Ultimate 12-day Big 5 Safari: Rhinos To Gorillas
About this tour
Embark on an unforgettable 12-day Uganda safari adventure that combines thrilling wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, and breathtaking landscapes. This well-curated journey takes you deep into Uganda’s national parks, from the misty mountains of Bwindi to the vast savannas of Murchison Falls and the scenic waterways of the Nile. Whether you're tracking rhinos on foot, coming face-to-face with mountain gorillas, or cruising along the Kazinga Channel, this itinerary offers an unparalleled East African safari experience.
Safari Highlights:
Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale National Park
Rhino Tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Sunrise Breakfast Boat Cruise on the Nile
Boat Safari and Visit to Murchison Falls
Walking Safari in Lake Mburo National Park
Hiking through the Underground Forest of Kyambura Gorge
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Entebbe International Airport, Entebbe, Uganda to Entebbe, Uganda
Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at Entebbe International Airport by a Nandi Adventures representative. You will be transferred to your boutique hotel, located in a peaceful setting with lush gardens and a pool—perfect for unwinding after your flight. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner and briefing about your upcoming safari.
Day 2: Entebbe, Uganda to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda
Rhino Tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary & Transfer to Murchison Falls After breakfast, drive to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for an exciting on-foot tracking experience. Guided by expert rangers, observe the endangered white rhinos up close in their natural habitat. Afterward, continue your scenic journey to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and most wildlife-rich park. Arrive at your lodge overlooking the Nile, where you can enjoy an evening surrounded by nature. 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.
Day 3: Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda
Game Drive & Nile River Safari to Murchison Falls 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 4: Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda
Breakfast on the Nile River; and Hike to Murchison Falls Experience the magic of a sunrise cruise on the majestic Nile River, where the serenity of the water meets the golden hues of dawn. As the first rays of sunlight illuminate the riverbanks, you’ll glide peacefully along the Nile, taking in breathtaking views of the lush surroundings and awakening wildlife. Indulge in a delightful breakfast served on board, featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, as you savor the tranquil ambiance. This unique experience offers the perfect start to your day, blending relaxation, natural beauty, and culinary delight on one of the world’s most iconic rivers. In the afternoon, embark on an unforgettable Nile River hike from the top of the falls to near the base of the awe-inspiring Murchison Falls. This is the trail that local and foreign have followed for hundreds of years- Baker's Trail. A scenic and invigorating path that allows you amazing views of the Nile River's dramatic plunge through a narrow gorge (about 7metres wide), creating a breathtaking spectacle of power, mist and resident rainbow.
Day 5: Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda to Kibale National Park, Uganda
Transfer to Kibale National Park 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.
Day 6: Kibale National Park, Uganda
Chimpanzee Tracking Adventure in Kibale After an early breakfast, we head to the visitor center at Kibale National Park to begin the exciting day with a briefing from experienced park guides. The briefing will cover important guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for both you and the chimpanzees. Once ready, we set out into the forest for chimpanzee trekking. The trek's duration can vary depending on the location of the chimpanzee groups, as they move freely within the forest. However, once you find them, you'll have an unforgettable hour observing their behavior, interactions, and unique personalities up close. 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.
Day 7: Kibale National Park, Uganda to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
After breakfast, continue your journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda's most diverse and iconic national parks. The park is home to sprawling savannas, lakes, forests, and wetlands. Upon arrival at your safari lodge accommodation, enjoy a leisurely lunch. In the afternoon, explore the explosion crater lakes even as you look out for wildlife. You’ll spot elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and a variety of bird species. This excursion offers the perfect introduction to Queen Elizabeth’s incredible biodiversity.
Day 8: Kyambura Gorge, Katunguru, Uganda to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
Today, start with a guided hike in the Kyambura Gorge, a sunken rainforest in the middle of the savanna, home to a small population of chimpanzees. The contrast between the gorge’s lush environment and the surrounding grasslands makes for a breathtaking hike. In the afternoon, take a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway teeming with wildlife. You’ll have the chance to see hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes, and an array of bird species in one of the richest aquatic habitats in Africa.
Day 9: Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda
After an early breakfast, embark on a captivating road journey. This transfer takes you through some of Uganda’s most picturesque landscapes, offering breathtaking views of rolling hills, terraced farms, and rural villages. Along the way, you’ll experience the charm of Uganda’s countryside, with opportunities to capture photos of tea plantations and stunning scenery. If your route passes through the Ishasha sector, you’ll have a chance to spot the famous tree-climbing lions lounging in fig trees—an unforgettable highlight of the journey. The drive not only connects you to your next destination but also immerses you in the region’s natural beauty and cultural vibrancy. Arrival in Bwindi As you approach Bwindi, the lush rainforest comes into view, signaling your arrival at this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled in southwestern Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its extraordinary biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and unparalleled wildlife experiences. Spanning over 321 square kilometers, Bwindi is a lush rainforest that has survived for more than 25,000 years, making it one of the oldest and most biologically diverse ecosystems in Africa.
Day 10: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda
Face to Face with Mountain Gorillas Trekking through the dense forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a mesmerizing adventure, especially when it involves encountering the majestic mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. As you navigate the rugged terrain, guided by experienced trackers, every step is filled with anticipation. The air is thick with anticipation and the echoes of the forest. Suddenly, a rustle in the undergrowth alerts you to their presence. Heart pounding, you cautiously approach, and then, there they are: a family of gorillas, lounging, playing, or foraging just a few meters away. The sheer power and grace of these gentle giants leave an indelible mark, a memory of a lifetime etched in the depths of the lush Bwindi wilderness.
Day 11: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda to Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda
Embark on a breathtaking road journey from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to the scenic landscapes of Lake Mburo National Park. This approximately 5-6 hour drive takes you through the rolling hills of southwestern Uganda, offering picturesque views of rural villages, lush banana plantations, and terraced farmlands. As you leave the misty forests of Bwindi behind, the route winds through the vibrant towns of Kabale and Mbarara, where you can witness the daily lives of local communities and perhaps stop for a traditional Ugandan meal. The drive offers incredible opportunities to soak in Uganda’s diverse landscapes, from the highlands of Kigezi to the expansive savannahs near Lake Mburo. Upon arrival at your accommodation near Lake Mburo National Park, enjoy a change in scenery with its acacia woodlands, open grasslands, and shimmering lakes. This compact but wildlife-rich park is home to zebras, impalas, elands, and an abundance of birdlife, making it the perfect stop for a relaxed yet rewarding safari experience.
Day 12: Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda to Entebbe International Airport, Entebbe, Uganda
Experience the thrill of a walking safari in Lake Mburo National Park, a unique adventure that brings you up close to nature in Uganda’s savannah wilderness. Guided by expert rangers, this immersive experience allows you to explore the park’s diverse landscapes on foot, offering an unparalleled opportunity to encounter wildlife such as zebras, giraffes, impalas, and warthogs in their natural habitat. Unlike game drives, walking safaris provide a slower, more intimate connection with the environment, from tracking animal footprints to discovering hidden plant species. Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers, a walking safari in Lake Mburo is a must for those seeking an authentic African experience.
What's included
Specialized guide for treks Drinking water in the safari car Taxes / VAT Park fees Airport transfers before and after safari One gorilla tracking permit per person One chimp tracking permit per person One rhino tracking permit per person Guided Walking Safari Game Drive Walking safari Nile River Safari in Murchison Falls National Park Boat safari on Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Entry visa fees Personal Travel Insurance (comprehensive covering all aspects of your travel) Domestic flights Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees International flights Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.) Tips / Gratuities Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour Laundry services Porters on gorilla trek All optional activities Alcoholic drinks Travel insurance and medical expenses of any kind.
What to know
This tour can be customized. Accommodation upgrades are available. Please get in touch with me.
Route & locations
Entebbe International Airport, Entebbe, Uganda to Entebbe, Uganda