13-Day Wildlife and Gorilla Trekking Safari.

• Your flight will land at Entebbe International Airport, which is situated on a peninsula in Lake Victoria. Upon exiting the aircraft, you’ll experience the warmth of the equatorial climate, often a pleasant welcome for visitors.
• After passing through immigration and customs, you will be greeted by a representative from your tour company. This person will be holding a sign with your name for easy identification.The tour representative will assist you with your luggage and lead you to a private vehicle that will transport you to your hotel.
• Check into your hotel and take some time to refresh after your flight. Depending on your arrival time, you may be served breakfast or lunch at your hotel.In the afternoon, your safari guide will meet you at the hotel to brief you on the itinerary and what to expect in the coming days. This is a great opportunity to ask questions and get to know your guide.
• If you’re not too jet-lagged, you might opt for a gentle exploration of Entebbe. Attractions include the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, which offer a peaceful retreat with views over Lake Victoria and a variety of plant species and birds.Another option is to visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC). It’s a sanctuary for rescued animals and offers an opportunity to see some of Uganda’s indigenous wildlife.

• Enjoy a welcome dinner at your hotel, where you can taste Ugandan cuisine.As the night settles in, you can relax and enjoy the calm and serenity of Entebbe, preparing yourself for the adventure that lies ahead. you may want to retire early to rest up for the beginning of your safari journey the next day.

NB.Ensure you have all your essentials ready for an early start, including camera equipment, appropriate clothing, and any personal items you’ll need for the trek.

morning:

• Breakfast at the Hotel, Start your day with an early breakfast at your hotel in Entebbe and After  meet with your guide and check out of the hotel. You will begin the journey to Mabira Forest, which is roughly a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Entebbe, depending on traffic conditions.

Afternoon:

• Arrive at Mabira Forest, one of Uganda’s largest surviving natural forests covering an area of about 300 square kilometers.Check into the eco-lodge or accommodation facility within or near the forest, where you’ll have the chance to freshen up before lunch.
• Post-lunch, engage in a guided nature walk through the forest. Mabira offers a rich biodiversity, including over 300 bird species.You’ll also have the chance to see different species of monkeys and butterflies, and If there’s an interest, some eco-lodges offer bicycle trails or even zip-lining activities for an additional thrill.

Evening:

• Return to your lodge as the evening approaches, relax on the balcony or terrace,  with the natural surroundings, providing a serene view of the forest canopy. Dinner will be served at the lodge and the day concludes with an overnight stay within the peaceful ambiance of the forest. Sleeping in the forest often allows you to hear the nocturnal sounds of wildlife, which is an experience in itself.

Remember to bring appropriate footwear for forest trekking and consider packing insect repellent and rain gear, as the forest climate can be unpredictable. Additionally, a good camera and binoculars would enhance your experience for bird watching and wildlife spotting.

Morning:

• Begin your day with an early breakfast at your lodge. The meal might include a mix of fruits, cereals, bread, eggs, and Ugandan coffee or tea to give you energy for the day’s activities. After breakfast, set out on a guided nature walk through the lush trails of Mabira Forest. The cool morning hours are ideal as the forest is teeming with life, and the light is perfect for photography. 
• You will identify various flora and fauna, pointing out medicinal plants, towering trees, and monkey species, such as the grey-cheeked mangabey and red-tailed monkey, and a plethora of birdlife, including the great blue turaco.Return to the lodge for lunch. You can relax and enjoy the lodge’s amenities or have a picnic lunch organized by the lodge in a scenic spot within the forest.

Afternoon:

• In the afternoon, you might opt for an exciting adventure on the Forest Canopy Super Skyway (zip-lining), where you can glide between trees and platforms while enjoying a bird’s-eye view of the forest.For those who prefer a calmer afternoon, another walk can be taken to focus on bird watching or seeking out the forest’s smaller inhabitants, like butterflies and insects. You can also opt for a visit to a nearby community for a cultural experience. You might interact with local artisans and learn about local conservation efforts that the community participates in.
• After a day full of activities, you will enjoy a quiet dinner back at the lodge. For those interested, a guided night walk can be arranged, where you can spot nocturnal creatures like bushbabies and listen to the unique sounds of the forest at night.Retire for the night in the comfort of your lodge, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of the forest, which is a soothing way to end your day in Mabira.

