9 Days Uganda Safari

9 Days Uganda Safari

The unforgetable 9 Days Uganda Safari adventure

9 Days Uganda safari trip takes the traveller through this genuinely spectacular country. Below is an itinerary that showcases Uganda’s great apes, from walking with chimpanzees the entire day to seeing the impressive mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.

Kibale forest exploration

The Uganda safari will start in Entebbe and transfer to Fort Portal through Mubende. On arrival in Kibale, you will check in at the Primate Lodge, located in the heart of the Kibale forest.

9 Days Uganda Safari

The next day will be your introduction to Uganda’s wild array of wildlife, with a morning of tracking the chimpanzees and primates crashing through the high canopy of the forests. Then, listen to the sounds of the colourful birds in the trees while you enjoy lunch in the woods.

In the afternoon, you will walk in Bigodi Village to see the swamp birds and visit the community projects. Tourists will then spend one more night at Ndali Lodge.

Travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park

The following day, you can walk in the stunning foothills of the Rwenzoris, one of the world’s most excellent mountain ranges. Also, you can head directly to Queen Elizabeth National Park, where Kasenyi plains are good for lion sightings.

While the Mweya Peninsula has a variety of animals. You will spend the next two nights at Volcanoes Kyambura Gorge Lodge, a luxury safari lodge offering a contemporary space in the wilderness.
Head to Kyambura Gorge to track the fast-moving and elusive chimpanzees.

The chimpanzee population is mobile, and viewing can be unpredictable, but the walk-in is an enchanting experience. In addition, you have the alternative option of taking a nature walk in Maramagambo Forest to see other primates and visit the bat cave and blue lake.

In the afternoon, take a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, where wildlife and many birds come to drink.

Gorilla Tracking

We travel by road to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. En route, you can drive through Ishasha, home of the tree-climbing lion or take an alternative way through the cultivated expanses. Finally, arrive at Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge, a stunning eco-lodge overlooking the Bwindi forest and enveloped in the sounds of nearby wildlife.

Finally, you will experience the arguable highlight of a trip to Uganda with a day of gorilla tracking. Walk up steep, densely forested hills before coming across the gorillas camouflaged in the vegetation. Indeed, it was an inspiring moment!

The brief Itinerary

Day 1 Entebbe
Day 2 Uganda safari heads to Kibale Forest National Park
Day 3 Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary Walk
Day 4 & 5 Queen Elizabeth National Park
Day 6 Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
Day 7 Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
Day 8 Kampala
Day 9 Uganda safari holiday ends – Back home.

Detailed Safari Itinerary

Day 1 Entebbe

Overnight flight to Entebbe arrival meet and greet, assist transfer to the hotel.

Day 2 Uganda safari heads to Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale Forest National Park has a rich biodiversity and, in particular, its population of chimpanzees. If you’re planning to drive to Kibale Forest National Park, here are some general directions and information to help you get there:

Starting Point: The starting point of your journey will be Kampala, the capital of Uganda. You can use that as your reference point.

Distance and Duration: The distance from Kampala to Kibale Forest National Park is approximately 320-370 kilometres (200-230 miles), and the drive can take around 6-8 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.

Road Conditions: It’s advisable to check the road conditions and consider using a sturdy vehicle, especially during the rainy season when some roads can become quite challenging.

Accommodation: There are several lodges and accommodations in and around Kibale Forest National Park, so it’s a good idea to book your accommodation in advance.

Chimpanzee Tracking: If you want to see chimpanzees in Kibale Forest, you may need to book a guided chimpanzee tracking tour.

Weather: Be prepared for varying weather conditions. Kibale Forest National Park is a rainforest so it can be wet and humid. Pack appropriate clothing and gear.

Wildlife and Nature: While visiting the park, you’ll have the opportunity to see a wide range of wildlife, including not only chimpanzees but also other primates, birds, and diverse plant species. Respect the park rules and guidelines for a safe and responsible visit.

Overnight at Primate Lodge.

Day 3 Bigodi Swamp Walk

Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest in the morning and a Bigodi Swamp walk in the afternoon a fantastic ways to explore the natural beauty and wildlife of Uganda. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect:

Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest (Morning):

Kibale Forest National Park is one of the best places in the world to track and observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat.

