7 Day Uganda Safari
7-Day Uganda Safari – Adventure Uganda Safaris
Embark on an unforgettable 7-day Uganda safari adventure exploring Uganda’s premier tourist destinations. This safari promises an incredible journey filled with captivating wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and cultural experiences. You will have the opportunity to track chimpanzees in Kibale Forest National Park, enjoy game viewing and a refreshing boat cruise in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and trek the majestic mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Destinations
Kibale Forest National Park: Nestled in the western part of Uganda, Kibale Forest National Park is renowned as the top chimpanzee tracking destination in the country. With a population of over 1,500 chimpanzees, this 795-square-kilometer park offers a thrilling wildlife experience. Established in 1993, the park is home to over 70 species of mammals, including 13 primate species, making it a haven for primate enthusiasts.
Queen Elizabeth National Park: One of Uganda’s most picturesque and frequently visited national parks, Queen Elizabeth National Park was established in 1952 and extends over 1,978 square kilometers. It is a biodiversity hotspot, home to over 95 species of mammals and more than 600 species of birds. The park’s diverse ecosystems, including savannah, wetlands, and forests, provide a perfect setting for an unforgettable safari experience.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: Located in the southwest of Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, gazetted in 1991. Covering an area of 321 square kilometers, the park is one of the most popular mountain gorilla trekking destinations in the world. Besides its gorillas, Bwindi hosts over 120 species of mammals and 350 species of birds, making it a rich and diverse ecosystem.
Safari Highlights
- Transport from Entebbe to the national parks and back in a customized 4WD vehicle.
- A scenic 5-hour drive to Kibale Forest National Park.
- Breathtaking views of Uganda’s countryside.
- Trekking mountain gorillas.
- Chimpanzee tracking.
- Game viewing.
- Relaxing boat cruise.
- Cultural visit.
- An exciting journey filled with humor and stopovers.
Brief Itinerary
- Day One: Arrival and airport pick-up.
- Day Two: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park.
- Day Three: Chimpanzee tracking and transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
- Day Four: Game drive and boat cruise.
- Day Five: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
- Day Six: Gorilla trekking.
- Day Seven: Transfer to Kampala.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Airport Pick-up
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our driver/guide, who will provide a brief orientation about your safari. You will then be transferred to Kampala, Uganda’s vibrant capital city. During the transfer, you will get a glimpse of Uganda’s bustling urban life and the beautiful landscapes that surround the city. Once you arrive in Kampala, you will check into your pre-booked hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.
- Meal Plan: Lunch and dinner (depending on arrival time)
- Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Sheraton or Serena Hotel
- Midrange: Cassia Lodge or Fairway Hotel and Spa
- Budget: Yellow Haven Lodge
- Journey Time: 45 to 60 minutes
Day 2: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, you will embark on a 5-6 hour journey to Kibale Forest National Park. This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of Uganda’s countryside, including lush tea plantations, rolling hills, and picturesque villages. Along the way, you will make several stopovers, including one at the mysterious Nakayima tree, a significant cultural and historical site. You will also stop for lunch in Fort Portal Town, a charming town known for its stunning scenery and friendly locals. Upon arrival at Kibale Forest National Park, you will check into your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Primate Lodge or Kyaninga Lodge
- Midrange: Kibale Forest Camp, Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse, or Chimps Nest
- Budget: Rwenzori View Guesthouse or Nyinabulitwa Country Resort and Safari Camp
Day 3: Chimpanzee Tracking and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Today is an exciting day as you will have the opportunity to track chimpanzees in Kibale Forest National Park. After an early breakfast, you will head to Kanyanchu Visitor Center for a briefing on chimpanzee tracking. Equipped with your trekking gear, you will embark on a guided walk through the forest, led by experienced rangers. The walk may take between one to three hours, depending on the location of the chimpanzees. Once you find the chimpanzees, you will spend an hour observing these fascinating primates in their natural habitat. After the trek, you will return to the lodge for lunch.
In the afternoon, you will check out of the lodge and transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park. The drive offers more stunning views of Uganda’s landscapes as you make your way to the park. Upon arrival, you will check into your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
- Meal Plan: Full-board
- Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge or Katara Lodge
- Midrange: Ihamba Safari Lodge or Kasenyi Safari Camp
- Budget: Simba Safari Lodge
Day 4: Game Drive and Boat Cruise
Arise to the sweet melodies of the African wilderness and enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading out for an early morning game drive. Queen Elizabeth National Park is teeming with wildlife, and you will have the chance to see animals such as Uganda kobs, lions, leopards, buffaloes, topis, elephants, and warthogs. The game drive also includes exploring some of the park’s crater lakes and spotting a variety of bird species that call the park home. After the game drive, you will return to the lodge for lunch.
In the afternoon, you will embark on a relaxing boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel. This boat cruise offers a unique perspective of the park’s wildlife as you glide along the water, observing animals such as Nile crocodiles and hippos lounging on the banks. You will also see a variety of aquatic birds, including African fish eagles and pelicans. After the boat cruise, you will return to the lodge to relax, have dinner, and overnight.
- Meal Plan: Full-board
- Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge or Katara Lodge
- Midrange: Ihamba Safari Lodge or Kasenyi Safari Camp
- Budget: Simba Safari Lodge
Day 5: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After breakfast, you will check out of the lodge and start your journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. This drive takes you through the beautiful Kigezi Highlands, also known as the “Switzerland of Africa” due to their stunning scenery. You will have lunch en route at Savannah Resort in Kihihi before continuing to Bwindi. Upon arrival in the evening, you will check into your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Buhoma Lodge or Mahogany Springs Camp
- Midrange: Silverback Lodge, Lake Kitandara Bwindi Camp, or Engagi Lodge
- Budget: Buhoma Community Rest Camp or Bwindi View Bandas
Day 6: Gorilla Trekking
Today is the highlight of your Uganda safari as you will have the opportunity to trek mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. After an early breakfast, you will head to the briefing point where you will meet your fellow trekkers and guides. The guides will provide a detailed briefing on the guidelines and safety measures for gorilla trekking.
You will then be driven to the trailhead, where your adventure begins. The trek can take anywhere from one to four hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family you are tracking. Once you find the gorillas, you will spend one magical hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat. It is a truly awe-inspiring experience to watch the gorillas interact, play, and go about their daily activities.
After the trek, you will return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. If you have the energy, you can opt for an evening walk or simply unwind at the lodge.
- Meal Plan: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Accommodation Options:
- Luxury: Buhoma Lodge or Mahogany Springs Camp
- Midrange: Silverback Lodge, Lake Kitandara Bwindi Camp, or Engagi Lodge
- Budget: Buhoma Community Rest Camp or Bwindi View Bandas
Day 7: Transfer to Kampala
After breakfast, you will pack your belongings and check out of the lodge. You will then be transferred back to Kampala, enjoying the scenic views along the way. This marks the end of your 7-day Uganda safari, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Uganda’s incredible wildlife and landscapes.
Inclusions
- Gorilla permit
- Chimpanzee permit
- Park entrance fees
- Ranger fees
- Full-time English-speaking guide
- Accommodation for 6 nights (1 night in Kampala, 1 night in Kibale Forest National Park, 2 nights in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and 2 nights in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park)
- Meals as per the meal plan
- Transportation in a customized 4WD vehicle
- Bottled water
- Boat cruise
- Cultural tour
- Activities as per the itinerary
Exclusions
- Personal expenses (drinks, tips, souvenirs, laundry, telephone bills)
- Insurance
- Visa fees
- Air ticket
Guidelines for Trekking Mountain Gorillas and Chimpanzees
To ensure the safety and well-being of both the visitors and the primates, it is important to follow certain guidelines while trekking mountain gorillas and chimpanzees:
- Health Precautions: Do not participate in the trek if you have flu or cough, as gorillas and chimpanzees are susceptible to human diseases.
- Minimum Age: The minimum age for trekking is 15 years.
- Maintain Distance: Keep a minimum distance of 7 meters from the gorillas and chimpanzees to avoid transmitting diseases.
- Time Limit: You are allowed to spend only one hour with the gorillas or chimpanzees to minimize their exposure to human presence.
- Noise Control: Avoid making loud noises or sudden movements that might disturb the animals.
