The Highlights of Uganda – Great Apes and Wildlife
Take a private 12-day highlight of Uganda’s luxury safari.
Here is the ultimate adventure with our Private 12-day Highlights of Uganda Luxury Safari, which includes Primates plus Big-5!
This safari takes you to five of Uganda’s best national parks, offering a unique blend of biodiversity and stunning landscapes. Experience the best that the Pearl of Africa offers without the crowds.
Starting in Entebbe, this safari provides a comfortable ride in a Toyota Land Cruiser equipped with a pop-up roof for optimal game viewing. We’ve got you covered with porter services and walking sticks for your Gorilla Trekking experience, and there’s bottled water in the vehicle to keep you refreshed throughout the journey.
During this 12-day adventure, you can visit some of Uganda’s most incredible national parks and stay in luxurious lodges. Explore the Western Rift Valley’s scenic wonders, witness the Explosion Craters’ beauty, marvel at the Rwenzori Mountains of the Moon, and get up close to the Virunga Volcanoes.
Join us on this Private 12-Day Highlights of Uganda Luxury Safari-Primates plus Big-5 and create memories that will last a lifetime. Prepare for an adventure with incredible wildlife encounters, luxurious accommodations, and an immersive cultural experience. Uganda is waiting to be explored by you!
Highlights of the Private 12-Day Highlights of Uganda Luxury Safari
- Chimpanzee Trekking – Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary Jungle Swamp
- Rhino Trekking on Foot – Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
- Top of the Falls Hike – Murchison Falls
- Rare Rothschild Giraffes in Large Numbers – Murchison Falls Park
- Lion Tracking Research- Queen Elizabeth Park
- Explosion Crater Drive in Queen Elizabeth Park
- Tree Climbing Lions of Ishasha
- Optional Guided Village Walk
- Optional Batwa Experience can be worked in on the day of Trekking
- Nocturnal Game Drive – Lake Mburo National Park
- Horseback Riding Safari -Lake Mburo National Park – or Walking Safari – Bike Safari
Private 12-Day Highlights of Uganda Luxury Safari in Detail
Arrival in Entebbe – Welcome to Uganda:
Welcome to your fantastic 12-Day Explore Uganda Luxury Primate-Wildlife Safari! Once you arrive at Entebbe International Airport, your friendly driver-guide will greet you at the tourist arrivals area. From there, you’ll be whisked away to the 2-Friends Beach Hotel, where you’ll have a deluxe Lake View Room with air conditioning.
While there are fancier hotels available, this one boasts something extraordinary: a picturesque and romantic setting right on the shores of Lake Victoria. Imagine relaxing on a private sandy beach, sipping drinks at the treehouse bar, and soaking in the magnificent views of the lake and the Ssese Islands.
The location is perfect, and the service and meals at this boutique hotel are top-notch. You’ll be treated to excellent hospitality, and the mouthwatering meals will satisfy you. And guess what? They even have a swimming pool for you to enjoy during your stay! If you’re a wine connoisseur, you’ll be delighted that they offer an extensive wine list to complement your dining experience.
With its proximity to the airport (just a ten-minute drive), this hotel is ideal for your first night in Africa or your departure day from Uganda. It provides a comfortable and convenient base for the beginning or end of your safari adventure.
Get ready to kick off your 12-Day Explore Uganda Luxury Primate-Wildlife Safari in style and relaxation at the 2-Friends Beach Hotel. Enjoy the beauty of Lake Victoria, indulge in delicious meals, take a dip in the pool, and soak up the peaceful ambiance of this charming boutique hotel. Your safari journey is about to begin!
Read more about 2-Friends Hotel.
Activities at or near 2-Friends Beach Hotel:
- Swimming Pool: Take a dip in the pool.
- Wine and Cheese Sunset Cruise: Take a Sunset Cruise.
- Golfing: Golf on the African Continent.
- Entebbe Botanical Gardens: Take a guided tour of the over 100-year-old Botanical Gardens. Local legend states that one of the first Tarzan movies was filmed here.
- Shop at the nearby Victoria Mall: Here, you will find the items you might need for your Safari.
- Read a Book: Curl up in a beachside hammock and read a book about Uganda.
Meal Plan: Lunch – Dinner, depending on your arrival time.
Day 1 – Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary:
Your Private 12-Day Highlights of Uganda Luxury Safari-Primates plus Big-5 begins. We will pick you up at your hotel in Entebbe or Kampala at 7 am. The drive to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is through Kampala. Then, the Ugandan countryside, which includes the Luweero area with its many farms and villages, will take about 3 1/2 hours.
