14-Days on an Experiential Adventurous Family Safari with Teens
Adrenaline Pumping 14-day Adventure Family Safari with Teens
14-Day Adventure Family Safari with Teens: Take this 14-day adventure safari explicitly designed for families with teenagers. It’s a thrilling journey through Uganda that will keep your teens engaged and excited throughout. Prepare for an unforgettable experience that will make them want to return for more.
Please note that some activities, like Gorilla and White water rafting, have age restrictions. It is recommended that your teens be at least 15 years old to participate in these activities. For level 5 rafting, the minimum age is 16, and for class 3, it is 13. However, we can adjust the itinerary to accommodate your children’s ages.
For this 14-Day Adventure Family Safari with Teens in Uganda, we have carefully selected lodges that provide unique experiences and are ideal for families. While we aim to include lodges with pools, it may not be possible in every case. Rest assured, we have chosen accommodations that will enhance your safari experience.
14-Day Adventure Family Safari with Teens in Uganda Highlights:
- Gorilla Tracking as a Family:
- Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest:
- Ziplining in Mabira Forest:
- Whitewater Rafting on the Nile in Jinja:
- Rhino Tracking on Foot:
- Murchison Falls National Park – Nile Boat Safari – Game Drives:
- Rwenzori Mountains Foothill Hike:
- Queen Elizabeth Park – Game Drives – Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel:
- Lake Mburo Park Game Drives- Horseback riding:
14-Day Adventure Family Safari with Teens in Uganda in Detail:
Day 1 – Arrival – 2 Friends Beach Hotel:
Your 14-day Adventure Family Safari with Teens starts when you arrive at Entebbe Airport. Our friendly driver-guide will meet you at the arrival lounge after you go through immigration and get your baggage. It usually takes about 45 minutes to complete these procedures.
We will take a short drive to the 2-Friends Hotel, located by Lake Victoria. The hotel has a private sandy beach, a swimming pool, and rooms with beautiful views of the lake and its islands.
Depending on your arrival time in Uganda, we can plan some activities in Entebbe for you. We will arrange lunch and dinner for you accordingly. You and your family can relax at the beach, enjoy the pool, and have delicious meals at the 2-Friends Beach Hotel.
While staying at the hotel, you can shop at the nearby Victoria Mall, exchange money at a Forex, or use an ATM if needed.
If there is enough time, we can organize a visit to the Entebbe Botanical Gardens or a Sunset Boat ride on Lake Victoria for you to enjoy.
Meal Plan: Depends on your arrival time in Uganda.
Day 2 – Mabira Rainforest – Jinja:
Mabira Forest Forest Canopy Ziplining
Your 2ndday of your 14-day Adventure Family Safari with Teens includes an early visit to Mabira Forest. On our way to Jinja, we stopped at this forest, which is famous for its thrilling Forest Canopy Zipline Skywalk.
The zip line was constructed by a Peace Corps Volunteer from Washington State, USA, and most of the equipment was brought in from the US. The Ugandan staff members have received thorough training in operating the zip line, ensuring a safe and exciting experience. Parents can watch their teens from below or join the activity themselves.
In addition to the zip line, Mabira Forest offers other exciting activities. You can go hiking, take nature walks, enjoy mountain biking, and even track mangabey monkeys. There’s plenty to explore and enjoy in this unique rainforest.
Source of the Nile Visit:
After we visit Mabira Forest, we will continue our exciting journey to Jinja. We will stop
at the Sunset Hotel, a lovely establishment, to enjoy a delicious lunch. This hotel is conveniently situated near the Source of Nile Park, allowing easy access to this incredible natural wonder.
As we arrive at the source of the Nile, we take a leisurely walk down to the banks of the Nile River. The path will lead us through lush par like vegetation, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the surroundings. You will feel a sense of awe as you stand by the banks of this legendary river, which has played a significant role in the history and development of the region.