The tracking experience typically begins early in the morning as chimpanzees are most active.

You’ll be accompanied by experienced guides and trackers who will help you locate the chimpanzee groups within the forest.

Once you find a group of chimpanzees, you’ll have the opportunity to observe them from a safe distance, learn about their behaviour, and take photographs.

It’s important to follow the park’s guidelines to minimize disturbance to the chimpanzees and their environment.

Bigodi Swamp Walk (Afternoon):

After your morning chimpanzee tracking adventure, you can visit the nearby Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary in the afternoon.

The Bigodi Swamp walk offers a contrasting experience to the dense forest. It’s a guided walk through a wetland area, offering excellent opportunities for bird watching and wildlife viewing.

The wetland is home to various bird species, including the great blue turaco and other water-loving birds.

You can also spot other wildlife like monkeys, butterflies, and various plant species during the swamp walk.

The local guides in Bigodi are knowledgeable about the area’s flora and fauna and can provide interesting insights during the walk.

Please note that it’s essential to respect the guidelines and regulations set by the park authorities and your guides to ensure the safety of both visitors and wildlife. Additionally, it’s a good idea to check for any updates or changes in the schedule, as conditions may vary depending on the time of year and other factors. Enjoy your adventure in Kibale Forest and Bigodi Swamp!

Overnight at Primate Lodge.

Day 4 & 5 Queen Elizabeth National Park

Ihamba Safari Lodge is in Uganda, near the Queen Elizabeth National Park. Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most famous and diverse national parks, known for its incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes. Here is some information about Queen Elizabeth National Park and what you can explore from Ihamba Safari Lodge:

Wildlife Viewing: Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles, and numerous antelope species. The park is also renowned for its tree-climbing lions found in the Ishasha sector. You can embark on game drives or safari walks within the park to see these animals up close.

Boat Safaris: The Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake George and Lake Edward, is a highlight of the park. You can take a boat safari on the channel to see an abundance of hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. It’s a unique opportunity to observe wildlife from the water.

Bird Watching: Queen Elizabeth National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 600 bird species, including the African fish eagle, saddle-billed stork, and the rare shoebill stork. The Kazinga Channel and various wetlands in the park offer excellent birding opportunities.

Chimpanzee Tracking: In the Kyambura Gorge, you can go chimpanzee tracking. The gorge is home to a community of chimpanzees, and guided treks allow you to observe these primates in their natural habitat.

Ishasha Sector: As mentioned earlier, the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park is famous for its tree-climbing lions. This unique behaviour of the lions makes it a must-visit area for wildlife enthusiasts.

Cultural Encounters: Queen Elizabeth National Park is located in an area with a rich cultural heritage. You can arrange visits to local communities to learn about their traditions and way of life.

Scenic Landscapes: The park offers breathtaking landscapes, including savannahs, woodlands, wetlands, and the dramatic Rwenzori Mountains. The panoramic views from the Mweya Peninsula and the drive along the Crater Lakes are particularly noteworthy.

Ihamba Safari Lodge is ideally situated for exploring Queen Elizabeth National Park. The lodge typically offers comfortable accommodations, guided safaris, and other amenities to enhance your experience. You can relax and enjoy the stunning views of the park from the lodge while planning your wildlife adventures. Make sure to check for the most up-to-date information on activities and accommodations at Ihamba Safari Lodge, as offerings may change over time.

 Queen Elizabeth National Park. Overnight at Ihamba Safari Lodge.

Day 6 Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Queen Elizabeth National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park are two popular tourist destinations in Uganda. To travel from Queen Elizabeth National Park to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, you can follow these general steps:

Travel to the Nearest Town: Queen Elizabeth National Park is located in the western part of Uganda, while Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is also in the western region but a bit to the south. The nearest town to Bwindi is usually Kabale. You can start by travelling from Queen Elizabeth National Park to Kabale. The distance and travel time can vary depending on your specific location within Queen Elizabeth National Park, but it’s roughly a 2 to 4-hour drive.

Transportation: You can arrange transportation by hiring a private vehicle, using a tour operator, or taking public transportation (such as buses or shared taxis) to get to Kabale.

