Discover the breathtaking beauty of Uganda on this 22-Day Uganda Primate & Birding Safari, designed to immerse you in the country's diverse ecosystems and rich wildlife. From the vibrant shores of Lake Bunyonyi to the dense forests of Bwindi, this journey emphasizes the best of Uganda's primate and birding experiences while exploring its captivating landscapes and cultural heritage. You'll encounter elusive species, such as the endangered shoebill and mountain gorillas, and enjoy various activities, including exhilarating boat rides and scenic hiking trails.
This carefully curated 22-Day Uganda Primate & Birding Safari itinerary excludes the remote Kidepo Valley Park, focusing instead on the western circuit, which includes key highlights like Mabamba Swamp, Murchison Falls, Kibale Forest, and Queen Elizabeth National Park. Perfect for both birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts, this adventure ensures unforgettable memories as you engage with Uganda's thriving flora and fauna.
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport, where you will be warmly welcomed. Transfer just ten minutes to Via Via Guest House, your comfortable accommodation. Take time to refresh and unwind before your exciting adventure begins. Enjoy a half-board meal plan, providing you with a delicious dinner to kick-start your safari. Feel the gentle breeze and embrace the peaceful environment, as you prepare for the incredible experiences awaiting you in Uganda. Relax, soak in the lush surroundings, and meet fellow travelers, setting the perfect tone for this unforgettable journey.
After breakfast, embark on a morning birding adventure at Mabamba Swamp, home to the rare shoebill. Experience local canoe rides led by expert guides, providing excellent opportunities to photograph an array of stunning waterbirds, including Malachite Kingfishers and African Marsh Harriers. In the afternoon, explore the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, where a variety of birds await your discovery. Look for species like the Great Blue Turaco and the striking Ross’s Turaco among the lush trees and colorful flora. Your day concludes with a visit to a local craft shop, allowing you to take home a unique souvenir.
Transfer early to Mabira Forest, a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Look for rare species such as Nahan’s Francolin and primates like red-tailed monkeys. As you explore, be enchanted by the symphony of forest sounds surrounding you. After a fruitful morning, head to Jinja and visit the Source of the Nile for picturesque views. Capture this iconic site in photos and learn about its cultural significance. You'll enjoy a full-board meal plan at Home of the Nile, providing relaxation and a taste of local cuisine to cap off an exciting day of exploration.
Enjoy the morning on a boat cruise along the Source of the Nile, taking in the stunning scenery and observing wildlife. Visit the Mahate Mgande Monument and Itanda Falls, both known for their beauty. For the adventurous, optional activities like white-water rafting and bungee jumping offer adrenaline-pumping excitement. Embrace the thrill of the Nile's beauty as you engage in water sports or relax and take in the views. After a day filled with adventure, return to Home of the Nile for dinner and rest, preparing for the next leg of your journey.
Travel to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary today, where you'll have the unique experience of tracking southern white rhinos on foot. As you move through their habitat, take in the surrounding nature, keeping an eye out for various birds. From there, embark on a birding transfer to Murchison Falls National Park, traveling along the captivating Kafue River. Your accommodation near Budongo Forest provides a comfortable base for the night under the stars. Enjoy a full-board meal plan, setting you up for the adventures that await in the days ahead.
Start your day with birding in Budongo's Royal Mile, a premier location for forest species. Spot key birds like the Chocolate-backed Kingfisher and the elusive Nahan's Partridge among the dense foliage. After an exciting morning, make your way to the top of Murchison Falls, where the Nile's thunderous waters plunge through a narrow gorge—an impressive sight perfect for photography. Experience the power and beauty of this remarkable landscape, savoring each moment. Later, return to Gipiri and Labongo Lodge, where you can reflect on the day's experiences over a delicious dinner.
Your day begins with an exhilarating morning game drive in Murchison Falls National Park. Keep watch for lions, leopards, elephants, and giraffes as you traverse the vast savannah. Post-drive, enjoy a scenic boat cruise along the Victoria Nile, getting close to the base of the falls. During the cruise, delight in spotting a diversity of bird species, including the coveted Pel’s Fishing Owl. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this stunning ecosystem. As the day winds down, return to Gipiri and Labongo Lodge for a relaxing evening and hearty dinner.
Embark on a boat trip to the Nile Delta, where you have the opportunity to search for the prehistoric shoebill stork. Navigate through papyrus ecosystems, enjoying the tranquil environment. Return to land for an evening game drive on the park's northern side, allowing for further wildlife encounters as the sun sets. Look out for nocturnal animals stirring to life in the cooler evening air. After an exciting day, head back to Gipiri and Labongo Lodge for another cozy night under the stars, accompanied by delicious food and warm hospitality.
This morning, enjoy a transfer to Kibale Forest National Park, but not before passing through the beautiful Butiaba Escarpment. Marvel at panoramic views and keep an eye out for diverse birdlife as you travel. Along the way, you'll stop to explore various swamps, perfect for spotting additional birds. Visit the Hoima Stadium and the picturesque Fort Portal tea plantations en route, capturing more of Uganda's marvelous sights. Arrive at Kibale Forest Lodge, where you’ll enjoy a delightful meal and prepare for thrilling birding adventures in the days ahead.
Focus your morning birdwatching on the elusive Green-breasted Pitta, one of Africa's most sought-after avian treasures. Search for this stunning bird amidst the lush undergrowth, and enjoy the vibrant ecosystem Kibale offers. In the afternoon, set out for chimpanzee trekking, where you will have the opportunity to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat. This experience allows you to connect with Uganda's incredible biodiversity. Spend the evening back at Kibale Forest Lodge, savoring local delicacies as you reflect on your unforgettable day filled with wonder.
