11-Day Northern Uganda Safari

Upon arriving at Entebbe International Airport, our company representative or your driver guide will warmly welcome you and transfer you to your guest house, which is a short 15- to 20-minute drive, depending on traffic.

If your flight arrives early, consider spending the afternoon exploring the nearby Mabamba Swamp, known for its excellent birdwatching opportunities. This wetland, situated approximately 50 km west of Kampala, is a recently discovered habitat for the elusive Shoebill stork.

Embark on a guided canoe tour through the marsh channels to spot a variety of bird species, including the white-winged warbler, papyrus gonolek, yellow-backed weaver, northern brown-throated weaver, and blue-headed caracal, among others.

• Driving distance: 10-20 minutes
• Activities: Optional like shoebill excursion/botanical gardens depending on arrival time
• Overnight: Papyrus Guest House (Bed & Breakfast)

After breakfast, take a scenic drive east to Jinja City, a historic destination famous for being the source of the majestic River Nile. Arrive in Jinja City in time for lunch and check in to your accommodation.

Take a moment to refresh and prepare for an unforgettable afternoon adventure. This afternoon, enjoy a tranquil boat cruise along the River Nile. As you glide across the water, soak in the breathtaking scenery and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture surrounding this iconic waterway.

• Driving distance: 2-3 hours
• Activities: Sunset boat cruise along the River Nile
• Overnight: Jinja Haven Eco lodge
• Meal plan: FB - Bed and Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner include

Experience the Ultimate White Water Rafting Adventure on the Mighty River Nile. After an early morning breakfast at Haven Lodge, embark on an unforgettable journey to conquer the legendary white water rapids of the mighty River Nile. With up to seven times the volume of the Zambezi, the White Nile guarantees an unparalleled adrenaline rush.

As you dive into the rapids, ride the towering waves downstream, and unwind in warm pools under the equatorial sunshine, you'll enjoy white water rafting at its best. With a thorough introduction and expert guides accompanying you in spacious, eight-person rubber boats, safety is a top priority. A support safety boat will follow you throughout the trip, ensuring a secure and exhilarating adventure.

Get ready for heart-pounding excitement as you face the river's many grade-five rapids. The breathtaking rural scenery along the riverbanks will leave you in awe, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

A delicious buffet lunch awaits on a private island in the heart of the Nile or at the shores overlooking the river, providing a peaceful break from the morning's excitement.

• Driving distance: 1 - 1.5 hours
• Activities: Whitewater Rafting on the Nile
• Overnight: Jinja Haven Eco lodge
• Meal plan: FB: bed and breakfast, lunch and dinner

Following a delightful breakfast, set off on a scenic drive to Sipi Falls, nestled in the picturesque Kapchorwa district. Arrive in time for lunch, preparing for an exhilarating afternoon ahead.

As you hike through the lush surroundings, the Sipi River flows from the top, culminating in a stunning waterfall that thunders down with a mighty roar. The initial ascent may seem daunting, but rest assured, the path is safe and leads to an awe-inspiring destination.

The second-highest waterfall in the region, Sipi Falls plunges 85 meters over a rugged cliff, forming a crystal-clear pool below. As you navigate the paths to this natural wonder, exercise caution on the slippery terrain, ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience.

• Driving distance: 2-5-6 hours
• Activities: HIking to the falls
• Overnight: Sipi Heritage Lodge
• Meal plan: FB: bed and breakfast, lunch and dinner

After breakfast, embark on a fascinating journey to visit the iconic Kalimajong tribe, renowned for their unique cultural heritage and traditional practices. Due to the region's arid climate, the Kalimajong have developed a remarkable pastoral transhumance system, migrating their livestock to neighboring districts for 3-4 months annually in search of water and pasture.

After savoring lunch at the camp, venture into the heart of the Kalimajong community, visiting their homesteads and kraals. Witness firsthand the tribe's distinctive cultural systems, which bear a striking resemblance to those of the Masai tribe in Kenya and Tanzania. This unforgettable encounter offers a rare glimpse into the Kalimajong's ancient customs and ways of life. Get ready to be enchanted by the warmth and hospitality of the Kalimajong people!

• Driving distance: 4-5 hours
• Activities: Visit to the cultural homes of Kalimajong
• Overnight: Katarunga Tented Camp
• Meal plan: FB: bed and breakfast, lunch and dinner.

After an early breakfast, embark on a Journey to the Unspoiled Wilderness of Kidepo Valley National Park with a fascinating stopover at a Kalimajongo kraal. Witness the traditional milk and blood extraction ceremony, a unique practice where the tribe harvests milk and blood from their cows, blending them together for a nutritious breakfast.

Arrive at Kidepo Valley National Park, Uganda's third-largest national park, spanning 1,440 square kilometers. This untouched wilderness is a true African gem, boasting rugged savannah landscapes dominated by Mount Morungole and intersected by the perennial Narus River.

Experience the Raw Beauty of Kidepo Valley. As an oasis in the semi-desert, Kidepo Valley National Park offers breathtaking vistas, with vast rocky mountains, golden green plains, and an incredible array of wildlife, including; giraffe, zebra, elephant, buffalo, cheetah, ostrich, antelope, numerous mammals and bird species

While the game viewing is exceptional, it's the sense of supreme isolation that sets this rare slice of wild Africa apart – a true gem yet to be discovered by the masses.