Remember to dress appropriately for the day’s activities—light, breathable clothing for the day and warmer layers for the evening when it gets cooler. Good walking shoes are essential, and you should bring rain gear just in case, as tropical showers can occur unexpectedly. Also, don’t forget your camera, binoculars, insect repellent, and a small backpack to

Morning:

• You will begin with an early breakfast at your lodge within Mabira Forest. Enjoy the peaceful morning ambiance of the forest as you dine.After, pack up and complete your check-out procedures. Ensure you have all your belongings and prepare for the journey to Jinja.
• You will Set off for Jinja, often considered the adventure capital of Uganda. The drive from Mabira Forest to Jinja is relatively short, taking about 1 to 1.5 hours. As you travel, you’ll notice the change in scenery as you approach the Nile River. Reaching jinja,depending on your preferences, you could head straight to a restaurant in town for lunch or check into your accommodation and dine there.

Afternoon:

• After lunch, you will take a boat trip to the source of the Nile. This relaxing trip allows you to witness the point where the Nile River begins its long journey to the Mediterranean Sea. you can as well Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring Jinja town. Visit local craft markets where you can buy souvenirs such as handmade jewelry, baskets, and carvings.
• Return to your hotel or lodge to relax and freshen up, having dinner in the restaurant  where you can enjoy the views of the Nile or the lush landscapes surrounding Jinja. You will have a night’s reast in your hotel or lodge. Lodges here often feature pleasant gardens and verandas where you might enjoy a nightcap while listening to the sounds of the river.

Morning

• The morning starts with an early breakfast, check out and Depart early for Kibale Forest National Park, a long drive of approximately 7hours via kampala mubende road. The journey will be a picturesque expedition across the diverse Ugandan landscape, offering a glimpse into the daily life of rural Uganda with its undulating hills, vast tea plantations, and lively market towns.

Afternoon

• You will pause for a break in a local town where you can stretch your legs and enjoy a traditional Ugandan lunch. Post-lunch, you’ll set off again, moving towards the thicker forests that herald the proximity to Kibale National Park, reaching your destination by late afternoon.
• Arrive in the evening and check into a lodge at the park’s edge.Upon arrival at Kibale, check into your lodging—a cozy forest lodge. You may choose to explore the lodge grounds or simply relax and enjoy the views. After a sumptuous dinner featuring fresh local ingredients, your guide will brief you on the following day’s chimpanzee trekking adventure. 

Morning Activities:

• Your day starts with an energizing breakfast at the lodge amidst the tranquil sounds of Kibale Forest. Post-breakfast, you’ll head to the Kibale National Park for a detailed briefing by the park rangers. The briefing will cover the trekking procedures, safety measures, and the importance of conserving these endangered primates. With the formalities complete, you’ll embark on the chimpanzee trekking experience, venturing into the heart of the forest in search of these fascinating creatures. Observing the chimpanzees in their natural habitat is a profound and unforgettable experience, as you watch them play, forage, and interact with each other.

Afternoon Exploration:

• Once the trekking concludes and you’ve had your fill of the primate encounters, you’ll return to the lodge for a brief rest and lunch. In the afternoon, a guided walk awaits you at the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary. This area is known for its rich biodiversity, including an array of bird species, butterflies, and other wildlife. 
• Back at the lodge, you can reflect on the day’s experiences, share stories with fellow travelers, or simply relax with a book or binoculars on the veranda. Then dine at your lodge, where you can expect a meal prepared with a variety of local produce, offering a true taste of Ugandan cuisine. With dinner concluded, you’ll spend another peaceful night at your accommodation in Kibale, serenaded by the nocturnal sounds of the forest, a soothing backdrop to your well-earned rest.

Morning: 

• The seventh day of your safari begins with a relaxed breakfast, you’ll check out, bidding farewell to the forested haven of Kibale. The drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park is a scenic route that offers a captivating look into the changing landscapes of Uganda. The journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park is relatively short, usually taking about 2 to 3 hours, allowing for a leisurely pace and the opportunity to stop and take pictures of views of the Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” which serve as a stunning backdrop along the way.

Afternoon:

• Upon arrival at Queen Elizabeth National Park, you’ll check into your accommodation and freshen up before enjoying a lunch with views of the park. The afternoon offers a chance to relax and acclimate to the new surroundings, which may include views over the savannah, rolling hills, and distant craters.
• In the late afternoon, prepare for an introductory exploration of the park. A casual evening game drive is an excellent way to get your first taste of Queen Elizabeth’s rich ecosystem, with a high chance of encountering some of the park’s varied wildlife as they become more active in the cooler temperatures. after , you will return at the lodge and have dinner and a nights rest.