Kabale to Bwindi: From Kabale, you can continue your journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The drive from Kabale to the Bwindi area may take around 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on your destination within the park. The roads in this region can be rough and hilly, so be prepared for some challenging terrain.

Lodging: Once you arrive in the Bwindi area, you’ll need to arrange accommodation. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offers a range of lodges and camps to suit different budgets.

Gorilla Trekking: If you’re visiting Bwindi for the famous gorilla trekking experience, you’ll need to obtain the necessary permits in advance. These permits are limited and should be booked well ahead of time through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or a registered tour operator.

Exploring Bwindi: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is renowned for its lush rainforest, diverse wildlife, and, of course, its mountain gorillas. You can embark on guided treks, birdwatching, and explore the beautiful landscape during your stay.

Please note that road conditions and travel times can vary depending on the specific routes you take, the weather, and the mode of transportation you choose.

It’s essential to plan your trip, considering the specific activities you want to do in both Queen Elizabeth and Bwindi National Parks, as well as accommodations and permits for gorilla trekking, if that’s part of your plan.

Additionally, always check for the most up-to-date travel information and any local restrictions or requirements, as they can change over time.

Overnight at Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge.

Day 7 Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows you to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. Here’s what a typical day of gorilla trekking in Bwindi might look like:

Early Morning Preparation: Wake up early and have a hearty breakfast at your lodge or camp. It’s essential to have a good meal because trekking can be physically demanding.

Report to the Park Headquarters: Head to the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park headquarters. This is where you’ll meet your guides, receive a briefing, and be assigned to a specific gorilla family group. The briefing typically covers safety rules, gorilla behaviour, and what to expect during the trek.

Start the Trek: With your guide and a small group of trekkers, you’ll begin the trek into the dense forest. The duration of the trek can vary significantly, from a few hours to a full day, depending on the location of your assigned gorilla family. Bwindi’s terrain is hilly and challenging, so be prepared for some steep and sometimes muddy paths.

Gorilla Encounter: Once you locate your assigned gorilla family, you’ll spend up to one hour observing and photographing them from a safe and respectful distance. It’s an incredible opportunity to watch these amazing creatures in their natural habitat.

Return to the Lodge: After your gorilla encounter, you’ll trek back to the park headquarters. Follow your guide’s instructions and leave no trace in the forest.

Lunch and Relaxation: Back at your lodge or camp, enjoy a well-deserved lunch and some relaxation. Share stories and photos from your gorilla trek with fellow travellers.

Optional Activities: Depending on your energy and interests, you can choose to participate in other activities in the afternoon, such as guided nature walks, birdwatching, or visiting local communities to learn about the culture and traditions.

Dinner and Reflection: Have dinner at your accommodation while reflecting on your incredible gorilla trekking experience. It’s a time to savour the memories of the day.

Rest and Sleep: Get a good night’s sleep to recharge for another exciting day in Bwindi or your journey onward.

Please keep in mind that gorilla trekking permits are limited and should be booked well in advance. It’s also important to follow ethical guidelines during the trek to minimize disturbance to the gorillas and protect their natural habitat.

Additionally, ensure you have appropriate trekking gear, including sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, and a daypack with essentials like water, snacks, and a camera to capture the experience.

Always respect the park rules and your guide’s instructions to ensure a safe and memorable gorilla trekking adventure.

Overnight Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge.

Day 8 Kampala

Drive to Kampala. Overnight at the Sheraton Hotel end of 9 Days, eight nights Uganda safari trip.

Day 9 Uganda safari holiday ends – Back home.

Transfer to Entebbe Airport for the flight back home.

Best months to go (JAN, FEB, MAR, APR, MAY, JUN )

Good months to go (JUL, AUG, SEPT, OCT, NOV, DEC)

 Included in 9-Days Uganda safari trip.

1. All ground transportation

2. All accommodations, including breakfast (some hotels may include more meals & activities)

3. One gorilla trekking permit

4. Chimpanzee Habituation

5. All airport transfers

6. All guided tours are specified in the itinerary description

7. Full support from your Travel Concierge before, during, and after your trip

Not Included.

1. Flights

2. All drinks, beverages, alcohol, tea, coffee

3. Travel Insurance, visas to Uganda

4. Laundry services

5. Phone calls

6. Extra activities not listed on Itinerary

7. Extra meals

Terms and conditions

  1. At the moment of booking, a deposit of 40% of the total amount is due.
  2. You must book at least 60 days before the date of departure.
  3. Steady Safaris Ltd reserves the right not to accept bookings made less than 60 days before departure.
  4. Full payment has to be made not less than 30 days before the tour starts.
  5. If the total amount is not paid in due time, Steady Safaris Ltd will cancel the tour.
  6. Cancellations: 60 days before the departure date of the tour, a full refund of the deposit; between 60 and 30 days, a refund of 50% of the deposit; less than 30 days, no refund.
  7. Gorilla permits are non-refundable.

Notes for nine days Uganda safari tour

  1. Travellers should reach Entebbe before 8 a.m. on the tour starting day and leave from the same airport at 8 p.m. after the trip.
  2. Travellers should arrive one day earlier.
  3. Children under 12 years of age will not see chimpanzees.
  4. Kibale National Park offers small walks of 1 or 2 hours followed by creative activities.
  5. Gorilla trekking is not for anyone under 15 years of age.
  6. Prices for private safari.
  7. VAT included.
  8. Prices are in United States dollars (USD).
  9. Gorilla permits are available for booking at least three months before departure.

A 9-day Uganda safari offers the opportunity to explore the diverse and beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and cultures of this East African nation. However, like any travel experience, there are pros and cons to consider:

Pros:

  1. Rich Biodiversity: Uganda is known as the “Pearl of Africa” and is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino), as well as rare and unique species like the mountain gorilla.
  2. Gorilla Tracking: One of the major draws in Uganda is the chance to go gorilla tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which is a unique and unforgettable experience.
  3. Primate Encounters: Uganda is also home to other primates, including chimpanzees. Kibale Forest National Park is a great place for chimpanzee trekking.
  4. Scenic Landscapes: The country offers stunning scenery, with diverse landscapes that range from savannas and lakes to forests and mountains.
  5. Cultural Experience: You can interact with local communities, learn about their traditions, and experience Ugandan culture firsthand.
  6. Bird Watching: Uganda is a bird watcher’s paradise, with over 1,000 bird species, including the famous shoebill stork.
  7. Friendly People: Certainly, here’s the rewritten version: Discover the warm and welcoming nature of Uganda, a country renowned for the hospitality and friendliness of its people. Come and experience the authentic African culture firsthand and be embraced by the warmth of the local community.

  8. Relatively Safe: With lower crime rates and a reputation for safety, Uganda is an ideal destination for tourists looking for a peaceful and secure visit. Explore this beautiful African country with confidence!
  9. Affordable: Uganda is often more budget-friendly than other African safari destinations, making it accessible to a wider range of travellers.

Cons:

  1. Long Travel Times: Getting around Uganda’s attractions can be tiring due to their spread-out nature.
  2. Road Conditions: Some roads in Uganda are in poor condition, which can lead to bumpy and slow journeys, especially during the rainy season.
  3. Malaria Risk: Malaria is prevalent in Uganda, so you’ll need precautions and possibly malaria prophylaxis.
  4. Permit Costs: Gorilla and chimpanzee tracking permits can be expensive and need to be booked well in advance, and they are non-refundable.
  5. Limited Luxury Accommodation: While there are many lodges and camps, luxury options can be limited in certain areas.
  6. Cultural Differences: While the cultural experience can be a pro, it can also be a con for some travellers who are not prepared for cultural differences or have specific expectations.
  7. Language Barrier: English is the official language, but local languages are more commonly spoken in rural areas, which can make communication challenging in some instances.
  8. Health Concerns: Travelers might need vaccinations and should be prepared for potential health issues, like traveller’s diarrhoea.
  9. Environmental Impact: Safari tourism can put pressure on natural habitats and wildlife, so responsible and sustainable travel is essential.

Overall, a 9-day Uganda safari can be an incredible adventure for those who are prepared for the unique experiences. It’s important to plan and book well in advance and consider your personal preferences and comfort levels when making your decision to visit this diverse and fascinating country.