18day Nature And Wildlife Photography Safari In Uganda
About this tour
Embark on an extraordinary 18-day journey across Uganda, designed for nature lovers and wildlife photography enthusiasts. This safari takes you through diverse landscapes, from the open savannas of Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Parks to the lush rainforests of Bwindi and Bugoma. Capture breathtaking images of the Big Five, rare shoebills, playful chimpanzees, and majestic mountain gorillas. With immersive trekking experiences, walking safaris, and serene boat excursions, this adventure provides ample opportunities to witness Uganda’s unparalleled beauty and communities through your lens. This safari is one immersive journey for any adventurer into Uganda.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Entebbe International Airport, Entebbe, Uganda to Entebbe, Uganda
Day 1: Welcome to Uganda Arrival at Entebbe International Airport Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly received by your guide and transferred to your hotel. Take this day to relax after your flight and prepare for the adventure ahead. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore the botanical gardens, where you can photograph diverse bird species and colobus monkeys, visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre for close-up shots of native wildlife, or simply enjoy the serene views of Lake Victoria, capturing the sunset’s golden reflection on the water.
Day 2: Entebbe, Uganda to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Mukerenge, Uganda
Day 2: Rhino Tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary After breakfast, start your photography safari with an early morning transfer to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. This drive, lasting about 4–5 hours, is more than just a transfer—it’s an introduction to the beauty and diversity of the Pearl of Africa. As you leave the urban bustle of Entebbe, the road winds through lively towns and lush green countryside. You will get to the sanctuary in the morning when the wildlife is still active. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, home to Uganda's rhinos brings you to one of Africa's Big 5. This guided trek provides an excellent opportunity for close-up photography of these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Position yourself to capture dramatic shots of rhinos grazing in the golden morning light or silhouetted against the African sunset. Look out for other wildlife, including oribis and bushbucks, that provide additional photographic subjects. Spend the night at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where nocturnal photography opportunities abound, capturing the silhouettes of acacia trees under a star-studded sky. • Overnight at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Day 3: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Mukerenge, Uganda to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda
Day 3: Canoe Shoebill Excursion & Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park Canoe Shoebill Excursion in Ziwa Wetlands Rise early for a canoe excursion in the Ziwa wetlands, home to the elusive shoebill stork. Glide through the tranquil waters, capturing stunning images of this prehistoric-looking bird along with other wetland species. A telephoto lens is recommended to get crisp shots of the shoebill hunting. In the afternoon, take the scenic drive to Murchison Falls National Park, pausing along the way to photograph scenic landscapes, local villages, and traditional cattle herders. Check into a private safari camp offering spectacular sunset views, perfect for long-exposure landscape shots. Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest and most diverse nature reserve. Its crown jewel is the Nile River, which surges dramatically through a narrow gorge at Murchison Falls, creating one of the most powerful and breathtaking waterfalls in the world. Overnight at a private safari bush camp in Murchison Falls National Park
Day 4: Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda
Today, explore the diverse landscapes of Murchison Falls National Park on foot. You will be guided by an armed wildlife ranger from the Uganda Wildlife Authority. The Original Bush Explorer experience allows you to delve deeper into the wilderness and capture the intricate details of the park’s flora and fauna. From small creatures to grand landscapes, this is a unique opportunity to take immersive photos and learn about the park’s ecosystem. This up-close exploration allows for unique photographic opportunities, capturing the raw beauty of wildlife in its unspoiled habitat. Your guide will position you for the best angles, ensuring you capture compelling compositions of wildlife within their environment. Golden-hour lighting in the early morning and late afternoon enhances the dramatic scenery. • Overnight at the safari camp
Day 5: Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda
Day 5: Explore Murchison Wilderness & Boat Ride to Murchison Falls One of the few African safari destinations that can be explored by car, by boat or on guided walks, the 3,480km² Murchison Falls National Park is dominated geographically by the Nile River and 43m-high waterfall after which it is named. Your Murchison Falls adventure begins with an early morning game drive, the best time to spot wildlife as they emerge to feed. At sunrise, you’ll explore the savannah plains with a ranger, tracking elephants, buffalos, giraffes, lions, leopards, and antelopes. The golden light offers perfect photography opportunities, capturing Uganda kob grazing, hyenas retreating, or leopards resting in trees. After the drive, return to the lodge for breakfast and relaxation by the Nile. In the afternoon, embark on a boat safari along the Nile toward the base of Murchison Falls. The river narrows into a 7-meter gorge, creating a powerful cascade. Along the way, spot hippos, Nile crocodiles, waterbucks, and rare birds like the shoebill stork. Elephants and buffalos often gather at the banks. As you reach the falls, witness the Nile’s raw power as it crashes down, creating a misty spray—an awe-inspiring sight in Uganda’s most iconic park.
