Journey Details
- Start / End
- Entebbe International Airport, Uganda
- Languages
- English, French, German (on request)
- Guide
- Expert Local Guide
- Group Size
- 2–12
- Accommodation
- Superior
About This Journey
Overview
Discover the extraordinary diversity of Uganda on this 21-day safari combining wildlife, gorilla trekking, rainforest adventures, dramatic landscapes and authentic cultural experiences. From the vibrant streets of Kampala and the waterfalls of Mount Elgon to the remote wilderness of Kidepo Valley and the forests of Bwindi and Mgahinga, this journey takes you across some of Uganda’s most remarkable destinations.
Along the way, experience Uganda’s diverse cultures, encounter iconic wildlife, explore national parks and forests, and discover landscapes ranging from the savannahs of northern Uganda to the lakes and mountains of the southwest. With opportunities for gorilla trekking, chimpanzee experiences, wildlife safaris and cultural walks, this is an extensive Uganda itinerary designed for travellers who want to experience the country’s natural and cultural diversity at a deeper pace.
The Route Ahead
Every stop, stay and meal — laid out so you know exactly what each day holds.
Arrival and Start of the Kampala Experience
Arrival at Entebbe International Airport. Meet and greet by safari guide; transfer to Kampala. Check-in at Washarika Lodge or similar for rest and relaxation.
Kampala City Tour
Visit the Uganda Museum to explore the country's history and cultural artifacts. Tour the Kasubi Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and burial place of Buganda kings. Stop at Namirembe Cathedral, a historic Anglican church. Explore the Bahá'í Temple, a serene spiritual site with beautiful gardens. Return to the lodge for overnight stay.
Journey to Mount Elgon National Park
Drive to Mount Elgon National Park (approx. 3.5 hours). Check-in at Rafiki Lodge or similar. Relax and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
Sipi Falls Exploration
Hiking: Explore Mount Elgon’s scenic trails, offering panoramic views and lush vegetation. Visit Sipi Falls, a series of stunning waterfalls nestled in the foothills of Mount Elgon. Return to the lodge for an overnight stay.
Arrival and Exploration of Moroto
Scenic drive to Moroto (approx. 4 hours) through Uganda's picturesque landscapes Settle into accommodation at Karatunga Lodge or a similar property Explore Moroto town and its surroundings Visit Karamojong communities for an introduction to their way of life
Immersive Karamojong Cultural Walk
Participate in a guided Karamojong cultural walk Learn about traditional customs and rituals of the Karamojong people Witness cattle herding practices and their significance in Karamojong culture Enjoy a local meal or experience traditional Karamojong music and dance (optional activity) Return to Karatunga Lodge for relaxation and overnight stay
Arrival and Initial Exploration of Kidepo Valley National Park
Drive to Kidepo Valley National Park (approx. 4 hours) Afternoon game drive: Spot lions, cheetahs, and leopards in their natural habitat Evening relaxation and dinner at your lodge Accommodation: Savana Lodge or similar
Immersive Kidepo Adventures and Cultural Experience
Morning game drive: Explore the Narus Valley for more wildlife encounters Optional Acholi cultural walk: Visit nearby Karamojong communities to learn about their traditions and lifestyle Relaxation or nature walk around the lodge in the afternoon Accommodation: Savana Lodge or similar
Gulu and Luo Cultural Walk
Drive to Gulu (approx. 6 hours) Luo Cultural Walk: Explore Gulu town, visit Luo communities Learn about traditional customs, farming practices Accommodation: Gulu Churchill Hotel or similar
Journey to Murchison Falls and Wildlife Exploration
Drive to Murchison Falls National Park (approximately 4 hours) Game drive: Explore the park's vast savannah and diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and antelopes Accommodation: Overnight at Pakuba Lodge or a similar lodge
Murchison Falls Adventure and Chimpanzee Trekking
Boat cruise: Experience the dramatic beauty of Murchison Falls as the Nile bursts through a narrow gorge Bugoma Forest trek: Discover the fascinating chimpanzees in their natural habitat Accommodation: Overnight at Pakuba Lodge or a similar lodge
Arrival and Exploration in Kibale National Park
Drive to Kibale National Park (approx. 6 hours) Arrival and check-in at accommodation Relax and enjoy the scenic surroundings
Wildlife and Nature Activities
Morning chimpanzee trekking in Kibale’s lush forests Bigodi Swamp Walk: Spot diverse bird species and primates Evening relaxation at the lodge
Arrival at Queen Elizabeth National Park
Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park (approx. 2 hours) Evening game drive: Spot lions, elephants, and antelopes in their natural habitat Check-in and accommodation at Bush Lodge or similar
Exploration of Queen Elizabeth National Park
Morning game drive: Discover the park's diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes Kazinga Channel boat cruise: Spot hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species Leisure time at the lodge or optional guided nature walk
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Drive to Bwindi (approx. 4 hours) Gorilla trekking: Encounter mountain gorillas Batwa Cultural Walk: Explore Batwa communities, learn about traditional hunting practices Accommodation: 4 gorillas lodge or similar
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Drive to Mgahinga (approx. 4 hours) Gorilla Trekking (explore the rugged terrain to see mountain gorillas) Optional Volcano Hike (hike Mt. Sabyinyo for panoramic views) Accommodation at Traveler’s Rest Inn or similar
Kabale and Boogaali Factory
Drive to Kabale (approx. 2 hours) Arrive and Check-in at your accommodation (Arcadia Lodge or similar) Visit the Boogaali Factory (explore the bamboo bike workshop and learn about the production process) Explore Kabale Town (stroll around the town, visit local markets, and experience the vibrant culture)
Kabale Exploration
Morning at Leisure (relax or explore the surroundings) Visit Local Attractions (such as Lake Bunyonyi, known for its stunning views and tranquil atmosphere) Cultural Walks (engage with local communities to experience their traditions and way of life) Return to Accommodation for a restful evening
Lake Mburo National Park
Drive to Lake Mburo (approximately 2.5 hours) Game Drive (embark on an exciting safari, spotting wildlife such as zebras, impalas, elands, and various other species in their natural habitat) Boat Cruise (enjoy a scenic boat ride on Lake Mburo, observing its diverse aquatic life, including hippos, crocodiles, and an array of bird species) Accommodation at Rwakobo Rock or a similar lodge (relax in a serene setting, surrounded by nature)
Departure
Drive to Entebbe International Airport (approx. 4 hours) Departure
Departure Dates & Pricing
Available on request — tell us your preferred dates and we'll tailor a departure around them.
What's Included
- Accommodation in Entebbe, Kampala, and Murchison Falls National Park
- Transportation throughout the itinerary, including airport transfers
- Entrance fees to all parks and activity sites
- Meals as specified in the itinerary
- Experienced guide for the safari and community visits
- Volunteer program coordination and support
What's Excluded
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel Insurance
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Souvenirs and optional activities
Frequently Asked Questions
East Africa — including Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania — welcomes hundreds of thousands of international visitors every year, and the overwhelming majority return home with wonderful memories and no safety issues.
The main tourist areas (national parks, gorilla trekking zones, established lodges, and well-travelled routes) are generally very safe when you travel with a reputable operator. Crime against tourists is relatively rare in these environments. Like any destination in the world, larger cities require normal urban awareness, especially after dark.
Safety can vary by country and by region, and the situation can change. For this reason we always recommend that you check the latest official travel advice from your own government’s embassy or foreign office before you book and again closer to your departure date. This is the most reliable and up-to-date source of information.
At Tuntu Safaris we take safety extremely seriously. We use experienced local guides, well-maintained vehicles, carefully selected lodges, and proven routes. Your wellbeing is our highest priority from the moment you arrive until you leave.
This is one of the best questions you can ask, and the answer depends on the kind of experience you want.
Uganda is ideal if you want exceptional variety in a single country. Here you can trek mountain gorillas, track chimpanzees, enjoy classic game drives, boat safaris, and beautiful scenery — all without excessive travel days. It feels less commercial than some of its neighbours and offers outstanding value, especially for gorilla trekking.
Rwanda is perfect for a short, high-end, polished trip focused on mountain gorillas. The infrastructure and service standards are excellent, and the experience is very exclusive.
Kenya and Tanzania are the classic choices for big open savannahs, large numbers of the Big Five, and (in season) the Great Migration. They deliver the iconic “endless plains” safari experience many people picture when they think of Africa.
Many of our guests combine two countries. Uganda + Rwanda is a particularly popular pairing for primate lovers. We’re happy to help you decide based on the length of your trip, your interests, and your budget.
Uganda can be visited year-round, but conditions change with the seasons.
The two dry seasons — June to September and December to February — are generally considered the best times for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking. Trails are less muddy and hiking is more comfortable. Wildlife viewing in the savannah parks is also excellent during these months as animals gather around water sources.
The rainy seasons (March to May and October to November) bring lush green landscapes, excellent birdwatching, fewer visitors, and sometimes better availability of gorilla permits and lodge rooms. Trekking is still very possible, though you should expect some mud and rain.
If your main goal is comfortable gorilla trekking, aim for the dry seasons. If you prefer quieter parks and don’t mind a bit of rain, the green seasons can be wonderfully rewarding.
A standard gorilla trekking permit in Uganda currently costs USD 800 per person for foreign non-residents. This allows you one hour with a habituated gorilla family in Bwindi or Mgahinga.
A gorilla habituation experience permit (which lets you spend up to four hours with a group still being habituated) costs USD 1,500.
Permits are limited and sell out quickly in peak season, so we recommend securing them as early as possible. We handle the entire permit booking process for our clients.
