8 Days Uganda primates and wildlife safari

Trip Over View

This 8-day safari by Mzanga Safaris combines Uganda’s most remarkable primate experiences with breathtaking wildlife encounters and scenic landscapes. Explore Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale Forest National Park, the crater lakes region, and Semuliki National Park while enjoying rhino tracking, game drives, boat cruises, chimpanzee trekking, nature walks, and cultural interactions. From the powerful Murchison Falls to the lush rainforests of Kibale and the unique hot springs of Semuliki, this journey offers an unforgettable introduction to Uganda’s natural wonders and diverse wildlife.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Uganda

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be welcomed by a Mzanga Safaris guide and transferred to Kampala, where you can relax and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Day 2: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park and Rhino Tracking

Depart Kampala and travel to Murchison Falls National Park with a stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for a guided rhino-tracking experience on foot. Continue through Masindi and into Uganda’s largest national park, where you will visit the Top of the Falls and witness the Nile River squeezing through a narrow 7-meter gorge before plunging 40 meters below in a spectacular display of power.

Day 3: Game Drive and Nile Boat Cruise

Begin the day with a sunrise game drive across the Nyamsika Plateau, where you may encounter Cape buffaloes, Rothschild’s giraffes, Uganda kobs, hartebeests, waterbucks, lions, leopards, hyenas, warthogs, and a variety of antelope species. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise along the Victoria Nile to the base of Murchison Falls, providing excellent opportunities to view hippos, Nile crocodiles, elephants, water birds, and the rare shoebill stork while taking in magnificent views of the falls.

Day 4: Visit the Top of the Falls and Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park

After a final visit to the Top of Murchison Falls, begin the scenic journey to Kibale Forest National Park, traveling through rolling countryside, traditional villages, farmlands, and the towns of Hoima and Fort Portal. The drive offers spectacular views of western Uganda and the legendary Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the Mountains of the Moon.

Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking and Bigodi Wetland Walk

Spend the morning tracking chimpanzees in Kibale Forest National Park, home to the highest concentration of primates in East Africa. In addition to chimpanzees, the forest hosts black-and-white colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, blue monkeys, olive baboons, and many bird species. Later, enjoy a guided walk through Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a rich ecosystem known for its birdlife, primates, and beautiful natural scenery.

Day 6: Crater Lakes Exploration

Today is dedicated to exploring the scenic crater lakes region near Kibale. Hike around Lake Nkuruba and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills, forests, and lakes while searching for primates and birds. Visit Mahoma Falls and interact with local communities along the way, learning about their customs, traditions, and daily lives.

Day 7: Semuliki National Park and Cultural Experience

Travel to Semuliki National Park, one of Uganda’s most unique protected areas. Take a guided nature walk to the famous Sempaya Hot Springs, where boiling water emerges from deep underground and visitors can experience the unusual tradition of cooking eggs in the natural hot pools. You will also visit a local Batwa community to learn about their history, traditions, and forest-based way of life before returning to Fort Portal.

Day 8: Return to Kampala and Departure

Begin the journey back to Kampala, passing through scenic countryside and several points of interest along the way. A stop at the Equator offers an opportunity for photographs and a chance to stand in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres simultaneously. Arrive in Kampala in the late afternoon and transfer to Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight or continue with onward travel arrangements.

Price Includes

Transportation in a 4WD safari vehicle
Chimpanzee trekking permit
Rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Murchison Falls National Park entrance fees
Game drive in Murchison Falls National Park
Boat cruise on the Victoria Nile
Bigodi Wetland guided walk
Crater lakes exploration
Semuliki National Park excursion
Services of an English-speaking driver-guide

Price Excludes

International flights
Travel insurance
Visa fees
Drinks and beverages
Tips and gratuities
Souvenirs
Personal expenses and any items not specifically mentioned in the inclusions