Savannah, Not Garden
From Rhino Tracks To Gorilla Trails
16-Day Uganda Safari, Primates & Cultural Retreat
(Trip Overview)
Experience the ultimate Ugandan adventure on this immersive 16-day safari, combining extraordinary primate encounters, thrilling wildlife safaris, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic cultural experiences. Track rhinos, chimpanzees, mountain gorillas, and golden monkeys, cruise along the Victoria Nile, explore the mighty Murchison Falls, paddle across the scenic Lake Bunyonyi, and discover the rich traditions of Uganda's diverse communities. From spectacular national parks to vibrant cultural villages and Kampala's historical landmarks, this journey showcases the very best of the Pearl of Africa.
4 National Parks
Lodges & Hotels
16 Days
(Ideally - Min 2 Guests)
Safari Inclusions
Daily game drives in 4x4 safari vehicle
Full-board accommodation
Professional English-speaking driver-guide
Park entry & conservation fees
All meals & bottled water included
Airport & lodge transfers
Flying doctor / medical evacuation cover
Gorilla & Chimpanzee Trekking Permits (If on Itinerary)
Daily housekeeping at camps/lodges
Guided nature walk or cultural village visit
(Itinerary Gallery)
(Trip Details)
Day 1: Arrival and check in at the Hotel for relaxation or a city tour
Upon arrival at the Entebbe International Airport, you will be received by our professional tour guide who will transfer you to the hotel to relax and enjoy the views of the bustling city as you unwind. You will be served the respective meals of the day as the staff at the hotel ensure that you are always comfortable. Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 60km | Transfer Time: 1 Hour
Day 2: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park. Stopover at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. Night game drive
After breakfast, you will undertake the transfer to Murchison Falls National Park. Branch to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for the exciting rhino tracking adventure. The activity will keep you occupied until midday when you will be served lunch. Continue to Murchison Falls National Park with scenic view of the South bank savannah woodlands. Enjoy the moment and take some nice photographs for remembrance. Head to the lodge to prepare for a once in a life time night game drive. Its an interesting experience were the life of the African predators is explored through a night game drive with an armed ranger and spot lights on board to see almost 80% of the hunting by the Lions, Hyenas, Leopards and Rock pythons. Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 310km | Transfer Time: 4-5 Hours
Day 3: Water safari on Victoria Nile at Dawn. Mubako community visit. Campfire & Cultural entertainment
In the wee hours of the morning, the well-appointed staff at the lodge will serve you a delicious breakfast after which you will undertake an exciting morning water safari through the meanders of the Nile for the bottom of the Murchison Falls. It will give you up-close encounters with the beautiful animals therein including African Bush Elephants, giraffes, and several bird species, Hippos and Waterbucks as they come for water from the Nile not forgetting the Nile Crocodiles, the aquatic predators. You will head back to the Lodge for your Lunch and relaxation for and evening entertainment from the Mubako Women Group showcasing their rich cultural heritage in dance and drama. Dinner will be served at your convenience and rest for our night. Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 0km | Transfer Time: 0 Hour
Day 4: A morning hike to the Top of Murchison Falls. Evening bush sundowner at the banks on the Nile
After a morning breakfast, you will head to the Top of the famous Murchison Falls and will also stand a chance to watch the might power in the gorge as the Nile squeezes through a width of about 7 to 8 metres with a constant drizzling vapor to cool you off after a mini hike to the bottom and back. You will head back for a local Lunch meal in a local restaurant and transfer back to the lodge and prepare for a beautiful bush sunset to unwind the day, have dinner, and rest for the night. Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 38 km | Transfer Time: 1 Hour
Day 5: Sunrise game drive. Scenic transfer to Kibale Forest National Park. Visit to Bigodi community
After checking out of the lodge, you will have breakfast at the hotel and then embark on a short early morning game drive through the African Savannahs to see the survivors of the night after a long night of hunting by the predators and you will also experience a beautiful sunrise. You will then get on the road in our 4x4 vehicles to transfer to Kibale Forest National Park. An enroute lunch will be served at a spacious and beautiful restaurant in Hoima at a stopover. The Park is known for the numbers of primate and bird species it accommodates and on arrival in the park, you will continue to the lodge to unwind thereafter you will head to the Bigodi wetlands in the park to explore the hidden beauty therein and/or visit to the Bigodi local community. You will also set your eyes on some of the most iconic bird species especially the handsome francolin, great blue turacos and many more as they feed in the wetlands and in the tree branches up close. Transfer back to the lodge at sunset to rest and relax. Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 345km | Transfer Time: 4-5 Hours
