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11 Day Family Safari Adventure in Uganda
From
US $2422 Per Person
11 Day Family Safari Adventure in Uganda
From
USD $ 2422
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11 Day Family Safari Adventure in Uganda
Could this be the ultimate family trip to Uganda? It very well could be.
No other itinerary offers as much variety as this one. You begin in the Kibale Rainforest to track wild chimpanzees on foot. Then you head to Queen Elizabeth National Park. There, you will enjoy game drives and you can have a safari with a biologist. You will also take a boat trip past hippos, crocodiles, and bathing elephants.
Next, you reach Lake Mutanda. Here you can paddleboard, kayak, or sail on the lake. This area is also your base for gorilla trekking. In Lake Mburo, you go on a mountain bike safari. You ride past zebras and giraffes. This is a fun and active way to explore the park.
Uganda is one of Africa’s most diverse countries. Its location on the equator and its many different heights create a wide range of landscapes. You will see volcanoes, rainforests, savannas, snow-capped mountains, crater lakes, and freshwater lakes. The accommodations are carefully chosen.
We select places that are small, charming, and well located. We also choose lodges that suit families. Comfort and safety for children are always considered. This 11 Day Family Safari Adventure in Uganda is a true family journey. It combines wildlife, nature, and unforgettable experiences. It shows the very best of Uganda.
Your Itinerary In Summary
- Day 1: Welcome to the pearl of Africa!
- Day 2: Along tea fields and crater lakes to Kibale Forest
- Day 3: Chimpanzee trekking and much more!
- Day 4: On safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Day 5: Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari Activities
- Day 6: On to the fairytale Lake Mutanda
- Day 7: Gorilla trekking or enjoy activities at Lake Mutanda
- Day 8: A wonderful day in a magical place!
- Day 9: Lake Mburo National Park
- Day 10: Mountain biking or walking past zebras and giraffes
- Day 11: Return home
Your itinerary Detail
Day 1: Welcome to the pearl of Africa!
Your Uganda family adventure begins today. You will arrive in Entebbe, and a driver will meet you at the airport. The drive to your first lodge takes about 15 minutes.
Entebbe lies on the shores of Lake Victoria. It is Africa’s largest lake. The city is set on a beautiful peninsula. The fresh air and tropical sun will make you feel instantly at home. Entebbe used to be Uganda’s seat of government. The name Entebbe means “seat” in Luganda. Even today, the president still has an official office and residence here.
Tonight, you can relax and enjoy your first evening in Uganda. Enjoy a refreshing drink under the starry African sky. Then get a good night’s sleep. Tomorrow your adventure continues.
Accommodation:
Middle Class: Via Via Entebbe
Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast
Day 2: Along tea fields and crater lakes to Kibale Forest
In the morning, you will meet your guide. You will receive a briefing about your trip. Then you begin your drive of about 5 hours west to Kibale Forest National Park.
Today’s drive takes you through villages, rainforests, tea plantations, and crater lakes. You will travel toward Fort Portal. On a clear day, you can see the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains.
When you arrive at Kibale Forest, you enter a new world. A world full of monkeys!
In the afternoon, you can relax by the pool. You can also enjoy the beautiful surroundings. If you like, take a short walk in the nearby rainforest. The walk lasts about one hour. It is a lovely trail. You may spot many monkeys. (Optional, $12 per person.)
Kibale Forest National Park
Kibale is one of Africa’s most primate-rich rainforests. The forest is home to 13 primate species. These include red-tailed monkeys, black-and-white colobus, red colobus, diademed monkeys, mantled mangabeys, and bush babies. The park sits at about 1,300 meters above sea level. Tea plantations border the forest to the north. Papyrus swamps lie to the south. The area is also great for bird watching, especially in the Bigodi Wetland.
Forest Walk at Turaco Treetops (Optional)
Turaco Treetops sits on 13 hectares of lush rainforest. It is right next to Kibale Forest National Park. The forest walk takes 1 to 1.5 hours. The trail is easy and not strenuous. You may see six primate species, including black-and-white colobus, red colobus, red-tailed monkeys, L’Hoëst monkeys, mantled mangabeys, and vervets. You may also spot birds like the Giant Turaco, Lady Ross’s Turaco, and Grey-eared Hornbill. The walk follows forest paths and elevated walkways. You may even see forest elephant footprints.