Start your day with a morning walk in the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community conservation initiative. Navigate through the trails, spotting remarkable birds including the Great Blue Turaco and the Black-and-white Shrike-flycatcher. After your birding adventure, transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Don’t miss the chance to snap a photo at the Kikorongo equator crossing point. If time permits, embark on an evening game drive for a magical chance to see wildlife awaken to the dusk. Settle in at your chosen accommodation like Kazinga Wilderness Lodge, enjoying a delicious dinner.
Embark on an early morning Mweya boat cruise across the park. This scenic voyage is the perfect opportunity to spot key bird species like the African Spoonbill and Great White Pelican, alongside hippos and Nile crocodiles. As you glide through the vibrant ecosystem, keep your binoculars handy for unexpected sightings. After the boat cruise, set off for an evening game drive, delving deeper into the national park’s stunning scenery. Return to your lodge, replete with stories of the day, where you can relax over a satisfying meal surrounded by nature's wonders.
This morning, transfer to the Ishasha Sector, renowned for its unique tree-climbing lions. Keep your eyes peeled for these magnificent creatures nestled among the branches. The drive offers plenty of scenic stops, allowing for birding opportunities along the way. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation at Topi Lodge, where the lush landscape envelops you in its warmth. Enjoy a full-board meal plan, providing you with hearty meals to recharge after a day of exploration. Take this time to soak in the tranquil surroundings as you prepare for more wildlife adventures.
Today features a full-day game drive in the Ishasha Sector to maximize your chances of spotting tree-climbing lions. Traverse the picturesque savannah, adorned with acacia trees where lions may bask in the sun. Afterward, transfer to Buhoma, where you will settle into your accommodation at Ride 4 a Woman. Embrace the local culture and meet the friendly community, enriching your experience with Ugandan hospitality. Enjoy a delightful full-board meal plan, allowing you to indulge in regional flavors while sharing stories about the day’s wildlife encounters.
Immerse yourself in Buhoma's gorilla sector for a day of birding; anticipate spotting various forest-dwelling birds. Following your morning birding adventure, participate in a Batwa cultural experience, where you will engage with the Batwa pygmies. Discover their rich cultural heritage through storytelling, traditional dances, and demonstrations on how they lived in the forest as food gatherers. This unique and interactive cultural immersion shapes a deeper connection to the region. After an enriching day, return for dinner at Ride 4 a Woman, sharing your experiences over a delightful meal.
Your day kicks off with a gorilla trekking experience, an unforgettable adventure as you venture deep into the heart of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Spend up to an hour observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, creating memories that will last a lifetime. After your remarkable trek, enjoy some relaxation time in the beautiful surroundings. For the keen birdwatcher, partake in secondary birding among the forest's lush canopy, where a plethora of forest birds await your discovery. Return to Ride 4 a Woman for dinner, reflecting on your extraordinary encounters.
Today, take a scenic transfer to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park via Ruhija, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for birdwatching. Look forward to spotting Albertine endemics like the Mountain Wagtail and various Greenbuls darting about. This stunning area is rich in biodiversity, making each stop a thrill for keen naturalists. Once you arrive at Mgahinga, settle into your chosen accommodation at Travelers Rest Inn Hotel. Enjoy a full-board meal as you prepare for the upcoming adventures, engaging in lively discussions about the wildlife and landscapes you've encountered.
Today immerses you in the wonders of golden monkey trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The playful and curious golden monkeys provide delightful encounters as you track them through their high-altitude habitat. Expect to see key birding targets like Rwenzori Turacos and the rarer Shelley’s Crimsonwing. Explore the bamboo zones, where many unique species thrive at higher altitudes. After an enriching day spent encountering primates and elusive birds, relax back at Travelers Rest Inn Hotel, indulging in a delicious meal and sharing stories of your discoveries with fellow travelers.
Engage in a morning of volcano hiking at Mt. Sabinyo, Mt. Muhabura, or Mt. Gahinga. This majestic experience allows for breathtaking views and encounters with rare birds at high altitudes. After your hike, transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, often referred to as the "Switzerland of Africa." Known for its stunning beauty, enjoy a canoe ride to Itambira Island for a relaxing stay. Engage with the tranquil atmosphere and explore the area’s rich biodiversity. Unwind at Itambira Island Resort with a full-board meal plan, enjoying the local flavors while basking in the serene beauty of the lake.
Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park, traversing scenic savannahs and woodlands rich in wildlife. Spot birds like the Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater and Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl as you explore this rich environment. As you delve into papyrus-lined wetlands, search for localized species such as the Papyrus Gonolek. A walking safari immerses you in an intimate wildlife experience, encountering giraffes, zebras, and majestic Ankole cattle. Settle into your accommodation at Hyena Hill Lodge, savoring the flavors of Uganda with a satisfying full-board meal plan and reflecting on all you've experienced.
Start your day with an early boat cruise along Lake Mburo, searching for the elusive African finfoot. Delight in the serene environment as you observe the morning's wildlife awakening. In the afternoon, embark on a birding game drive, enjoying an exploration of the park's diverse habitats and spotting various species. The tranquil setting and rich biodiversity create an unforgettable experience. After a day of adventure, return to Hyena Hill Lodge for dinner, allowing time to relax and reminisce about your encounters with nature.
Enjoy an early morning game drive for last-minute wildlife encounters before starting your journey back to Entebbe. En route, stop at the Kayabwe equator crossing, where you can purchase souvenirs and capture memorable photographs. After spending the last moments immersing yourself in Uganda's culture and beauty, you will arrive at Entebbe. Although your safari ends here, the memories and experiences will linger long after you depart. Enjoy a half-board meal plan as you reflect on the incredible journey through Uganda, celebrating the rich wildlife and landscapes you’ve discovered.
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