Day 6: Chimpanzee tracking. Unwind at the Lodge - spa and wellness
Breakfast on this day will be served in the wee hours of the morning at the lodging facility. You will then go ahead and meet the park Rangers who will brief you about the chimpanzee trekking activity you are yet to have. Make your way into the jungle under the guidance of the Ranger guides. In the jungle, you will trek to the chimpanzees and have the experience of watching them up-close. The activity will keep you occupied the entire morning. You will head back to the Lodge for Lunch, and relaxation with Spa and Wellness services Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 0km | Transfer Time: 0 Hour
Day 7: A scenic transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and relaxation at the lodge
You will check out at the Lodge at about 9:00am and embark on a scenic transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park meandering through the hills of Kigezi region. You will have an enroute lunch, check in at the Lodge on arrival and relax for the big day with the gentle giants the following day. Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 375km | Transfer Time: 5-6 Hours
Day 8: Gorilla trekking experience. Evening cultural entertainment of the Kigezi region
After breakfast, you will have a short meeting with the park Rangers who will brief you on the guidelines and behavior to be maintained amidst the mountain gorillas. The Rangers will accompany you to the jungle to trek to the majestic gentle giants. The thrill of being close to the gorillas is surely worthwhile. The activity will take you up to the afternoon when you will head back to the lodge tom unwind in the spacious rooms. Dinner will be served to you at sunset after which you will rest. Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 0km | Transfer Time: 0 Hours
Day 9: Scenic transfer to Lake Mutanda. Afternoon canoeing experience
Breakfast will be served, check out at the lodge at about 9:00am and get on a short drive to Mutanda Lake Resort for lunch and relaxation. In the late afternoon you will join the guide for this amazing Canoe experience peddling through the islands within the lake with the amazing cultural attachments that date back for centuries.
You will head back to the lodge for relaxation and rest overnight.
Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 25km | Transfer Time: 1 Hour
Day 10: Golden monkey tracking. Evening Batwa experience
You will be served breakfast at Cockcrow at the lodge. You will then drive and meet the rangers to get prepared for the exhilarating golden monkey trekking activity. Make your way into the jungle to trek the golden monkeys. The trek will take you through the slopes of the Virunga Volcanoes, as you observe the rare flora and fauna species therein.
The activity will keep you engaged the entire morning and afternoon. You will transfer to the lodge at midday to rest and have lunch warmed up. An evening community visit will be encountered with the Batwa Pygmy that were got from the forests for the conservation of the Gorillas as they meet the modern challenges outside the bush life. Afterwards, you will head back to the lodge. Dinner will be served at sundown and you will rest for the night.
Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 28 km | Transfer Time: 1 Hour
Day 11: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
After breakfast, you will set off from Kisoro and enjoy a scenic drive through the rolling hills and lush countryside towards Kabale, arriving at the beautiful Lake Bunyonyi – often referred to as the “Switzerland of Africa.” Upon arrival, you will have time to relax and soak in the stunning views of the lake and its many islands.
Depending on the weather, you may enjoy a refreshing swim in the calm waters or take part in a mid-morning or afternoon boat cruise on a traditional local canoe. The cruise offers a peaceful way to explore the lake, learn about its history and islands, and interact with the local community. Later, you will unwind at your lodge while enjoying the tranquility and natural beauty that makes Lake Bunyonyi one of Uganda’s most picturesque destinations.
Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 60km | Transfer Time: 2 Hours
Day 12: Drive to Igongo Cultural Museum. Ankole cultural experience. Traditional huts experience. Night life experience
You will be served breakfast in the early morning hours at the lodge. Embark on the journey to the Igongo Country Hotel and Cultural Centre. You will dive into the history of the Banyankole tribe as you meander around the well decorated museum. Have lunch at the Igongo Hotel and then embark on to an evening hike to the Eclipse Monument and afterward slope back and relax at the hotel with a night experience.
Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 260km | Transfer Time: 4-5 Hours
Day 13: Drive to Kampala. Stopover at Kayabwe equator point. Souvenir shopping. Cultural Night at Ndere Centre
You will be served with breakfast have a morning hike to Biharwe Hill for the wonderful views of the Mbarara City, Head back to the hotel checkout and embark on a scenic drive back to Kampala. You will have a stopover at the Kayabwe Equator Spot for coffee and shopping and later continue to Kampala.