Accommodation:
Semi-Luxury: Turaco Treetops– Luxury Cottage
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 3: Chimpanzee trekking and much more!
Today is all about the monkeys. You will explore the rainforest and nearby wetlands. The morning is dedicated to chimpanzee trekking.
You will meet your guide early. Then you head into the forest. The trek uses clues like broken branches, droppings, and sounds to find the chimps. The trek takes about 2 to 4 hours, through the rainforest jungles. But seeing a chimp up close is always a powerful experience. These great apes look surprisingly similar to humans.
After the trek, the afternoon is yours. You can relax by the lodge pool. Or choose an optional activity. Options are listed below. Mountain biking costs $50 per person. Other activities cost $30 per person.
Minimum Age for Chimpanzee Trekking
The minimum age is 12 years old.
Children aged 10 or 11 may be allowed with a signed letter from their parents. We can request an exemption for this.
If you or your child does not join the chimp trek, you can deduct $200 USD from the trip price.
Bigodi Swamp Walk (Optional – Afternoon)
In the afternoon, you can walk through Bigodi Swamp. This is a great spot for monkeys and birds. You may see many monkey species foraging. The giant turaco is one of the highlights. The walk is cooler in the afternoon, and wildlife is more active.
Cultural Village Walk in Bigodi (Optional)
This walk gives you a taste of local life. You will visit a traditional doctor. He will explain medicinal plants, herbs, and local beliefs. You will also visit a village home. The village elder will share stories about weddings, ceremonies, and tribal life. Along the way, you may also visit a school or church.
Accommodation:
Semi-Luxury: Turaco Treetops – Luxury Cottage
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 4: On safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park
After your time in the rainforest, you continue your journey today. Your destination is Queen Elizabeth National Park. The drive takes you through rural Uganda. You will pass green hills, tea plantations, and crater lakes. Soon the landscape changes into dry savannah.
Along the way, you will see local markets. These markets offer a glimpse of daily village life. It is a great way to experience local culture.
In the afternoon, you will enjoy your first jeep safari in the park.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park is almost 2,000 km² in size. It lies in the Rift Valley. To the north are the Rwenzori Mountains. To the west is Lake Edward. The park is known for the Kazinga Channel. This waterway connects Lake Edward to Lake George. Boat safaris here are spectacular.
West of the Kazinga Channel, the land is dotted with volcanic craters. The Kyambura Gorge is a large chasm in the savannah. It holds rainforest and chimpanzees. The park is home to elephants, buffalo, topi, lions, leopards, hippos, and crocodiles. More than 600 bird species live here.
Queen Elizabeth Game Drive– Afternoon
On your afternoon safari, you will search for wildlife in large herds. You may see buffalo and elephants. You may also spot Ugandan kobs, topi, lions, leopards, and hyenas. The landscape changes as you drive. You will pass grasslands, crater lakes, and forested areas.
As the sun sets, the park becomes magical. You will enjoy panoramic views of the volcanic craters and the Kazinga Channel. In the evening, you will have a delicious dinner under the African stars.
Accommodation:
Middle Class: Marafiki Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 5: Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari Activities
Today is all about nature and wildlife. You explore Queen Elizabeth National Park both on land and on water. The day is well balanced. Adventure in the morning.
Relaxation in between. Wildlife again in the afternoon. In the morning, you go on a jeep safari through the park. In the afternoon, you enjoy one of Africa’s most impressive boat safaris. Between activities, you return to your lodge for lunch and some rest. Several optional activities are also available. To include these, you can either replace one of the planned activities or add an extra day in the park.
Queen Elizabeth Game Drive– Morning
After an early breakfast, you head out on safari. The sun rises over the savannah. Morning mist still hangs in the air. The sounds of the African bush surround you. It is a magical time to spot wildlife and enjoy the landscape.
Queen Elizabeth Boat Safari – Afternoon
The park lies between Lake Edward and Lake George. These lakes are linked by the Kazinga Channel. This channel is full of life. A boat safari here is a true highlight. You will see large groups of hippos. Crocodiles rest along the banks. Buffalo bathe in the water. Birdlife is everywhere. If elephants appear and start spraying water, the day is complete.
