelopes, monitor lizards, and other fascinating wildlife. This is one of the highlights of your time in Murchison Falls Park. The Boat Safari gives you more wildlife, birds, and reptiles than any Game Drive would. We are currently located at the base of the world's most powerful waterfall. In the event that we did not have the opportunity to visit the top of the Falls during our previous excursion, we will do so after this boat cruise. The white foam in the water is not a result of pollution, but rather vegetation that has been churned up by the force of the waterfall.

Kibale Forest National Park

We will be leaving for Kibale Forest at 7 am after having breakfast. The forest is where the jungles of West and Central Africa meet Uganda, and it will take about 6½ - 7-hour drive, including a few breaks and a lunch stop in Fort Portal town. Kibale Forest is known as the Primate Capital of East Africa and is the best place to track chimpanzees in Uganda. It is recommended that you bring snacks as it may be a while before we stop for a decent meal.

Kibale Forest National Park

Breakfast at Lodge before heading to Kibale Forest Headquarters for the Chimpanzee Tracking activity. The trek is guided, and since there are 13 primate species in the park, one usually finds at least five or six different types of primates. The forest is truly breathtaking with its natural beauty and rugged terrain. The park is home to a diverse collection of butterflies and exotic birds, making it a wonderful destination for nature lovers. While Chimpanzee tracking is popular, there is much more to enjoy, including the stunning natural environment that provides a haven for wildlife, birds, plants, and trees. The chimpanzees you will encounter are habituated, meaning they are used to human beings. The Chimpanzee Trek is about 3½ hours in length – minimum age is 15 – there is an alternate activity with Rangers for your children. Option: Instead of Chimpanzee trekking, where you are with a group of Chimpanzees for one hour, you can be on an all-day Chimpanzee Habituation Experience.

Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary

In the mid-afternoon, we explore the Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary, a mesmerizing jungle swamp with abundant natural wonders. The guided nature walk takes you through boardwalks made of planks to keep you above the water. For those passionate about birdwatching, this destination is a must-see. The large blue Turaco is a common bird spotted here. In the afternoon, chimpanzees often come to forage from Kibale Forest, and other monkey species can also be seen. In addition, you may catch a glimpse of the elusive Sitatunga Antelope, a semi-aquatic species with webbed toes that enables it to move around the swampy terrain of the Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary. Your guide is a member of the Bigodi community, dedicated to protecting the local swamp and its wildlife. This area is recognized as a UNESCO Sustainable Tourism Eco-Site.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

After breakfast, we will embark on a 2-hour drive to Queen Elizabeth Park. Before checking into your preferred lodge, we will take the scenic Explosion Crater Drive. This drive boasts craters and lakes and offers stunning views from the highest point in the lodge. The entire drive takes about 2½ hours, and some of the craters on the route were even featured in National Geographic. You will understand why once you witness the breathtaking sights for yourself. During this drive, you will have numerous opportunities to capture breathtaking photos. Moreover, the ranger accompanying you will enlighten you about the formation of this section of the park. You can check in at Enganzi Game Lodge, a top-notch mid-range lodge that has always been of high quality for our clients. Lunch

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Experience the thrill of an afternoon game drive on the vast Kasenyi plains of Queen Elizabeth Park, where you can witness the majestic Lions, Leopards, Elephant Herds, Buffaloes, and antelopes up close. Accompanied by an experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority Ranger and your driver-guide, you will slowly drive down a game track, taking in all the sights and sounds of the wildlife. With two expert guides on board, you won't miss a thing during the 2½ to 3-hour game drive. Plus, you'll have the advantage of a pop-up roof for the best wildlife-viewing experience.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

You have the option to have breakfast before or after embarking on your second game drive, which typically starts at 6:30 am. Morning game drives offer the opportunity to witness predators returning from their nightly hunts, and the stunning Savannah Sunrise adds to the experience. One exciting opportunity is the Lion Tracking Research, where you can join researchers in their search for collared lions. This project is in collaboration with the Uganda Carnivore Project and Uganda Wildlife Association. You can also learn about the habits and behaviors of these majestic animals during the experience.