Day 6: Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda to Kibale National Park, Uganda
Day 6: Bush Breakfast & Transfer to Kibale National Park Start your day with a bush breakfast, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Afterward, enjoy a scenic transfer to Kibale National Park, one of Uganda’s top primate destinations. The road transfer from Murchison Falls National Park to Kibale National Park is a scenic journey through Uganda’s breathtaking landscapes, connecting two of the country’s most iconic destinations. This route, approximately 7-8 hours long, takes you through lush greenery, traditional villages, and rolling hills, offering glimpses of Uganda's rich cultural and natural beauty. Along the way, travelers may pass towns like Hoima and Fort Portal, the latter known for its stunning backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains. The drive culminates in the enchanting Kibale National Park, famous for its chimpanzee tracking experiences and incredible biodiversity. Opting for a road transfer not only allows you to explore Uganda’s countryside but also offers flexibility for stops and photography, making the journey as memorable as the destination. Kibale National Park is one of East Africa’s most important chimp strongholds. This forested park is home to roughly 1,000 of these charismatic apes, the largest population in the region, and the chances of a close-up sighting are excellent. Other wildlife you might encounter in Kibale includes monkeys such as Uganda mangabey, Uganda red colobus and red-tailed monkey, and an astounding 370 bird species. Overnight at Kibale
Day 7: Kibale National Park, Uganda
Day 7: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale National Park Tracking in Kibale National Park Join a guided expedition into Kibale Forest for a chimpanzee tracking adventure. Capture intimate images of these intelligent primates as they swing from the trees or interact within their groups. The lush forest offers a great backdrop for nature photography, with opportunities to capture unique bird species and other wildlife. Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park is one of Uganda’s most thrilling wildlife experiences. Known as the "Primate Capital of the World," Kibale is home to over 1,500 chimpanzees, as well as 12 other primate species. The guided trek takes you deep into the lush rainforest, where you’ll have the rare opportunity to observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat. As you follow their calls, you might see them swinging through the treetops, foraging, or interacting in their social groups. In the afternoon, you have the option to visit the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a hidden gem for nature enthusiasts. This community-run conservation area is known for its incredible birdlife and primates, including colobus monkeys and other species. As you explore the sanctuary's trails and boardwalks, you’ll not only enjoy the natural beauty but also learn about the community's efforts in turning the wetland into a conservation success story. You have the option of taking another chimpanzee trek in the afternoon. Chimpanzee tracking permit per person is US$250.
Day 8: Kibale National Park, Uganda to Rwenzori Mountains National Park, Uganda
Day 8: Transfer to Kasese Town at the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains The road trip to Kasese offers more dramatic scenery, with the majestic Rwenzori Mountains providing a constant backdrop as you approach the gateway to Uganda's famous national parks. This journey is a mix of natural beauty and cultural encounters, making it a memorable part of your Ugandan adventure. Accessible only to hikers, the 996km² Rwenzori National Park protects the pristine upper slopes of the mountain range for which it is named. First mentioned in Ptolemy’s 2nd-century Geography as the ‘Mountains of the Moon’, Rwenzori is Africa’s third-highest mountain, with a high point of 5,109m, and one of Ugandan national parks to be recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The forest zone protects a diverse fauna, while the upper moorland is notable for its otherworldly vegetation and scenic lakes set below tall glacial peaks. Begin your trek at Trekkers (1,450 meters above sea level) and ascend through the lush Afro Montane Forest Zone to Sine Camp at 2,596 meters—a rewarding height gain of 1,146 meters. The first six kilometers are a steady climb through towering forest trees, alive with birds and playful blue monkeys, followed by a steeper stretch after crossing a river. At Sine Camp, cozy wooden huts sit nestled on a narrow ridge beside rushing waterfalls and forested rapids, offering the perfect setting to relax by a campfire and chat with your guides.