But our adventure doesn’t stop there. We will go on a boat ride that will take us further along the Nile. The boat will gracefully glide across the water, offering panoramic views of the river’s banks and the surrounding landscape. As we sail, we will make our way to Lake Victoria, the largest tropical lake in the world. Here, at this very spot, the Nile River is believed to have its source.
Arriving at the exact spot considered the source of the Nile is a truly awe-inspiring experience. You will be captivated by the majesty and significance of this location. It’s an opportunity to witness the beginning of a river that has shaped civilizations and supported life for thousands of years.
Haven Eco-River Lodge:
After visiting the source of the Nile, our journey takes us to the Haven Eco-River Lodge. This charming lodge offers a picturesque view of a beautiful section of the Nile. They have a unique family cottage where you can stay with your loved ones.
The Haven Eco-River Lodge is a friendly and environmentally conscious place to stay. They prioritize sustainability and use solar power for lighting and collect rainwater. You can enjoy a refreshing swim in their swimming pool and take leisurely walks to the nearby fishing villages along the Nile.
The lodge has a delightful German touch regarding food since the owner is German. They serve a delicious breakfast with tasty cold cuts, cheese, and bread. It’s a fantastic opportunity for your family to experience African cuisine while being introduced to the historic River Nile, the longest river in the world.
At the lodge, there are various activities to choose from. You can opt for an exciting horseback riding adventure or a thrilling Quad ATV 4-wheel drive outing in the afternoon. Let us know which activity interests your family the most.
Alternatively, you can relax and enjoy the lodge’s amenities. Take a dip in the pool, take leisurely walks around the lodge and the Nile, and soak up the serene atmosphere.
Before dinner, you can embark on a family sunset boat cruise on the Nile. Savor the stunning views while enjoying refreshing drinks and snacks.
The meal plan at the lodge includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, ensuring that you and your family are well-fed throughout your stay.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch -Dinner
Day 3 – White Water Rafting:
Get ready for an exciting day of white water rafting with your family! Start your day with an early breakfast to fuel up for this exhilarating adventure. White water rafting offers an adrenaline rush that will leave lasting memories for everyone.
You can choose the intensity level for your white water adventure, ranging from mild to wild. This ensures that everyone in your family can participate in a way that suits their comfort level.
The rafting experience can be either a half-day or a full-day adventure. If you opt for the full-day rafting, lunch will be provided during the excursion.
Rest assured that the rafting companies along the Nile have an outstanding safety record and extensive experience in Uganda. They prioritize your safety and have rescue kayaks readily available in case anyone takes an unexpected plunge into the Nile.
Before you embark on your rafting journey, a safety orientation will familiarize you with the equipment and guidelines. This ensures that you are well-prepared and know how to handle various situations that may arise during the rafting experience.
Enjoy a delicious lunch on an island amid the Nile, providing a unique and scenic setting for a meal.
Rafting together as a family will create unforgettable memories and become a topic of discussion for months to come. If you wish, you can even purchase videos of your rafting adventure from the rafting company, allowing you to relive the excitement whenever you want.
After the rafting adventure, we will return to the Haven Eco-River Lodge for a relaxing evening. You can unwind while enjoying the beautiful sunset over the Nile, followed by a satisfying dinner. It’s the perfect way to end an action-packed day.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch -Dinner
Day 4 – Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary:
Today, we’re going to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Northern Uganda. It’s a five-hour drive, and we expect to arrive around lunchtime at Amuka Lodge, where we’ll spend the night.
At Amuka Lodge, you’ll find a fantastic swimming pool to cool off in after your exciting Rhino Trek on foot. Apart from Rhino Trekking, other activities are available for you to enjoy.
You can join guided birding sessions, go on nature walks to explore the surroundings or take an outing to Lugogo Swamp, where you can spot the unique Shoebill bird.
You’ll be accommodated in a comfortable tented cottage with a bathroom during your stay. You’ll also have a lovely deck where you can relax and sip your morning coffee, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. You can expect delicious barbecued options like beef or chicken for lunch and dinner. And don’t worry if you’re a vegetarian or vegan – the lodge is accommodating and will provide suitable options upon request.
