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HomeToursUganda12 Days Uganda Gorilla Classic Safari

12 Days Uganda Gorilla Classic Safari

12 Days / 11 Nights Uganda 7 destinations
12 Days11 nights
English-speakingdriver guide
4x4 safarivehicle

About This 12-Day Safari

You kick-start your safari with Murchison Falls National Park which offers you the meandering beautiful Victoria Nile and the dramatic Murchison Falls. Murchison falls National Park is Uganda’s largest protected area with stunning semi-arid vegetation. The park provides good habitat to elephant, buffalo, giraffe and lions, leopards, different antelope species and many birds.

The safari then takes you to Kibale Forest National park the “primate capital of the world” with its chimpanzees. Then to Queen Elizabeth National park, Uganda’s most famous National Park that offers you an unforgettable boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel. The Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth will warm your hearts with it Tree Climbing lions.

Then proceed for the ultimate gorilla experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. As for the Gorilla Trekking, please remember that it will take you through the forest hills to encounter the Gentle Giants of this Jungle; the Mountain Gorillas as they bustle, nimble and waddle in search for fleshy shoot and fruits that make up their daily meal.

You will then proceed to Lake Bunyonyi, the deepest in Uganda, second in Africa after L. Tanganyika and third in the world after L. Baiker in Russia.

You will finish off with Lake Mburo National park, one of the smallest and true gem national parks in Uganda. This is the ultimate way to enjoy in totality the pearl of Africa “Uganda”.

  • Rhino trekking
  • Top of the falls view
  • Nature walks
  • Game drives (Day & Night)
  • Boat Cruises
  • Chimpanzee trekking
  • African Community experience
  • The tree climbing lions of Ishasha
  • Gorilla Trekking
  • Islands boat tour
Lioness resting on a tree branch in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Where You Will Go

The places this safari visits, in the order you will reach them.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Savannah, crater lakes and the Kazinga Channel, with hippos, elephants and the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha.

Murchison Falls National Park

Uganda’s largest park, where the Victoria Nile forces through a narrow gorge and thunders over Murchison Falls.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

The only place in Uganda where you can track wild southern white rhinos on foot.

Kibale Forest National Park

The “primate capital of the world”, famous for chimpanzee trekking and 13 primate species.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage rainforest in south-western Uganda and home to around half of the world’s mountain gorillas.

Lake Bunyonyi

A calm, terraced-hill lake in the south-west dotted with islands, ideal for canoeing and birdwatching.

Day By Day Itinerary

Every day is planned by our local team and can be adjusted to your pace.

Arrive
Entebbe

Arrival at Entebbe International Airport

Upon arrival at Entebbe international Airport, our professional driver guide will receive you and take you to your hotel. Your guide will also brief you about the COVID19 protocols and precautions to take. You will use the rest of time of the day to relax and prepare for your safari.

Overnight: The Boma Hotel – Entebbe
Day1
Murchison Falls National Park

Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park; via Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary; top of falls view

Our Safari day starts at 6:30 am after your breakfast when your guide picks you up from the Hotel. You will drive for 176 km north of Kampala to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for Rhino tracking. This is the only place in Uganda where one can find these Short, huge and majestic creatures in the wild. You will get a chance to track them on foot, view and enjoy them in their Natural wild environment.

You will have lunch and later on proceed to Murchison Fall National Park to the top of falls. You will view and experience the thundering of Murchison falls. You will later proceed to your hotel for dinner and a good night’s rest.

Overnight: Twiga Safari Lodge
Day2

Morning game drive; afternoon boat cruise; Sunset game drive; Sundowner

You will spend the day in the park; game viewing at the northern bank of the Nile and later take a boat cruise from Para to the bottom of the mighty falls- all the time you will be on the lookout for Giraffes, elephants, lions, Hartebeests, Waterbucks to mention but a few. Game viewing along the river is beautiful because it presents a chance to see hippos, elephants and birds, even the rare shoebill stork and the Nile crocodiles basking on the banks of the Nile. Later in the evening, embark on a sunset game drive and an enjoyable sundowner.

Overnight: Twiga Safari Lodge
Day3
Kibale Forest National Park

Drive to Kibale Forest National Park; Bigodi wetland/Community experience

After an early breakfast, you will be picked from the lodge to start your journey to the primate capital of the world; Kibale Forest National Park. Your journey will take you via Fortportal City where you will have Lunch and later on embark for the Bigodi Sanctuary eco-community walk through the wetland. The walk offers you possible views of counts of birds including the great Blue Turaco and Hornbills. The views of the swamp dwelling animals like Sitatunga may also be sighted. Then proceed to the local communities and get to experience their way of life such as feeding, interaction, socioeconomic activities and maybe learn about their history and heritage. You may visit different families doing different activities such as Banana Juice making, Banana beer brewing, coffee processing, herbal medicine, basket weaving etc.

