9-Day Uganda Safari: Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi, Lake Mburo - Pita Safaris
Location
Full Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Welcoming Arms of Uganda
Arrival and Acclimatization in Kampala/Entebbe
Your adventure begins the moment you land at Entebbe Airport, where the spirit of 'Jambo' – the Swahili greeting – sets the tone for your journey. A Pita Safaris representative will be there to welcome you and facilitate your transfer to a hotel in the heart of Kampala or the tranquil surroundings of Entebbe. The first night in Uganda is designed to ease you into the African pace of life, providing comfort and a restful atmosphere to prepare you for the adventures that await.
Accommodation Options:
BUDGET: Airport Guest House
MID-RANGE: Cassia Lodge
SEMI-LUXURY: Kampala Serena Hotel
LUXURY: Protea Hotel by Marriott
Day 2: The Call of the Wild - Kibale Forest
En Route to the Primate Kingdom
With the first light of day, your journey to Kibale Forest National Park commences. This drive is a feast for the senses, with undulating landscapes and vibrant roadside markets offering a glimpse into the daily rhythm of Ugandan life. Upon arrival, you'll be welcomed by the forest's symphony of sounds and check into your pre-selected lodge. The remainder of the day allows you to soak in the serene environment, perhaps catching glimpses of the forest's inhabitants from the comfort of your lodge.
Accommodation Options:
BUDGET: Kibale Forest Camp
MID-RANGE: Crater Safari Lodge
SEMI-LUXURY: Turaco Treetops
LUXURY: Primate Lodge
Day 3: Kibale's Primate Paradise
Chimps and Bigodi's Natural Choir
An exhilarating day awaits as you set off for chimpanzee trekking in Kibale, home to one of the highest densities of primates in Africa. The guided trek is both an educational journey and a mission to find these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, a guided walk through Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary unveils a web of biodiversity, with its rich birdlife and a myriad of smaller wildlife that makes the wetland their home.
Following an exciting day of Chimpanzee trekking, return to your accommodation for another restful night (see above).
Day 4: Majesty of Queen Elizabeth National Park
Safari Quest Begins
Bid farewell to the forest canopy as you transition to the open savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park. After settling into your chosen accommodation, recalibrate your senses on an afternoon game drive, where the park's diverse tapestry of ecosystems presents opportunities to view elephants, warthogs, and maybe even a leopard draped over an acacia branch.
Accommodation Options:
BUDGET: Bush Lodge
MID-RANGE: Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge
SEMI-LUXURY: Mweya Safari Lodge
LUXURY: Kyambura Gorge Lodge
Day 5: Queen Elizabeth's Royal Plains and Waters
Kasenyi Tracks and Kazinga's Aquatic Life
As dawn breaks, you'll traverse the Kasenyi Plains in search of the park's famous residents, the big cats, and other savannah species. The afternoon brings a change of pace with a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, a magnet for wildlife. This immersive experience allows you to witness animals quenching their thirst and to observe the rich birdlife that thrives on the channel's banks.
Following an exciting day of game drive, return to your accommodation for another restful night (see above).
Day 6: Bwindi's Ancient Forest Awaits
Passage Through Ishasha - Land of Lions
Departing Queen Elizabeth National Park, you'll take a scenic drive through the Ishasha sector, renowned for its resident tree-climbing lions. The journey continues to the mist-covered mountains of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Upon arrival, you'll settle into your lodge, nestled at the edge of one of the world's most ancient forests, and rest up for the gorilla trekking adventure that lies ahead.
Accommodation Options:
BUDGET: Buhoma Community Rest Camp
MID-RANGE: Engagi Lodge
SEMI-LUXURY: Mahogany Springs Lodge
LUXURY: Volcanoes Bwindi Lodge
Day 7: In the Presence of Giants - Gorilla Trekking
Bwindi's Gentle Behemoths
The pinnacle of your safari is the awe-inspiring gorilla trekking in Bwindi. This challenging and rewarding experience involves tracking one of the park's habituated gorilla families and spending an hour observing these majestic primates in their natural setting. The intimate encounter is a profound moment, connecting you to the essence of the wild.
Following an exciting day of gorilla trekking, return to your accommodation for another restful night (see above).
Day 8: From Misty Mountains to Lake Mburo's Harmony
Savannah Sojourn in Lake Mburo
Leaving the montane forest behind, you'll journey to the tranquil confines of Lake Mburo National Park. Once you've settled into your lodge, an afternoon game drive awaits, offering a chance to see herds of impala, zebra, and eland, as well as a variety of bird species. As the sun sets, listen to the calming sounds of the savannah, a stark contrast to the dense rainforest you've just left. This park, smaller in size but rich in biodiversity, presents a more intimate wildlife viewing experience.
Day 9: Embracing the Spirit of Uganda
Nature Walks and Departure
Your final day starts with the sun as you embark on a guided nature walk, a chance to see the park on foot and feel a direct connection with the earth beneath you. You might spot wildlife at closer quarters, and it's a perfect opportunity to appreciate the smaller wonders of the savannah. In the afternoon, bid farewell to the wilds of Uganda as you travel back to Entebbe. Depending on your departure time, you may have the chance to stop at the equator for photographs and a bit of souvenir shopping. Finally, you'll be transferred to Entebbe Airport, where the memories of your journey will accompany you home.
Inclusions:
- Accommodation tailored to your preferences (luxury, midrange, or budget)
- Daily meals, blending local flavors and international dishes
- Expert guide fluent in English, ensuring insightful narratives and smooth logistics
- Entrance fees to national parks and attractions, unlocking Uganda's natural wonders
- Permits for chimpanzee and gorilla trekking, securing intimate wildlife encounters
- Game drives in Queen Elizabeth and Lake Mburo National Parks, offering thrilling wildlife sightings
- Boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a waterborne safari through diverse habitats
- Transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle, ensuring comfort and safety on rugged terrain
- Airport transfers, streamlining your arrival and departure experience
Exclusions:
- International airfare, allowing flexibility in travel arrangements
- Visa fees, ensuring compliance with Uganda's entry requirements
- Personal insurance, safeguarding your journey against unforeseen events
- Alcoholic beverages, providing an opportunity to indulge in local spirits and wines
- Gratuities for guides and staff, acknowledging exceptional service and care
- Additional expenses such as laundry, souvenirs, and optional activities, granting freedom to customize your experience