You will have a cultural Night at Ndere Cultural Centre (Wednesday, Friday, Sunday) for various music, dance and drama sessions across Ugandan tribes with a sumptuous dinner (https://ndere.com/ ). You will head back to the Hotel for a night rest.
Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range/Luxury | Transfer Distance: 260km | Transfer Time: 4-5 Hours
Day 14: Ewaffe Cultural Village for a full day home stay
This is a community based initiative located a 1 hours’ drive from Kampala that was started up to benefit the society through giving an experience of the ancient traditional home set up of the Baganda Culture through activities like; Farm Tours, Fruit Feast, Bark Cloth Making, Food Preparation, Local Brewing, Fishing Experience, Luwombo Lunch, Traditional games, Kojja and Senga Sessions.
Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 40km | Transfer Time: 1 Hour
Day 15: Kampala City Tour. Cultural and Religious Heritage Experience
After breakfast, embark on a full-day tour exploring the vibrant city of Kampala, Uganda’s capital. Your journey begins at Nakasero Market, a bustling hub of fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices where you can interact with local vendors and experience the city’s lively atmosphere. Next, visit the Kabaka’s Palace and Kabaka’s Lake, followed by Bulange Mengo, the Buganda Parliament. These sites immerse you in the history and cultural traditions of the Buganda Kingdom.
Continue to the Kasubi Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the burial grounds of Buganda kings, where you will learn about the kingdom’s heritage and spiritual significance. Proceed to the historic Rubaga Cathedral and Namirembe Cathedral, both standing as symbols of Uganda’s Christian heritage. You will then explore the grand Gaddafi Mosque (Uganda National Mosque), and if you wish, climb its towering minaret for sweeping views of Kampala’s skyline.
Pause for a hearty Ugandan meal at 2K Restaurant, famous for its local cuisine. In the afternoon, visit the tranquil Bahá’í Temple, the only one of its kind in Africa, before stopping at the Independence Monument, a landmark commemorating Uganda’s journey to independence. Round off your day with a city drive through Kampala’s vibrant neighborhoods, taking in the mix of traditional and modern life, before returning to your hotel in the evening.
Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 40-80 km | Transfer Time: 1 Hour
Day 16: Reserved for Departure. Transfer to Entebbe at the most convenient time
Enjoy a relaxed morning before transferring to Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your unforgettable 16-day adventure through Uganda. Safari Njema!!
Day 1: Arrival and check in at the Hotel for relaxation or a city tour
Upon arrival at the Entebbe International Airport, you will be received by our professional tour guide who will transfer you to the hotel to relax and enjoy the views of the bustling city as you unwind. You will be served the respective meals of the day as the staff at the hotel ensure that you are always comfortable. Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 60km | Transfer Time: 1 Hour
Day 2: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park. Stopover at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. Night game drive
After breakfast, you will undertake the transfer to Murchison Falls National Park. Branch to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for the exciting rhino tracking adventure. The activity will keep you occupied until midday when you will be served lunch. Continue to Murchison Falls National Park with scenic view of the South bank savannah woodlands. Enjoy the moment and take some nice photographs for remembrance.
Head to the lodge to prepare for a once in a life time night game drive. Its an interesting experience were the life of the African predators is explored through a night game drive with an armed ranger and spot lights on board to see almost 80% of the hunting by the Lions, Hyenas, Leopards and Rock pythons.
Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 310km | Transfer Time: 4-5 Hours
Day 3: Water safari on Victoria Nile at Dawn. Mubako community visit. Campfire & Cultural entertainment
In the wee hours of the morning, the well-appointed staff at the lodge will serve you a delicious breakfast after which you will undertake an exciting morning water safari through the meanders of the Nile for the bottom of the Murchison Falls.
It will give you up-close encounters with the beautiful animals therein including African Bush Elephants, giraffes, and several bird species, Hippos and Waterbucks as they come for water from the Nile not forgetting the Nile Crocodiles, the aquatic predators.
You will head back to the Lodge for your Lunch and relaxation for and evening entertainment from the Mubako Women Group showcasing their rich cultural heritage in dance and drama. Dinner will be served at your convenience and rest for our night.
Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 0km | Transfer Time: 0 Hour
Day 4: A morning hike to the Top of Murchison Falls. Evening bush sundowner at the banks on the Nile
After a morning breakfast, you will head to the Top of the famous Murchison Falls and will also stand a chance to watch the might power in the gorge as the Nile squeezes through a width of about 7 to 8 metres with a constant drizzling vapor to cool you off after a mini hike to the bottom and back.
You will head back for a local Lunch meal in a local restaurant and transfer back to the lodge and prepare for a beautiful bush sunset to unwind the day, have dinner, and rest for the night.
Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 38 km | Transfer Time: 1 Hour
Day 5: Sunrise game drive. Scenic transfer to Kibale Forest National Park. Visit to Bigodi community
After checking out of the lodge, you will have breakfast at the hotel and then embark on a short early morning game drive through the African Savannahs to see the survivors of the night after a long night of hunting by the predators and you will also experience a beautiful sunrise.
You will then get on the road in our 4x4 vehicles to transfer to Kibale Forest National Park. An enroute lunch will be served at a spacious and beautiful restaurant in Hoima at a stopover.
The Park is known for the numbers of primate and bird species it accommodates and on arrival in the park, you will continue to the lodge to unwind thereafter you will head to the Bigodi wetlands in the park to explore the hidden beauty therein and/or visit to the Bigodi local community.
You will also set your eyes on some of the most iconic bird species especially the handsome francolin, great blue turacos and many more as they feed in the wetlands and in the tree branches up close. Transfer back to the lodge at sunset to rest and relax.
Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 345km | Transfer Time: 4-5 Hours
Day 6: Chimpanzee tracking. Unwind at the Lodge - spa and wellness
Breakfast on this day will be served in the wee hours of the morning at the lodging facility. You will then go ahead and meet the park Rangers who will brief you about the chimpanzee trekking activity you are yet to have.
Make your way into the jungle under the guidance of the Ranger guides. In the jungle, you will trek to the chimpanzees and have the experience of watching them up-close. The activity will keep you occupied the entire morning. You will head back to the Lodge for Lunch, and relaxation with Spa and Wellness services.
Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 0km | Transfer Time: 0 Hour
Day 7: A scenic transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and relaxation at the lodge
You will check out at the Lodge at about 9:00am and embark on a scenic transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park meandering through the hills of Kigezi region. You will have an enroute lunch, check in at the Lodge on arrival and relax for the big day with the gentle giants the following day.
Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 375km | Transfer Time: 5-6 Hours
Day 8: Gorilla trekking experience. Evening cultural entertainment of the Kigezi region
After breakfast, you will have a short meeting with the park Rangers who will brief you on the guidelines and behavior to be maintained amidst the mountain gorillas. The Rangers will accompany you to the jungle to trek to the majestic gentle giants.
The thrill of being close to the gorillas is surely worthwhile. The activity will take you up to the afternoon when you will head back to the lodge tom unwind in the spacious rooms. Dinner will be served to you at sunset after which you will rest.
Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 0km | Transfer Time: 0 Hours
Day 9: Scenic transfer to Lake Mutanda. Afternoon canoeing experience
Breakfast will be served, check out at the lodge at about 9:00am and get on a short drive to Mutanda Lake Resort for lunch and relaxation. In the late afternoon you will join the guide for this amazing Canoe experience peddling through the islands within the lake with the amazing cultural attachments that date back for centuries.
You will head back to the lodge for relaxation and rest overnight.
Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 25km | Transfer Time: 1 Hour
Day 10: Golden monkey tracking. Evening Batwa experience
You will be served breakfast at Cockcrow at the lodge. You will then drive and meet the rangers to get prepared for the exhilarating golden monkey trekking activity. Make your way into the jungle to trek the golden monkeys. The trek will take you through the slopes of the Virunga Volcanoes, as you observe the rare flora and fauna species therein.
The activity will keep you engaged the entire morning and afternoon. You will transfer to the lodge at midday to rest and have lunch warmed up. An evening community visit will be encountered with the Batwa Pygmy that were got from the forests for the conservation of the Gorillas as they meet the modern challenges outside the bush life. Afterwards, you will head back to the lodge. Dinner will be served at sundown and you will rest for the night.
Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 28 km | Transfer Time: 1 Hour
Day 11: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
After breakfast, you will set off from Kisoro and enjoy a scenic drive through the rolling hills and lush countryside towards Kabale, arriving at the beautiful Lake Bunyonyi – often referred to as the “Switzerland of Africa.” Upon arrival, you will have time to relax and soak in the stunning views of the lake and its many islands.
