7 Days – Murchison Falls, Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi and Lake Bunyonyi

Overview
This 7-day adventure across Uganda takes you to some of the most iconic wildlife destinations in Africa. Start with a visit to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary before exploring the majestic Murchison Falls. Enjoy game drives, a boat ride on the Nile, and a trip to Kibale National Park to track chimpanzees. The journey continues to the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth for its famous tree-climbing lions, before heading to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience. End the tour with a peaceful retreat at Lake Bunyonyi, known as the “Switzerland of Africa,” before returning to Kampala.
This 7 day Uganda Safari takes you to the misty Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, which is home to more than half the population Mountain Gorillas.Later to Lake Bunyonyi for some relaxation, which is said to be one of the most beautiful lakes in Uganda.
Also you get to visit the Queen Elizabeth National Park for a great game viewing experience in the Ishasha sector. You will also enjoy a game drive and a boat cruise along the Nile River in the Murchison Falls National Park. With a visit to Kibale Forest National Park for the chimpanzee trekking activity, you will conclude your tour with some unforgettable memories.
Full Itinerary
Day 1:Kampala to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to Murchison Falls National Park (Visit to Top of Falls)

You will be picked up around 6:30 am from your hotel in Kampala (or Entebbe) and kick start this day’s adventure with an exciting road trip to Murchison falls National Park. Along the way you will make a stop at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary where rhinos are being reintroduced to the wild in Uganda so that you have a complete feel of the African Big five mammals as it is the Rhinos, out of the big five that are missing in Murchison Falls National park.
You will have lunch at the sanctuary and embark on an exciting road trip to Murchison falls. Upon arrival inside the park, you will drive to top of the Falls. You will be amazed by the beautiful landscape while occasionally sighting warthogs and other wildlife with a drive to the top of the Falls whose views are breathtaking. About 300 - 400 cubic meters per second of Nile water force through a tiny gorge of about 7 meters to plunge into a violent tempest in a whirlpool about 42 meters below. It is such a beautiful sight with incredible picture moments here.
Meals
LunchDinner
Day 2:Murchison Falls National Park (Game Drives and Boat Ride)

After your early morning breakfast, our driver guide picks you up for the early game drive. Explore the major game trails especially in the northern bank for good game spotting including lots of Elephants, Lions, Giraffes, Antelopes, Jackals, Hyenas, Uganda Kobs, Waterbucks, Jackson's Hartebeests and hopefully the elusive Leopards among others.
Later on, get your lunch break and some relaxation for an indefinitely short time. Later we set out for the afternoon Boat Ride on the Victoria Nile which is the high spot of any Murchison Falls Safari for you get to spot lots of animals at a close encounter. You will have to spot lots of hippos, Nile crocodiles, Elephants, Buffaloes, and many other animals that come to drink water, refresh and cool themselves off the scorching sun and some animals to eat the fresh grass along the river banks.
Meals
BreakfastLunch
Dinner
Day 3:Murchison Falls National Park to Kibale National Park

After a healthy breakfast, you will be transferred to Kibale forest National Park, the capital world of Primates such as chimpanzee, baboons and monkeys. Upon arrival, you will check in at your lodge for dinner and peaceful rest at your lodge as you get prepared for the next day’s wildlife adventure in the tranquil forest.
Meals
BreakfastLunch
Dinner
Day 4:Kibale National Park (Chimp Tracking) to Ishasha sector

Assemble at the park headquarters for briefing and then go for the most popular activity in this park which is Chimpanzee tracking. Chimpanzees are man’s closest cousins, although they are one of the most threatened primate species. More primates like Black and white Columbus monkeys, L’Hoest Monkeys, Grey cheeked Mangabey, Red tailed monkeys, bush babies, pottos and many bird species like the yellow spotted nicator, rumped tinker bird, Little greenbul, green breasted pitta, the crowned eagle, black bee eater and mammals like Elephants can be seen in this trek.
Have lunch and relax for some time. Later transfer to Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth national park where you will view wild animals en route as you transfer to the lodge for relaxation.
Meals
BreakfastLunch
Dinner
Day 5:Ishasha sector (Game drive) to Bwindi National Park

Early morning Game drive at Ishasha sector to see the tree climbing lions if you are lucky and then post Lunch transfer to Bwindi National park.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a big habitat for mountain gorillas in Uganda; harbouring an estimated 400 mountain gorillas – roughly half of the world’s population, including several habituated groups, which can be tracked. Its mist-covered hillsides are blanketed by one of Uganda's oldest and most biologically diverse rain-forests, which dates back over 25,000 years and contains almost 400 species of plants.
With a strenuous day ahead, you will check into your accommodation, relax as you prepare for the Bwindi gorilla trekking experience the following day.
Meals
BreakfastLunch
Dinner
Day 6:Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Gorilla Trekking) to Lake Bunyonyi

You will have an early morning breakfast at 6:30 am and with packed Lunch you will move to the Park headquarters to join other trackers in a briefing about the gorilla trekking rules at 7:30 am. You will trek through thick creepers and undergrowth with your guides to find the Gorillas, which can take you 1-8 hours. The steeply forested landscape is incredibly dense but crisscrossed by numerous animal trails allowing access by tourists. You will will stay with Gorillas sometime once sited and later transferred to Lake Bunyonyi.
The drive will be in the beautiful part of the country often referred to as ‘the Switzerland of Africa’ because of its unique cool weather despite being near the Equator. This lake is said to be one of the most beautiful places in western Uganda. It is the second deepest lake in Africa (900 meters deep) and also one of the few places in the country where it is considered safe to swim as it is bilharzia free.
Note: Depending on your time of arrival at Lake Bunyonyi, you can pay the extra amount for the activity (Community Walk, Canoe Ride, Boat Ride, Bicycle Ride, Bird Watching and Cray Fishing...) directly at the accommodation and do the activity on this day or on the next day before departing back to Kampala (or Entebbe).
Meals
BreakfastLunch
Dinner
Day 7:Lake Bunyonyi to Kampala

