8 Days Uganda Safari
8 Days Uganda Safari: Gorillas, Chimpanzees and Big Game
An 8 days Uganda safari gives you the highlights of Uganda with room to breathe. First, you track chimpanzees in Kibale Forest. Then you search for lions and elephants in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Finally, you trek mountain gorillas in Bwindi, and you return via Lake Mburo instead of one punishing drive.
This 8-day Uganda safari suits first-time visitors, couples and families. In fact, the extra day makes a big difference. Because the return trip is split in two, you arrive home rested and not drained.
8 Days Uganda Safari at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Duration | 8 days, 7 nights |
| Parks visited | Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi and Lake Mburo |
| Start and end | Entebbe |
| Transport | 4×4 safari vehicle with a driver-guide |
| Accommodation | Mid-range or luxury lodges and camps |
| Meals | Full board on safari days |
| Price | From about $2,700 per person, depending on lodge level and season |
| Best for | First-time visitors, couples and families |
Why Choose an 8-Day Uganda Safari?
Many one-week safaris end with a very long drive from Bwindi. As a result, travelers often feel exhausted at the end. An 8 days Uganda safari solves this problem with one extra day.
In addition, Lake Mburo is a gentle finish. You can walk among zebras and cruise the lake after the demanding gorilla trek. Therefore, the trip ends on a relaxed note.
Here is what makes this route special.
- Chimpanzees: track a wild chimp group in Kibale Forest.
- Big game: Queen Elizabeth offers elephants, buffaloes, hippos and lions.
- Gorillas: spend one hour with a gorilla family in Bwindi.
- A softer return: Lake Mburo splits the long drive back to Entebbe.
Moreover, the route is easy to follow. However, you can still extend it if you want more time.
8 Days Uganda Safari Route and Travel Times
First, this table shows your trip at a glance. It assumes a morning arrival in Entebbe. Please note that drive times are approximate, because traffic and road works vary.
| Day | Route | Travel time | Meals | Overnight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Entebbe to Kibale | 5 to 6 hours by road | Lunch, dinner | Kibale |
| 2 | Chimp tracking and Bigodi walk | Short local transfers | Breakfast, lunch, dinner | Kibale |
| 3 | Kibale to Queen Elizabeth | 2.5 to 3 hours by road | Breakfast, lunch, dinner | Queen Elizabeth |
| 4 | Kazinga cruise and game drive | Local game drives | Breakfast, lunch, dinner | Queen Elizabeth |
| 5 | Queen Elizabeth to Bwindi | 5 to 6 hours by road | Breakfast, lunch, dinner | Bwindi |
| 6 | Gorilla trekking | Short transfer to the trailhead | Breakfast, packed lunch, dinner | Bwindi |
| 7 | Bwindi to Lake Mburo | 5 to 6 hours by road | Breakfast, lunch, dinner | Lake Mburo |
| 8 | Lake Mburo to Entebbe | 4 to 5 hours by road | Breakfast, lunch | Departure |
8 Days Uganda Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Entebbe to Kibale Forest
Travel time: 5 to 6 hours by road. Meals: Lunch and dinner.
First, your driver-guide meets you at Entebbe International Airport. Then you set off west toward Kibale National Park, the primate capital of the world. Along the way, tea estates and rolling hills fill the view.
After a lunch stop, the road reaches the green hills near Fort Portal. By evening, you arrive at your lodge. Because tomorrow starts early, rest well.
Mid-range stay: Kibale Cottages
Luxury stay: Primate Lodge Kibale
Day 2: Chimpanzee Tracking and Bigodi Wetland Walk
Travel time: Short local transfers. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
After a ranger briefing, you step into Kibale Forest to find a chimpanzee group. The forest shelters 13 primate species, so monkeys and birds often join the show. Because chimps move fast, the search is thrilling.
Later in the day, visit the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary. Once there, a local guide leads you along the swamp trail. Also look out for colorful birds and butterflies.
Stay: Same lodge as Day 1.
