Uganda wildlife holiday – umucho Tours & Travel

Nature Walk, Hiking & Wildlife Safari

Description

Experience the Best of Uganda: A 20-Day Adventure

Embark on a thrilling twenty-day journey through Uganda, exploring three diverse locations and immersing yourself in its most stunning and wildlife-rich parks. This expedition promises encounters with captivating wildlife, lush landscapes, and vibrant birdlife, with the highlight being the opportunity to track chimpanzees and the renowned mountain gorillas.

The adventure begins in the picturesque Kibale Forest, a scenic drive through tea plantations and verdant countryside showcasing Uganda’s natural beauty. Here, the captivating chimp tracking experience awaits, guided by seasoned rangers. Encounter 12 other primate species, remarkable birdlife, and the possibility of spotting forest-dwelling elephants.

Continue the journey to Queen Elizabeth Park, Uganda’s second-largest park, with a visit to a nearby tea plantation. Spend two nights amidst the park’s diverse ecosystems, embarking on game drives to witness lions, gazelles, warthogs, and the abundance of hippos and elephants. The next destination is Bwindi in the southwestern part of the country, where you’ll track mountain gorillas in the Impenetrable Forest. This unique forest is home to both chimpanzees and gorillas, making it a rare sanctuary for diverse wildlife, including five other primate species. Explore the local community around Buhoma or Nkuringo, depending on available permits.

This intimate group trip, limited to a maximum of 10 people, offers a choice of mountain and forest lodges. Full-board accommodations are included, along with permits for gorilla and chimpanzee watching, airport transfers, 4×4 transport, boat trips, cultural visits, and a dedicated full-time guide. Immerse yourself in the wonders of Uganda with this meticulously curated adventure.

Included

Excluded

Itinerary

Tour highlights:

– Kibale National Park
– Queen Elizabeth National Park
– Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
– Gorilla Trekking
– Chimpanzee Trekking
– Visit to Tea Plantation

Day 1: Entebbe
Upon arriving in Entebbe, you will be warmly welcomed by your guide, initiating your journey into the heart of Uganda. A smooth transfer to your hotel sets the tone for the exciting days ahead.
Day 2: Jinja – White Water Rafting
Journey to Jinja, Uganda's second-largest town, nestled along the northern shore of Lake Victoria. This bustling town boasts the source of the mighty Nile River and the captivating Bujagali Falls. En route, traverse the scenic Mabira Forest, home to grey-cheeked mangabey and red-tailed monkeys. Explore the source of the Nile, where English explorer John Hanning Speke viewed the Ripon Falls in 1862. Dine and unwind at Nile River Camp or 2 Friends Guesthouse.
Day 3: White Water Rafting
Prepare for an exhilarating adventure as you navigate the Bujagali Falls, experiencing the thrill of whitewater rafting along the Nile. The rapids, extending approximately 10 km downriver from the source, make this a premier spot for water rafting and kayaking.
Day 4: Kampala Exploration
Travel to Kampala, Uganda's lively capital, brimming with vibrant energy. Explore its bustling streets, visit landmarks such as Museums and the National Theater, and, for those seeking nightlife, consider optional visits to the city's dynamic nightclubs.
Day 5: Kampala – Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – Murchison Falls National Park
Embark on a journey to Murchison Falls National Park, pausing at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Nakasongola for a thrilling rhino tracking experience. Established to breed black and white rhinos, the sanctuary contributes to the restoration of rhino populations in Uganda's protected areas. Lunch in Masindi town precedes the continuation to Murchison Falls National Park.
Day 6: Murchison Falls National Park Game Drive & Boat Trip
Embark on a game drive through the park's rolling plains, witnessing the parade of elephants, hartebeests, giraffes, and diverse antelope species. The afternoon unfolds with a boat trip along the Nile, revealing hippos, an array of birdlife, and the mesmerizing Murchison Falls.
Day 7: Summit of Murchison Falls & Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
Marvel at the summit of Murchison Falls, where you can peer into the gorge, witnessing the majestic spectacle of the Nile squeezing into a 7-meter chasm and plunging 40 meters. On sunlit days, this remarkable natural wonder paints the scene with a breathtaking rainbow. Transitioning to Kibale Forest National Park, your journey through lush green hills unveils a picturesque route, setting the stage for your adventure. Nestled within Kibale Forest is a biological haven, boasting the highest concentration of primates in Africa. The diverse primate species, including delightful chimpanzees, contribute to the park's status as a primate paradise. As you traverse this captivating landscape, the rich biodiversity and vibrant ecosystem provide an immersive experience into the heart of Africa's wilderness.
Day 8: Kibale Forest Chimpanzee Trekking
Embark on a thrilling chimpanzee tracking adventure in Kibale Forest, home to a rich diversity of primates, including the playful chimpanzees. The forest also hosts the Red-tailed Monkey, Olive Baboon, Black and White Colobus Monkey, and the Blue Monkey, creating an immersive primate experience. In the evening, delve into the local culture with a Bigodi Swamp Walk, an immersive experience through grasslands, small communities, and scenic landscapes. The walk often reveals sightings of different primate species and offers birdwatchers a chance to spot the great Blue Turaco in its natural habitat.
Day 9: Cross the Equator & Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Journey through Uganda's second-largest park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, nestled at the base of the majestic Rwenzori Mountain Range. The park boasts abundant and diverse wildlife, including gazelles, Uganda kob, warthogs, and waterbucks. Keep an eye out for the abundant hippos and elephants, with a chance of spotting a leisurely leopard. As the day unfolds, you'll find yourself surrounded by the park's natural beauty, with the towering Rwenzori Mountain Range providing a stunning backdrop. Queen Elizabeth National Park promises an enchanting safari experience, where every moment brings the possibility of encountering the fascinating wildlife that calls this park home.
Day 10: Queen Elizabeth National Park Game Drive & Kazinga Channel
Embark on a pre-dawn game drive, witnessing the activities of predators and nocturnal dwellers as they return to their hideouts. Encounter elephants, buffaloes, side-striped jackals, hyenas, leopards, and more. Afternoon delights unfold with a boat trip along the Kazinga Channel, teeming with hippos, buffaloes, crocodiles, bathing elephants, and a myriad of beautiful birds.
Day 11: Ishasha Tree Climbing Lions & Transfer to Bwindi National Park
Explore Ishasha, renowned for its tree-climbing lions, and venture to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to both chimpanzees and mountain gorillas. Discover the unique wildlife that inhabits this sanctuary, including five other primate species.
Day 12: Gorilla Trekking – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Optional)
Today marks the pinnacle of your adventure as you prepare for an enchanting encounter with the Mountain Gorillas in the heart of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is not only home to the awe-inspiring Mountain Gorillas but also hosts chimpanzees, making it the only forest in Africa where both species coexist. As you traverse the wilderness, keep your senses heightened for glimpses of other fascinating inhabitants, including five other primate species and over 360 bird species. Upon encountering the Mountain Gorillas, time seems to stand still. Your group is granted a precious hour to observe these gentle giants in their natural habitat—feeding, moving, playing, and nurturing their young. With only one group of eight people permitted to visit each habituated gorilla family per day, the exclusivity of the experience underscores the importance of responsible tourism in safeguarding these incredible creatures. After this extraordinary encounter, your guide will lead you back to base, where you'll be transferred to the lodge for a well-deserved dinner. As you reflect on the day's events, the magnitude of witnessing the famous Mountain Gorillas up-close lingers as a cherished memory—one that transcends a mere wildlife encounter and becomes a lifelong connection with the wonders of nature.
Day 13: Mgahinga Batwa Trail
Embark on the captivating Mgahinga Batwa Trail, a fascinating hike through the forest leading to the Garama Cave, once the residence of the Batwa King. This immersive tour aims to raise awareness and preserve the culture of the local Pygmy Batwa community. As you traverse the forest, the Batwa demonstrate traditional hunting techniques, share knowledge about medicinal plants, and showcase the art of making bamboo cups. Delve into the rich cultural heritage of the Batwa as they narrate their history and share captivating stories.
Day 14: Golden Monkey Trek
Engage in another thrilling adventure by tracking the Golden Monkeys in the Mgahinga Forest. Keep an eye out for buffalo, colobus monkeys, and numerous bird species, enhancing the richness of this biodiversity hotspot.
Day 15: Coffee Tour & Canoe Trekking
Embark on a journey through community homesteads, encountering banana and coffee plantations. Learn about the coffee cultivation process, from planting to roasting, and savor a freshly brewed cup. Continue the day with a scenic canoe trek across Lake Mutanda, visiting its volcanic islands.
Day 16: Sabyinyo Volcano Hiking Adventure
Embark on an exhilarating expedition as you ascend the extinct Sabyinyo Volcano, nestled in southwestern Uganda. The hike encompasses three distinct peaks, revealing panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Traversing muddy trails and wooden ladders, you may encounter patchy rain and clearing clouds, enhancing the sense of adventure. Upon reaching the summit, a breathtaking panorama unfolds, allowing you to stand in awe of not just one, but three countries: Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Day 17: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
Embark on a scenic journey to Lake Bunyonyi, often referred to as the 'Place of Little Birds.' This picturesque lake, nestled near the Rwandan border, is celebrated as one of the most beautiful locations in western Uganda. As you approach, the undulating hills and papyrus swamps surrounding the lake create a mesmerizing setting. Lake Bunyonyi, the second deepest lake in Africa, is celebrated for its peaceful surroundings, ensuring a worry-free experience with no concerns about hippos or crocodiles. The tranquility of its waters makes it an ideal spot for swimming and relaxation. The nearby hills provide a captivating backdrop for bird watching, and the shady Eucalyptus trees offer peaceful retreats for those looking to unwind with a good book. Dinner and overnight accommodations await at Bushara Island, Arcadia Cottages, or BirdNest, providing a cozy and scenic refuge for the night.
Day 18: Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park
In the afternoon, drive from Lake Bunyonyi to Lake Mburo National Park, a sanctuary of diverse wildlife and serene landscapes.
Day 19: Game Drive & Boat Trip: Lake Mburo National Park
Embark on an early morning game drive, capturing the essence of Lake Mburo National Park with its zebras, giraffes, Uganda kobs, and other wildlife. The day continues with a boat trip, providing opportunities to witness hippos and various animals congregating at waterholes.
Day 20: Transfer to Entebbe
Conclude your adventure with a transfer to Entebbe, where you'll spend a final night preparing for your departure. The comprehensive inclusion in the tour covers transport, accommodation, meals, all national park entrance fees, activities, and specific permits, promising an enriching and worry-free exploration of Uganda.

Nature Walk, Hiking & Wildlife Safari

Description

Included

Excluded

Itinerary

Day 1: Entebbe

Day 2: Jinja – White Water Rafting

Day 3: White Water Rafting

Day 4: Kampala Exploration

Day 5: Kampala – Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – Murchison Falls National Park

Day 6: Murchison Falls National Park Game Drive & Boat Trip

Day 7: Summit of Murchison Falls & Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park

Day 8: Kibale Forest Chimpanzee Trekking

Day 9: Cross the Equator & Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Day 10: Queen Elizabeth National Park Game Drive & Kazinga Channel

Day 11: Ishasha Tree Climbing Lions & Transfer to Bwindi National Park

Day 12: Gorilla Trekking – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Optional)

Day 13: Mgahinga Batwa Trail

Day 14: Golden Monkey Trek

Day 15: Coffee Tour & Canoe Trekking

Day 16: Sabyinyo Volcano Hiking Adventure

Day 17: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi

Day 18: Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park

Day 19: Game Drive & Boat Trip: Lake Mburo National Park

Day 20: Transfer to Entebbe

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