Feel free to ask for any specific dietary requirements or preferences you may have, as the staff is more than happy to cater to your needs.
Rhino Trekking on Foot:
This afternoon, prepare for an incredible experience as we track the Rhinos on Foot at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. It’s a unique opportunity to observe these majestic animals up close, as you’ll be just 6 to 10 meters away from them. It’s truly an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe.
What makes this even more remarkable is that some of the Rhinos you’ll encounter are being prepared for release into Murchison Falls National Park and other locations. This means you’ll have a chance to see these Rhinos before they are reintroduced into the wild, under strict oversight and protection.
The landscape of the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary closely resembles that of Murchison Falls National Park, giving you a taste of what’s to come during the rest of our journey. Witnessing the Rhinos in their natural habitat is a highlight of the visit, which your family will thoroughly enjoy.
Prepare to be amazed by the beauty and power of these incredible creatures as we embark on this memorable adventure.
Lugogo Swamp Boat Outing:
Get ready for an exhilarating boat outing in the late afternoon as we venture into the captivating Lugogo Swamp. Our main goal is to spot the remarkable Shoebill, a bird often mistaken for a stork but more closely related to Pelicans. It’s named Shoebill due to its resemblance to a flying shoe, as perceived by Arab Ivory and Slave traders. Interestingly, this extraordinary bird has existed since the time of dinosaurs.
The Shoebill is known for its lifelong monogamous relationships, and both parents actively participate in raising their young. They have a unique feeding strategy, patiently waiting for the perfect moment to strike and capture Lungfish. Make sure your camera is ready to capture some incredible photos of this magnificent bird in action.
While exploring the Lugogo Swamp, keep your eyes peeled for other captivating waterbirds that call this area home. You might also spot Sitatunga Antelopes, otters, bushpigs, and other intriguing mammal species that inhabit the swamp.
Your adventure in the swamp will last approximately three hours before we return to Amuka Lodge for the evening. It’s an experience that promises excitement and the opportunity to witness the incredible diversity of wildlife in this unique ecosystem.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch -Dinner
Day 5 – Murchison Falls Park:
Afternoon Game Drive:
Get ready for an exciting afternoon as we embark on a thrilling game drive in the wilderness of Uganda.
Accompanied by an experienced Uganda Wildlife Ranger and your knowledgeable driver-guide, this adventure guarantees unforgettable encounters with incredible wildlife.
As we traverse the game tracks, be prepared to witness the majestic beauty of nature up close. You can spot large herds of graceful giraffes roaming the Savannah. Please keep your eyes peeled for the mighty buffaloes and various species of antelopes that gracefully navigate their way through the grasslands.
The thrill intensifies as we search for the iconic giants of the African plains – the mighty elephants. Witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, observing their gentle demeanor and impressive size.
But the excitement doesn’t stop there. The game drive offers a chance to spot the elusive kings of the jungle – lions and stealthy leopards. Keep your cameras ready to capture these awe-inspiring predators in action.
As we explore further, watch for the comical warthogs and bushpigs darting about uniquely and entertainingly. The diversity of wildlife is astounding, and you never know what captivating creatures you might encounter along the way.
It’s not just about the animals; the game drive also presents opportunities to observe a superabundance of bird species that call this region home. Marvel at the vibrant colors and melodious songs of the avian inhabitants as they grace the skies and treetops.
Prepare for an adventure filled with thrilling wildlife encounters that will leave you in awe of the natural world. Get your cameras ready to capture these unforgettable moments that will be etched in your memory forever.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch -Dinner
Day 6 – Murchison Falls National Park:
Morning Game Drive:
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Paraa Lodge, fueling up for an exciting morning game drive. With an Uganda Wildlife Ranger joining you on each drive and your knowledgeable driver-guide, you’re in for an incredible wildlife experience at Murchison Falls National Park.