Day 3: Kibale to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Travel time: 2.5 to 3 hours by road. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Today you drive south toward Queen Elizabeth National Park. The route passes deep crater lakes, so stop for photos on the way. After lunch, join an afternoon game drive. In fact, the late light makes the plains glow.
Mid-range stay: Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge
Luxury stay: Mweya Safari Lodge
Day 4: Kazinga Channel Cruise and Game Drive
Travel time: Local game drives. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Start with a sunrise game drive across the savannah. Elephants, buffaloes and kobs graze in the soft light, and lions sometimes appear. In fact, early morning is the best time for big cats.
After lunch, board a boat on the Kazinga Channel. This waterway is 32 kilometers long. Hippos wallow in the shallows, and crocodiles bask on the banks. In addition, elephants often come down to drink.
Stay: Same lodge as Day 3.
Day 5: Queen Elizabeth to Bwindi
Travel time: 5 to 6 hours by road, including the Ishasha route. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
After breakfast, head south through the Ishasha Sector. Here lions are famous for resting in fig trees, so scan the branches as you drive. Then the road climbs into the terraced hills of Kigezi.
By late afternoon, you reach Bwindi. Meanwhile, your guide checks your gear for tomorrow’s trek.
Mid-range stay: Gorilla Mist Camp
Luxury stay: Buhoma Lodge
Day 6: Mountain Gorilla Trekking
Travel time: Short transfer to the trailhead. Meals: Breakfast, packed lunch and dinner.
This is the highlight of your 8-day Uganda safari. After a briefing, trackers lead you into the forest to find a gorilla family. The hike may be short or long. Either way, the moment you see the gorillas is unforgettable.
You then spend one hour with them. You watch them feed, rest and play. Later, you can visit the Batwa community. However, this visit is optional.
Stay: Same lodge as Day 5.
Day 7: Bwindi to Lake Mburo
Travel time: 5 to 6 hours by road. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.
After breakfast, drive north-east through Kabale and Mbarara. The landscape changes from steep hills to open savannah. By afternoon, you reach Lake Mburo National Park.
Later, join a boat trip on the lake or a guided walking safari. Because Lake Mburo allows walking, you can see zebras and impalas up close.
Mid-range stay: Rwakobo Rock Lodge
Luxury stay: Mihingo Lodge
Day 8: Lake Mburo to Entebbe
Travel time: 4 to 5 hours by road. Meals: Breakfast and lunch.
Start with a short morning game drive or walk. Then begin the drive east. On the way, you cross the Equator and stop at the Kayabwe monument for photos.
By mid-afternoon, you reach Entebbe. Because the drive takes about four to five hours, please book an evening flight.
What Makes the Return via Lake Mburo Better?
A direct drive from Bwindi to Entebbe takes about 9 to 10 hours. In contrast, this route splits the journey into two shorter days. As a result, you travel in comfort and see more wildlife.
- Day 7: Bwindi to Lake Mburo, with a boat trip or walk in the afternoon.
- Day 8: Lake Mburo to Entebbe, with an Equator photo stop.
Moreover, Lake Mburo offers a different kind of safari. Therefore, you add zebras, impalas and walking safaris to your trip.
Where You Will Stay on an 8-Day Uganda Safari
Overall, your lodge is more than a bed. After a long day, it is where you rest, eat and share stories. Here is how the two levels compare.
| Area | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|
| Kibale | Kibale Cottages | Primate Lodge Kibale |
| Queen Elizabeth | Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge | Mweya Safari Lodge |
| Bwindi | Gorilla Mist Camp | Buhoma Lodge |
| Lake Mburo | Rwakobo Rock Lodge | Mihingo Lodge |
Mid-range lodges and camps offer comfortable rooms or tents with private bathrooms. They also serve good food and have friendly service.
Luxury lodges and camps offer spacious suites, fine dining and excellent views. Therefore, they suit honeymooners and special occasions.
Lodges near Bwindi sell out early. For this reason, book your 8 days Uganda safari well ahead for the dry months.
Meals on Your 8 Days Uganda Safari
Good food keeps you strong on a busy trip. For this reason, your lodge serves three meals a day on safari days.
- Breakfast: hot or continental, often before the morning activity.
- Lunch: a lodge lunch, a picnic or a packed lunch on trek day.
- Dinner: a multi-course meal, often with local dishes.
Please tell us about any dietary needs when you book. Most lodges can then adapt meals with notice. Drinking water is also provided in the vehicle.
Travel Time on an 8-Day Uganda Safari
Overall, this trip has several longer drives. However, rest days and the Lake Mburo stop balance them. For this reason, we plan early starts on the long driving days.
- Entebbe to Kibale: 5 to 6 hours.
- Kibale to Queen Elizabeth: 2.5 to 3 hours.
- Queen Elizabeth to Bwindi: 5 to 6 hours.
- Bwindi to Lake Mburo: 5 to 6 hours.
- Lake Mburo to Entebbe: 4 to 5 hours.
Your driver-guide stops often for photos, meals and breaks. As a result, the drives feel like part of the safari.
How Much Does an 8 Days Uganda Safari Cost?
An 8 days Uganda safari costs from about $2,700 to $7,200 per person. The table shows typical prices for two travelers sharing a room. In short, your final cost is set by the choices that follow.
| Lodge level | Low season (March to May, November) | High season (June to October, Christmas) |
|---|---|---|
| Mid-range | $2,700 to $3,300 per person | $3,200 to $4,000 per person |
| Luxury | $4,600 to $5,600 per person | $5,600 to $7,200 per person |
These prices usually cover lodges, meals, park fees, gorilla and chimp permits, the 4×4 vehicle and a driver-guide. Meanwhile, solo travelers pay a single supplement. However, larger groups often pay less per person, because they share vehicle costs.
- Lodge level: mid-range or luxury.
- Group size: larger groups share vehicle costs.
- Season: July to October and the Christmas period are the busiest and costliest.
- Add-ons: a night in Entebbe, the Batwa visit and a fly-in option.
Gorilla permits and park fees are large parts of the cost. However, these fees change from time to time. Therefore, ask us for the current rates when you request a quote.
What Is Included in an 8-Day Uganda Safari
Usually included
- Airport pickup and drop-off.
- A 4×4 safari vehicle with a professional driver-guide.
- Accommodation and meals as listed.
- Gorilla and chimpanzee permits as listed.
- Park entry fees and the Kazinga Channel cruise.
- Drinking water during the trip.
Usually not included
- International flights.
- Visa fees and travel insurance.
- Tips and personal items.
- Optional activities such as the Batwa visit.
Inclusions depend on the package you choose. However, we confirm every detail in writing before you pay.
Best Time for an 8-Day Uganda Safari
Overall, you can travel all year. However, some months suit this route better.
| Month | Conditions | What it means for you |
|---|---|---|
| December to February | Dry and warm | Great for treks and game drives |
| March to May | Long rains | Green scenery, fewer visitors, muddy trails |
| June to September | Driest season | Peak season, best trail conditions |
| October to November | Short rains | Lush forests, good birding |
The dry months are the easiest for gorilla trekking and game drives. Because trails are drier, hikes are easier. On the other hand, the green season has its own charm, with fewer visitors and lower prices.
Wildlife on an 8-Day Uganda Safari
This 8 days Uganda safari covers four different habitats. As a result, you see a wide range of animals.
Kibale National Park
Kibale has one of the highest primate counts in Africa. Chimpanzees are the stars. In addition, you may spot red colobus and black-and-white colobus monkeys.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth offers classic savannah wildlife. Expect elephants, buffaloes, hippos and warthogs. Also, lions are possible on game drives. In the Ishasha Sector, they sometimes rest in fig trees.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi protects around half of the world’s mountain gorillas. The dense forest also shelters other primates, forest birds and butterflies.
Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo is home to zebras, impalas and elands. In fact, it also holds many birds and hippos on the lake.
Who Is an 8-Day Uganda Safari For?
This 8-day Uganda safari works well for many travelers. For example, couples enjoy the lodges and sunset game drives. Families with older children also enjoy the variety. Finally, first-time visitors get a strong taste of Uganda.
It is also a strong choice for travelers who dislike very long drives. Because the route splits the return, you travel more comfortably. If you want more time, we can add Murchison Falls or Lake Bunyonyi.
What to Pack for Uganda
Good packing makes every day of your 8 days Uganda safari easier. First, choose light, quick-dry clothing in neutral colors. Next, bring a warm layer for cool forest mornings. Also pack sturdy boots, gardening gloves and a rain jacket for gorilla trekking. A camera with a zoom lens and binoculars are useful, too. Finally, keep your bag soft and light.
Visas, Health and Safety
In general, most visitors need a visa to enter Uganda. Fortunately, you can usually apply online before you travel. Please check the latest rules for your passport on the official immigration website. Also, make sure your passport has enough validity and blank pages.
- Carry a yellow fever vaccination certificate.
- Ask your doctor about malaria tablets.
- Take out travel insurance that covers medical care.
- Do not trek if you feel ill. Gorillas can catch human illnesses.
Overall, Uganda is a welcoming country, and an 8 days Uganda safari is generally safe. Moreover, your driver-guide knows the roads and the rules of each park.
Tips for Your 8 Days Uganda Safari
- Book early. Gorilla permits sell out in busy months.
- Pack layers. Mornings are cool, and afternoons are warm.
- Bring sturdy boots, long trousers and a rain jacket.
- Carry insect repellent and a hat.
- Keep cash for tips and small purchases.
- Book an evening flight home for Day 8.
Ways to Extend Your 8-Day Uganda Safari
Eight days is a good trip. However, some travelers want more. Here are popular add-ons.
- Murchison Falls National Park: add big game and the falls.
- Lake Bunyonyi: relax on a calm, scenic lake after the trek.
- Jinja: see the Source of the Nile and try rafting.
- Semuliki National Park: add Congo Basin birds and hot springs.
- Rwanda: cross the border for a second gorilla trek.
Ask us about a custom plan. We can then add days at either end of your trip.
Why Book With Steady Safaris?
Steady Safaris Limited is a Uganda-based tour operator. Also, we plan trips across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania. Our team knows the region well and plans every 8 days Uganda safari with care.
First, we keep groups small and plans flexible. In addition, we answer messages quickly. As a result, you get one clear price and a clear itinerary.
Want a different length? Explore our 7-day, 10-day and 12-day Uganda safaris. Alternatively, ask us to build a custom plan.
8 Days Uganda Safari FAQs
How much is an 8 days Uganda safari?
Prices start from about $2,700 per person for mid-range and about $4,600 for luxury, with two travelers sharing. Prices rise in the peak months. Therefore, please contact us for a clear quote.
Which parks does the 8-day Uganda safari visit?
It visits Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi and Lake Mburo. It starts and ends in Entebbe.
Does the 8 days Uganda safari include gorilla trekking?
Yes. You trek mountain gorillas on day 6. As a result, you spend one hour with a gorilla family.
Why return via Lake Mburo?
It splits the long drive from Bwindi into two shorter days. In addition, it adds a different safari experience at the end.
How long are the drives on this safari?
The longest drives are Entebbe to Kibale, Queen Elizabeth to Bwindi and Bwindi to Lake Mburo. They take 5 to 6 hours each. Meanwhile, your driver-guide makes regular stops.
Are meals included on the 8 days Uganda safari?
Yes. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included on safari days. Please tell us about any dietary needs when you book.
When is the best time to go?
June to September and December to February are the driest months. Meanwhile, the green season has fewer visitors.
How fit do I need to be?
Gorilla and chimp treks involve hiking in hills. However, moderate fitness is enough. Please tell us about any concerns, and we will then adjust the plan.
Plan Your 8-Day Uganda Safari
Ready to see gorillas, chimps and big game in eight days? Contact Steady Safaris today. Then tell us your dates and group size. We will send a clear quote within a day.