- No Littering: Do not leave any litter in the park. Always carry your trash out with you.
- Photography: Use non-flash photography to avoid startling the animals.
What to Carry
When preparing for your safari and trekking experiences, it is important to pack appropriately to ensure your comfort and safety. Here are some essential items to carry:
- Clothing:
- 3-4 long-sleeved shirts to protect against insects and vegetation.
- 2-3 pairs of safari pants for trekking and game drives.
- Short-sleeved shirts for warm weather.
- A pair of shorts for casual wear.
- Gardening gloves to protect your hands during trekking.
- Strong waterproof hiking boots for navigating uneven terrain.
- A wide-brimmed hat to shield yourself from the sun.
- Sunglasses to protect your eyes.
- A sweater for cooler evenings.
- A rain jacket for unpredictable weather.
- Cotton socks for comfort.
- Toiletries and First Aid:
- Insect repellent to protect against mosquito bites.
- Personal toiletries such as toothpaste, toothbrush, and soap.
- A basic first aid kit for minor injuries.
- Any necessary prescription medications.
- Additional Items:
- Pajamas for sleeping.
- A swimsuit for swimming if your lodge has a pool.
- A good quality camera with extra batteries and memory cards for capturing your safari moments.
- Binoculars for bird watching and game viewing.
- A flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries.
- A daypack to carry your essentials during treks and game drives.
Tips for an Enjoyable Safari Experience
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during trekking and game drives.
- Respect Wildlife: Always respect the wildlife and follow your guide’s instructions to ensure your safety and the animals’ well-being.
- Be Patient: Wildlife sightings can be unpredictable, so be patient and enjoy the natural beauty of the parks.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for outdoor activities.
- Pack Light: Pack only the essentials to make your travels more comfortable and manageable.
- Follow Park Rules: Adhere to the rules and regulations of the national parks to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Additional Activities and Attractions
While the main focus of this 7-day safari is on chimpanzee tracking, game viewing, and gorilla trekking, there are several other activities and attractions that you can enjoy during your visit to Uganda:
- Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary: Located near Kibale Forest National Park, the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary is a community-based conservation area known for its rich biodiversity. You can take a guided walk through the wetlands to spot various bird species, monkeys, and other wildlife.
- Cultural Encounters: Uganda is home to diverse cultures and traditions. You can visit local communities to learn about their way of life, traditional dances, and crafts. The Batwa Pygmy community near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers a fascinating cultural experience.
- Hot Springs in Semuliki National Park: If you have extra time, you can visit Semuliki National Park to see the Sempaya Hot Springs. These hot springs are a geological wonder and a popular attraction in the park.
- Rwenzori Mountains: Known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” the Rwenzori Mountains offer stunning scenery and trekking opportunities for adventure enthusiasts. While climbing to the peaks requires significant time and preparation, shorter hikes can also be arranged.
- Lake Bunyonyi: After your gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi, you can relax at Lake Bunyonyi, one of Uganda’s most beautiful lakes. The lake is dotted with islands and offers activities such as swimming, canoeing, and bird watching.
- Tea Plantation Tours: During your transfer to Kibale Forest National Park, you can visit tea plantations to learn about the tea production process and enjoy the scenic views of the rolling tea fields.
Final Thoughts
A 7-day Uganda safari with Adventure Uganda Safaris is an unforgettable journey that offers a perfect blend of wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and breathtaking landscapes. From tracking chimpanzees in Kibale Forest National Park to game viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park and trekking mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, this safari promises an adventure of a lifetime.
Uganda, often referred to as the “Pearl of Africa,” boasts incredible biodiversity, stunning scenery, and warm hospitality. As you embark on this safari, you will create lasting memories and gain a deeper appreciation for Uganda’s natural beauty and wildlife conservation efforts.
By following the guidelines, packing appropriately, and respecting the wildlife and local communities, you will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first-time safari-goer, this 7-day adventure will leave you with cherished memories and a desire to return to this remarkable destination.
Book your 7-day Uganda safari with Adventure Uganda Safaris today and embark on a journey that will take you closer to nature, wildlife, and the rich cultural heritage of Uganda.