Amuka Lodge:
The Amuka Lodge is the only upmarket lodge in the Area. They are well-known for their excellent food, a fusion of South Africa and Uganda, extensive South African wine list, and excellent service. The lodge has a small swimming pool where you can take a refreshing dip after your drive from Kampala.
The Deluxe tented Cottages are comfortable and made from the local material found here – the wood comes from an abandoned sawmill, and the Tent material was locally made.
The meals here are excellent, according to our clients who have stayed here at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
Ziwa was a large ranch with a similar landscape to Murchison Falls Park. The Sanctuary is guarded around the clock, and no poachers have entered it.
The perfect stay-over is halfway to Murchison Falls Park from Kampala.
Rhino Trekking on Foot:
Enjoy an extraordinary adventure with the Uganda Wildlife Rangers as they guide you within just 10 meters of majestic rhinos. Get your cameras ready because you’ll have the incredible opportunity to capture breathtaking up-close pictures of these magnificent creatures. At the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, not only do you witness these unique rhinos, but you also contribute to their conservation efforts.
The sanctuary serves as a breeding ground for rhinos, ensuring the restocking of parks with these incredible animals. Some of them will even be released into the wildlife reserves of northern Uganda, promoting their population growth and preservation.
The Rhino Trek, lasting approximately ninety minutes, is an unparalleled experience that promises a rare encounter with Uganda’s wild. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that allows you to witness these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat. So get ready for an unforgettable and truly unique adventure in the wilds of Uganda!
Lugogo Swamp Shoebill Encounter:
Take a fascinating afternoon adventure in the Lugogo Swamp as we embark on a boat ride guided by expert guides. This swamp is renowned for its remarkable wildlife, particularly the elusive Shoebill Stork and other fascinating swamp birds.
As we navigate the tranquil waters, keep your eyes peeled for the magnificent Shoebill Stork. These incredible birds are a true sight and rare in the wild. But that’s not all! The Lugogo Swamp is also home to captivating creatures such as sitatunga antelopes, bush pigs, and other fascinating mammals.
The late afternoon timing adds a touch of magic to the experience as we venture closer to sunset. This is when the swamp comes alive with activity, allowing you to witness the natural wonders of the ecosystem in their full glory.
So, hop aboard and let us guide you through the Lugogo Swamp. Get ready to encounter the enigmatic Shoebill Stork and immerse yourself in the swamp’s beauty as the day draws closer. It’s an adventure you won’t want to miss!
Meal Plan: Lunch – Dinner
Day 2 – Murchison Falls Park:
We drive to Murchison Falls Park, where we check in at the exclusive Nile Safari Lodge. Read more about Murchison Falls Park here.
Nile Safari Lodge:
Welcome to the stunning Nile Safari, a deluxe and intimate eco-friendly lodge that offers a truly unmatched experience. With only eight Bandas overlooking the majestic River Nile, this is undeniably one of the finest luxury lodges in Murchison Falls Park.
The Lodge is peaceful, away from the hustle and bustle; this lodge provides a tranquil retreat for the discerning African traveler. It offers a unique and extraordinary experience, far from the usual crowd. Here, you can truly indulge in luxury without compromise.
Nile Safari Lodge truly surpasses expectations regarding rooms, meals, and service. It takes pride in offering unparalleled quality and attention to detail. The main lodge features a bar, dining area, and a superb swimming pool that offers breathtaking views of the Nile. It’s the perfect place to unwind and soak up the beauty of the surroundings.
Given the limited number of rooms available, securing your spot with an early booking is essential to guarantee your stay at this exceptional safari lodge. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience luxury and exclusivity at Nile Safari Lodge. Read more about Nile Safari Lodge:
Late Afternoon Game Drive:
Take a late afternoon game drive in the marvelous Murchison Falls National Park, where you’ll have the opportunity to spot an array of incredible wildlife. Get ready to encounter lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, and even playful patas monkeys, among many other fascinating species.
During each game drive, you’ll be accompanied by an experienced Uganda Wildlife Ranger equipped with a weapon for your safety. The ranger will provide valuable insights and information about the park and the diverse wildlife you encounter. With the combined knowledge of your driver-guide and the ranger, you won’t miss a thing during your adventure.
The specially-designed vehicle features a pop-up roof, allowing you to stand up for optimal game viewing and capturing stunning photographs. Please note that climbing on cars is not permitted, as it goes against park rules and regulations. It ensures you are well-nourished for your exciting adventures in the park.
Prepare for an unforgettable experience as you embark on a late afternoon game drive, immersing yourself in the wonders of Murchison Falls National Park and its captivating wildlife.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 3 – Murchison Falls Park:
Early Morning Game Drive:
Enjoy an early morning game drive and see the predators return after a night’s hunt. A Ranger and your driver-guide accompany you and point out the wildlife that you otherwise might miss. The game drive is up to three hours in length.
You can have Breakfast at the Lodge after the Game Drive.
Afternoon Boat Cruise on the Nile:
Get ready for one of the highlights of your safari—a boat cruise like no other, sailing along the historic Nile River. Brace yourself for an up-close encounter with pods of hippos, sunbathing Nile crocodiles, monitor lizards, herds of majestic elephants, groups of mighty buffaloes, and abundant, vibrant water birds.
Many visitors agree that this boat cruise is the best wildlife experience in Uganda. The sheer diversity of wildlife you’ll witness, from Paraa to the bottom of the falls, is truly awe-inspiring. Fun fact: Even Idi Amin, when he was president, used to navigate this very stretch of the Nile on his boat.
As you reach the bottom of the falls, you’ll have a choice: either stay on the boat for the return trip or embark on an exhilarating hike to the top. The guided Hike takes approximately 45 minutes, following the trail that Winston Churchill took back in 1907 when he was met by a boat that transported him to Khartoum in Sudan.
Once you reach the top of the falls, prepare to be amazed. You’ll witness the grandeur of the wide falls as they cascade down the Western Rift escarpments, creating a mesmerizing six-meter-wide cauldron of rushing water. The sight, sounds, and mist will leave you in awe.
Fun fact: In this area, the renowned writer Ernest Hemingway crash-landed in 1954 and was initially presumed dead. However, he was miraculously rescued by a tourist boat launch. Talk about a real-life adventure!
After your boat cruise and Hike, your driver-guide will be waiting to take you back to the tranquil Nile Safari Lodge. You can relax, unwind, and enjoy some downtime before indulging in a delicious dinner there.
Prepare to create unforgettable memories on this remarkable journey through Murchison Falls National Park.
Top of the Falls Hike:
The guided Hike up to the top of the falls takes 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 4 – Kibale Forest Park:
We depart at 7:00 AM for Kibale Forest. We arrive at Crater Lake Safari Lodge in time for a late lunch.
Crater Lake Safari Lodge – Lakeside Cottage:
Check into the Crater Lake Safari Lodge along Uganda’s scenic Crater Trail. This luxurious lodge offers a grand experience. It is conveniently situated near Kibale Forest and the Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary.
It is the closest luxury lodge to Kibale Forest, just a 7-kilometer drive away. You’ll easily access the mesmerizing Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary and the thrilling chimpanzee trekking adventures in Kibale Forest.
Crater Lake Safari Lodge is a delightful addition to this area and has already gained popularity among visitors to Kibale Forest. Its proximity to the forest and wetlands sanctuary ensures that you spend most of your time exploring the region’s natural wonders.
After a day of adventure, take some time to relax and unwind by the lake or enjoy a refreshing dip in the pool. Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance and let the beauty of the surroundings rejuvenate your senses.
Crater Lake Safari Lodge offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and natural beauty. Get ready to create unforgettable memories as you indulge in the serenity of the lake and enjoy the lodge’s amenities during the leisurely afternoon hours.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 5 – Kibale Forest-Chimpanzee Trekking:
Morning Chimpanzee Trekking:
This morning, you will have an exciting encounter with our closest relatives, the chimpanzees, as breakfast takes a backseat. As you prepare for this adventure, it’s best to pack a light daypack, including essentials such as one liter of water, your camera equipment, and a good pair of binoculars. Dress comfortably in jeans or long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, lightweight hiking boots, and don’t forget your hat. If you need more information on what to wear during Chimpanzee Trekking, read up on it.
Chimpanzee Tracking is an unforgettable experience that typically lasts around 3 1/2 hours. It’s a time you’ll cherish and remember for a lifetime.
Keep your eyes peeled for other fascinating primate species during your chimpanzee tracking adventure. You might spot anywhere between 5 to 7 different species, adding to the diversity of your wildlife encounters. Additionally, you’ll be captivated by the unique vegetation found in the park, which stands out distinctively from other areas of Uganda and East Africa.