Morning: 

• Early morning game drive.Your day in Queen Elizabeth National Park commences before dawn breaks. An early morning game drive is one of the best times to observe wildlife as the animals are most active in the cooler temperatures. Under the guidance of an experienced ranger, you’ll navigate through the park’s diverse landscapes, spotting a variety of animals that might include herds of Uganda kob, elephants, and if you’re fortunate, a leopard returning from its nocturnal hunt..
• After the exhilarating drive, you’ll return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast and some downtime. You might choose to lounge by the pool with a book, enjoy the amenities of your lodge, or simply relax on your private deck, keeping an eye out for birds and smaller wildlife that inhabit the lodge grounds.

Afternoon: 

• Afternoon visit to the volcanic craters area.after lunch, your adventure continues with a visit to the park’s volcanic crater area. The region boasts several craters, some filled with sparkling lakes, while others are dry and covered with grasslands. These craters offer not just geological intrigue but also spectacular scenic views. 
• Evening game drive or optional lion tracking experience As the day cools down, you can choose between another game drive, taking a different route to maximize your chances of spotting a wide array of wildlife, or an optional lion tracking experience. 
• After the evening drive, you can enjoy the sundowner boat cruise via the kazinga channel where you will enjoy alot of birds, hippos as they get out of teh water to graze, and alot of other animals who use the evening to capture some birds as prey. After your chosen evening activity, you’ll enjoy a quiet dinner back at the lodge and the night there after,

Morning

• Breakfast and check out.The morning of Day 9 marks the transition from the open savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park to the dense rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Your day starts with an early breakfast at the lodge.
•  After breakfast, you’ll proceed to check out, and ready for the next leg of your safari adventure.The drive to Bwindi is a scenic excursion through the rolling hills of southwestern Uganda. Lunch will be enjoyed en route at a local restaurant providing a moment to stretch your legs and savor the flavors of another region of Uganda.

Aftwernoon: 

• Upon arrival in the Bwindi area, you’ll Check into your chosen lodge, which will likely be nestled on the edge of the forest, providing a serene atmosphere and sometimes views of the mist-covered hills. 
• The evening is yours to relax and enjoy at your leisure. You might take a stroll around the lodge gardens, or simply unwind on the balcony or terrace. you’ll dine at the lodge, Before retreating to your room for the night, make sure your camera batteries are charged and your trekking gear is prepped for the following day’s gorilla trekking experience.

morning:

• Early Breakfast  will start your day at your lodge. Given the physical demands of gorilla trekking, you’ll want to eat a hearty meal to fuel your adventure.After breakfast, you’ll head to the park’s headquarters where park staff will give you a briefing. During this session, they will cover the rules and expectations for gorilla trekking, including safety precautions, the importance of minimizing human-wildlife conflict, and guidelines for respectful and responsible observation of the gorillas.
• Accompanied by a ranger guide, you will begin your trek into the dense forest. The duration of the trek can vary widely, from a couple of hours to the majority of the day, depending on where the gorillas are. Once you find a gorilla family, you will typically be allowed to spend a set amount of time with them, often about one hour to ensure that the gorillas don’t become overly stressed by human presence.. Remember to follow the guidelines provided, keeping a safe distance, speaking in low tones, and not using flash photography

Afternoon; 

•  After the trek, you’ll return to your lodge, where you’ll have lunch and time to rest, and perhaps share your experiences with other travelers. It’s common for visitors to feel deeply moved by the encounter, and reflecting on it can be a significant part of the experience. You’ll spend another night at your lodge in Bwindi, giving you more time to soak in the ambiance of the ancient rainforest around you.

To note: This experience is not just a thrilling adventure but also contributes to the conservation of the critically endangered mountain gorillas. The fees paid for trekking permits support the preservation efforts and provide economic benefits to the local communities, helping to incentivize the protection of these magnificent creatures and their habitat.

 Morning: 

• After the previous day’s demanding gorilla trekking, you’ll appreciate a more relaxed start with a leisurely breakfast at your lodge. Then embeark on the giving community visit to The Batwa people, also known as “pygmies,”; were the original inhabitants of the ancient forest before it became a national park. You’ll be introduced to their traditional ways of living, which includes hunting, gathering, and medicine from the forest, rich cultural expressions in dance, music, and storytelling.

Afternoon:

• Optional Guided Forest Walk or Bird Watching can be a chance to learn about the flora and fauna of Bwindi from a different perspective, with insights into the ecology and biodiversity of the park. 
• Alternatively, bird watching can be a rewarding activity as Bwindi is home to over 350 species of birds, some of which are endemic to the region.Your day will wind down with another night at your lodge to reflect on the cultural experiences of the day and relax amidst the sounds of the forest.

To note: Staying another night in Bwindi gives you the chance to further absorb the tranquil atmosphere of the forest and to ponder the intricate tapestry of life and culture in this part of the world. Both the gorilla trekking and the cultural visit to the Batwa community are profound experiences that offer insights into conservation and the importance of supporting local communities alongside wildlife protection efforts

Morning:

• You’ll start your day with breakfast at your lodge before checking out, then after you will embark of the drive to lake mburo via kabale route. The drive itself can be a scenic adventure, as you’ll likely pass through rolling hills, small rural villages, and perhaps even catch glimpses of wildlife along the way. Upon arrival at Lake Mburo National Park, you will check into your lodge and have lunch.

Afternoon:

•  After lunch, and a while of relaxing, you will go on a boat trip; One of the highlights at Lake Mburo, where you can see hippos and crocodiles up close. Lake mburo national  park also has an impressive variety of birds, including African fish eagles, kingfishers, and rare African finfoot, which birdwatchers will be eager to spot.
• Alternatively, If you opt for a game drive instead, you’ll have the chance to see some of the park’s terrestrial wildlife, including herds of zebras, which Lake Mburo is particularly known for. Other animals you might see include impalas, elands, buffaloes, warthogs, and with luck, leopards.
• Walking Safari in the Evening: Lake Mburo is one of the few national parks in Uganda where walking safaris are permitted. An evening walk offers a unique perspective of the savannah and the chance to appreciate the smaller fauna and flora that you might miss when in a vehicle.: After an eventful day, you’ll spend the night at a lodge within the park..

To note: During your time at Lake Mburo, it’s worth taking a moment to appreciate the conservation efforts that have allowed wildlife to thrive in Uganda’s national parks. Your visit contributes to these efforts by providing vital funding and encouraging local communities to continue seeing value in the preservation of these areas.

Morning:

• An early start gives you the best chance to see wildlife when the animals are most active. A guided game walk brings you into close (yet safe) proximity to the wild, allowing for an intimate experience of the bush at dawn. If you opt for a horseback safari, it’s a quieter and more eco-friendly way to encounter wildlife, often allowing you to get closer than you would in a vehicle. After, you’ll return to the lodge for breakfast and a little downtime to freshen up and pack your belongings.

afternoon: 

You’ll then begin the journey from Lake Mburo to Entebbe. The drive typically takes 4-6 hours, depending on traffic conditions as you approach the city areas.Along the way, you will  stop at the Equator crossing; a popular spot for tourists. It’s a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to buy some unique equatorial-themed souvenirs from local craft stalls.

• You will have Lunch in Entebbe or Kampala; which is closer to the airport. It’s important to arrive at the airport at least three hours before your international flight to allow ample time for check-in and security procedures.

 To note: Before leaving, make sure you have all your travel documents in order, including passport, visa (if it’s required), and plane tickets. Reflect on your time in Uganda as you prepare to readjust to life back home or continue your travels elsewhere.

Your journey through Uganda is set to be an unforgettable tapestry of experiences, immersing you in some of Africa’s most spectacular natural and cultural wonders. From the moment of your arrival, the vibrant tapestry of this land unfolds; trekking through the mist-enshrouded forests of Bwindi to witness the majestic mountain gorillas, embarking on game drives through the diverse landscapes of Lake Mburo National Park, to engaging with the storied heritage of the Batwa people. Each step offers an encounter with the raw beauty of wildlife and the warmth of Ugandan culture. 

This thoughtfully crafted itinerary balances adventure with insight, activity with reflection, allowing for personalization to fit your desires, abilities, and resources. It’s essential to work with a reputable tour operator to secure all necessary permits—particularly for gorilla trekking—well in advance and heed travel advisories and health guidelines to ensure a safe and enriching experience. As you depart from the Pearl of Africa, you’ll carry more than just photographs; you’ll take a piece of its soul, etched in memories of encounters that highlight the profound connection between humanity and the natural world.