Depending on the weather, you may enjoy a refreshing swim in the calm waters or take part in a mid-morning or afternoon boat cruise on a traditional local canoe. The cruise offers a peaceful way to explore the lake, learn about its history and islands, and interact with the local community. Later, you will unwind at your lodge while enjoying the tranquility and natural beauty that makes Lake Bunyonyi one of Uganda’s most picturesque destinations.
Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 60km | Transfer Time: 2 Hours
Day 12: Drive to Igongo Cultural Museum. Ankole cultural experience. Traditional huts experience. Night life experience
You will be served breakfast in the early morning hours at the lodge. Embark on the journey to the Igongo Country Hotel and Cultural Centre. You will dive into the history of the Banyankole tribe as you meander around the well decorated museum. Have lunch at the Igongo Hotel and then embark on to an evening hike to the Eclipse Monument and afterward slope back and relax at the hotel with a night experience.
Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 260km | Transfer Time: 4-5 Hours
Day 13: Drive to Kampala. Stopover at Kayabwe equator point. Souvenir shopping. Cultural Night at Ndere Centre
You will be served with breakfast have a morning hike to Biharwe Hill for the wonderful views of the Mbarara City, Head back to the hotel checkout and embark on a scenic drive back to Kampala. You will have a stopover at the Kayabwe Equator Spot for coffee and shopping and later continue to Kampala.
You will have a cultural Night at Ndere Cultural Centre (Wednesday, Friday, Sunday) for various music, dance and drama sessions across Ugandan tribes with a sumptuous dinner (https://ndere.com/ ). You will head back to the Hotel for a night rest.
Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range/Luxury | Transfer Distance: 260km | Transfer Time: 4-5 Hours
Day 14: Ewaffe Cultural Village for a full day home stay
This is a community based initiative located a 1 hours’ drive from Kampala that was started up to benefit the society through giving an experience of the ancient traditional home set up of the Baganda Culture through activities like; Farm Tours, Fruit Feast, Bark Cloth Making, Food Preparation, Local Brewing, Fishing Experience, Luwombo Lunch, Traditional games, Kojja and Senga Sessions.
Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 40km | Transfer Time: 1 Hour
Day 15: Kampala City Tour. Cultural and Religious Heritage Experience
After breakfast, embark on a full-day tour exploring the vibrant city of Kampala, Uganda’s capital. Your journey begins at Nakasero Market, a bustling hub of fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices where you can interact with local vendors and experience the city’s lively atmosphere. Next, visit the Kabaka’s Palace and Kabaka’s Lake, followed by Bulange Mengo, the Buganda Parliament. These sites immerse you in the history and cultural traditions of the Buganda Kingdom.
Continue to the Kasubi Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the burial grounds of Buganda kings, where you will learn about the kingdom’s heritage and spiritual significance. Proceed to the historic Rubaga Cathedral and Namirembe Cathedral, both standing as symbols of Uganda’s Christian heritage. You will then explore the grand Gaddafi Mosque (Uganda National Mosque), and if you wish, climb its towering minaret for sweeping views of Kampala’s skyline.
Pause for a hearty Ugandan meal at 2K Restaurant, famous for its local cuisine. In the afternoon, visit the tranquil Bahá’í Temple, the only one of its kind in Africa, before stopping at the Independence Monument, a landmark commemorating Uganda’s journey to independence. Round off your day with a city drive through Kampala’s vibrant neighborhoods, taking in the mix of traditional and modern life, before returning to your hotel in the evening.
Meal Plan: All Meals | Accommodation: Mid-range | Transfer Distance: 40-80 km | Transfer Time: 1 Hour
Day 16: Reserved for Departure. Transfer to Entebbe at the most convenient time
Enjoy a relaxed morning before transferring to Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your unforgettable 16-day adventure through Uganda. Safari Njema!!
"16 Days We Didn't Want to End"
"16 Days We Didn't Want to End"
This trip covered more ground than we thought possible - rhino tracking, Murchison Falls, chimps in Kibale, gorillas in Bwindi, golden monkeys, and the calm of Lake Bunyonyi, all in one seamless journey. Every transfer, lodge, and activity was handled without a single hitch. Our guide's knowledge made each park feel completely different from the last. Territory Explorers turned an ambitious itinerary into the easiest trip we've ever taken.
James R.
New York
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