10 Day Western Uganda Ultimate Safari

Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi, Lake Bunyonyi & Lake Mburo

10 days / 9 nights

Overview

Experience the very best of Uganda on this carefully crafted 10-day safari, blending unforgettable wildlife encounters with stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences. From tracking chimpanzees in Kibale and gorillas in Bwindi to classic game drives, boat safaris, and tranquil moments at Lake Bunyonyi, this adventure captures the essence of Uganda's natural beauty and diversity. Perfect for nature lovers and first-time visitors alike this is Uganda at its wild, welcoming best.

Day by Day Itinerary

Kibale Forest
Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary
Day 1

Transfer to Kibale Forest & Bigodi Wetland Walk

After breakfast, set out on a long but beautiful drive southwest toward Kibale Forest National Park, known as the primate capital of the world. The journey takes you through small towns, traditional farms, and rolling hills. As you near Fort Portal, the scenery becomes increasingly lush, with views of crater lakes and the distant Rwenzori Mountains. Arrive in the afternoon and check into your lodge wehere you will have lunch nestled near the edge of the forest. After lunch, explore the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-run conservation area known for its rich birdlife, monkeys, and cultural interactions. This guided nature walk provides insights into local ecosystems and sustainable tourism. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Kibale Forest Lodge

Lunch, Dinner

Chimpanzee Tracking
Chimpanzee Tracking
Day 2

Chimpanzee Tracking & Fortportal City Tour

Today is a special treat for primate lovers! After an early breakfast, head into the lush Kibale Forest for your exciting chimpanzee tracking experience. Guided by expert rangers, trek through the dense jungle, listening for rustles, hoots, and calls echoing through the trees. Once the chimps are located, enjoy an unforgettable hour watching them up close—their playful antics, family bonds, and human-like behavior are simply fascinating. Later in the afternoon, take a relaxed tour of Fort Portal City, known for its scenic beauty and cultural charm. Return to your lodge for a hearty dinner and a restful overnight stay

Kibale Forest Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Day 3

Kibale – Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park

After a relaxed breakfast, depart Kibale and drive south through the crater lake region toward Queen Elizabeth National Park. Along the way, enjoy scenic views of volcanic landscapes, tea plantations, and the towering Rwenzori Mountains with a brief stop at the Kikorongo Equator for photo moments. Arrive in the park by early afternoon and embark on a game drive through the Kasenyi Plains, where Uganda kob, buffaloes, elephants, and occasionally big cats roam the golden savannah. Settle into your lodge with views of the park or Kazinga Channel, and enjoy a peaceful evening.

Kasenyi Safari Camp

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Kazinga Channel
Kazinga Channel Boat Safari
Day 4

Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Safari

Begin your day with a sunrise game drive through Queen Elizabeth's diverse habitats, known for its excellent sightings of elephants, lions, hyenas, and various antelope species. After breakfast and a bit of relaxation, you'll head out for a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway connecting Lake Edward and Lake George. This experience offers one of the highest concentrations of hippos in Africa, along with crocodiles, buffalo, and an impressive variety of birdlife. Return to your lodge in time for dinner and a night under the stars.

Kasenyi Safari Camp

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Tree Climbing Lions
Tree-Climbing Lions
Day 5

Travel to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Today, journey through the southern Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions. Keep your eyes on the fig trees and acacia branches as you explore this remote region with a game drive en route. After your wildlife search, continue southwest toward the misty highlands of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home of the endangered mountain gorillas. Arrive at your lodge nestled in the forested hills and rest up for tomorrow's once-in-a-lifetime encounter.

Buhoma Haven Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Gorilla Trekking
Mountain Gorillas
Day 6

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Rise early for a briefing at the park headquarters before setting off into the dense jungle on a guided trek to find one of Bwindi's habituated gorilla families. The trek can be challenging, but the reward is extraordinary: spending a full hour observing these gentle giants as they feed, groom, and interact in their natural habitat. After this unforgettable experience, return to the trailhead, enjoy a well-deserved lunch in the afternoon and reflect on the incredible connection you made with the gorillas. Relax overnight at your lodge.

Buhoma Haven Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Lake Bunyonyi
Lake Bunyonyi
Day 7

Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi

Wake up early for a leisurely breakfast and at 7:00 am begin your journey to the tranquil shores of Lake Bunyonyi, one of Uganda's most beautiful and peaceful lakes. Known as the "Lake of a Thousand Islands," this serene destination offers optional canoe excursions, birdwatching, island visits, or simply resting at the lodge with spectacular panoramic views. It's the perfect place to reflect on your safari experiences and recharge by taking a boat cruise where you will see the lake's 29 islands.

Bunyonyi Overlook Resort

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Lake Mburo
Lake Mburo National Park
Day 8

Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park

After breakfast by the serene waters of Lake Bunyonyi, depart for Lake Mburo National Park— Uganda's smallest savannah park, yet rich in biodiversity. The scenic 4–5 hour drive winds through picturesque highlands and vibrant local communities. Upon arrival, enjoy an afternoon game drive where you may encounter zebras, impalas, elands, topis, buffaloes, and giraffes. Lake Mburo is the only park in Uganda with impalas and one of the best places to view plains game up close. Optional: In the evening, embark on a guided night game drive for a chance to see elusive nocturnal creatures such as leopards, bush babies, and genets. Overnight at a lodge within or near the park.

Mihingo Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Horseback Safari
Horseback Safari
Day 9

Horseback Safari & Boat Cruise at Lake Mburo

Start your day with a guided horseback safari an exhilarating way to explore the park's diverse landscape without a vehicle. These activities often bring you remarkably close to wildlife like zebras and antelopes. Later in the day, enjoy a tranquil boat cruise on Lake Mburo, home to hippos, crocodiles, and an array of birdlife including African fish eagles and kingfishers. Return to your lodge for relaxation and your final overnight stay in the wild.

Mihingo Lodge

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Uganda Equator
Equator Crossing
Day 10

Return to Kampala & Departure

After breakfast, begin your journey back to Kampala. Enjoy a scenic drive with a stop at the Equator in Kayabwe for memorable photos, refreshments, and some souvenir shopping. Upon arrival in Kampala in the afternoon, depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a brief city tour visiting landmarks such as the Gaddafi Mosque, Uganda Museum, or local craft markets. Later, proceed to Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight, bringing your incredible Ugandan safari adventure to a close.

Breakfast & Lunch

What's Covered & What's Not

Your Safari Includes:

  • All ground transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle with an English-speaking driver/guide
  • Airport pick-up and drop-off
  • Accommodation and meals
  • Park entry fees and all activities
  • Chimpanzee tracking permit
  • Gorilla trekking permit
  • Bottled drinking water in the vehicle
  • Professional, experienced safari guide

Not Included:

  • International flights
  • Visa fees
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Optional activities

Helpful Tips

Physical Preparation

Gorilla and chimp trekking require moderate physical fitness and sturdy hiking shoes. Prepare for muddy trails and steep terrain.

Weather Considerations

Pack layers – mornings and evenings can be chilly, especially in Bwindi and Kibale.

Insect Protection

Insect repellent is essential to ward off mosquitoes and tsetse flies.

Cash Needs

Bring cash (USD or UGX) for tips, souvenirs, and small purchases—ATMs are limited in remote areas.

Early Booking

Permits are limited and in high demand. Booking early is essential to secure gorilla and chimpanzee permits.

Wildlife Etiquette

Respect wildlife by keeping a safe distance and following your guide's instructions at all times.

Photography Tips

A zoom lens is ideal for wildlife shots. Bring extra batteries and memory cards.