Prepare yourself for an incredible journey through the chimpanzee habitat, immersing yourself in the wonders of nature and wildlife.
Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary:
Nocturnal Forest Walk:
Go on a captivating adventure with the Nocturnal Forest Walk, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet and observe the beautiful creatures of the night in the Ibale Rainforest. This experience offers a unique perspective as the forest transforms dark, revealing a new world compared to daytime chimpanzee trekking.
Accompanied by knowledgeable Uganda Wildlife Authority Rangers, you’ll set out on a ninety-minute journey through the forest. Prepare to encounter fascinating nocturnal species such as bushbabies, sloths, tree pangolins, and other creatures that come alive under darkness.
The ambiance of the forest at night is a stark contrast to daytime treks. The soundscape changes, with owls and nightjars making their presence known, appearing and disappearing in the blink of an eye. This immersive experience not only thrills but also provides valuable insights into the wonders of the natural world.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 6-Queen Elizabeth Park:
Explosion Crater Drive:
After breakfast, we embark on an exciting journey to Queen Elizabeth Park, a haven of natural wonders, and it is just a two 1/2-hour. Before checking in, we stop at the breathtaking 27-kilometer Explosion Crater Drive. This scenic route showcases a tapestry of explosion craters, each with a unique charm. Some craters have transformed into stunning lakes, while others are adorned with lush savanna grass or woodland.
As we ascend to the park’s highest point, prepare to be mesmerized by the expansive views of the Western Rift Escarpment. From this vantage point, you’ll be treated to panoramic vistas that encompass the beauty of Lake George, Lake Edwards, and the vast savanna stretching before you. It’s no wonder that one of these remarkable craters recently gained recognition through a feature on National Geographic’s online platform.
Prepare yourself for a journey combining nature’s majesty with captivating storytelling. The stunning views and the fascinating insights shared by our knowledgeable ranger will make this drive an unforgettable part of your Queen Elizabeth Park adventure.
Kyambura Gorge Lodge – Luxury:
Kyambura Gorge Lodge has revitalized an old coffee plantation, transforming it into a luxurious lodge that offers an elevated level of service to the area.
The cottages at the lodge boast a distinct style and design, exclusively crafted for the volcanic lodges found in Uganda and Rwanda.
You’ll be treated to magnificent views overlooking the Kyambura Gorge from your vantage point. This remarkable feature, a deep gash in the savannah, is adorned with an underground forest, the mesmerizing River of the Blind, and serves as a sanctuary for the chimpanzees that call this place home.
To provide respite from the equatorial Sun, the lodge features a delightful swimming pool where you can relax and savor a refreshing drink.
Guests can enjoy engaging activities such as a visit to a coffee plantation and production facility. This unique experience is run by women, offering insights into the fascinating world of coffee-making while supporting local empowerment and sustainability.
Prepare for an extraordinary stay at Kyambura Gorge Lodge, where luxury, breathtaking views, and meaningful activities converge to create an exceptional experience in this captivating region.
Late Afternoon Game Drive in Queen Elizabeth Park:
Go on a late afternoon game drive in Queen Elizabeth Park, traversing the picturesque Savannah adorned with magnificent candelabra euphoria trees.
The vehicle provided for the safari features a convenient pop-up roof, allowing you to stand and capture stunning photographs.
During the game drive, we encountered a diverse array of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for majestic lions, elusive leopards, bush pigs, giant forest hogs, and herds of magnificent elephants. The park’s rich biodiversity will also introduce you to buffalo herds, various antelope species, enchanting savannah birds, cunning hyenas, graceful monitor lizards, and, on rare occasions, even the sight of a rock python.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 7 – Queen Elizabeth Park:
Morning Game Drive:
Breakfast before or after the game drive. You can begin your first game drive of dawn at about 6:30 am.
As we head out for the game drive, we pickap an Uganda Wildlife Authority Ranger to accompany us. Mornings are also when more predators return from their night of stalking, and there is nothing like a Savannah Sunrise.
Queen Elizabeth Park has a thriving wildlife population, including an elephant population e in the 1960s.
Optional Activities that you can parBreakfastin:
Lion Tracking Research – this is an option where you go with researchers searching for collared lions, and this is in cooperation with the Uganda Carnivore Project and Uganda Wildlife Association. This is also a time of learning about the habits and ways of the lions.
There is also the Banded Mongoose Research Project – this project takes place on the Mweya Peninsula and is on foot with Rangers and Researchers observing the habits and ways of the banded mongoose.
Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise:
Take an afternoon Boat Safari ride on the Kazinga Channel with one of Africa’s highest concentrations of hippos. The Boat Safari is a highlight of any Queen Elizabeth Park Visit.
This is a pleasant boat ride where you can get some great pictures of elephants, antelopes, crocodiles, monitor lizards, predators in the late afternoon, and buffaloes on the shore. Hopefully, you will get an open-mouthed hippo shot with your camera.
The Kazinga Channel is also home to thousands of birds. You will be amazed by the many birds you will see along the shore, in the air, in the water.
The Kazinga Channel Boat cruise is about two hours long, and various boats can be used for the boat cruise, including Uganda Wildlife Authority Boats and boats from Mweya Safari Lodge. Private boat cruises can be arranged.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 8 – Ishasha – Tree Climbing Lions:
After Breakfast, we drive to Queen Elizabeth Park, the Ishasha Region of the Park, where we check into the Lodge you have chosen. There is only one luxury Lodge in this more remote portion of Queen Elizabeth Park.
Ishasha Wilderness Camp – Exclusive:
Ishasha Wilderness Camp is an experience in the African Wild in the unvisited part of Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda – the Ishasha region of the Park.
Merely a place in the African Bush along the Ntungwe River- up-market luxury staying in en-suite Tented Cottages
Have lunch with elephants and hippos, and listen to the sounds of the African night.
This is restaurant-quality food and world-class service offered in an upmarket style that, with the new tents, is excellent, and you are near the best place in all of Africa for Tree Climbing Lions. Yet, most tourists bypass this significant part of Queen Elizabeth Park.
Ishasha Wilderness Camp is a standing tradition with luxury safari goers.
Game Drive – see the Tree-Climbing Lions of Ishasha
Afternoon Game drive in search of the famed tree-climbing lions who sleep in the fig trees for up to 15 daily days.
There are about 50 of them here in various pride. You might also see some leopards and many elephants, which have increased vastly in numbers.
The elephants that you see here will be both Savannah and Forest Elephants. Most likely, you will not tell the difference, but forest elephants are hairier, have straight, shorter tusks, are slightly smaller, and have one less toe on each foot. You will also see large herds of buffaloes, Topi, and Uganda Kob antelopes.
Note – If you are staying at Ishasha Wilderness Camp, a Sundowner can be arranged in the Bush for you, hosted by Camp Staff reminiscent of the old days in the African BuLet let us know if you would like a traditional Bush Breakfast with a game drive tomorrow.
Meal Plan: Breakfast-Lunch-Dinner
Day 9 – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – Buhoma Area
This more,ningdroverive to Buhocheckearriving before noon and checkingdheck into Bwindi Lodge.
Bwindi Lodge in Buhoma:
Bwindi Lodge overlooks the primeval Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Guests have stunning views of the forest canopy across a serene stream. Bwindi Lodge is one of Uganda’s unique and outstanding lodges.
The property has dramatic views of the impenetrable Forest and is a great place to spot the primates and birds hidden in the foliage.
In 2021, two new deluxe Bandas opened, the eight standard Bandas were rebuilt and upgraded, and the lounge and library were reimagined.
Enjoy the world-class service where you have your butler service. The meals served here are exquisite.
After a Gorilla Trek, you can take advantage of Humula Spa and unwind before having a sundowner on your terrace.
Read more about Bwindi Lodge here.
Activities you can do here besides Gorilla Tracking:
- The Batwa Experience: See the Forest and how the Batwa lived there. This is an interactive, authentic Cultural Encounter with the Batwa, who are today Conservation Refugees.
- Visit the Bwindi Community Hospital: This is one of Uganda’s finest hospitals, dental clinics, and training centers. The hospitable has dramatically increased the life expectancy of the Batwa and other ethnic communities.
- Bike Riding: Go on a guided bike ride with the Ride for a Women’s project.
- Village Walk: Go on a three-hour guided village will see various demonstrations of how Banana Beer, a Gin called Waragi, is made. Listen to the traditional healer as he shows you the medicines from the Forest. Visit a school and watch the dance of the Batwa Community.
- Nature Walk: Take a guided nature walk, including birding in and outside the park.
Meal Plan: Lunch – Dinner
Day 10: GoriTrekking- 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 personal discomfort and misery. Wearing suitable clothing and footwear is about protection.