Day 9: Rwenzori Mountains National Park, Uganda
Hiking to Mutinda Camp 3588m Hiking, Rwenzori Mountains After a hearty breakfast, the trek begins at 8:30 AM as you enter the Bamboo-Mimulopsis Zone. The trail includes several switchbacks to ease the climb, taking you through a stunning forest landscape. You'll gain 551 meters in altitude over a 2 km stretch to reach Kalalama Camp at 3,147 meters, located in the Heather-Rapanea Zone. Here, you can rest and enjoy a quick cup of tea or coffee before continuing. The trail then winds gently across the hillside, dips into a valley, and climbs again, crossing small streams and passing moss-covered waterfalls along the way. The climb continues alongside a picturesque stream, tumbling over mossy rocks beneath towering Giant Heather trees, their trunks draped in green moss and hanging lichen. The trail twists through a misty valley surrounded by cliffs, where an incredible variety of plants and Giant Lobelia flourish. Eventually, you’ll arrive at Mutinda Camp, nestled near a small river and waterfall—perfect for a refreshing break. In the afternoon, you may choose to hike up to Mutinda Lookout (3,975 meters), a one- to two-hour climb with breathtaking views over the Rwenzori Mountains, Kasese town, and Lake George.
Day 10: Rwenzori Mountains National Park, Uganda
Hike to Kiharo Camp 3460m The day begins with a climb up a rocky riverbed, followed by a stretch of boggy terrain with boardwalks to help navigate the wet ground. From there, the trail ascends to the top of a tall waterfall before turning right and continuing uphill briefly, then descending through Hunwick’s Pass. This newer trail winds between two high peaks known as the Twin Peaks. Keep an eye out for wildlife like hyrax or red duiker, and watch the cliffs above for hawks and eagles nesting high along the rock faces. At the base of the pass, you’ll cross another bog filled with lobelia plants, then continue through a forest of tall heather trees and massive moss-covered rocks on the way to Kiharo Camp. Just 200 meters from camp, you’ll find the impressive Kiharo Falls, a high waterfall tumbling over mossy rocks—well worth a visit before settling in for the night.
Day 11: Rwenzori Mountains National Park, Uganda to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
Day 11: Descend to Basecamp & Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park After breakfast, begin your descent down to Trekkers Hostel at 1,450 meters. Capture the changing landscapes as you descend. The trail is mostly downhill and stunning with beautiful views, moss-covered rocks along the river, cascading waterfalls, deep valleys, and forests that are possibly the best in the Rwenzori Mountains. This part of the trail took six years to find a way through and a route that is easy enough for tourists to use. In 1937 the explorer and geologist McConnell tried to find a way up this valley but failed and had to turn back and search for another route up the mountain. But now you can experience this truly beautiful valley. If you are lucky, you may catch a glimpse of a Duiker quietly feeding in small clearings as you pass along the river and away from it. The forest along this section is magnificent and full of life with many birds, primates, duikers, and hyrax. A great experience and ending to a fantastic trek. After the trek, transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda's most popular nature reserves. You will be spending the night there.
Day 12: Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
Day 12: Game Drive & Lion Tracking Experience Head out for an early morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, which is famous for its diverse ecosystems. Photograph Jerds of elephants, buffalo, antelope species, and the variety of birdlife. Join a lion tracking experience with a research team, giving you a unique opportunity to photograph lions up close in their natural habitat. Protecting 95 mammal and 610 bird species, more than any other location in Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park ranks among Africa's most biodiverse safari destinations. Lions prey on the antelope that graze the grassy plains. Hippos and elephants are prolific around the larger lakes and waterways. Salt-encrusted crater lakes provide a seasonal feeding ground for flamingos and other wading birds. There are also large tracts of rainforest inhabited by chimpanzees, giant forest hogs and various monkeys. Boat Trip, Kazinga Channel You will join a boat safari on the Kazinga Channel to its confluence with Lake Edward. Hemmed in by steep walls and set below the glacial Rwenzori peaks, Kazinga is home to large numbers of hippos, as well as elephants, buffalo, waterbuck, and Uganda kob. The birdlife is reliably fabulous.
Day 13: Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda to Ishasha Wilderness Camp - Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
Day 13: Transfer to Ishasha Sector Today you transfer to the Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. The Ishasha sector, nestled in the southern reaches of Queen Elizabeth National Park, is a remote and pristine wilderness renowned for its dramatic landscapes and exceptional wildlife encounters. Characterized by vast savannahs, acacia woodlands, and meandering rivers, Ishasha is most famous for its rare population of tree-climbing lions—majestic predators often seen draped lazily across the branches of fig trees. This lesser-visited area offers an off-the-beaten-path safari experience, teeming with elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, and an array of birdlife, making it a hidden gem for travelers seeking tranquility, adventure, and unforgettable wildlife moments.