Each game drive lasts approximately 2 1/2 hours, giving you ample time to explore the park and encounter various wildlife. Don’t worry about missing out on any sightings – with the expertise of both your ranger and driver-guide, you’ll have the best chance of spotting the magnificent creatures that call this park home.
During the game drive, be prepared to see diverse wildlife that may differ from your previous drives. Keep your eyes peeled for the awe-inspiring lions, elusive leopards, and gentle giants – elephants. Spot graceful giraffes, various antelopes, playful warthogs, and even monitor lizards throughout their daily routines. You might also catch sight of hippos returning to the water after a night of grazing, along with an array of fascinating savannah birds.
Boat Cruise up the River Nile:
Get ready for an adventurous afternoon as we embark on a boat cruise up the magnificent River Nile. After a delicious lunch, we’ll set sail on a thrilling boat safari, offering incredible opportunities to observe various wildlife.
As we navigate the river, keep your eyes peeled for the fascinating hippos in and out of the water. You’ll also spot mighty crocodiles basking in the Sun along the riverbanks. Watch in awe as elephant herds come to bathe and drink water, providing a fantastic spectacle along the Nile. Keep an eye out for antelopes gracefully grazing on the river’s edge and the majestic buffaloes that may make an appearance. The riverbanks are also teeming with an abundance of vibrant water birds, adding to the enchantment of the cruise.
Top of the Falls Hike:
Following the boat safari, we’ll embark on a unique experience – a hike to the top of Murchison Falls. Disembark at the bottom of the falls and begin the exhilarating hike with your guides. As you ascend, feel the ground tremble beneath your feet from the sheer force of the falls. Be refreshed by the mist created by the cascading water, creating a refreshing atmosphere.
Once you reach the top of Murchison Falls, your driver-guide will meet you, and we’ll make our way back to Paraa Lodge. To cross the Nile, we’ll venture over the bridge, offering picturesque views of the river and its surroundings.
Return to Paraa Lodge:
Return to Paraa Lodge, where you can relax and unwind after an eventful day. Reflect on the incredible wildlife encounters and the awe-inspiring power of Murchison Falls. It’s the perfect time to share stories with fellow travelers, enjoy the lodge’s amenities, and prepare for more adventures.
Get ready for an unforgettable boat cruise on the River Nile and a thrilling hike to the top of Murchison Falls, where nature’s power and beauty will leave you in awe.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch -Dinner
Day 7 – Kibale Forest:
Drive to Kibale Forest:
Prepare for an exciting morning as we journey from Murchison to Kibale Forest. We’ll hit the road at 6:30 am, taking the scenic route along Lake Albert and the Albertine Rift. Prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking views that unfold before us. The journey to Kibale Forest and Crater Lake Safari Lodge will take approximately five and a half hours and be filled with stunning sights.
Arriving at Crater Lake Safari Lodge, you’ll be greeted by the picturesque setting of a scenic crater lake. The lodge offers a perfect place for relaxation and enjoyment, with a refreshing swimming pool for you and your family to unwind. The cozy cottages feature ensuite baths, ensuring your comfort during your stay. Additionally, there’s a deck where you can relax and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of the surroundings.
Crater Lake Safari Lodge is known for its excellent service, ensuring that every member of your family is well taken care of. The menu is thoughtfully prepared to cater to various preferences, guaranteeing a delightful dining experience for everyone.
The lodge’s location is incredibly convenient, only a 20-minute drive from Kibale Forest and Bigodi Wetlands. These natural wonders await your exploration, offering unique and unforgettable experiences.
As the afternoon unfolds, enjoy a leisurely time at Crater Lake Lodge. Take a boat ride on the lake, immerse yourself in its serenity, and marvel at the beauty of the surroundings. Alternatively, you can cool off and have fun in the swimming pool, enjoying some quality family time. The lodge provides the perfect setting for a relaxing and rejuvenating afternoon, allowing you to unwind and maximize your stay.
