10 Days Western Uganda Safari
Discover the stunning beauty of Uganda on this 10-day safari. Visit the top destinations in Western Uganda. Enjoy chimpanzee and gorilla trekking, boat safaris, game drives, and more. Perfect for wildlife lovers and those seeking unforgettable natural experiences.
10 days / 9 nights
Kibale National Park, Semuliki National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Lake Mburo National Park
Day 1: Transfer to Kibale National Park
Your professional English speaking will pick you up from Kampala or Entebbe and embark on a picturesque journey to Kibale National Park. Drive through lush tea plantations and charming villages such as Mubende and Fort Portal, stopping for a lunch break at a local restaurant in Fort Portal along the way. Arrive and check in at your lodge. Once settled, visit the nearby Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for a guided nature walk. Discover a variety of bird species, including the Great Blue Turaco, and observe primates such as red colobus monkeys. Local guides will provide fascinating insights into the community-driven conservation efforts. Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner, unwind under the night sky, and enjoy the soothing sounds of the rainforest.
Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale National Park
After an early breakfast, head to the Kanyanchu Visitor Center for a briefing on chimpanzee trekking, which begins at 8:00 AM. Join a small group of up to 8 participants, accompanied by experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers, to track a habituated chimpanzee troop. The trek takes 2-3 hours through dense forest trails, with over a 95% chance of spotting chimps. Spend an hour observing their intriguing behaviors, such as grooming, playing, or foraging. Return to your lodge for lunch and some relaxation. Alternatively, enjoy a guided walk through the forest to spot other primates, like black-and-white colobus or L’Hoest’s monkeys, or simply unwind at your lodge with stunning views of the Ndali-Kasenda crater lakes.
Day 3: Travel to Semliki National Park
After breakfast, you will travel from Kibale National Park to Semuliki National Park through the scenic hills along the Fort Portal - Lamia road. The journey offers stunning views of the lush countryside and local villages. Upon arrival in Semuliki, you’ll visit the renowned Sempaya Hot Springs, located deep within the Semuliki Forest. Explore both the "female" and "male" springs, learning about their cultural significance and the geothermal activity that makes them unique. You can even partake in the fun tradition of boiling eggs in the steaming pools while enjoying sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. In the evening, head back into the forest for a guided birding walk. Semuliki is a haven for birdwatchers, home to rare species such as the White-crested Hornbill, Red-billed Dwarf Hornbill, and Congo Serpent Eagle.
Day 4: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Along the way, enjoy a brief stop at the equator for photo opportunities and a coffee break. Upon arrival in the afternoon, check into your preferred lodge followed by lunch and some time to relax. In the afternoon, set out on an exciting evening game drive through the Kasenyi Plains, where you'll have the chance to spot a variety of wildlife including lions, elephants, buffalo, and antelopes such as the Uganda kob. After the safari, return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 5: Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise & Game Drive
Start the day with an early breakfast, then head out for a morning game drive from in either the Mweya Peninsula or the Kasenyi Plains, where you may encounter leopards, hyenas, and a rich variety of birdlife - over 600 species are found in the park. Return to the lodge in the afternoon for lunch and some time to relax. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic 2-hour boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, offering close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and an array of waterbirds such as pelicans and kingfishers. In the evening, you may opt for a night game drive to spot nocturnal animals like civets or genets. Conclude the day with dinner and an overnight stay at the lodge.
Day 6: Travel to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After breakfast, you'll begin your drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, passing through the scenic Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you may spot tree-climbing lions. As you continue, you'll travel through picturesque villages and lush forests, offering a glimpse into local life and the beautiful landscapes of southwestern Uganda. Upon arrival at Bwindi, check into your lodge to relax and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, preparing for the exciting gorilla trekking experience ahead.