Kazinga Channel

In the afternoon, the Kazinga Channel Boat Safari is the main attraction of any safari trip to Queen Elizabeth Park. This two-hour boat ride offers sightings of a variety of wildlife, birds, and reptiles. You have the option to choose a smaller boat at a higher cost or take the larger Uganda Wildlife Authority boat, both of which provide excellent views of elephants, buffalo herds, antelopes, crocodiles, monitor lizards, hippos, and a multitude of water birds, including large schools of pelicans. The Kazinga Channel boasts a high number of hippos and is also home to various bird species. Additionally, it is a popular gathering spot for large herds of elephants and buffaloes.

After breakfast, we take the 2½ to 3-hour drive to the Ishasha region of Queen Elizabeth Park. This is home to tree-climbing lions. It is seen as the best spot in all of Africa for sure sightings of the tree climbing Lions. Here, we take a game drive with a Ugandan Wildlife Authority ranger who knows where we can spot the lions and other wildlife on this day. The game drive is about three hours long, and you will see countless antelopes, including the colorful Topi, Elephants, Leopards, Buffaloes, and more savannah animals. After the game drive, you can have a nice lunch at the nearby Savannah Resort. We then continue to the Ruhija area of Bwindi – 2½ hours’ drive time.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Breakfast, then a pre-tracking briefing to go over guidelines for you and your safety. The Gorilla trekking begins soon afterward and can be from a short walk to an all-day hike through rough terrain. Typically, it's 3 - 5 hours, depending on the gorilla family’s location on that day, and one hour with them. a once-in-a-lifetime experience for most. (Not for those under 15 years of age). To ensure comfort on the trek, it's recommended that you wear light trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, sturdy boots, a hat, and a light rain jacket. Some also find it helpful to bring cotton garden gloves to aid in climbing vines or branches. Don't forget to bring a daypack to carry your essentials. The driver will assist you in hiring a porter. You can also buy a big walking stick that is handy on the trek. They are available at the lodge or the Gorilla Trailhead. There are rules of conduct while tracking and they need to be followed for the protection of the Mountain Gorillas and your well-being.

Mabamba Swamp Shoebill Watching Entebbe

We may stay here another night or, about a 2½-hour drive to Lake Bunyonyi, for exploration and relaxation. The activities here (at lake Bunyonyi) are optional and not included in the offer.

Mabamba Swamp Shoebill Watching Entebbe

As we move toward the end of your safari, take some time to unwind and relax at Safari Lake Bunyonyi. This hidden gem is located in the Gorilla Highlands and often overlooked by visitors to Uganda. It's definitely worth adding to your list of must-see places. Please note that the activities available here are not included in the tour cost. You can choose to swim, paddle a dugout canoe, ride in a motorboat, or explore any of the 29 islands. Additionally, hiking, biking, and birdwatching are popular options for those seeking a more active experience. After trekking gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla Park, you can enjoy nature walks, village visits, and interactive cultural experiences. What's more, Lake Bunyonyi stands apart from other lakes in East Africa due to its lack of bilharzia, crocodiles, and hippos. This means you can swim in its crystal-clear waters without any worries.

Lake Mburo National Park

The Pearl of Africa Safari slowly comes to an end as we head to Lake Mburo Park. We'll start our day with an early breakfast before setting off. Lake Mburo is the ideal spot to take a break during a long journey and is one of the most charming places in Uganda. It takes around 5 hours to drive there, so it's recommended to depart at 7 am for optimal arrival time. We take a lunch break at Mbarara town. After lunch, we will resume our journey and reach Lake Mburo. Before checking in, we will embark on a 1½ - 2-hour game drive through the rolling hill Savannah, where you can spot large Eland and other antelopes, Giraffes, Burchell Zebras, and occasional leopards. Check into Rwakobo Rock Lodge high on a ridge overlooking Lake Mburo Park - delightful cottages, and a swimming pool. We skip the Boat Ride here because we believe it’s worth it after the previous, more exciting ones. Additionally, we are uncertain if we can meet the minimum number of participants needed at our chosen time.

Lake Mburo National Park

After breakfast, we go on Nature Walk with a UWA Ranger to the Saltlick, where lots of Wildlife can be seen. This is a ninety-minute Hike, and there is a Hide at the Salt Lick. You will enjoy the variety of Wildlife you see along the Nature Walk. After the game drive, we prepare for departure to Kampala – Entebbe. After lunch, we stop at the Equator, where you can take pictures. Proceed to Kampala – Entebbe arriving late afternoon for departure as our 12-day Pearl of Africa Uganda Safari Tour ends.