On this final day of your adventure in Uganda, you can choose to have an optional activity in the early morning and later after breakfast, you will start heading back to Kampala (or Entebbe). On the way you will have Lunch before reaching Kampala (or Entebbe).
Meals
BreakfastLunch

Tour Details
What You Should Know Before Traveling
1. Visas and Entry Requirements
- Visa Requirements: Ensure you have a valid passport with at least six months of validity. Most East African countries (Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania) require a visa for international travelers. You can apply for a single-entry visa or the East African Tourist Visa, which allows travel between Rwanda, Uganda, and Kenya on a single visa.
- Visa on Arrival: Some nationalities can obtain visas on arrival, but it's best to apply in advance for convenience.
- Entry Health Requirements: A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry into Rwanda and most neighboring countries.
2. Vaccinations and Health Precautions
- Required Vaccinations: In addition to Yellow Fever, it’s recommended to be up-to-date with routine vaccines such as Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, and Tetanus.
- Malaria Precaution: Malaria is prevalent in many areas of East Africa. Travelers are advised to take anti-malarial medication and use insect repellent with DEET, especially in rural areas.
- COVID-19 Guidelines: Ensure you check the latest COVID-19 travel restrictions and vaccine requirements, which may vary from country to country. Always carry a mask and sanitizer.
3. Safety and Security
- General Safety: Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania are generally safe for tourists, but it's important to stay vigilant. Avoid displaying valuables, and always travel with your guide or tour group.
- Wildlife Safety: When participating in safaris, always follow your guide’s instructions. Keep a safe distance from animals and never leave the vehicle unless instructed.
- Health Insurance: Make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and activities like gorilla trekking or safaris.
4. Packing List
- Clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime activities, and warm layers for cooler nights, especially in high-altitude areas like Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.
- Footwear: Comfortable hiking boots are essential for trekking, while sandals or casual shoes work well for city exploration.
- Rain Gear: A waterproof jacket and pants are recommended, especially during the rainy season (March-May and October-November).
- Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. The sun can be intense, particularly at higher elevations.
- Insect Repellent: Essential for protecting against mosquito bites, especially in the evenings.
5. Weather and Best Travel Times
- Rwanda and Uganda: The best time for gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons, from December to February and June to September. Expect cool mornings and evenings, with pleasant daytime temperatures.
- Kenya and Tanzania: The best time for safaris is from June to October, during the dry season, when animals gather around water sources, making wildlife viewing easier.
- Packing for the Seasons: Dry season (June–October) is great for wildlife viewing, while the rainy seasons (March-May, October-November) bring lush landscapes but may make some roads impassable.
6. Currency and Money Matters
- Local Currency: Rwanda uses the Rwandan Franc (RWF), Uganda uses the Ugandan Shilling (UGX), Kenya the Kenyan Shilling (KES), and Tanzania the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS).
- Foreign Currency: U.S. Dollars are widely accepted, especially for larger payments like park fees and accommodations. However, smaller transactions should be made in local currency.
- ATMs and Credit Cards: ATMs are available in major cities, but it’s advisable to carry cash, especially when traveling to rural areas. Credit cards may not be widely accepted outside major hotels.
7. Cultural Etiquette and Customs
- Respecting Local Culture: East African countries are rich in diverse cultures and traditions. Be respectful of local customs, dress modestly when visiting rural areas, and always ask before taking photos of people.
- Language: English is widely spoken in Rwanda, Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, though Swahili is a common regional language. Learning a few basic phrases in Swahili or Kinyarwanda can enhance your experience.
- SIM Cards and Internet: Local SIM cards are readily available, and most accommodations offer Wi-Fi. Ensure your phone is unlocked before you travel.
- Voltage and Plugs: East African countries use a mix of plug types, including British type G (three-pin) and European type C (two-pin). The voltage is typically 220-240V.
9. Important Notes for Adventure Activities
- Gorilla Trekking Permits: If you're participating in gorilla trekking, permits must be booked in advance due to limited availability. Bring sturdy boots, gloves, and gaiters for trekking through the dense forest.
- Safari Drives: Early morning and late afternoon game drives offer the best chance of spotting wildlife. Bring binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens for the best experience.
Includes
Park Fees (for Non-Residents) Gorilla trekking permit in Bwindi Chimp tracking permit in Kibale Game drive as mentioned in the itinerary A professional driver/guide 4x4 Land Cruiser or Safari Van All Taxes and VAT Meals as per itinerary Drinking water while on safari (2 liters per person per day) Activities mentioned in the itineraryExcludes
International flights Airport Transfers (Unless mentioned otherwise) Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour (Unless mentioned otherwise) Tips (Tipping guidelines) Personal Items (Souvenirs, Travel Insurance, Visa Fees, etc.) Government imposed an increase of Taxes, Gorilla trekking permits, Chimp tracking permits and or Park Fees Any activities not mentioned in the itineraryDestinations

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dense rainforest and incredible biodiversity.
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Kibale Forest National Park
Kibale Forest National Park, often referred to as the "Primate Capital of the World," is a stunning tropical rainforest located in western Uganda.
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Lake Bunyonyi
Lake Bunyonyi, often referred to as one of Uganda's most beautiful lakes, is a stunning gem located in the southwestern region of the country.
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Murchison Falls National Park
The park is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, and buffaloes, along with the iconic Nile crocodiles and hippos found along the riverbanks.
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Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda's most famous wildlife reserves, spans over 1,978 square kilometers and is nestled in the western region of the country.
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