Romance on the Nile in Uganda Safar-The perfect Romantic Wildlife Adventure
Out of the Ordinary Luxury Safari – 6-Days-Spend a While on the Nile Luxury Safari in Uganda.
Go on an incredible 6-day adventure called the “While on the Nile Luxury Safari” in Uganda. It’s the perfect choice for an adventurous trip, honeymoon, anniversary celebration, or wildlife safari. This safari follows the Nile River in Uganda, starting from its source on Lake Victoria and leading to Murchison Falls, where the river forms powerful waterfalls as it cascades down the Western Rift Escarpment before continuing its journey north toward Egypt.
This unique Luxury Safari offers a range of exciting activities. Get ready for thrilling Nile River Whitewater Adventures, with options for both mild and wild experiences. Enjoy relaxing Sundowner Cruises, exciting Wildlife Boat Safaris, and invigorating hikes along the River Nile. You’ll stay in some of Uganda’s finest luxury lodges throughout your journey, ensuring a comfortable and memorable experience.
The River Nile begins in Uganda and is considered one of Africa’s seven natural wonders. This 8-day Luxury Safari is designed to help you discover and appreciate the region’s natural wonders, including its diverse wildlife, exotic birds, and the warm hospitality of the Ugandan people.
Prepare for an extraordinary journey where you’ll witness the beauty of the Nile, encounter incredible wildlife, and create unforgettable memories in Uganda.
6-Days-Spend a While on the Nile Luxury Safari in Uganda Highlights:
- Boat Cruise to Jinja: Take a boat cruise on Lake Victoria to Jinja.
- Adventure Activities on the Nile: Rafting,
- Three Game Drives: Where you see Elephants, Giraffes, Buffaloes, Antelopes, Lions, Leopards, Warthogs, and more.
- Wildlife Boat Cruise on the Nile: This is undoubtedly the best Wildlife Boat Cruise in East Africa.
- Top of the Falls Hike: This is a 45-minute hike up to the top.
- Rhino Tracking on Foot: Track Rhinos guided by Rangers. Enjoy lunch at Amuka Lodge.
- Stay at the best Wildlife Location Lodge: You will spend two nights at Pakuba Lodge- AC – A swimming pool is available.
- Lunch at the Historic Masindi Hotel: Uganda’s oldest hotel.
- Private Safari Vehicle: The Land Cruiser, a four-by-four vehicle with a pop-up roof, is just for you. Bottled water is available in the car.
- Experienced – Professional Driver-Guide: Going on a Safari with a local is best.
This Wildlife Safari includes all activities listed, a safari vehicle with a pop-up roof, bottled water in the car, all entrance fees, and an entire- board except drinks, such as sodas, beer, wine, tips, and laundry. Read more about Murchison Falls Park here.
6-Days-Spend a While on the Nile Luxury Safari in Uganda in Detail:
Day -1: Boat Cruise to Jinja:
Your exciting 6-day “Spend a While on the Nile Luxury Safari” begins with your driver-guide picking you up from your hotel at 8:00 in the morning. You’ll be headed to the MV Vanessa for a memorable cruise from Ggaba to Jinja.
Please note that the cruise on the MV Vanessa is only available on Fridays. If you’re traveling any other day of the week, we will arrange a comfortable drive to take you directly to Wildwaters Lodge in Jinja.
If you’re traveling as a group, we can organize a unique charter for you to reach Jinja by boat. This will add an extra touch of adventure to your journey. Once you arrive in Jinja by boat, your driver-guide will meet you and accompany you to the lodge.
You can expect to arrive at Wildwaters Lodge around lunchtime, where you’ll have the opportunity to unwind and enjoy a delicious meal.
Get ready for an incredible safari experience along the Nile, starting with this memorable journey from Ggaba to Jinja.
Wildwaters Lodge:
The friendly staff at Wildwaters Lodge extends a warm welcome to you: Prepare to be amazed by your private and secluded cottage, which exudes an understated elegance. One of the highlights is the deck, where you’ll find a soaking tub. Here, you can enjoy a relaxing bath while marveling at the sights and sounds of the rushing Nile surrounding you.
In the middle of the day, take a refreshing swim in the natural swimming pool alongside the River Nile. It’s the perfect way to cool off from the solid equatorial Sun while experiencing the wonder of the Nile up close and personal.
The meals at Wildwaters Lodge, including your lunch, will be unforgettable and joyful. Each meal is a culinary masterpiece that will leave you astonished.
After lunch, enjoy a leisurely nature walk around the islands, where you can appreciate the beautiful trees, plants, flowers, birds, and playful monkeys. The only sound that breaks the tranquility is the gentle flow of the River Nile.
As the Sun sets, embark on a breathtaking boat ride along the River Nile. Enjoy the stunning views and soak in the atmosphere while indulging in a traditional dinner at Wildwaters Lodge on Munyanja Island. The soothing sound of the Nile’s waters will accompany you throughout the evening as you savor one delightful culinary experience after another.
At Wildwaters Lodge, prepare for an unforgettable stay filled with relaxation, natural beauty, delicious meals, and the enchanting ambiance of the River Nile.
Meal Plan: Lunch – Dinner
Day 2: Wildwaters Lodge:
Wake up to the ancient Nile’s thunderous sounds and songbirds’ sweet melodies. It’s breakfast time, and we have some fantastic Ugandan coffee to give you the energy you need for the day ahead.
Today, you can relax and enjoy being yourself without worries or pressures. You can spend a half-day or full-day engaging in thrilling activities such as white water rafting up to grade five, kayaking, or horseback riding along the Nile.
If you’re up for an adventure, you can explore the countryside and villages by riding an ATV Quad Vehicle. For the truly daring, there’s an extreme option called “Bungee Diving” into the Nile—an adrenaline-pumping experience that will leave you exhilarated. Another thrilling option is riding a jet boat up the Nile, crossing the rapids, and creating an unforgettable memory.
As the day draws closer, unwind and enjoy a breathtaking Sunset Sundowner Cruise on the Nile. Indulge in delicious snacks and refreshing drinks while taking in the scenic beauty.
Let us know which activities you’d like to experience during your stay. We are here to ensure you have a memorable and enjoyable time.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 3 – Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary 
Your unforgettable Spend-a-While on the Nile Private Luxury Big-5 Wildlife Safari in Murchison Falls Park begins by departing your hotel in Entebbe or Kampala at 6:30 am. We’ll be heading towards Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, an approximately 3-hour drive from Kampala and just under four hours from Entebbe.
Upon arrival, you’ll check into Amuka Lodge, an excellent accommodation option. Your spacious tented Banda awaits, complete with an en-suite bathroom. Plus, you’ll have your private verandah, where you can often catch glimpses of wildlife passing by.
Meals will be served in the main lodge area, where you can also access WiFi. If you require internet access in your room for work or other purposes, let us know, and we can arrange a MiFi router for your convenience.
The lodge features a refreshing swimming pool located near the main lodge building. Additionally, there’s a bar and a dining area where your meals will be served. Prepare to indulge in mouthwatering South African BBQ, highlighting your dining experience.
Get ready for an incredible safari adventure, surrounded by luxury and immersed in the beauty of Murchison Falls Park.
Rhino Trekking on Foot:
Lugogo Swamp Boat Outing:
Get ready for an exciting boat outing in the late afternoon, as it’s time to explore the Lugogo Swamp. Here, you’ll embark on a paddled boat ride through the swamp, searching for the elusive Shoebill. Although often mistaken for a stork, the Shoebill is more closely related to pelicans than storks. The name “Shoebill” originated from Arab Ivory and Slave traders who likened their appearance to flying shoes. This fascinating bird species, just like crocodiles, has survived since dinosaurs.
The Shoebill is known for its lifelong monogamous partnerships, with both parents actively involved in raising their young. They primarily feed on Lungfish and can be seen patiently standing still until the perfect moment to strike their prey. Make sure to keep your camera handy for capturing some incredible photos.
In addition to the Shoebill, you’ll have the chance to spot other fascinating waterbirds and mammals during your swamp adventure. Look out for Sitatunga Antelopes, otters, bushpigs, and more.
Your swamp adventure will last approximately three hours before you return to Amuka Lodge for the evening, where you can relax and reflect on the incredible experiences of the day.
Meal Plan: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Day-4: Murchison Falls National Park:
After enjoying breakfast at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, we will begin our journey towards Murchison Falls. We will take the scenic route known as the Lodgecenic route, which offers breathtaking views along the way. This route will lead us alongside the beautiful Lake Albert and the magnificent Western Rift Escarpment. From there, we can admire the stunning vistas stretching down to the lake and even across the Blue Mountains in the Democratic Republic of Congo. As we continue our drive, we will pass through charming fishing villages nestled in picturesque settings along the route to the park.
Our Goal is the luxury Nile Lodge in Murchison Falls Park. Read more about Murchison Falls Park here.
Nile Safari Lodge:
Welcome to the incredible Nile Safari Lodge! This exclusive and eco-friendly lodge is a hidden gem within Murchison Falls Park, boasting just eight Bandas that offer stunning views of the majestic River Nile. Regarding luxury lodges, this one truly stands out from the crowd with its refined elegance and unmatched style. It’s the perfect destination for those seeking a unique and extraordinary experience.
Unlike most lodges, Nile Safari Lodge is peaceful and secluded, providing a tranquil retreat for discerning African travelers. Despite its serene setting, you’ll still have convenient access to thrilling game drives on the northern side of the Nile, thanks to the nearby Paraa Bridge.
Regarding rooms, meals, and service, Nile Safari Lodge surpasses expectations. Everything is top-notch, ensuring you have a comfortable and memorable stay. The main lodge features a bar, a dining area, and a superb swimming pool that offers breathtaking views of the Nile.
Due to the limited number of rooms available (only eight), we highly recommend booking your safari early to secure a stay at this exceptional lodge. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the unparalleled luxury and tranquility of Nile Safari Lodge.
Read more about Nile Safari Lodge:
Afternoon Boat Cruise on the Nile:
Get ready for an incredible afternoon boat cruise on the historic Nile River, which is another standout experience of your safari. During this cruise, you’ll witness various wildlife and captivating sights.
Prepare to encounter pods of hippos, Nile crocodiles basking in the Sun, monitor lizards, herds of elephants, groups of buffaloes, and an array of magnificent water birds. Many visitors consider this boat cruise the best wildlife experience in Uganda, thanks to the abundance of wildlife you’ll encounter along the journey from Paraa to the Bottom of the falls.
Interestingly, this section of the Nile holds historical significance. Former President Idi Amin used to navigate his boat along this stretch of the river. Additionally, it was here that Sir Samuel and Lady Florence Baker, the first Westerners, had their boat capsized by a hippo as they approached the world’s most powerful waterfall. You can learn more about their fascinating story.
Furthermore, parts of the iconic movie “African Queen,” starring Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn, were filmed in this location. If interested, you can read more about the movie’s connection to the area.
As you reach the Bottom of the falls, you can either remain on the boat for the return trip or embark on a hike to the top, offering a different perspective of this magnificent natural wonder. The choice is yours to make.
As you reach the Bottom of the falls, you can choose to stay on the boat for the return trip or hike up to the top.
Top of the Falls Hike:
The guided Hike up to the top of the fall lodge for about 45 minutes. You are taking the trail that, in 1907, Winston Churchill took down where he was met by a boat that took him to Khartoum in Sudan.
Above the falls, you see how wide they are, and on the descent down the Western Rift escarpments. It pours through a six-meter-wide cauldron. You will be amazed by the sights, sounds, and mist.
Near here, Ernest Hemingway crash-landed in 1954 and was given up as dead, only to be rescued by a tourist boat launch.
A few years back, someone came up with the idea of building a dam. However, there was such an uproar from conservationists and the tourism industry that it quietly faded away.
Your driver-guide will meet you here and return to Nile Safari Lodge, where you can relax and chill out before dinner.
Please Note: The Top of the Falls Hike is not possible at present since the water level of the Nile is too high to disembark safely. You will cruise back down the river to the Paraa area.
Please Note: The high water levels on the Nile make the top of the fall hike impossible. However, we will incorporate a visit to the top of the falls into your safari. Read more about the most Powerful Waterfall in the world here.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day -5: Murchison Falls National Park:
Sunrise Breakfast Cruise on the Nile:
Prepare for an exciting boat cruise on the Nile River in the afternoon. This is a particular highlight of your safari. The Nile River is famous and has a lot of history. During the cruise, you’ll see many exciting animals and birds, like hippos, crocodiles, lizards, elephants, buffaloes, and various water birds.
Many people say this is the best wildlife boat cruise in Uganda because you can see a wide range of wildlife from Paraa to the Bottom of the falls. Even Idi Amin, the former president, used to sail his boat on this part of the Nile.
You’ll also learn some interesting facts about the area. For example, Sir Samuel and Lady Florence Baker, the first Westerners to see the mighty waterfall, had their boat overturned by a hippo near the falls. It’s a story worth reading about. Parts of the famous movie “African Queen” were filmed here, so it has a special connection to Hollywood.
When you reach the Bottom of the falls, you can decide whether to stay on the boat for the return trip or take a hike to the top. It’s an excellent opportunity to see the falls from a different perspective. The choice is yours to make!
Late Afternoon Game Drive:
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day -6: Return to Kampala or Entebbe:
After having breakfast and checking out of Nile Safari Lodge, we will embark on our final game drive on the north side of the Nile. The good news is that a bridge now allows us to cross the Nile without waiting for the ferry. This means we can easily access the wildlife side of the park.
By this point, we hope to have spotted the Big 5, which includes lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos. Murchison Falls National Park is a part of the African wilderness, where unexpected and exciting things can happen. You never know what surprises await us around the next bend in the track we’re following.
If you want to capture steady pictures, we recommend using a beanbag to rest your camera and ensure high-quality shots.
Please remember that staying on the designated tracks is essential during the game drive. Going off the track with the vehicle is not allowed and can result in a fine. The park rangers enforce this rule for everyone’s safety and the preservation of the environment.
Moreover, the rangers communicate with each other and have information about the whereabouts of specific wildlife on any given day. This helps maximize our chances of spotting and observing various animals during the game drive.
Chimp Trekking in Budongo Forest:
After the game drive, our next destination is Budongo Forest, where we will enjoy a pleasant lunch at Budongo Eco-Lodge. Following our meal, it’s time for the chimpanzee trek, during which we will have the opportunity to encounter chimpanzees under the care of the Jane Goodall Foundation.
Before starting the trek, there will be an orientation session where we will receive instructions on how to behave during the trek and in the presence of a chimpanzee troop. It is recommended to wear hiking boots, merino wool socks, long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, and a hat for your comfort and protection. The trek itself is generally easy and manageable for most people.
During the trek, we will spend approximately one hour in the presence of the chimpanzees. Observing their behaviors and ways will be a fascinating experience, as we spend time with our closest relatives in their forest habitat.
Budongo Forest is the most significant remaining mahogany forest in East Africa. It offers plenty of fruit trees that provide a natural food source for the chimpanzees in this vast and diverse forest.
After the chimpanzee trek, we will drive back to Kampala – Entebbe, aiming to arrive before sunset. We can arrange a day or overnight room for you before your departure flight, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch
What to wear and bring on your Murchison Falls Park Safari:
- Good Shoes or Hiking Boots:
We suggest no sandals
- Long Trousers: These are for your protection from insects.
- Long-Sleeved Shirt: This protects you against mosquitoes and Tsetse flies.
- Broad-Brimmed Hat: This protects you from the Sun.
- Insect Repellent: We suggest the Australian Rid.
- Sunblock and Sunglasses: Give you skin and eye protection.
- Daypack: for the essential things you want to bring along on game drives.
- Binoculars and Camera Equipment: Beneficial on Game Drives, hikes, and Nature Walks.
- Staying in Touch with Home: Lodges offer WiFi, but we can also arrange for a MiFi router on request.
Read more about Safari Wear and Gear here:
This 6-day Spend a While on the Nile Luxury Safari in Uganda includes full-board Lodging as described. It has a park entrance and activities described except if they are optional: private vehicle and personal driver-guide. Bottled water is in a car—WiFi upon request.
We have AMREF-Flying Doctors insurance unless you choose not to want it. We consult you about alternatives if a lodge is booked for your safari dates. Alcoholic Drinks, sodas, and tips are not included in your safari.
Enquire about this 6-day Spend a While on the Nile Luxury Safari in Uganda.