• Driving distance: 8-7 hours
• Activities: Visiting the kraal
• Overnight: Kidepo Savanna Lodge
• Meal plan: FB: bed and breakfast, lunch and dinner

Unveiling the Secrets of Kidepo Valley National Park. As morning breaks, the sun rises majestically over Mount Morongole, casting a warm, golden light upon the valley. Our day begins with a leisurely breakfast, setting the tone for an unforgettable adventure.

Immersive Game Drives and Wildlife Encounters. We embark on a guided game drive, where the rhythm of nature dictates our pace. Along isolated tracks, we'll meander through the wilderness, taking in the sights, sounds, and scents of the African savannah. Our expert guides will help us track the movements of the park's incredible wildlife, including: lions, lazing in the shade or stalking their prey, cheetahs, sprinting across the plains with incredible speed, zebras, grazing peacefully in the distance, waterbucks, Jackson's Hartebeests, and Warthogs, roaming freely, patas monkeys, swinging through the trees with agility, large herds of Buffalo, making their way to the nearest waterhole.

As we pause for lunch, we'll indulge in a delicious picnic spread under the shade of a majestic sausage tree. Ice-cold drinks will be served, and you're invited to linger, relax, and perhaps even take a rejuvenating siesta. As we wait, keep an eye out for the Elephants and Giraffes, which may wander into view, seeking refreshment at the nearby waterhole.

Afternoon Delights and Breathtaking Scenery. As the day unfolds, we'll continue our leisurely drive, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Kidepo Valley National Park. Be sure to keep your cameras at the ready, as we may spot; bataleur Eagles soaring overhead, their wings spread wide, Abyssinian rollers flashing their brilliant turquoise plumage

As the sun begins to set, casting a warm, and golden glow over the landscape, we'll raise our glasses in a toast to an unforgettable day. With memories of our incredible adventure still fresh in our minds, we'll return to the lodge, eager to share our stories and reflections.

• Driving distance: 3-6 Hours
• Activities: Game drives
• Overnight: Kidepo Savana Lodge
• Meal plan: FB- bed and breakfast, lunch and dinner

After breakfast and check out, you will embark on a journey to Murchison Falls National Park. If time permits, take a game drive to spot a few of Murchison wildlife encounters. Finally, arrive at the lodge, ready to unwind and prepare for the next day's adventures.

• Driving distance: 6-7 Hours
• Activities: Game drive if time permits
• Overnight: Fort Murchison Lodge
• Meal plan: FB- bed and breakfast, lunch and dinner

Experience the thrill of Murchison Falls National Park, nestled in the African Rift Valley, home to an astonishing array of wildlife, including the iconic Big Four: lions, leopards, elephants, and buffaloes.

Today, rise early for a sunrise game drive, taking advantage of the cooler temperatures to spot an incredible variety of wild animals in their natural habitat. Our expert guides will lead you on an unforgettable journey through the northern sector of the park, bringing you up close and personal with the African wilderness.

In the afternoon, embark on a leisurely 3-hour boat cruise along the tranquil Nile, navigating upstream to the base of Murchison Falls. Witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of hundreds of hippos, buffaloes, crocodiles, and water birds converging at the water's edge. Keep an eye out for thirsty elephants and giraffes, as well as mischievous monkeys.

As you approach the falls, the roar of the 43-meter waterfall grows louder, creating a breathtaking rainbow that spans the sky. This is truly an unforgettable experience. After the cruise, return to the lodge, where you can choose to relax or embark on a late-evening game drive, capping off an extraordinary day in the African wilderness.

• Driving distance: 3-4 Hours
• Activities: Game viewing and bottom of the Falls cruise
• Overnight: Fort Murchison Lodge
• Meal plan: FB- bed and breakfast, lunch and dinner

Once again experience the thrill of Murchison Falls National Park, nestled in the African Rift Valley, home to an astonishing array of wildlife, including the iconic Big Four: lions, leopards, elephants, and buffaloes.

Today, rise early for a sunrise game drive, taking advantage of the cooler temperatures to spot an incredible variety of wild animals in their natural habitat. Our expert guides will lead you on an unforgettable journey through the northern sector of the park, bringing you up close and personal with the African wilderness.

In the afternoon, make a scenic drive to the top of the falls, witnessing the breathtaking spectacle of the Nile River plunging 45 meters into the depths below. Finally, set the pace back the lodge with enroute game viewing.

• Driving distance: 4-7 Hours
• Activities: Game viewing / visit the top of the falls
• Overnight: Fort Murchison Lodge
• Meal plan: FB- bed and breakfast, lunch and dinner

Go on a guided rhino tracking excursion with an experienced ranger, offering a unique opportunity to observe southern white rhinos up close. Spend an unforgettable hour in their presence, taking in the majesty of these incredible creatures.

Depending on your departure flights, you will either have a day room in Entebbe or connect directly with your outbound flight. Please note, that check-in is 2-3 hours before the flight's scheduled departure time.

• Driving distance: 6-7 hours
• Activities: Rhino tracking
• Overnight: optional
• Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch