Best Uganda safari tours that ensure Uganda’s top safari destinations in 12 days. Gorilla trekking, Big Five encounters, chimpanzee tracking, and cultural tours
Embark on one of the best Uganda safari tours, a carefully designed 12-day itinerary showcasing the country’s most iconic wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural experiences.
Discover the wonders of gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, face-to-face moments with the Big Five in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Parks, and the enchanting call of chimpanzees in Kibale Forest.
From the thrilling rapids of the Nile in Jinja to heartfelt interactions with local communities, this Uganda safari adventure blends luxury, authenticity, and unforgettable discovery. With expert guides, comfortable lodges, and immersive activities, this journey stands out among the best safari tours in Uganda — perfect for those seeking wild beauty and meaningful connection.
12 days Uganda Safari at A glance:
Day 1: Arrive in Entebbe and enjoy a birding experience at Mabamba Swamp, famous for the shoebill stork.
Day 2: Explore Kampala’s cultural and historical highlights, then take a scenic drive to Jinja.
Day 3: Enjoy adventure activities in Jinja, then transfer to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
Day 4: Track rhinos on foot at Ziwa, then continue to Murchison Falls National Park.
Day 5: Morning game drive and afternoon boat safari on the Nile, followed by a hike to the top of Murchison Falls.
Day 6: Travel to Kibale Forest, Uganda’s primate paradise.
Day 7: Track chimpanzees in Kibale and take a nature walk through Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary.
Day 8: Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park via scenic crater lakes.
Day 9: Game drive in Queen Elizabeth and boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel.
Day 10: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home of the mountain gorillas.
Day 11: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi — a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience.
Day 12: Return to Entebbe for your departure.
Here is the Full day to day 12 days Uganda Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Mabamba Swamp Birding Experience
Welcome to Uganda — the start of your 12-day journey on one of the best Uganda safari tours available. Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, meet your friendly guide and transfer to 2 Friends Guesthouse, a lakeside gem offering comfort and local charm.
After some relaxation, head out for a guided boat excursion to the Mabamba Swamp, a legendary wetland sanctuary known for its exceptional birdlife.
This excursion is a birdwatcher’s dream, especially for catching a glimpse of the rare and prehistoric-looking Shoebill Stork, one of the top wildlife sightings on any Uganda safari tour.
The swamp is also home to colorful kingfishers, elegant herons, and countless other wetland species — making this a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
It’s a peaceful yet thrilling introduction to the rich biodiversity that defines Uganda’s wildlife safaris. Spend the night at 2 Friends Guesthouse – Entebbe (Full Board), reflecting on your first immersive taste of the Uganda safari experience.
Day 2: Kampala City Tour Highlights – Scenic Transfer to Jinja
Start your day with a guided exploration of Kampala, Uganda’s lively capital, as part of your carefully curated Uganda safari tour. Dive into the city’s rich history and vibrant culture with visits to top landmarks such as the Uganda Museum, Craft Village, and the colorful stalls at Nakasero Market.
You may also pass by iconic spots like Independence Monument, and enjoy panoramic views from strategic hilltops — offering a perfect snapshot of Uganda’s urban charm.
To maximize your experience in Jinja, your city tour will be streamlined for an early afternoon departure. As you travel eastward, witness the shifting landscapes from bustling city life to serene countryside dotted with sugarcane plantations and roadside stalls.
Arriving in Jinja by late afternoon, unwind at 2 Friends Guesthouse and embark on a magical sunset boat cruise to the Source of the Nile — where the world’s longest river begins. This moment of serenity against the backdrop of history marks another unforgettable chapter in your Uganda safari adventure.
Overnight at 2 Friends Guesthouse – Jinja (Full Board).
Day 3: Jinja Adventure – Drive to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Begin your morning in Jinja, the adventure capital of East Africa, with optional experiences tailored to thrill and explore. Choose from iconic activities like white-water rafting on the Nile, quad biking through scenic trails, or a gentle horseback safari alongside lush riverbanks — each offering a unique connection to Uganda’s natural beauty and adrenaline spirit. These excursions are a key highlight of the best Uganda safari tours, especially for travelers seeking variety in their itinerary.
By midday, enjoy a riverside lunch before departing for the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where conservation meets discovery. The scenic drive north reveals tranquil rural landscapes, small towns, and Uganda’s welcoming countryside.
Arriving in the late afternoon, you’ll settle into Amuka Safari Lodge, tucked away in acacia woodland. Just before sunset, head out with a trained ranger for a guided rhino tracking experience, offering the rare opportunity to observe wild white rhinos on foot — a powerful moment in your quest to see the Big Five on a Uganda safari tour.
Spend the evening surrounded by nature, reflecting on your adventure-packed day — from rapids to rhinos.
Overnight at Amuka Safari Lodge – Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary (Full Board).
Day 4: Ziwa Rhino Tracking – Journey to Murchison Falls National Park
Rise early at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for a remarkable experience — a guided walk to track endangered white rhinos, one of the most unforgettable encounters on the best Uganda safari tours. Led by trained rangers, this up-close opportunity offers insight into rhino conservation and adds a powerful chapter to your quest for the Big Five safari experience in Uganda.
After breakfast, begin your journey toward Murchison Falls National Park, the largest and most diverse national park in Uganda. Along the way, take in scenic views of lush savannah, local villages, and roadside communities that reflect the warm soul of Uganda’s countryside.
Upon arrival, check into your lodge and relax before heading out for an evening game drive in Murchison Falls — a prime opportunity to spot elephants, giraffes, buffalo, antelope, and elusive predators against a golden backdrop.
This park is a crown jewel among Uganda wildlife safaris, offering dramatic scenery, dense animal populations, and exhilarating drives — an essential stop on any itinerary that claims to be one of the best Uganda safari adventures.
Overnight at Pakuba Safari Lodge – Murchison Falls National Park (Full Board).
Day 5: Game Drive & Boat Safari at Murchison Falls – Top of the Falls Hike
Wake up to the sounds of the wild and prepare for an action-packed day in Murchison Falls National Park, a cornerstone of the best Uganda safari tours. Set off on an early morning game drive across the northern savannah in search of classic African wildlife: towering giraffes, herds of buffalo, graceful antelope, warthogs, and majestic elephants.
With luck, you might spot lions prowling in the golden grasses or a solitary leopard draped in an acacia tree. This safari experience showcases the sheer abundance of animals that define a premier Uganda wildlife safari.
After lunch, embark on a breathtaking boat safari along the Nile River, gliding past hippos, crocodiles, and water birds en route to the base of the mighty Murchison Falls — the world’s most powerful waterfall. Watch as the Nile squeezes through a 7-meter gorge and explodes into thunderous spray, a natural spectacle unmatched in East Africa.
Wrap up your day with a short but dramatic hike to the Top of Murchison Falls, where panoramic views and the roar of the cascade create a memory you’ll never forget. This combination of land and water exploration cements Murchison Falls as a top destination on any Uganda safari tour itinerary.
Overnight at Pakuba Safari Lodge – Murchison Falls National Park (Full Board).
Day 6: Transfer to Kibale Forest – Uganda’s Primate Paradise
This morning, enjoy a final breakfast amid the wilderness of Murchison Falls National Park, then begin your journey south toward Kibale Forest National Park, one of the top destinations for primate trekking in Uganda. The scenic drive offers changing backdrops — from open savannahs to green hills, tea plantations, and bustling roadside markets — creating a vivid picture of Uganda’s natural and cultural diversity.
Arrive in Fort Portal town by afternoon, a charming gateway to Kibale with panoramic views of the Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the Mountains of the Moon. Continue to your forest lodge nestled at the edge of Kibale Forest, home to the highest concentration of chimpanzees in Uganda.
Spend the evening enjoying the tranquil sounds of the forest and prepare for the thrilling chimpanzee tracking experience awaiting you tomorrow — a signature moment in any Uganda wildlife safari itinerary.
Overnight at Turaco Treetops Lodge – Kibale Forest National Park (Full Board).
Day 7: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest – Bigodi Wetland Walk
Today is all about deep forest adventure and primate connection — a signature experience on the best Uganda safari tours. After an early breakfast, head into the lush depths of Kibale Forest National Park, home to over 1,500 wild chimpanzees. Guided by experienced trackers, you’ll trek through tangled rainforest trails, listening for rustling leaves, chimp calls, and the subtle signs that lead to a face-to-face encounter.
Observing chimpanzees in their natural habitat is thrilling and emotional — you’ll witness grooming rituals, playful interactions, and territorial displays. This moment stands among the most unforgettable wildlife experiences in any Uganda safari itinerary.
After lunch, explore the nearby Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-run eco-tourism site rich in biodiversity and cultural insight. This guided walk unveils birds like the Great Blue Turaco, colorful butterflies, and swamp-dwelling primates such as red colobus monkeys. It’s a peaceful contrast to the forest trek, and a beautiful way to support Uganda’s sustainable tourism efforts.
Overnight at Turaco Treetops Lodge – Kibale Forest National Park (Full Board).
Day 8: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park – Crater Lakes Scenic Drive
Start your day with breakfast beneath the canopy of Kibale Forest, then head south toward Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most iconic safari destinations.
En route, enjoy a picturesque drive through the Ndali-Kasenda Crater Lakes region, a breathtaking landscape of volcanic formations, verdant hills, and shimmering lakes. The sweeping scenery offers prime photo opportunities and a peaceful contrast to the wildlife thrills ahead.
Arriving in Queen Elizabeth by mid-afternoon, check into your lodge and relax before soaking in the natural beauty of the park. Stretching from Lake George to Lake Edward and bordered by the Rwenzori Mountains, Queen Elizabeth is a staple of the best Uganda safari tours thanks to its diverse ecosystems and abundant game.
Settle in for the evening at Buffalo Safari Lodge, where panoramic views and a chorus of distant animal calls prepare you for tomorrow’s adventures — including the famous Kazinga Channel boat safari and search for tree-climbing lions.
Overnight at Buffalo Safari Lodge – Queen Elizabeth National Park (Full Board).
Day 9: Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park – Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
Wake up in the heart of Queen Elizabeth National Park, a top highlight of the best Uganda safari tours. After breakfast, set out on a thrilling morning game drive across the Kasenyi plains, where the chances of spotting elephants, Uganda kob, buffalo, warthogs, and the elusive lions are high.
With open savannah, crater lakes, and panoramic views, this drive offers quintessential Uganda wildlife safari moments that rival any destination in East Africa.
In the afternoon, embark on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway linking Lake George to Lake Edward. This stretch teems with hippos (hundreds of them!), massive Nile crocodiles, and flocks of aquatic birds like fish eagles and kingfishers. It’s a photographer’s paradise and one of the most relaxing yet wildlife-rich activities in any Uganda safari itinerary.
As the sun begins to set over the lakeshore, return to your lodge for dinner, surrounded by the sounds of the wild and stories of the day’s sightings.
Overnight at Buffalo Safari Lodge – Queen Elizabeth National Park (Full Board).
Day 10: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – Into Gorilla Territory
Leave Queen Elizabeth National Park behind and journey southwest toward Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, the crown jewel of gorilla trekking in Uganda. The drive offers cinematic scenery — misty valleys, rolling highlands, terraced farms, and vibrant communities that showcase the heartbeat of Uganda’s countryside.
Arrive in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. This ancient forest teems with biodiversity and mystery, setting the stage for one of the most transformative moments in any Uganda safari tour.
Check into your eco-lodge nestled at the forest’s edge, where the cool mountain air and distant calls of primates signal your arrival in gorilla country. Rest up and prepare for tomorrow’s awe-inspiring gorilla trekking expedition — a bucket-list experience that defines the heart of the best Uganda safari tours.
Overnight at Haven Lodge – Buhoma Sector, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Full Board).
Day 11: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi – Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounter
Today marks the highlight of your best Uganda safari tours — a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing by rangers from the Uganda Wildlife Authority.
Then begin your trek through tangled vines, towering trees, and mist-covered hills in search of one of the world’s most endangered and majestic primates — the mountain gorilla.
The trek may take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours depending on the location of the gorilla family, but every step is part of the adventure. Once you find them, you’ll spend up to one hour observing their behavior: infants tumbling playfully, silverbacks standing watch, and mothers gently tending to their young.
This emotional connection with these gentle giants in their natural habitat is widely considered the ultimate Uganda safari experience.
After descending from the forest, return to your lodge to relax, reflect, and absorb the magic of this extraordinary day. The stories, images, and emotions will stay with you forever — a defining moment in your journey through Uganda’s wildlife safaris.
Overnight at Haven Lodge – Buhoma Sector, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Full Board).
Day 12: Return to Entebbe – Departure
After breakfast at your lodge, begin the scenic journey back to Entebbe, winding through Uganda’s picturesque highlands, verdant hillsides, and lively roadside communities.
As you retrace the landscapes that defined your adventure, take time to reflect on the incredible moments — from intimate gorilla trekking in Bwindi to thrilling wildlife safaris in Murchison Falls, immersive chimpanzee encounters in Kibale, and tranquil cruises on the Nile.
Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a brief stop for a farewell lunch or shop for locally made crafts and souvenirs — a lasting reminder of your journey through one of the best Uganda safari tours. Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, your guide will assist with check-in and ensure a smooth departure.
Though the tour ends today, the memories, connections, and powerful wildlife experiences will stay with you long after you’ve left Uganda’s embrace.
From $ 5500 /Person sharing.