Day 14: Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda
Day 14: Ishasha Game Drive & Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Start your day with a game drive in Ishasha, where you'll search for and photograph the famous tree-climbing lions resting in fig trees. The open savannahs and unique acacia trees provide great photo backdrops. Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park by road. This trips offers travelers a glimpse into the heart of Uganda’s scenic beauty. As you travel, you’ll pass through lush tea plantations, rolling hills, and vibrant local villages, offering a real sense of life in rural Uganda. The journey is an adventure in itself, with opportunities to take short breaks at picturesque viewpoints. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is not only famous for mountain gorillas but also for 10 other primates, six forest antelope, 350 bird, and 200-plus butterfly species. This is the only park with both the mountain gorillas, and chimpanzees.
Day 15: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda
Day 15: Face to Face with the Majestic Mountain Gorillas Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in southwestern Uganda. This montane rainforest is known for its diverse biodiversity, but most famously, it is home to nearly half of the world's population of endangered mountain gorillas. Gorilla trekking in Uganda is more than just a hike; it's a profound encounter with nature and a chance to witness the majesty of these critically endangered animals. Imagine this: the crisp morning air of Uganda fills your lungs as you stand at the edge of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Sunlight filters through the dense canopy of the rainforest, casting dappled light on the thick undergrowth. Excitement thrums through you – today is the day you trek to see gorillas in their natural habitat.
Day 16: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda to Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda
Day 16: Second Gorilla Trekking Adventure (option: gorilla habituation) Another early start awaits as you gear up for a second day of gorilla trekking. After breakfast, you’ll head to the park headquarters for a new orientation and group assignment. With over 20 habituated gorilla families in Bwindi, your second trek will provide an opportunity to explore a different part of the forest and observe another unique gorilla family. Each gorilla trekking experience is distinct, offering a new perspective on the daily lives of these gentle giants. Whether it’s a playful youngster swinging from branches or a silverback displaying his dominance, every moment is captivating. For amateur or professional photographers, this second trek is a great opportunity to enjoy the moment. After your trek, transfer to Lake Bunyonyi: Spend the afternoon at this beautiful highland lake. a serene lake surrounded by terraced hills. Capture the stunning landscape and enjoy a peaceful evening by the water
Day 17: Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda to Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda
Spend a quiet morning at Lake Bunyonyi - one of Uganda's most beautiful highland lakes. You can take an early morning canoe ride, weather permitting. Later you transfer to Lake Mburo National Park - a savannah park. Protecting a tract of acacia woodland quite unlike any other habitat in Uganda, Lake Mburo National Park forms a convenient, popular and thoroughly worthwhile addition to any safari. A visit here isn't so much about the Big Five (though you’re certain to see buffalos, and leopards are a genuine possibility) as it is admiring the hilly setting, exploring the atmospheric wetlands, and enjoying the high concentrations of herbivores such as zebra, giraffe, hippo, warthog, impala and bushbuck.
Day 18: Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda to Entebbe International Airport, Entebbe, Uganda
Wind up your trip with a walking safari in Lake Mburo National Park. As you walk, you might spot zebras, antelopes, buffaloes, and maybe even giraffes! It's thrilling to see these animals in their natural habitat and observe them from a safe distance. You will be accompanied by an armed wildlife ranger. Look out for zebra since this is the only park on your journey where you will find them.
What's included
All accommodations as listed in the itinerary. All activities, unless indicated as optional. All transportation (Unless labeled as optional). Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section). Private English speaking driver-guide. Taxes / VAT (local). Drinking water in the safari car. Specialized guide for treks. Airport transfers before and after safari. National Parks and Concession Fees. Game Drive. Two gorilla tracking permits per person (valued at US$800 each). One chimpanzee tracking permit per person (value US$250 each). One Rhino tracking permit per person (value at US$50) . Lions Tracking with Conservation team in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Boat Safari on Kazinga Channel. Boat Safari on the Nile River. Shoebill Trekking excursion in Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. Walking Safari in Lake Mburo National Park. Walking Safari in Murchison Falls National Park. Private fueled safari vehicle.
Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour International flights Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.) Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day) Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees Entry visa fees ($50 for Uganda - https://visas.immigration.go.ug) Domestic flights International Travel Insurance Personal Medical Insurance Laundry services Alcoholic drinks Travel insurance and medical expenses of any kind. Accommodation not listed Porters on gorilla trek All optional activities
What to know
This tour can be customized to your preferences and price point. Accommodation is based on comfortable and safe midrange facilities. Please get in touch with me.
Route & locations
Entebbe International Airport, Entebbe, Uganda to Entebbe, Uganda