Optional Activities
Predator Tracking – Morning
Join a park biologist on a special safari. You learn how lions and leopards are studied. Radio collars help track the animals. Lion sightings are guaranteed. Leopards are possible but not certain. You may drive off-road. This experience supports conservation research.
Kyambura Gorge Trek – Optional
Explore the Kyambura Gorge on foot. This deep chasm cuts through the savannah. Inside lies a lush rainforest along the Kyambura River. Chimpanzees live here, but sightings are not guaranteed. The walk itself is the reward. It is one of Uganda’s most beautiful hikes. Expect some scrambling and climbing.
Private Boat Safari – Afternoon (Optional)
Upgrade to a private boat on the Kazinga Channel. A smaller boat brings you closer to wildlife. You set your own pace. The experience is quieter and more personal. It is perfect for families and private groups.
Accommodation:
Middle Class: Marafiki Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 6: On to the fairytale Lake Mutanda
This morning, you leave the savannah behind. You travel south toward the volcanoes of Uganda. The drive is beautiful. It shows the true diversity of the country.
Along the way, you pass rainforests and crater lakes. Coffee plantations line the hills. Mountains rise around you. Then Lake Mutanda appears.
The view is breathtaking. Over the next few days, you and the children can fully enjoy the lake. There is plenty to do. You can swim, paddleboard, sail, or kayak. You can take a motorboat ride. Village visits and hikes are also possible.
*There are two route options to reach Lake Mutanda. The paved road is smooth and very scenic. The off-road route passes through Ishasha, Bwindi, and Lake Bunyonyi. This is the most beautiful route of the trip. It adds about 1.5 hours and is bumpier. You may also add a short safari in Ishasha to search for tree-climbing lions. This adds another 1.5 hours. We do not recommend this option for young children, as the day becomes very long. Your guide will help you choose the best route.*
Lake Mutanda
Lake Mutanda lies in the far southwest of Uganda. It sits at the foot of the Virunga Volcanoes. This volcanic chain links Uganda, Rwanda, and the Congo. Rainforests surround the lake. These forests are home to endangered mountain gorillas.
Lake Mutanda is an ideal base for gorilla trekking. Treks take place in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The area is also rich in wildlife. You may spot kingfishers and the grey crowned crane. Otters, chameleons, frogs, and lizards live along the shores. Nature is everywhere.
Watersports on Lake Mutanda (Optional)
From Mutanda Lake Resort, you can enjoy many water activities. Swim in the clear, bilharzia-free lake. Relax on one of the jetties. Try stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or sailing. For a local experience, canoe in a traditional dugout. A motorboat is also available. It is perfect for birdwatching or enjoying the view with a drink.
All activities can be booked on site.
Accommodation:
Semi-Luxury: Mutanda Lake Resort – Luxury Cottage
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 7: Gorilla Trekking or Relax at Lake Mutanda
Today is flexible. You can choose adventure or relaxation.
If you have booked gorilla trekking, you’ll drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest this morning. This may be the highlight of your entire trip. In the afternoon, you return to Lake Mutanda. Time to relax and relive this unforgettable experience.
If you’re not trekking today, there’s plenty to enjoy at the lake. Swim in the clear water. You may even spot otters. On the lake, you can paddleboard, sail, kayak, or take a motorboat ride. Hiking in the surrounding hills is also possible.
You can also choose a more active option. Hike in the area or tackle a challenging volcano hike in Mgahinga National Park. A Golden Monkey trek is another great choice. See the options listed on Day 8.
Minimum Age for Gorilla Trekking
The minimum age for gorilla trekking is 15 years. With a signed parental consent letter, we can request an exemption for children aged 13 and above.
Babysitting Service at Mutanda Lake Resort
If you go gorilla trekking without your children, Mutanda Lake Resort offers a babysitting service. Your children will be well cared for. They’ll play games, enjoy water activities, and be provided with food and drinks. The babysitter speaks English. Cost: USD 60.
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
Bwindi is one of Africa’s most important gorilla trekking areas. Together with the Virunga Mountains, it protects almost half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The park is also rich in biodiversity, with over 120 mammal species and more than 350 bird species.
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest (Optional)
During the trek, you walk through dense rainforest. You climb, crouch, and follow forest trails. Experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers guide you. Signs such as nests, dung, and broken bamboo reveal the gorillas’ location. Meeting a silverback in the wild is powerful and emotional. A moment you will never forget.