Get ready to create beautiful memories amidst the natural splendor of Kibale Forest and the tranquility of Crater Lake Safari Lodge.
Afternoon Activities:
Enjoy a relaxing time at Crater Lake Lodge. You can go to the lake, swim in the pool, and have a relaxing afternoon.
Nocturnal Forest Walk in Kibale Forest
Prepare for a thrilling adventure as we embark on a nocturnal forest walk in Kibale Forest. As the Sun sets and darkness descends, the forest comes alive with new creatures and mysteries to explore.
With the guidance of experienced forest guides, we’ll venture deep into the heart of Kibale Forest, equipped with flashlights and a sense of wonder. The forest has a different ambiance at night, with mysterious sounds and elusive movements surrounding us. This unique experience offers a chance to discover the nocturnal wonders of the forest that are rarely seen during the day.
The forest comes alive with a symphony of sounds and a fascinating interplay of shadows and moonlight. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the intricate ecosystem that thrives under the cover of darkness and gain a deeper appreciation for the importance of preserving these invaluable habitats.
Prepare to immerse yourself in the captivating world of the nocturnal forest as we embark on this unforgettable adventure in Kibale Forest. Get ready to witness nature’s secrets unfold in the darkness, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch -Dinner
Day 8 – Chimpanzee Tracking – Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary
Be ready for an incredible chimpanzee trekking adventure in Kibale Forest, known as East Africa’s best tracking location.
Experienced rangers lead you as you go on a three-hour trek to witness these fascinating primates in their natural habitat.
Along the way, encounter up to five other primate species, including monkeys and baboons. Kibale Forest is also a paradise for birding and butterfly enthusiasts, offering a variety of colorful avian species and mesmerizing butterflies.
Wear hiking boots, long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, a hat, and a light rain jacket for comfort and protection. Carry a daypack with water and snacks.
After the trek, enjoy a well-deserved lunch and relaxation at the lodge. Get ready for an extraordinary chimpanzee trekking experience amidst the captivating beauty of Kibale Forest.
Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary:
Explore the Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary, which is a special place that’s like a jungle swamp. UNESCO recognizes it as an eco-friendly site.
You’ll get to experience a three-hour walk on wooden planks, guided by a knowledgeable guide who can tell you about the birds, primates, and other animals living here.
In the afternoon, there’s a good chance you’ll spot chimpanzees and other primates as they search for food. Don’t worry, there are no dangerous crocodiles or hippos here. Instead, you might come across some Sitatunga Antelopes with webbed toes and love the water. People find the jungle swamp walk really interesting, so it’s definitely something you shouldn’t miss.
You will have a fantastic experience in Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary, exploring the jungle swamp, going on a thrilling nocturnal forest walk, and enjoying delicious meals.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch -Dinner
Day 9 – Queen Elizabeth Park
The scenic Explosion Crater Drive
This morning, we’ll drive early to the Mweya area of Queen Elizabeth Park. But before we check into Kasenyi Safari Camp, we’ll go on the Explosion Crater Drive. It’s a 27-kilometer drive that takes us to see 12 different craters. Some of these craters have lakes, while others are filled with phosphorus or surrounded by savannah or forest.
This drive will take us to the highest point in the park. From there, we’ll have a great view of the Rwenzori Mountains and the Albertine Rift below us. From this vantage point, we’ll also see the savannah, Lake George, and Lake Edward. Watch for elephants, buffaloes, and other wildlife along the way.
This drive is considered one of the most beautiful in Uganda and has even been featured in National Geographic. The craters themselves date back to when the Egyptians built the pyramids. The explosion of these craters played a significant role in shaping the park as it is today.
So get ready for a scenic drive through the craters of Queen Elizabeth Park, where you’ll witness breathtaking views and encounter fantastic wildlife.
Kasenyi Safari Camp
Kasenyi Safari Camp is a fancy lodge with luxurious tents. This place is unique because the guests here aren’t just humans but also wildlife. Lions, elephants, buffaloes, hippos, and antelopes visit.
If you want to see wildlife while staying at a lodge in this area of Queen Elizabeth Park, then Kasenyi Safari Camp is the best choice.
Your room will be a big tented cottage with a bathroom. You can watch the wildlife from your deck while eating at the main lodge.
The staff at Kasenyi Safari Camp are well-trained and provide excellent service. The meals here are delicious and have a taste of Africa and Uganda.
Kasenyi Safari Camp is in a perfect location for game drives on the Kasenyi Safari Plains. You won’t have to spend a long time driving to get to where the animals are, including the starting point for the Lion Tracking Research.
You’ll have a fantastic stay at Kasenyi Safari Camp in the northern area of Queen Elizabeth Park.
Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise:
One of the best things to do during your visit to Queen Elizabeth Park is the afternoon Kazinga Channel Wildlife and Birding Boat Safari.
During this boat safari, you’ll get to see a lot of exciting wildlife. There are numerous groups of hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, herds of elephants, a wide variety of birds, monitor lizards, and even lions in the late afternoon.
The Kazinga Channel is known to have the highest concentration of hippos in East Africa. There used to be so many hippos that the British Colonial Government had to control their numbers. The local people even developed a taste for hippos because there were so many of them.
This channel is a natural waterway that connects Lake Edward and Lake George, making it a vital lifeline for wildlife in the area.
So, don’t miss the opportunity to embark on the Kazinga Channel Wildlife and Birding Boat Safari while visiting Queen Elizabeth Park. You’ll witness an abundance of fascinating animals and enjoy the natural beauty of the channel connecting the two lakes.
. Read more about the Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise here.
Meal Plan: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Day 10: – Queen Elizabeth Park – Ishasha:
After breakfast, we will drive to the Ishasha Region of the Park. This is where you have chosen a lodge for your stay. In this more remote part of Queen Elizabeth Park, only one luxury lodge is available.
Ishasha Wilderness Camp – Exclusive:
Experience the African wilderness at Ishasha Wilderness Camp, located in the unexplored Ishasha region of Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda.
This camp offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the African bush by the Ntungwe River. You’ll stay in luxurious tented cottages with private bathrooms.
Enjoy a lunch surrounded by elephants and hippos, and listen to the enchanting sounds of the African night.
At Ishasha Wilderness Camp, you’ll receive restaurant-quality food and world-class service. The camp’s upmarket style, complemented by new tents, ensures an excellent experience. Plus, you’ll be near the best place in Africa to spot Tree Climbing Lions. Surprisingly, many tourists overlook this remarkable part of Queen Elizabeth Park.
Choose Ishasha Wilderness Camp for a memorable and luxurious safari adventure, continuing a long-standing tradition of excellence.
Game Drive – see the Tree-Climbing Lions of Ishasha
In the afternoon, we’ll go on a game drive to search for the famous tree-climbing lions. These lions spend up to 15 hours a day sleeping in the fig trees.
Around 50 of these lions are here, divided into different groups called prides. Along the way, you might also spot leopards and many elephants, whose population has dramatically increased.
The elephants you see here will be both Savannah and Forest Elephants. They may look similar to you, but forest elephants are hairier, have straighter and shorter tusks, are slightly smaller, and have one less toe on each foot. You’ll also have the chance to see large herds of buffaloes, Topi, and Uganda Kob antelopes.
The Ishasha Wilderness Camp can arrange an exceptional Sundowner experience for you in the bush. This will be hosted by their camp staff, bringing back the nostalgic feel of the old days in the African bush. Also, if you’d like, let us know if you’re interested in having a traditional Bush Breakfast and a game drive tomorrow.
Meal Plan: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Day 11 – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – Buhoma area
After having breakfast, we will begin our journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. This forest was recognized by CNN Travel in 2019 as the “Most Beautiful Place in the World.” It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been listed as one of the top parks in Africa by CNN Travel.