Later on, you will move to your lodge, still in time to spot the beautiful hot orange sunset.

Overnight: Chimpanzee Guest House
Day4
Queen Elizabeth National Park

Chimpanzee trekking; Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

After an early breakfast, you will transfer to Kanyanchu Visitor Information Centre at 8am for briefing by the park rangers and then set off for the chimpanzee trekking experience. Kibale Forest boasts of high counts of habituated chimpanzees with over 95% chances of encountering them. The chimpanzee trekking exposes you to impressive forested landscapes with undulating terrain that presents a rewarding hike. The hour of direct encounter with chimpanzees, seeing them as they patrol, munch leaves or fruits, socialize, young ones playing and make pant hooting calls creates remarkable memories. During the trekking, you may spot primates like black and white colobus monkeys. Return to the lodge for lunch and later embark on a transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Overnight: Bush Lodge
Day5
Queen Elizabeth National Park

Morning game drive; Kazinga channel boat cruise; sunset game drive

After an early breakfast, we will go for a morning game drive through the Kasenyi plains that are a great place with chances of coming across lions, Uganda Kob and some herds of buffalos. Deep into the thickest and bushes towards the salt lakes is where if lucky you will encounter a leopard hidden in the thickets as if waiting to pounce on its prey. Later on, Lunch will be served hot at the lodge before we head to the Kazinga Channel; that flows to connect Lakes Edward and George. The boat ride here will offer sighting of the largest concentration of hippos, Crocodiles, buffaloes, Elephants, water birds including among others, the hamerkop and Kingfishers occasionally shooting into the waters for prey. You may go for a sunset game drive later in the evening.

Overnight: Bush Lodge
Day6
Queen Elizabeth National Park

Morning Game drive; Transfer to the Southerly Ishasha sector

You will wake up early and have breakfast. You will then explore the park to its best by drive with chances of meeting many different animals and bird species. This park hosts a variety of wildlife that includes buffalos, Kob, Elephants, and Waterbucks and as well as different bird species. Later on, you will transfer to the Ishasha sector.

Overnight: Enjojo Lodge
Day7

Check on the Tree climbing lions;

Early morning after breakfast, you will go for a game drive where you may encounter the tree climbing lions as well as many other animal species and appreciate nature at its best.

Later during the day, return to your lodge, have lunch and relax as you see the hot orange sunset as the sun hits the horizon.

Overnight: Enjojo Lodge
Day8
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After a lazy breakfast, embark on your journey and drive through the countryside to the southerly Part of Uganda to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Upon arrival, you will relax at your lodge as you wait to have dinner and retire to your bed.

Overnight: Buhoma Lodge / Four Gorillas Lodge
Day9
Lake Bunyonyi

Gorilla Trekking; Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi

Wake up early to prepare for the highlight of your safari, the remarkable meet with the Gentle Giants! After breakfast, you will transfer to the park offices where you will be briefed about the do’s and don’ts. You will then set off for the dream adventure of your life. Trekking through the forested hills of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and then finally coming across the gorillas cloaked in the foliage is an amazing experience, and indescribable because of the difficulty to paint a verbal picture of the vegetation, terrain, smells, colours and the animated entertainment from the gorillas and other residents of the jungle. After trekking, you will have packed lunch and you shall later return to your lodge.

Do not leave these items behind; sunscreen, insect repellent, your passport, camera, hiking boots, long safari pants and long sleeved shirts or T-shirt plus a light rain jacket. Please avoid very bright hot coloured clothes- These not only attract insects to you but can be offensive to the residents of the jungle. These items will come in handy as you go through the thick forest and encounter the unpredictable weather of Bwindi: Expect rain or sunshine anytime.

After your trekking exercise, you will be transferred to Lake Bunyonyi.

Overnight: Arcadia Lodge/ Birdnest Resort Bunyonyi
Day10
Lake Mburo National Park

Island boat tour; Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park; Night game drive

Early in the morning after your breakfast, you will embark on a transfer to Lake Bunyonyi. Lake Bunyonyi is one of the most picturesque and serene places in the world. You shall take a boat cruise to explore the history, culture and lifestyle of the people who live around the lake. The one to two hour boat trip takes you to the principal few of the many Islands straddling the area. Our aim will be Byoona Amagara but you shall see a number of other islands such as Bushara Island, Akampene (the famous punishment Island), Kyahugye (Madman’s Island), Bwama and Bucuranuka Islands, to mention a few. You will later have lunch at your lodge and transfer to Lake Mburo National Park. Here you will have a night game drive where with luck you may see the Leopard, Elands, Buffalos, Impalas, Kob, Topis, Bushbucks, Waterbucks, Hartebeest and many beautiful birds. You will later retreat to the lodge.