Gorilla Habituation Experience – Bwindi Forest (Optional)
Instead of standard trekking, you can join a gorilla habituation day. You accompany researchers as they observe a gorilla family becoming accustomed to humans.
You may spend up to four hours with the gorillas. Groups are limited to four participants. A rare and intimate experience.
Bwindi & Lake Mutanda Excursions (Optional)
This green region offers something for everyone. Enjoy water activities on Lake Mutanda, such as kayaking or paddleboarding. A sunset motorboat cruise with a drink is highly recommended.
In Mgahinga National Park, climb a Virunga volcano or track Golden Monkeys. In Bwindi, choose guided forest walks, village visits, or a cultural experience with the Batwa people.
Have specific interests? Let your travel specialist know. Some activities can be booked in advance, others on site.
Accommodation:
Semi-Luxury: Mutanda Lake Resort – Luxury Cottage
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 8: A wonderful day in a magical place!
With three nights at the beautiful Lake Mutanda, today is yours to enjoy at a relaxed pace. This region truly offers something for everyone.
Explore local culture, hike volcanoes, or visit the playful Golden Monkeys in nearby Mgahinga National Park. Prefer to slow things down? Swim in the lake, try stand-up paddleboarding, kayak, or enjoy a peaceful sail.
However you spend the day, the setting alone makes it unforgettable.
Bwindi & Lake Mutanda Excursions (Optional)
This lush and varied landscape invites exploration. Around Lake Mutanda, you can enjoy sailing, stand-up paddleboarding, or kayaking. A sundowner cruise on a motorboat—with a drink in hand—is highly recommended.
Beyond the lake, Mgahinga National Park offers Golden Monkey trekking and challenging hikes on the Virunga volcanoes. In the Bwindi rainforest, you can enjoy scenic walks in addition to gorilla trekking. Cultural experiences are also available, including village visits and encounters with the Batwa community.
Do you have specific interests? Let your travel specialist know. Together, you can decide which activities to book in advance and which to arrange on site.
Watersports on Lake Mutanda (Optional)
From Mutanda Lake Resort, you have direct access to excellent water activities. Swim in the clear, bilharzia-free lake or relax on one of the resort’s three jetties. For a more active experience, try stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or sailing a laser boat. For a local touch, paddle a traditional dugout canoe.
There is also a motorboat, ideal for birdwatching or simply soaking up the scenery—perhaps with a glass of wine. Whatever you choose, enjoy the tranquility of this enchanting lake.
All activities can be booked on site at Mutanda Lake Resort.
Golden Monkey Trekking – Mgahinga National Park (Optional)
Today you can trek to see the rare and beautiful Golden Monkeys. Mgahinga National Park is home to several habituated groups, living at the foot of the Virunga volcanoes. Once you reach them, you’ll spend up to an hour observing their lively behavior. They love to leap, swing, and play, making photography both exciting and challenging.
Sabyinyo Volcano Trek – Mgahinga National Park (Optional)
The trek to the summit of Mount Sabyinyo is the most adventurous hike in Mgahinga National Park. It is physically demanding and suitable for hikers with good fitness and a head for heights. The trek takes approximately 8–9 hours.
You’ll climb steep trails through bamboo forest and misty cloud forest draped in beard moss. The route is rugged, with narrow ridges, deep ravines, and muddy paths. Wooden ladders and steps help you safely navigate the steepest sections, always guided by experienced rangers and with plenty of breaks.
At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with an extraordinary view. You stand at the meeting point of three countries—Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. On clear days, you can even see the fairytale-like Lake Mutanda below.
Lake Mulehe Canoe Trip & Hike (Optional)
Lake Mulehe lies just beside Lake Mutanda and is well worth exploring. The excursion begins with a peaceful canoe or boat ride across Lake Mulehe, followed by a scenic walk along its shores. Enjoy beautiful views of both lakes, framed by the Bwindi rainforest and the Virunga volcanoes. Along the way, you’ll meet local fishermen, friendly villagers, and even a traditional medicine man. A local lunch is included.
The walk includes some uphill sections but is not overly strenuous. Lasting about six hours, this excursion is a perfect mix of gentle activity, stunning scenery, and meaningful local encounters. You can book this tour directly at Mutanda Lake Resort.
Accommodation:
Semi-Luxury: Mutanda Lake Resort – Luxury Cottage
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 9: Lake Mburo National Park
Today you leave Lake Mutanda, carrying unforgettable memories. Encounters with Dian Fossey’s famous protégés—immortalized in Gorillas in the Mist—will stay with you forever, as will the raw beauty, power, and unique spirit of Central African nature.
You’ll travel north toward Lake Mburo National Park, following the scenic route that connects Rwanda with Kampala and Kenya. In the afternoon, you’ll arrive at your lodge, where the rest of the day is yours to relax. Enjoy the swimming pool, unwind in the peaceful surroundings, or simply take in the African landscape.
In the early evening, as darkness falls, you may choose to join an optional night safari for a completely different wildlife experience.
Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo National Park is Uganda’s smallest national park, yet it is rich in wildlife and scenery. It is the only park in the country where you can find both impala and eland. At its heart lies Lake Mburo itself, home to hippos, crocodiles, and an impressive variety of birdlife, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
Lake Mburo Night Safari (Optional)
Just before dinner, you’ll head out on an exciting night safari. With the help of spotlights, you’ll search for nocturnal wildlife such as galagos and hyenas—and there’s even a good chance of spotting a leopard. A thrilling and atmospheric way to end the day.
Accommodation:
Middle Class: Rwakobo Rock
Meal Plan: Full Board
Day 10: Mountain biking or walking past zebras and giraffes
This morning, you can choose between an exciting mountain bike safari or a guided walking safari through Lake Mburo National Park (both included). As the park has no lions or elephants, these activities are safe and offer a wonderfully intimate way to experience the wildlife and landscapes up close. After your morning adventure and a leisurely (late) breakfast, you’ll begin the drive back to Entebbe, crossing the equator along the way. You’ll spend your final night in a cozy guesthouse near Lake Victoria. Tomorrow, you’ll fly back home with unforgettable memories of Uganda.
Mountain Bike Safari – Lake Mburo (Morning)
Enjoy a scenic mountain bike ride through the rolling hills and open savannah of Lake Mburo National Park. Along the way, you’re likely to encounter zebras, impalas, and shy eland, while taking in sweeping panoramic views. With its gentle climbs and descents, this ride is moderately challenging and a fantastic way to start the day. (Video available for inspiration.)
Walking Safari – Lake Mburo (Morning, optional)
Accompanied by an experienced ranger, you’ll explore the park on foot in search of zebras, buffalo, eland, and giraffes. Walking safaris are also ideal for bird lovers—Lake Mburo is home to more than 310 bird species, making it a paradise for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Accommodation:
Middle class: Via Via Entebbe
Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast
Day 11: Departure – Flight Home
Today, a driver from your guesthouse will transfer you to Entebbe International Airport for your flight home. As your Uganda family adventure comes to an end, we hope you leave with unforgettable memories of wildlife, landscapes, and special moments shared together. We wish you a safe journey home and hope to welcome you back to Africa one day.
PRICES FOR THIS PRIVATE TRIP
Considering the many possible family compositions, various child discounts and room layouts, we are happy to calculate the price that applies to your group. * The prices below are from 2026 prices and are shown in US Dollars per person .
Price adult (from 16 years)
- 3 – Pax 3553
- 4 – Pax 3025
- 5 – Pax 2945
- 6 – Pax 2691
Children up to 15 years old
- 3 Pax – USD 3198
- 4 Pax – USD 2722
- 5 Pax – USD 2648
- 6 Pax – USD 2422
Inclusions
- Overnight stays at your desired level and accompanying meals
- All entrance fees to the national parks
- Transport in a 4×4 safari Landcruiser
- Transfers as stated
- Professional English speaking driver and guides (in the national parks)
- Chimpanzee trekking, Kibale Forest National Park
- Boat Safari, Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Game drive, Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Mountain bike safari or safari walk, Lake Mburo NP
- Almost all excursions, unless labeled as optional
Exclusions
- Intercontinental flight
- Other meals, drinks (depending on the accommodation level)
- Single room supplement
- Visa costs
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Permit gorilla trekking, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest NP (US$800 pp)
- Permit gorilla habituation day, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest NP (US$ 1500 pp)
- Night safari Lake Mburo NP
- All optional excursions
