8-Day Uganda Safari: Kibale, Queen Elizabeth & Bwindi - Pita Safaris
Location
Full Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Tranquility in Kampala/Entebbe
Your journey into the wild heart of Uganda commences with your arrival at Entebbe International Airport. A Pita Safaris envoy, brimming with local knowledge and a friendly smile, will escort you to your chosen accommodation in the bustling city of Kampala or the serene lakeside town of Entebbe. The day is yours to recover from your flight, perhaps with a leisurely stroll or a quiet evening savoring the local cuisine, as you acclimatize to the gentle pace of Ugandan life.
Accommodation Options:
BUDGET: Airport Guest House
MID-RANGE: Cassia Lodge
SEMI-LUXURY: Kampala Serena Hotel
LUXURY: Protea Hotel by Marriott
Day 2: The Enchantment of Kibale Forest
After breakfast amidst the early city hum, your safari vehicle heads westward towards the enchanting Kibale Forest National Park. The journey is a pageant of changing landscapes, from the sprawling capital to verdant tea plantations. Upon arrival, you'll be ushered to your lodge, an abode set against the dense tapestry of the rainforest. The symphony of tropical birds and the whisper of the trees will serenade you as you settle in and unwind.
Accommodation Options:
BUDGET: Kibale Forest Camp
MID-RANGE: Crater Safari Lodge
SEMI-LUXURY: Turaco Treetops
LUXURY: Primate Lodge
Day 3: Chimpanzee Encounters and Bigodi's Bounty
In the cool morning air, you'll venture into the heart of Kibale's primal forest on a quest to meet its charismatic chimpanzee residents. Your guide will help decipher the forest's secrets as you track these intelligent primates. Post-lunch, you'll explore the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary. This community-run initiative is a haven for birdlife and smaller mammals. Revel in the tranquility of the wetlands and the vibrant bird songs that fill the air.
Following an exciting day of Chimpanzee trekking, return to your accommodation for another restful night (see above).
Day 4: Queen Elizabeth's Royal Welcome
As the dawn chorus fades, you'll journey south to the prestigious Queen Elizabeth National Park. An evening game drive introduces you to the park's royal residents – elephants, buffalo, and perhaps leopards. As the savanna goldens under the setting sun, you'll be treated to an array of wildlife preparing for the night.
Accommodation Options:
BUDGET: Bush Lodge
MID-RANGE: Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge
SEMI-LUXURY: Mweya Safari Lodge
LUXURY: Kyambura Gorge Lodge
Day 5: Kasenyi Plains' Morning Majesty and Kazinga's Aquatic Melody
At first light, the Kasenyi Plains beckon. The landscape is alive with wildlife; lions stalk their prey while antelopes graze warily. Later, aboard a boat on the Kazinga Channel, you'll glide past a spectacle of thirsty wildlife and basking crocodiles, a vivid snapshot of Africa's pulse.
Following an exciting day of game drive, return to your accommodation for another restful night (see above).
Day 6: Ishasha's Climbing Lions and Bwindi's Misty Embrace
Departing Queen Elizabeth National Park, the southern Ishasha sector awaits, where tree-climbing lions lounge nonchalantly on branches. The journey continues to the ancient Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Here, your lodge is a cocoon amidst the mist, a place of contemplation and preparation for the following day's pinnacle experience.
Accommodation Options:
BUDGET: Buhoma Community Rest Camp
MID-RANGE: Engagi Lodge
SEMI-LUXURY: Mahogany Springs Lodge
LUXURY: Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge
Day 7: The Sacred Gorilla Trek
Today's sojourn into Bwindi's depths is a transformative pilgrimage. Under the guidance of experienced trackers, you'll encounter the majestic mountain gorillas. The time spent with these gentle giants is a profound communion with nature, an experience that resonates with the soul.
Following an exciting day of gorilla trekking, return to your accommodation for another restful night (see above).
Day 8: Kigezi's Highlands Farewell and Reflections in Entebbe
Leaving Bwindi, the journey home traverses the Kigezi Highlands, a landscape of rolling hills and terraced gardens. You'll reflect on the week's wonders as Kampala's familiarity greets you. In due course, you'll be escorted to Entebbe Airport, where your safari story culminates, but where memories will flourish long after your return flight ascends.
Inclusions:
- Comprehensive meet-and-greet services by Pita Safaris' representatives at Entebbe International Airport.
- Transfer to a well-appointed hotel for an overnight stay on your arrival day, inclusive of breakfast.
- Comfortable and secure transport throughout your safari in a 4x4 vehicle, equipped for optimal game viewing and photography.
- Full board accommodation at handpicked lodges that blend comfort with the essence of the wilderness, catering to your budget, midrange, or luxury preferences.
- Expertly guided chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park, including park fees and the services of experienced rangers and trackers to enhance your encounter with these captivating primates.
- Guided nature walk in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a chance to immerse yourself in the biodiversity of the wetlands and contribute to community conservation efforts.
- Multiple game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park with an experienced safari guide, maximizing wildlife sighting opportunities across the diverse ecosystems of the park.
- A serene boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, offering up-close views of aquatic life and birds, with the stunning Rwenzori Mountains as a backdrop.
- Entry into the remote and pristine Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, including the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to trek and spend time with the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
- All park entrance fees as per the itinerary, ensuring seamless access to each conservation area and wildlife sanctuary.
- A selection of meals that cater to various dietary requirements, ensuring you're well-fueled for your adventure-packed days.
- All government taxes and levies are covered in the package price.
Exclusions:
- International flights to and from Uganda are not included, allowing you the flexibility to choose your preferred airline and route.
- Ugandan visa fees, which are the responsibility of the traveler to obtain prior to arrival or upon entry, depending on nationality and current regulations.
- Travel insurance is mandatory for all guests to cover personal injury, medical expenses, loss of belongings, and trip cancellations.
- Personal expenses such as laundry services, telephone calls, alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, and additional snacks which are not included in the meal plan.
- Gratuities for guides, drivers, lodge staff, and rangers, which are not included in the tour price and are at the discretion of the traveler based on the level of service received.
- Any optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary, such as hot air balloon safaris, cultural village visits, or additional excursions that can be arranged at an extra cost.
