Best of Uganda

In the morning, you will board a scenic flight to Kihihi, soaring over Uganda’s breathtaking landscapes as you make your way to the country’s south-western region. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its dense rainforest and remarkable biodiversity. As you journey towards Buhoma Lodge, you’ll pass through rolling hills and rural villages, offering a glimpse into the everyday life of the local communities.
Nestled at the edge of the forest, Buhoma Lodge provides an intimate and eco-friendly retreat, blending seamlessly with the surrounding wilderness. After settling into your comfortable accommodation, take the afternoon to relax and absorb the serene atmosphere. You may choose to explore the nearby village, interact with the Batwa people, or simply enjoy the panoramic views from the lodge’s terrace. Rest well, as tomorrow’s adventure promises an unforgettable encounter with Bwindi’s majestic mountain gorillas. (BLD)

Following an early breakfast, you will set off for one of the most unforgettable wildlife experiences—tracking mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Accompanied by expert guides and trackers, you will venture into the dense rainforest, navigating rugged terrain and steep slopes in search of these remarkable primates. The trek can vary in duration, depending on the movement of the gorilla families, but every step through the lush foliage is filled with anticipation.

As you move through the forest, listen to the symphony of birds, rustling leaves, and distant calls of primates echoing through the canopy. Then, the moment arrives—you find yourself face to face with a family of mountain gorillas. Watching them interact in their natural habitat, observing the intricate social dynamics and expressions that mirror our own, is an awe-inspiring experience. Spending precious time in their presence, you’ll witness playful juveniles tumbling through the undergrowth, dominant silverbacks asserting their authority, and nurturing mothers cradling their young.

After this extraordinary encounter, you will trek back through the forest, still immersed in the thrill of the experience. Returning to Buhoma Lodge, you can unwind and reflect on the day’s adventure, perhaps sharing stories over a well-earned meal as the sounds of the jungle accompany your evening. (BLD)

Departing Bwindi, you will travel to the Ishasha sector in the southern reaches of Queen Elizabeth National Park. The drive takes you through scenic countryside, where rolling hills transition into open savannah, offering glimpses of rural Uganda’s charm. Along the way, you will make a brief stop at a community project near Ishasha Village, where you can engage with local artisans and gain insight into the initiatives supporting conservation and sustainable tourism.

Upon arrival at Ishasha Wilderness Camp, settle into your comfortable tented accommodation, perfectly positioned along the banks of the Ntungwe River. Over the next two days, enjoy thrilling game drives through the vast plains of Ishasha, a region renowned for its iconic tree-climbing lions. With luck, you may spot these elusive predators lounging in the branches of fig trees, surveying the landscape below. Beyond lions, Ishasha is home to large herds of Uganda kob, buffalo, and elephant, while flocks of colourful birds add vibrancy to the savannah.

In the evenings, unwind at the camp, where the sounds of the bush provide a tranquil backdrop to your stay. The crackling campfire, delicious meals, and immersive wilderness surroundings create an authentic safari experience, perfectly blending adventure with relaxation. (BLD)

Leaving Ishasha behind, you will journey north into the Mweya sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, a region teeming with diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. As you traverse the park, keep an eye out for elephants, buffalo, and an array of antelope species roaming the open savannah. The Mweya Peninsula offers sweeping views over Lake Edward, creating a picturesque setting for the next phase of your adventure.

In the afternoon, embark on a leisurely boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway connecting Lake Edward and Lake George. This relaxing excursion presents unparalleled opportunities for wildlife viewing, with large pods of hippos wallowing in the shallows, crocodiles basking along the banks, and countless bird species adorning the shoreline. Watch as elephants and buffalo approach the water’s edge to drink, while fishing villages dot the landscape, offering insight into the local way of life.

After an immersive day in the wild, retreat to Elephant Plains Lodge, where you will spend the next two nights. Nestled atop a ridge with panoramic views over the park, the lodge provides an idyllic setting for relaxation. As dusk falls, enjoy a sumptuous dinner while listening to the distant calls of nocturnal creatures, reflecting on the day’s remarkable encounters. (BLD)

Begin your day with an exhilarating trek into Kyambura Gorge, often referred to as the “Valley of Apes.” This lush, sunken forest contrasts sharply with the surrounding savannah, creating a dramatic and biodiverse ecosystem where chimpanzees thrive. Accompanied by expert trackers, you will venture into the dense vegetation, listening for the telltale calls of the chimps echoing through the trees. As you navigate the forest, you may observe these intelligent primates swinging through the canopy, foraging on the forest floor, or engaging in complex social interactions. Watching them in their natural habitat provides fascinating insights into their behaviours, from playful antics to thoughtful gestures that mirror human expressions.

After this immersive trek, return to the open plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park for a game drive, where opportunities abound to spot elephants, buffalo, and a variety of antelope species. The park’s diverse ecosystems support an impressive array of wildlife, including leopards, hyenas, and abundant birdlife. As the day winds down, retreat to Elephant Plains Lodge for a final evening in the heart of Uganda’s wilderness, reflecting on the extraordinary encounters that have shaped your journey. (BLD)

On your final morning in Uganda, immerse yourself in one last game activity, taking in the sights and sounds of Queen Elizabeth National Park as the African wilderness bids you farewell. Whether it’s an early morning game drive or a relaxed walk near the lodge, this last encounter provides an opportunity to reflect on the incredible wildlife and landscapes that have shaped your journey.

Following your morning adventure, you will transfer to the airstrip for your flight back to Entebbe. As you soar over Uganda’s vast and varied terrain, take a moment to savour the memories of the past days—tracking gorillas in Bwindi, encountering tree-climbing lions in Ishasha, cruising along the Kazinga Channel, and trekking chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge.

Upon arrival in Entebbe, you’ll connect with your onward flight, carrying with you the extraordinary experiences of Uganda’s wild beauty and rich culture. Whether you’re continuing your travels or heading home, this journey will remain etched in your memory as an unforgettable exploration of Africa’s untamed heart.