Additionally, it is considered one of the world’s best hiking destinations. Lonely Planet also acknowledges it as an unusual choice for honeymooners. Apart from being renowned for Gorilla Trekking, it is also a prime destination for birdwatching in Africa.
The drive to the Buhoma area, where our lodge is located, will take approximately five hours. To ensure we have enough time, we will depart at 7:00 am. Upon arrival at Bwindi Lodge, we will have lunch.
Haven Lodge in Buhoma:
Haven Lodge in Buhoma is a small yet beautiful lodge nestled in a picturesque setting, overlooking the stunning Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. It is the perfect choice for families with teenagers seeking a memorable experience.
The lodge offers comfortable rooms, each with its private bathroom, ensuring convenience and privacy for everyone. Additionally, a spacious room is available, complete with a delightful deck, where you can unwind and enjoy the beauty.
One of the highlights of Haven Lodge is its exceptional service. The friendly staff goes above and beyond to cater to your needs, ensuring a pleasant stay. The meals served at the lodge are not only delicious but also cater to the preferences of the entire family, making dining a delightful experience.
At Haven Lodge in Buhoma, you can expect a combination of comfort and natural beauty, creating cherished moments for the entire family.
Meal Plan: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Day 12 – Gorilla Trekking- Your Encounter with the Gentle Giants of the Forest
is at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park Headquarters for the Mountain Gorilla Trekking orientation. Read our Practical Gorilla Trekking Advice Page for in-depth information.
Gorilla Wear and Gear you will need:
Here is practical advice about what to wear while Gorilla Trekking in Uganda. Often, Trekkers are not dressed right for the occasion, which can spoil your day, and your focus might not be on the Gorillas but on personal discomfort and misery. Wearing suitable clothing and footwear is about protection.
Gorilla Wear and Gear:
- Daypack: A waterproof daypack is preferred; you can use it as a carry-on when flying to Uganda. Pack all essentials inside the Daypack.
- Hiking Boots: Make sure that they have good treads on them. You will need ankle support, something boots give you and give you reactions on muddy trails. Have a good pair of merino wool socks.
- Long Trouser: They will protect you from nettles and thorns. Tuck the trousers into your socks for added protection from ants.
- Long-Sleeved Shirt: Neutral in color. Again, this is for your comfort and protection.
- Rain Jacket or Poncho: Pack into your Daypack. You never know when it will train. You are in an Afro-montane Rainforest.
- Tough Gardening Gloves protect your hands from thorns, nettles, and sharp branches.
- Wide Brimmed Hat: It gives you protection from the Sun.
- Cam
era Equipment – Binoculars: Ensure extra batteries and storage devices. Put them into Ziploc bags. Binoculars are not needed if you are not a birder.
- Packed Lunch and Bottled Water: You will need your lunch from the Lodge and two liters of bottled water.
- Insect Repellent – Sun Lotion – Sunglasses: We recommend the effective Australian RID Insect Repellent. Good Sun
- You will need a Porter and Walking Stick: The services of a porter free you on the often-difficult trail, and a local walking stick helps you and steadies you on the often-challenging path. We supply our clients with the bottled water and facial protective masks required for the actual encounter with the Gentle Giants.
Suggestion: Be sure to pack a sweater or sweatshirt. The temperature here at night is 10 degrees Celsius or 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Read more about Gorilla Gear and Wear here.
Gorilla Trekking Orientation
The ranger will determine your assigned Gorilla family based on your fitness level, age, and medical condition. They will guide you on how to conduct yourself during the trek and in the presence of the Gentle Giants. You can find more detailed rules and guidelines to follow here.
During the Gorilla Trekking Experience, you will spend one hour with a gorilla family. A time you will not soon forget.
Entering the living room of a Gorilla family is a remarkable experience. You will have more time to observe their interactions as a group, witness their eating habits, see how they treat one another, and follow how the younger Gorillas are taught essential skills.
David Attenborough, who had his own Gorilla Encounter, said, “Spending time with these gentle creatures in their natural habitat was a profoundly moving experience.”