Day 7: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Start your day with breakfast at the lodge to fuel up for the adventure ahead. Afterward, drive to the park headquarters for a briefing with expert rangers. Embark on your trek through the rainforest, guided by rangers who know the gorillas' favorite spots. Once you find your assigned gorilla family, you’ll have an unforgettable hour observing them watching silverbacks protect the group, baby gorillas play, and mothers care for their young. Take photos and interact with the rangers, who will share fascinating insights into the gorillas' behavior and conservation efforts. After your time with the gorillas, you’ll trek back to the lodge, enjoy a delicious dinner and rest early. Feeling curious? Join an optional guided visit to the Batwa Pygmy community to hear their ancient forest tales, watch traditional dances, and learn how they once lived alongside the gorillas.
Day 8: Travel to Lake Mburo National Park
After a morning breakfast at your lodge in Bwindi, you’ll set off on your journey to Lake Mburo National Park. As you leave the lush, misty forests of Bwindi behind, the landscape transitions into the open, savannah-like terrain that characterizes Lake Mburo. On your way, you’ll stop for a delicious lunch at Igongo Cultural Centre in Mbarara. This is an excellent spot to enjoy a variety of traditional Ugandan dishes, which serves a hearty buffet. During the stop, you’ll also have the chance to explore the cultural museum and browse the craft shop for unique local souvenirs. After lunch, you’ll continue your drive towards Lake Mburo National Park. The route offers scenic views of the rolling hills and open plains, where you may spot wildlife along the way. Upon arrival at the park, you’ll check into your lodge and relax in the peaceful surroundings, preparing for an afternoon or evening of game viewing in the park, known for its diverse wildlife and bird species.
Day 9: Walking Safari and Boat Safari at Lake Mburo
Start the day with an early breakfast, then set out on a guided walking safari. With an armed ranger, explore the park on foot and encounter wildlife such as zebras, antelope, buffalo, warthogs and a variety of birds, including the African fish eagle. Return to the lodge for lunch and unwind by the lake. In the afternoon, enjoy a 2-hour boat safari on Lake Mburo, where you may spot hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds like herons and kingfishers. Later in the evening, an optional night game drive offers the chance to see nocturnal animals such as bushbabies and porcupines. End the day with dinner and an overnight stay at the lodge.
Day 10: Horseback Safari and Departure
On your final day of the 10-day safari, after a leisurely breakfast, you'll set out for a memorable horseback safari (optional – can be substituted with another game drive). Accompanied by expert guides from Uganda Wildlife Authority, you’ll ride through the open savanna, getting an up-close view of the park’s wildlife, including zebras and antelopes, in a unique and exciting way. After your horseback safari, return to the lodge for a delicious lunch. Following lunch, you’ll check out and begin your journey back to Kampala or Entebbe. You’ll depart at 1:00 PM, with an expected arrival time between 5:00 and 6:00 PM. If time allows, there will be a brief stop at a local craft market in Masaka, where you can pick up some souvenirs to remember your incredible 10-day adventure.
What’s Included
Transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle throughout the 10-day safari, including transfers to and from Kampala/Entebbe.
Accommodation for 9 nights
All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) as per the itinerary during the safari.
Chimpanzee trekking permit for Kibale National Park and gorilla trekking permit for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Park entry fees for all National Parks.
Guided nature walks and cultural excursions at various parks including Semuliki and Queen Elizabeth.
Game drives, birding, and boat excursions.
Bottled drinking water throughout the safari.
Services of a professional English-speaking guide
What’s Not Included
International flights to/from Uganda.
Uganda visa fees.
Optional activities not specified in the itinerary (e.g., boat cruises at Lake Mburo or cultural performances in Bwindi).
Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks unless otherwise specified.
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, laundry, and tips for staff.
Travel insurance (highly recommended for the duration of the safari).
Additional meals or snacks not listed in the itinerary.
Helpful Tips
Best Time: June–September and December–February are ideal for wildlife viewing and trekking.
What to Bring: Long-sleeved shirts, hiking boots, insect repellent, camera, sunscreen, rain jacket, and a reusable water bottle.
Fitness Level: Moderate fitness is recommended for chimpanzee trekking, gorilla trekking, and walking safaris.
Health: Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory. Consult your doctor for malaria prophylaxis and other recommended vaccinations.
Transport: All transport is in a 4x4 vehicle; be prepared for bumpy roads, especially during the rainy season.