Overnight: Mihingo Lodge · 2: Mantana · Rwakobo Rock Lodge · 2: Mbogo Lodge
Day11

Morning Nature/Safari walk; Relaxation/Optional activities

After a lazy breakfast, you shall do a morning nature walk. The nature walk closes-up experience with many animals and bird species found in the park. You may encounter different animal species such as the Zebras, Giraffes, Impalas, Buffaloes, Elands and many more on your walk. Later in the day, you can chose to rest at your lodge or you can have an optional horseback safari or cycling safari. Retire to your bed after dinner.

Overnight: Mihingo Lodge · 2: Mantana · Rwakobo Rock Lodge · 2: Mbogo Lodge
Day12
Entebbe

Transfer to Entebbe International Airport; Stop over at the Equator

Following your lazy breakfast, you will embark on your journey to Entebbe International Airport. You will have a stopover at the Equator for the Coriolis water experiment showing the magnetic force at the center of the earth and photographs and thereafter embark on your journey to the airport for your departure flight.

Where You Will Stay

Lodges are subject to availability. If a lodge is full we replace it with one of an equal standard.

1 night
Entebbe

The Boma Hotel – Entebbe

2 nights
Murchison Falls National Park

Twiga Safari Lodge

1 night
Kibale Forest National Park

Chimpanzee Guest House

2 nights
Queen Elizabeth National Park

Bush Lodge

2 nights
Queen Elizabeth National Park

Enjojo Lodge

1 night
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Buhoma Lodge / Four Gorillas Lodge

1 night
Lake Bunyonyi

Arcadia Lodge/ Birdnest Resort Bunyonyi

2 nights
Lake Mburo National Park

Mihingo Lodge · 2: Mantana · Rwakobo Rock Lodge · 2: Mbogo Lodge

Best Time To Go

Dry seasons run from December to February and June to September: easiest trails and best game viewing. March to May and October to November are wetter, greener and quieter.

JanBest timeDry. Firm trails and easy game drives.
FebBest timeDry. Firm trails and easy game drives.
MarRainy seasonLong rains. Green, quiet, muddy trails.
AprRainy seasonLong rains. Green, quiet, muddy trails.
MayRainy seasonLong rains. Green, quiet, muddy trails.
JunBest timeDry. Firm trails and easy game drives.
JulBest timeDry. Firm trails and easy game drives.
AugBest timeDry. Firm trails and easy game drives.
SepVery goodMostly dry with good viewing.
OctGoodShort showers, green scenery.
NovGoodShort showers, green scenery.
DecVery goodMostly dry with good viewing.
Best timeVery goodGoodRainy season

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the 12 Days Uganda Gorilla Classic Safari?

The package includes Very good English speaking Driver guide; 4x4 fuelled safari land cruiser; all accommodation as mentioned in the itinerary; meals as mentioned (breakfast, lunch and dinner); all transportation on ground; all entry fees into national parks and touristic sites; 1 gorilla tracking permit; 1 chimpanzee tracking permit; 1 rhino tracking permit. It does not include international flights (both inbound and outbound); east african community entry/tourist visa; meals and drinks not mentioned here-in the itinerary; optional activities not mentioned here-in the itinerary; items of personal nature and tips; any soft and alcoholic drinks.

Where does the 12 Days Uganda Gorilla Classic Safari start and end?

The journey starts with your arrival at Entebbe International Airport and finishes with your transfer back to the airport for your departure flight.

Do I need a gorilla permit?

Yes. Mountain gorilla trekking requires a permit and the number of permits is limited each day, so we recommend booking as early as you can, especially for the dry months of June to September and December to February. Giravex reserves your permit once your dates are confirmed.

Do I need a visa for Uganda?

Most visitors need a visa. Uganda, Kenya and Rwanda are covered by the East Africa Tourist Visa, which allows travel between all three on one visa. We will confirm exactly what applies to your passport when you book.

When is the best time to take this safari?

Dry seasons run from December to February and June to September: easiest trails and best game viewing. March to May and October to November are wetter, greener and quieter.

Can the itinerary be changed?

Yes. Every Giravex itinerary can be adjusted to your dates, pace, budget and interests. Tell us what you would like to change and a trip specialist will tailor it for you.

How do I book or get a quote?

Send a quote request or message us on WhatsApp. A trip specialist will reply with availability and a detailed quote for your group size and dates.

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