Once you have completed the trek, your driver-guide will accompany you back to your Lodge. The meal plan for the day includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, ensuring you are well-nourished throughout your adventure.
Meal Plan: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Day 13 – Lake Mburo Park – Mihingo Safari Lodge:
After Breakfast, your Safari (journey) begins as we drive you to Lake Mburo National Park. This is a four-hour scenic drive to Lake Mburo National Park and Mihingo /safari Lodge.
Mihingo Safari Lodge
We arrive at Mihingo Safari Lodge, considered the finest lodge in or around the park, and set the standard for luxury tented camps in Uganda. Your accommodation will be a private permanent tent covered with a thatched roof, offering a cozy and comfortable space. From the lovely veranda, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the park, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the surroundings.
The main lodge features a fabulous swimming pool that provides a stunning vista of the park below. Meals at the lodge are a culinary delight, served in the dining room, where you can also enjoy panoramic views of the park and the saltlick, a gathering spot for various animals.
For those seeking relaxation and wellness, the lodge offers therapeutic massages that allow you to unwind while taking in the captivating sights of the park.
Mihingo Safari Lodge also offers additional activities at an extra cost:
- Horseback Riding: Experience the unique opportunity to observe wildlife while riding a horse. This national park is the only place to enjoy this remarkable activity.
- Biking: Embark on a guided bike ride through the park, immersing yourself in the wildlife while exploring on two wheels.
- Morning Run: Join a guided morning run in the park, where you can appreciate the distinct scenery that differs from your usual surroundings.
Read more about Mihingo Safari Lodge:
Afternoon and Evening Activities
Wildlife Boat Cruise on Lake Mburo
This is a ninety-minute Wildlife and birding cruise on Lake Mburo. Here, you will see Crocodiles, monitor lizards, and hippos. There are four species of otters in the lake. Some animals come to water here, including various antelopes and zebras.
Game Drive:
Here, you will see herds of zebras, giraffes, the large Elanda antelopes, and the endangered Ankole Cattle owned by pastoralists who live near the Park. They have been given a special dispensation to graze their animals on Parkland. The majestic Ankole Cattle are an endangered species due to crossbreeding, and unless measures are taken, the famed Watusi cattle, as you know, will no longer exist in Uganda.
Nocturnal Game Drive:
Mihingo Lodge takes you on a nocturnal game drive, an out-of-the-ordinary adventure. Here, the creatures of the night come out, such as Leopards that you will see, bushbabies, pottos, and, sometimes, the not-often-seen pangolin. The Lodge uses spotlights to eliminate the night, and you can see the game and other creatures, such as birds and owls.
Meal Plan: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Day 14 – Entebbe – Departure:
Bike Ride or Horseback Riding through the Park:
As the 14-day Adventure Family Safari with Teens nears its end, the family starts the day with a hearty
breakfast and prepares for another thrilling adventure. Today, you have two exciting options: a Mountain Biking Safari or a Horseback Riding Safari through the park.
If you opt for the Mountain Biking Safari, you will embark on a thrilling ride through the park, witnessing the wildlife and captivating scenery from your bike seat. Knowledgeable guides will accompany you, ensuring your safety and providing valuable insights.
Alternatively, you can choose the Horseback Riding Safari, where you’ll explore the park while riding a horse. This unique experience allows you to observe the wildlife and soak in the beauty of the surroundings from a different perspective.
The choice is yours, and both options promise an exhilarating adventure for the whole family.
Lunch at Mihingo Lodge.
We will begin our return journey to Entebbe by car, which will take approximately four hours or more. Along the way, we will stop at the Equator to take pictures and capture memories of this unique location. Afterward, we will continue our drive and reach Entebbe in the late afternoon to enjoy a delicious lunch.
Airport Drop Off, and your 14-day Adventure Family Safari with Teens end. B – but you have lasting memories.
Please get in touch with us if you are interested in the 14-day Adventure Family Safari with Teens.
Use the form below!