Gorilla Wear and Gear:
- DaypaAly, a waterproof day is preferred; you can use it as a carry 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 Gorilla Family you are assigned is based on your fitness level, age, and medical condition and is determined by the ranger.
You will be instructed on how to conduct yourself on the trail and in the presence of the Gentle Giants. You can read more about the rules and guidelines here.
Your Encounter with the Gentle Giants:
With the trek in and trek out – the 4-hour Gorilla Habituation Experience is an all-day trek. Not only do you see the Gorillas with only four participants, but you also learn about the Gorillas’ habits and ways from the Gorillas and the Researchers.
You have entered the living room of a Gorilla family. You have more time to see how they interact as a group, and you can see what they eat, how they treat one another, and how the younger ones are taught.
The words of David Attenborough fit as he wrote about his Gorilla Encounter, “Spending time with these gentle creatures in their natural habitat was a profoundly moving experience.”
When you return to the trailhead, your driver-guide will take you back to your Lodge.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day 11 – Lake Mburo Park:
Breakfast, and we head to Lake Mburo Park, which is a 5-hour plus drive from Buhoma.
Mihingo Safari Lodge
We reach Mihingo Safari Lodge, the best Lodge in or around the Park, and it sets the standard for what a luxury tented camp should be like in Uganda. Your room is a private permanent tent covered with a thatched roof, and a lovely verandah gives you a sweeping view of the Park.
The main Lodge has a fabulous swimming pool with a fantastic view of the Park below. Meals that delight the senses are served in the dining room, which also has a breathtaking view of the Park and the saltlick where animals gather, and you can see them.
The Lodge offers wellness services such as a therapeutic massage where you can view the Park.
Activities offered by Mihingo Safari Lodge at extra cost:
Horseback Riding: See Wildlife on horseback. This is the only National Park where you can do so.
Mountain Biking: Take a guided Bike Ride through the Park, seeing wildlife while on a bike.
Morning Run: Take a guided morning run in the Park, where the scenery is quite different from what you are used to.
Read more about Mihingo Safari Lodge:
Scheduled 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 Leopsee, bushbabies, pottos, and at t,imes 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 12 Kampala -Entebbe:
Breakfast and a three-hour horseback safari guided across the rolling savannah, zebras, buffaloes, antelopes, and the large Eland Antelope.
Lunch at Mihingo Lodge
Depart for Entebbe – but we first stop at the equator – we reach Entebbe in the late afternoon as your 12-day Luxury-Gorilla-Chimpanzee-Trekking Wildlife Safaendsend.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch
Depending on your departure time, Lodging can be arranged, such as a day room; also, at the beginning of the Safari, accommodation can be arranged at Entebbe if you arrive in the evening or at night.
Lodging can be changed to fit your wishes during this 12-Day Highlights of Uganda Luxury Great Apes and Big-5 Wildlife Safari.
What is included in your Private 12-Day Highlights of Uganda Luxury Safari-Primates plus Big-5?
- Full-Board stays at safe, secure quality Lodges: We choose welcoming, friendly, and hospitable quality lodges for your Safari, including the incoming hotel in Entebbe or Kigali, Rwanda.
- Vegetarian and Vegan Meals: We can accommodate vegetarians and vegans on a safari. Additionally, there are kid-friendly meals for families with children. Kosher Friendly meals can also be provided. Other dietary needs, such as gluten- and sugar-free, can be met, i.e., notified.
- Gorilla – Chimpanzee – Golden Monkey Permits: Permits are included in the Safari.
- Porter Services for Gorilla Treks: Porter Services are automatically included in your Safari. You are walking sticks; we supply bottled water for your treks, volcano climbs, and hikes.
- Private 4×4 Safari Vehicle equipped with Pop-Up Roof: You have an experienced driver-guide that will guide you on a Safari through the Pearl of Africa. The vehicle has a refrigerated unit, and bottled water and fruit snacks are available on longer drives. WiFi is available. We arranged for a MiFi Router for you, which would give you access to the internet even in your cottage since, at most lodges, WiFi is available only in the leading club. You would incur a small charge for the use and data of a MiFi Router.
- AMREF-Flying Doctors Medivac Insurance: Your Well-being is foremost on our mind, and we automatically include emergency air-evac insurance for your Safari.
If you are interested in this 12-Day Highlights of Uganda’s Luxury Great Apes and Big-5 Wildlife Safari – please get in touch with us:
