17-Day Complete Uganda Safari Experience

From
US $3987 Per Person

17-Day Complete Uganda Safari Experience

From
USD $ 3987
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Discover Uganda The pearl of Africa

Winston Churchill was so impressed with Uganda during his African journey from Mombasa to Khartoum that he called it the “Pearl of Africa.” Uganda is one of the most scenically diverse countries in Africa, and on this 17-day tour you will experience that diversity, from the remote north to the volcanoes of the south. In the national parks, you will search for lions, elephants, buffalo, leopards, hyenas, hippos, zebras, giraffes, and the unique Ugandan kob. 

This 17-day Uganda safari also takes you to meet chimpanzees and mountain gorillas in the high-altitude rainforests. Combined with friendly locals, all the ingredients are in place for an unforgettable journey through Uganda’s highlights. The accommodations are carefully selected for their location, small scale, and atmosphere. One highlight is the beautifully located Mutanda Lake Resort. From your veranda, you enjoy views over Lake Mutanda, with the seven volcanoes of the Virunga range rising in the background. 

Almost all excursions on this trip are included in the price. At Choose Uganda Safaris, we are always searching for innovative and original experiences. For travelers who want even more, our specialists are happy to suggest special add-on activities. These may include a boda boda tour in Karamoja, a night walk in Kibale Forest, lion GPS tracking in Queen Elizabeth National Park, or canoeing on Lake Mutanda.

Your Itinerary In Summary

  • Day 1: Welcome to the pearl of Africa!
  • Day 2: To the source of the Nile
  • Day 3: To the heavenly and little-visited Sipi Falls
  • Day 4: Full day in the Garden of Eden (Sipi Falls)
  • Day 5: Off the beaten track Karamoja
  • Day 6: Authentic culture of Karamojong tribe – To Kidepo Valley
  • Day 7: Safari in the Kidepo Valley National Park
  • Day 8: Across Northern Uganda to Murchison Falls
  • Day 9: Lions, elephants and hippos during the safaris
  • Day 10: Another day to enjoy Uganda’s most game-rich park
  • Day 11: Along tea fields, crater lakes and rainforests to Kibale Forest
  • Day 12: Looking for chimpanzees and other special apes
  • Day 13: Hippos and bathing elephants during the boat safari
  • Day 14: On to the fairytale lake of Mutanda
  • Day 15: The great gorilla trekking!
  • Day 16: Free day at the picturesque Lake Mutanda/Bwindi
  • Day 17: Domestic flight to Entebbe – Return home

Your itinerary Detail

Day 1: Welcome to the pearl of Africa!

Upon arrival, a driver guide will be waiting to take you to your first accommodation in Entebbe (15 minutes). Here, you can enjoy a drink under the African starry sky and a well-deserved night’s sleep.

Accommodation Options:

Simple: Airport Guesthouse (Bed & Breakfast)

Middle Class: The Boma Hotel Entebbe (Bed & Breakfast)

Semi-luxury: 2-Friend Beach Hotel (Bed & Breakfast)

Luxury: No.5 Boutique Hotel (Bed & Breakfast)

In the morning, you will meet your guide for a short briefing about your trip. After that, you drive east through colorful local markets and beautiful countryside to the historic town of Jinja. Just outside town, you will find several lodges with lovely views of the Nile. This is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery, but there is also plenty to do.

One overnight stay is planned in Jinja. This creates a relaxed and scenic start to your journey and breaks up the long drive from Entebbe to Sipi Falls. During your stay, you can enjoy horseback riding, rafting or tubing on the Nile, bungee jumping, or quad biking. If you would like to do more than one activity, or if you plan to go rafting (which takes a full day), we recommend adding an extra night.

Jinja

Jinja is a town in eastern Uganda, located on the shores of Lake Victoria. Before European explorers arrived, it was a small fishing village. In the 19th century, explorers searched for the source of the Nile, which was eventually identified here by John Hannington Speke. Today, Jinja is a popular stop for travelers, known for its tropical scenery and wide range of activities.

Jinja Excursions – (optional)

From your lodge, you have many options. Adventure lovers can enjoy rafting on the Nile, famous for its powerful rapids. Other activities include tubing, white-water canoeing, mountain biking, and quad biking. If you prefer a slower pace, you can take a scenic horseback ride along the river, join a village walk, or simply relax at the lodge with views over the Nile. All activities can be arranged through your guide or accommodation.

Accommodation Options:

Simple: Adrift River Camp (Full Board)

Middle Class: 2 Friends Guesthouse (Full Board)

Semi-luxury: The Haven Eco-River Lodge (Full Board)

Luxury: Wild Waters Lodge (Full Board)

In the morning, you can decide what you would like to do, together with your guide. You may stay in Jinja a bit longer and enjoy another activity before continuing your journey. After lunch, you drive toward Sipi Falls. The drive takes about three hours. Sipi Falls lies near the Ugandan–Kenyan border, at the foot of Mount Elgon. As you arrive, you will see waterfalls, clear streams, colorful flowers, and endless shades of green. It feels peaceful and untouched, like a place from another time.

Sipi Falls

The Sipi Falls area is made up of three beautiful waterfalls in eastern Uganda. The falls sit on the edge of Mount Elgon National Park, close to the border with Kenya. Both the river and the falls are named after the “Sep” plant, which grows along the riverbanks. Locals use this plant as traditional medicine to treat illnesses such as measles and flu. The area is known for its rolling coffee plantations, flowing streams, wild vegetation, and small traditional villages. Chameleons are often seen here, and the views stretch far across the Karamoja savannas.

Accommodation Options:

Simple: Sipi Valley Resort (Breakfast)

Middle Class: Sipi Heritage Lodge – Banda (Full Board)

Semi-luxury: Sipi Heritage Lodge – Waterfall Cottage (Full Board)

Luxury: Sipi Heritage Lodge – Waterfall Cottage (Full Board)

Today is all about enjoying the beauty of Sipi Falls. After breakfast, you head out with your guide for a hike through this green and peaceful area. Together, you can decide how long you would like to walk. If you choose the longer hike of about 6–7 hours, you will visit all three waterfalls. Along the way, you pass coffee and banana plantations, small local villages, and wide open views over the countryside. You may spot chameleons hiding in the plants. If you bring a swimsuit and towel, you can swim in a clear stream or even stand under a waterfall. Whatever route you choose, today feels like a day spent in paradise.

Sipi Falls Hike – Full Day

Accompanied by a local, English-speaking guide, you hike through the stunning Sipi Falls area. The trail leads you through lush landscapes with towering waterfalls, flowing streams, and colorful flowers. You will see daily village life and learn about coffee farming in the region. The views are breathtaking at every turn. During a full-day hike, you visit all three waterfalls and have plenty of time to relax and enjoy nature. A refreshing swim or a natural waterfall shower is a highlight for many visitors. A local Ugandan lunch is served along the way. If you prefer, a shorter hike can also be arranged with your guide.

Accommodation Options:

Simple: Sipi Valley Resort (Breakfast)

Middle Class: Sipi Heritage Lodge – Banda (Full Board)

Semi-luxury: Sipi Heritage Lodge – Waterfall Cottage (Full Board)

Luxury: Sipi Heritage Lodge – Waterfall Cottage (Full Board)

After breakfast, you travel to northeastern Uganda. Today, your adventure takes you far off the tourist trail. You arrive in the remote Karamoja region, one of Uganda’s least visited areas. You spend the night at a comfortable camp near the town of Moroto, set at the foot of Mount Moroto. This region is home to several ethnic groups, including the Karamojong, Tepeth, and Ik people. Life here moves at a slower pace and feels deeply connected to tradition. In the afternoon, you can visit a traditional Karamojong manyatta. If you prefer something more active, you can choose a hike on Mount Moroto instead.

Karamoja Region

Karamoja lies in northeastern Uganda and offers a truly unique cultural experience. The wide open plains, dramatic mountains, and strong traditions make this area special. The Karamojong people live here and share close cultural roots with the Maasai of Kenya and Tanzania. Tourism is still very limited in this region, which makes every visit feel authentic. Visiting Karamoja supports local communities and fits perfectly with responsible and sustainable travel.

Visit to a Manyatta

Accompanied by a local guide, you visit a traditional Bokora manyatta. From the moment you arrive, daily life unfolds around you. People milk animals, grind sorghum, shake yogurt, brew local beer, and build huts. You may be invited to join simple daily activities or traditional games. You might carry firewood or balance a calabash on your head. There is no fixed program. You experience village life as it happens. This creates a relaxed, genuine, and respectful cultural exchange.

Mount Moroto Hike (Optional)

In the morning, you can set out for a scenic hike on the lower slopes of Mount Moroto. The trail leads to a natural pool flowing down the steep ridge into the plains of Karamoja. From the start, you enjoy wide views over the valley below. Along the way, you pass several Tepeth manyattas and learn more about life in the mountains. The hike is about 10 km and begins near Moroto town. The path is steep in places and is considered moderately challenging, but the views make every step worthwhile.

Accommodation Options:

Simple: Karamoja Safari Camp (Full Board)

Middle Class: Karamoja Safari Camp (Full Board)

Semi-luxury: Karamoja Safari Camp (Full Board)

Luxury: Karamoja Safari Camp (Full Board)

In the morning, you can choose how to start your day. You may take an optional boda-boda tour or a mountain bike ride through the beautiful Karamoja region. This is one of the best ways to experience daily life and connect closely with local communities. You move at a slow pace and truly feel part of the landscape. If you prefer, you can also depart early and drive straight to Kidepo Valley National Park. This allows time for an extra game drive in the park later in the afternoon. The choice is completely yours.

The drive to Kidepo Valley National Park is among the most scenic in Uganda. The rugged terrain is filled with rocky kopjes, wide open plains, traditional villages, and manyattas. As you approach the park, the scenery becomes dramatic and wild. The landscape feels straight out of a Lion King movie. Spotting a lion resting on a rock makes the moment complete.

The Karamoja region is extremely diverse. It offers dramatic mountains, rich tribal traditions, and deep cultural experiences. There are few places in Africa where tribal life can still be experienced in such an authentic way. Travelers interested in culture or active adventures such as hiking or cycling are encouraged to spend several nights here.

Karamoja Mountain Bike Tour (Optional)

A mountain bike tour is a fantastic way to explore the wild and untouched landscapes of Karamoja. You ride along quiet colonial-era roads through open wilderness. The scenery is vast and beautiful. You can stop along the way to visit villages, meet nomadic warriors, and learn about the traditional pastoral lifestyle. This is an active and rewarding cultural experience.

Karamoja Boda-Boda Tour (Optional)

Traveling by boda-boda is another exciting way to explore Karamoja. You ride on the back of a motorbike through remote landscapes and quiet roads. You can stop whenever you wish and explore villages along the way. It is a fun and informal way to meet locals and gain insight into daily life in this remote region. A boda-boda is a local motorbike taxi. The name comes from “border to border,” as it was first used to transport people between border towns in Uganda and Kenya.

Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo Valley National Park is Uganda’s most remote national park. It lies in the far northeast, close to the borders of South Sudan and Kenya. The park is known for its wide savannas, rocky kopjes, and distant granite mountains. Wildlife roams freely in this vast landscape. With very few visitors, Kidepo offers a pure and exclusive safari experience and is one of Uganda’s true hidden treasures.

Accommodation Options:

Simple: Kidepo Savannah Lodge – Lazy Camping (Full Board)

Middle Class: Kidepo Savannah Lodge (Full Board)

Semi-luxury: Kidepo Savannah Lodge (Full Board)

Luxury: Apoka Safari Lodge (Full Board)

Today is all about an unforgettable safari in Kidepo Valley National Park. You will go on a morning game drive and another in the afternoon. Between safaris, enjoy lunch and relax at your accommodation. If you prefer, you can swap the afternoon game drive for a walking safari. You also have the option to spend the entire day in the park. In that case, arrange a packed lunch with your lodge.

Morning Game drive

Start early for a morning safari when the air is cool and animals are most active. Kidepo Valley’s rolling savannas, rocky kopjes, and distant granite mountains create a stunning backdrop. The park is home to unique wildlife not found anywhere else in Uganda, including bat-eared foxes, striped hyenas, aardwolves, caracals, cheetahs, and wild dogs. You will also see lions, leopards, elephants, and hundreds of bird species—over 460 in total! The morning is perfect for capturing your ultimate “Lion King” photo as predators patrol the rocks.

Afternoon Game Drive

In the afternoon, go on another safari when wildlife becomes active again after resting in the shade. Drive slowly through the park’s savannas and kopjes, spotting animals as the light softens. End your day with a campfire at your lodge, listening to the sounds of the African wilderness all around.

Walking Safari (Optional)

For a more intimate experience, take a walking safari. Accompanied by an armed ranger, you will wander through the savannas, along seasonal rivers, and among the borassus palms. Feel the sounds, smells, and energy of the bush as you track wildlife on foot. This is a rare chance to connect closely with Kidepo’s wild landscapes and animals.

Accommodation Options:

Simple: Kidepo Savannah Lodge – Lazy Camping (Full Board)

Middle Class: Kidepo Savannah Lodge (Full Board)

Semi-luxury: Kidepo Savannah Lodge (Full Board)

Luxury: Apoka Safari Lodge (Full Board)

Depart early for a long drive to Murchison Falls National Park. The first three hours of your journey offer stunning scenery, and the rest of the drive continues to impress with beautiful landscapes and villages along the way. If you stay overnight on the south bank of the Nile, the last hour of your drive through the park can be enjoyed with the roof open, giving you a chance to spot your first wild animals. In the late afternoon, arrive at your accommodation and relax while listening to the sounds of the bush and taking in the magnificent views. You will stay at Murchison Falls for the next three nights.

Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park is the largest game park in Uganda and is divided by the mighty Nile River. The landscape ranges from dense rainforest in the hilly southwest to wide, open savannas in the northwest. Thanks to the Nile, the park is one of the greenest in Africa. The highlight of the park is the spectacular Murchison Falls, where the Nile is forced through a narrow gorge before plunging 40 meters down, creating one of the most dramatic natural sights in the country.

Accommodation Options:

Simple: Fort Murchison Lodge – Lazy Camping (Full Board)

Middle Class: Murchison River Lodge – Safari Tent (Full Board)

Semi-luxury: Murchison River Lodge – Cottage (Full Board)

Luxury: Papa’s Camp (Full Board with drinks)

Today is fully dedicated to exploring the wildlife and natural beauty of Murchison Falls National Park. In the early morning, you’ll embark on a jeep safari, and in the afternoon, you’ll enjoy an exciting boat safari on the Nile. You’ll be on the lookout for hippos, crocodiles, waterbirds, and, with some luck, even elephants bathing along the riverbanks. At the end of the day, you will return to your accommodation for the night.

Murchison Falls Jeep Safari – Morning

The morning safari focuses on the area northwest of the Nile. The rolling green landscape is dotted with Borassus palms, whose fruits are a favorite of savanna elephants. Along the way, you’ll also see Rothschild giraffes, hippos, Nile crocodiles, buffalo, lions, leopards, various antelope species, and many tropical birds. After an early breakfast, you’ll drive toward the delta region for your safari. The sun is rising and the air is still cool, making it the perfect time to explore the savanna plains. Stop at the Nile, where hundreds of hippos can often be seen basking in the sun.

Boat Safari Murchison Falls – Afternoon

In the afternoon, you will slowly cruise down the Nile, keeping an eye out for crocodiles, hippos, buffalo, and monkeys. Waterfowl will be busy fishing, and elephants and other wildlife are often spotted drinking along the riverbanks. The boat trip ends at the base of the spectacular 40-meter-high Murchison Falls. The journey takes about three hours. For the best views, we recommend sitting on the left side of the boat.

Private Murchison Falls Boat Safari – Afternoon (optional)

If you have booked a private boat, you will enjoy a more intimate experience. A smaller boat allows you to get closer to the wildlife and set your own pace. You will still follow the same route, observing crocodiles, hippos, elephants, buffalo, monkeys, and waterbirds along the Nile, and end at the base of the 40-meter-high Murchison Falls. Sharing this exclusive experience with your own group makes it even more memorable.

Accommodation Options:

Simple: Fort Murchison Lodge – Lazy Camping (Full Board)

Middle Class: Murchison River Lodge – Safari Tent (Full Board)

Semi-luxury: Murchison River Lodge – Cottage (Full Board)

Luxury: Papa’s Camp (Full Board with drinks)

Today is dedicated to exploring more of Uganda’s wildlife-rich Murchison Falls National Park. In the morning, you’ll embark on a jeep safari. The afternoon is free to relax at your lodge and enjoy the swimming pool. If you prefer to stay active, you can opt for a second boat safari. This optional safari takes you through the beautiful delta region and offers a completely different landscape from the first boat trip. If you choose the morning boat safari, your jeep safari will be moved to the afternoon.

Murchison Falls Jeep Safari – Second Morning

After breakfast, you’ll head back into the park for another jeep safari. This ride explores different tracks, giving you a chance to see more wildlife. Your guide will focus on predators that may have been missed during the first safari, as well as additional animals in other areas of the park.

Delta Lake Albert Boat Safari – Morning (optional)

You can also take a boat safari through the park’s delta. The delta is where the Victoria Nile flows into Lake Albert and then into the Albert Nile. This area is similar to a miniature Okavango Delta and is alive with wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and elephants bathing along the banks. Birdwatchers will be thrilled with frequent sightings of saddle-billed storks, African giant kingfishers, and the prehistoric-looking shoebill.

Accommodation Options:

Simple: Fort Murchison Lodge – Lazy Camping (Full Board)

Middle Class: Murchison River Lodge – Safari Tent (Full Board)

Semi-luxury: Murchison River Lodge – Cottage (Full Board)

Luxury: Papa’s Camp (Full Board with drinks)

After breakfast, you’ll drive to the top of Murchison Falls for a short walk and stunning views. Then, continue south toward Kibale Forest. Along the way, you’ll pass small villages, lush rainforests, tea plantations, and crater lakes. On a clear day, the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains appear in the distance. Upon arrival at Kibale Forest, you enter a completely different world—a world full of playful monkeys and dense rainforest life.

Murchison Waterfall Walk – Morning

At the top of Murchison Falls, enjoy a guided walk to see the power of the Nile up close. The river crashes through a narrow chasm barely seven meters wide, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle. If time allows, you can walk a short distance down to view the falls from below, capturing the full force of the cascading water.

Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale Forest is one of Africa’s richest primate habitats. The primary rainforest is home to 13 species of primates, including red-tailed monkeys, black-and-white colobus, red colobus, diademed monkeys, mantled mangabeys, and bush babies. The park sits at an average elevation of 1,300 meters and is surrounded by tea plantations to the north and papyrus swamps to the south. The Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary nearby adds another layer of biodiversity, with unique bird species and swamp wildlife, making this a true paradise for nature and wildlife lovers.

Accommodation Options:

Simple: Kibale Forest Camp (Full Board)

Middle Class: Turaco Treetops – Standard Cottage (Full Board)

Semi-luxury: Turaco Treetops – Luxury Cottage (Full Board)

Luxury: Crater Safari Lodge (Full Board with drinks)

Today is fully dedicated to the amazing primates that inhabit Kibale Forest and the nearby wetlands. In the morning, you’ll go chimpanzee trekking, and in the afternoon, enjoy a walk through the Bigodi Wetlands. Between activities, there’s time for lunch and relaxation at your lodge.

The order of activities depends on the availability of chimpanzee permits. Sometimes the swamp walk is in the morning and chimp trekking in the afternoon.

Chimpanzee Trekking – Morning

Embark on an unforgettable chimpanzee trekking adventure. Your ranger will guide you through the forest, following clues like broken branches, footprints, droppings, and calls to find these playful and noisy primates. Encounters are never guaranteed, but seeing a chimpanzee up close—an animal so closely related to humans—is a truly fascinating experience.

Bigodi Swamp Walk – Afternoon

In the afternoon, explore the community-run Bigodi Wetlands on a guided walk. Here, you’ll spot several monkey species and enjoy the chance to see Uganda’s unique birds, including the striking giant turaco. The cooler afternoon hours are perfect for wildlife activity, making it easier to observe foraging monkeys and colorful birdlife in their natural habitat.

Accommodation Options:

Simple: Kibale Forest Camp (Full Board)

Middle Class: Turaco Treetops – Standard Cottage (Full Board)

Semi-luxury: Turaco Treetops – Luxury Cottage (Full Board)

Luxury: Crater Safari Lodge (Full Board with drinks)

After your stay in Kibale Forest, you’ll continue your journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Today’s drive takes you through rural Uganda, passing green hills dotted with tea plantations and crater lakes before reaching the dry savannah of Queen Elizabeth. Along the way, you’ll encounter roadside markets, giving a glimpse of local life. In the afternoon, you’ll experience one of Africa’s most spectacular boat safaris, cruising the Kazinga Channel and spotting hippos, elephants, and a variety of wildlife.

Please note: This trip includes a one-night stay in Queen Elizabeth National Park to cover four parks in total. Because there are many unique activities here, you can choose to add an extra night. Every trip is tailored to your preferences, ensuring you get the experience you want.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park covers nearly 2,000 km² in the Rift Valley, bordered to the north by the Rwenzori Mountains and to the west by Lake Edward. At the heart of the park is the Kazinga Channel, which connects Lakes Edward and George and is ideal for boat safaris. West of the channel, volcanic craters and the Kyambura Gap create a unique landscape of savannah and rainforest, home to chimpanzees. The park is rich in wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, topi, lions, leopards, hippos, crocodiles, and more than 600 bird species.

Queen Elizabeth Boat Safari – Afternoon

The Kazinga Channel teems with wildlife, making a boat safari here one of the highlights of any visit. You’ll see hundreds of hippos lounging in the water, crocodiles, and buffalo bathing along the banks. Keep your eyes open for elephants spraying water, and you’ll know your day has been unforgettable. Birdwatchers will also delight in the variety of species along the channel.

Private Queen Elizabeth Boat Safari – Afternoon (optional)

A private boat safari offers a closer, more personal experience. With a smaller boat, you get nearer to the wildlife, set your own pace, and share this incredible adventure exclusively with your group. Watching hippos, elephants, and birds without crowds around makes the experience even more magical.

Accommodation Options:

Simple:  Bush Lodge – Self-contained Tent (Full Board)

Middle Class: Bush Lodge – Banda (Full Board)

Semi-luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge – Safari Tent (Full Board)

Exclusive: Honey Bear Bush Camp(Full Board)

In the morning, you’ll leave the northern part of Queen Elizabeth National Park and drive for about two hours to the southern section, Ishasha. Here, you’ll enjoy a short 1.5-hour game drive in search of Ishasha’s famous tree-climbing lions. After the safari, you’ll continue towards Bwindi in southwestern Uganda. The drive is stunning, showcasing Uganda’s incredible diversity. You’ll pass rainforests, crater lakes, coffee plantations, and climb hills and mountains until you reach Bwindi or the volcanoes bordering the picturesque Lake Mutanda. The views along the way are unforgettable.

*Only the mid-range and semi-luxury accommodations include an overnight stay at Lake Mutanda (approximately a six-hour drive).

*Budget accommodations skip Lake Mutanda, heading directly to southern Bwindi (6-hour drive).

*Luxury accommodations spend the night on the northern side of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Buhoma, around a four-hour drive from Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Ishasha

The southern section of Queen Elizabeth National Park is Ishasha. Its remote location near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo ensures few visitors, enhancing the sense of wilderness. The savannahs are dotted with wild fig trees, favored by tree-climbing lions. The Ntungwe River flows through Ishasha, providing habitat for hippos and lush vegetation.

Game drive in Ishasha – Morning

On this safari, you’ll look for tree-climbing lions perched atop ancient fig trees. Ishasha also hosts buffalo, large herds of Ugandan kobs, and various antelope species. Hippos can be spotted in the Ntungwe River. The early morning is the best time for predator activity, so get ready for stunning wildlife encounters and amazing photos.

Predator Tracking Queen Elizabeth – Morning (optional)

For a unique experience, you can join a biologist on a predator-tracking safari. The biologist monitors the behavior and movements of lion prides and several leopards using radio collars. This allows you to see lions up close and learn about their habits from a scientific perspective. You’ll be allowed to venture off the roads and trails, enhancing your chances of spotting lions. Leopard sightings are not guaranteed. Income from this activity supports ongoing research.

Lake Mutanda

The enchanting Lake Mutanda lies in southwestern Uganda at the foot of the Virunga Volcanoes, which stretch across Uganda, Congo, and Rwanda. The surrounding rainforests are home to endangered mountain gorillas, making the area an ideal base for gorilla trekking in nearby Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The lake and its shores are rich in wildlife. You can spot kingfishers, gray crowned cranes, chameleons, otters, frogs, and lizards. The area also supports a wide variety of plants and bird species, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Lake Mutanda truly offers a magical setting and a perfect preview of your gorilla trekking adventure.

Accommodation Options:

Simple: Gorilla Valley Lodge (Full Board)

Middle Class: Mutanda Lake Resort – Standard Cottage (Full Board)

Semi-luxury: Mutanda Lake Resort– Luxury Cottage (Full Board)

Luxury:  Buhoma Lodge (Full Board)

In the morning, you’ll travel to Bwindi or Mgahinga National Park for one of the highlights of your trip: gorilla trekking. In the afternoon, you’ll experience this unforgettable encounter with the gentle giants of the forest. Even if you choose not to go gorilla trekking, there are plenty of other activities available in the area. These are described in Day 16.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, along with the Virunga Mountains in Rwanda, is the premier destination for gorilla trekking. This compact but biologically rich rainforest is home to nearly half of all mountain gorillas living in the wild. The park also hosts over 120 mammal species and 350 bird species, making it a haven for wildlife lovers.

Gorilla trekking Bwindi Forest (optional)

During gorilla trekking, you’ll move carefully through the dense forest, walking, crouching, and following the tracks of a mountain gorilla family. Guided by experienced rangers from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), you’ll look for signs such as dung, nests, broken bamboo stems, and footprints. Then comes the magical moment: coming face to face with a silverback, calmly observing his family—and perhaps you. This encounter is an experience you’ll never forget.

Gorilla habituation day Bwindi Forest (optional)

For a more intimate experience, you can join a gorilla habituation day. Accompanied by researchers, you’ll witness how a gorilla family is gradually accustomed to human presence. Unlike standard trekking, this excursion allows you to spend up to four hours with the gorillas. Groups are limited to four people, providing an exclusive, close-up glimpse into the lives of these incredible primates.

Accommodation Options:

Simple: Gorilla Valley Lodge (Full Board)

Middle Class: Mutanda Lake Resort – Standard Cottage (Full Board)

Semi-luxury: Mutanda Lake Resort– Luxury Cottage (Full Board)

Luxury:  Buhoma Lodge (Full Board)

Today is a day to relax, explore, or take on an adventure—whatever you choose is entirely up to you. You can sleep in, swim in the lake alongside playful otters, paddleboard, kayak, sail, or enjoy a motorboat ride. Hiking in the surrounding hills or tackling the challenging volcanoes of Mgahinga National Park is also possible. For wildlife enthusiasts, a Golden Monkey trek is a unique option. If you are staying overnight in Buhoma, you can explore nearby villages or choose from the many beautiful forest walks. Most of these activities can be arranged on-site.

Bwindi & Lake Mutanda Excursions – (optional)

This green and diverse region offers countless possibilities. On Lake Mutanda, enjoy sailing, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or a relaxed motorboat sundowner tour with a drink. In Mgahinga National Park, hike the Virunga volcanoes or go on a Golden Monkey trek. In Bwindi, besides gorilla trekking, enjoy guided forest walks or visit local Batwa pygmy communities. Tell our travel specialist your interests—they will advise which activities to book in advance and which to arrange on-site.

Watersports Lake Mutanda – (optional)

From Mutanda Lake Resort, you can enjoy a variety of water activities. Swim safely in this bilharzia-free lake, or relax on one of the three jetties. For more action, try stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or laser sailing. For a more local experience, take a canoe trip in a traditional dugout canoe. The motorboat is ideal for birdwatching, photography, or simply enjoying the scenery with a glass of wine. Whatever you choose, enjoy the serenity and beauty of this magical lake.
All activities can be booked on-site at Mutanda Lake Resort.

Golden Monkey Trekking Mgahinga – (optional)

Embark on a trek to see the rare and playful Golden Monkeys! Mgahinga National Park is home to several habituated groups. Trek through the forest at the foot of the Virunga volcanoes and spend about an hour with the monkeys as they jump, swing, and play—perfect for photography and wildlife observation.

Sabinyo Volcano Climb, Mgahinga – (optional)

For a real adventure, climb the 3,669-meter-high Sabinyo Volcano, where the summit touches three countries at once: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The trail can be muddy, and wooden ladders are installed to help navigate the steep sections of the volcano’s three peaks. The hike takes about eight hours, but the panoramic views of lakes, forests, and gorges across three countries make it unforgettable.

Accommodation Options:

Simple: Gorilla Valley Lodge (Full Board)

Middle Class: Mutanda Lake Resort – Standard Cottage (Full Board)

Semi-luxury: Mutanda Lake Resort– Luxury Cottage (Full Board)

Luxury:  Buhoma Lodge (Full Board)

In the morning, your driver/guide will transfer you to Kisoro Airstrip, about a 40-minute drive. Here, you’ll say your goodbyes before boarding your domestic flight back to Entebbe. This flight saves you at least an 11-hour drive and takes roughly 1.5 hours, flying over stunning landscapes such as Lake Mutanda, the Bwindi rainforest, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Lake Victoria (flight route may vary). The flight itself is a scenic highlight of your trip.

Upon arrival in Entebbe, a driver from your accommodation will meet you and transfer you to your hotel or guesthouse. You can relax, freshen up in your reserved day room, and enjoy lunch or dinner at your leisure (at your own expense). Later, you will be dropped off at Entebbe International Airport for your onward journey home. We hope your 17-day Uganda adventure has been unforgettable and leaves you with memories to last a lifetime!

Safari Price

Budget

  • I person: US$ 8296
  • 2 People: US$ 5941
  • 3 People: US$ 5104
  • 4 People: US$ 4725
  • 5 People: US$ 4466
  • 6 People: US$ 4319
  • 7 People: US$ 4178

Midrange

  • I person: US$ 9681
  • 2 People: US$ 6834
  • 3 People: US$ 5878
  • 4 People: US$ 5405
  • 5 People: US$ 5118
  • 6 People: US$ 4929
  • 7 People: US$ 4777

Semi-Luxury

  • I person: US$ 10,031
  • 2 People: US$ 7034
  • 3 People: US$ 6601
  • 4 People: US$ 5893
  • 5 People: US$ 5336
  • 6 People: US$ 5056
  • 7 People: US$ 4665

Luxury

  • I person: US$ 15053
  • 2 People: US$ 12003
  • 3 People: US$11887
  • 4 People: US$ 11335
  • 5 People: US$ 9987
  • 6 People: US$ 8897
  • 7 People: US$ 8736

Please note: This safari is price above is per person. If you are travelling during the low season months of March, April and November, you can contact us for discounted rates.

gorilla-trekking-uganda

Safari Inclusions / EXCLUSIONS

Includes: Sixteen nights’ accommodation in lodges, hotels, or safari tents; Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) where specified; Private, air-conditioned safari vehicle with professional English-speaking driver/guide; Domestic flight from Kisoro to Entebbe on Day 17.; Game drives in Kidepo Valley, Murchison Falls, Ishasha, and other national parks; Boat safaris on the Nile and Kazinga Channel, including optional private boats; Gorilla trekking in Bwindi or Mgahinga National Park; Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest National Park; Guided Bigodi Wetland walks and primate encounters; Guided Murchison Falls top walk; Licensed, English-speaking safari guides and rangers; Armed ranger for walking safaris where required; National park entry fees for all included parks; Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits; Scenic stops at lakes, waterfalls, crater lakes, and tea plantations; Cultural experiences, including Karamojong village visits.

Excludes: International flights to and from Uganda; Uganda visa fees; Travel insurance; Optional activities not listed as included; Alcoholic and soft drinks; Tips and gratuities for guides and lodge staff; Personal expenses such as laundry and souvenirs; Additional accommodation before or after the safari; Any increase in park fees or permit costs beyond our control

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17-Day Complete Uganda Safari Experience