5 Day Uganda Safari

Overview

1. Trip DescriptionExperience the best of Uganda in five unforgettable days, combining thrilling wildlife encounters in Queen Elizabeth National Park with the extraordinary experience of mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Discover tree-climbing lions, elephants, hippos, and diverse wildlife across beautiful savannah landscapes before venturing into mist-covered forests for a face-to-face encounter with endangered mountain gorillas. With private transport, expert local guides, comfortable lodge stays, and breathtaking scenery, this journey offers a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and relaxation in the Pearl of Africa.2. Itinerary HighlightsWildlife game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park.Search for the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha.Boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel.Mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.Scenic drives through Uganda's savannahs, hills, and rainforests.Private safari experience with a professional local guide.3. What Makes This Trip Unique?This safari brings together two of Uganda's most remarkable wildlife experiences in one journey: the thrill of spotting wild animals across open savannah plains and the rare privilege of encountering mountain gorillas in their natural rainforest habitat. From the legendary tree-climbing lions of Ishasha to an unforgettable hour observing a gorilla family, every moment reveals a different side of Uganda. The private arrangement, carefully selected accommodation, and authentic local guiding make this a personalized adventure that combines wildlife, comfort, and meaningful connection with nature.4. Experience LevelModerate to ChallengingSuitable for travelers with a reasonable level of fitness and a spirit of adventure. Wildlife viewing and boat cruising are generally accessible to most travelers, while gorilla trekking involves walking through dense forest, steep slopes, uneven terrain, and potentially muddy trails for approximately 2–6 hours, depending on the gorillas' location.Fitness: Moderate physical fitness recommended.Trekking: Moderate to high physical effort.Age: Minimum 15 years for gorilla trekking.Experience: No previous trekking experience required.Recommended: Waterproof hiking boots, long-sleeved clothing, and a walking stick or porter for additional support.

Day by Day

1. 1
   

   Day 1

   Arrival and welcome briefing

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   After a warm welcome and a short briefing, begin your journey westward toward Queen Elizabeth National Park.

   As you leave Kampala and Entebbe behind, the landscape gradually transforms from vibrant towns and rolling countryside to lush plantations, hills, and open savannah. Enjoy scenic views along the way and, time permitting, make a stop at a local attraction or viewpoint.

   Arrive at your carefully selected lodge , check in, and relax as you prepare for the exciting wildlife experiences ahead

   Photos from this day

   

   • Game drives

   Main destination

   Queen Elizabeth National Park

   Overnight

   Equator Lodge and Campsite

   Meals included

   Dinner, Lunch

   Drinks

   Non-alcoholic drinks included

2. 2
   

   Day 2

   Queen Elizabeth Wildlife Safari & Kazinga Channel Cruise

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   Rise up early for a surprise visit to the Chimpanzee world. The early hours offer excellent opportunities as you get to see close the primates.After lunch and some time to relax, embark on a boat cruise along the famous Kazinga Channel. The waterway connects Lake Edward and Lake George and is renowned for its concentration of hippos, crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes, and numerous bird species along its shores.

   Return to your lodge in the evening and enjoy a relaxing dinner surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.

   Main destination

   Queen Elizabeth national park

   Overnight

   Equator Lodge and Campsite

   Meals included

   Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

   Drinks

   Non-alcoholic drinks included

3. 3
   

   Day 3

   Ishasha Tree-Climbing Lions & Journey to Bwindi

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   After breakfast, depart Queen Elizabeth National Park and head toward the spectacular Ishasha sector, famous for its unusual tree-climbing lions.

   Enjoy a game drive through the Ishasha plains as you search for lions resting in the branches of large fig and acacia trees. You may also encounter elephants, buffaloes, topis, antelopes, and other wildlife along the way.

   Continue your journey toward southwestern Uganda as the landscape changes dramatically. Savannah gives way to rolling hills, green valleys, tea plantations, and eventually the misty forests surrounding Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

   Arrive at your forest lodge in the evening. Settle in, enjoy dinner, and prepare for the highlight of your Ugandan adventure :gorilla trekking.

   • Game drives

   Main destination

   Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

   Overnight

   Rushaga Gorilla Lodge

   Meals included

   Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

4. 4
   

   Day 4

   Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

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   Today is the highlight of your safari.

   After an early breakfast, proceed to the gorilla trekking briefing point. Meet your ranger guides, receive important safety instructions, and begin your trek into the ancient Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

   The trek takes you through dense vegetation, steep slopes, and beautiful rainforest landscapes as you search for a habituated mountain gorilla family. The duration and difficulty of the trek vary depending on the location of the gorillas.

   Once you locate the family, spend up to one unforgettable hour observing these remarkable animals in their natural habitat. Watch their social interactions, movements, feeding habits, and the protective presence of the dominant silverback.

   After the encounter, trek back through the forest and return to your lodge for a well-earned rest. Spend the evening reflecting on one of Africa's most extraordinary wildlife experiences.

   • Gorilla trekking

   Main destination

   Bwindi Impenetrable national park

   Overnight

   Rushaga gorilla lodge

   Meals included

   Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

   Drinks

   Non-alcoholic drinks included

5. 5
   

   Day 5

   Departure

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   Enjoy your final morning in the beautiful surroundings of southwestern Uganda. After breakfast, begin your return journey toward Entebbe.

   Travel through Uganda's scenic countryside, passing rolling hills, rural communities, farms, and changing landscapes along the way. Depending on your departure time, there may be an opportunity to make a brief stop for photographs, refreshments, or a final local experience.

   Upon arrival in Entebbe, your driver-guide will transfer you to Entebbe International Airport for your onward flight, marking the end of your unforgettable journey through Uganda.

   Leave Uganda with memories of open savannahs, tree-climbing lions, the wildlife of Queen Elizabeth National Park, and the unforgettable sight of mountain gorillas deep within Bwindi's ancient forest.

   Main destination

   Kampala

   Meals included

   Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

   Drinks

   Non-alcoholic drinks included

What’s Included

Getting There

• Starts and ends in Entebbe.
• Fly to and from Entebbe International Airport (EBB).
• You book your own international flights.
• A transfer from and back to the airport is included.
• Extra nights before or after the trip can be arranged for an extra cost.

1. 1Arrival and welcome briefing, Queen Elizabeth National Park
2. 2Queen Elizabeth Wildlife Safari & Kazinga Channel Cruise, Queen Elizabeth national park
3. 3Ishasha Tree-Climbing Lions & Journey to Bwindi, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
4. 4Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Bwindi Impenetrable national park
5. 5Departure, Kampala

Traveller Reviews

Offered By

Savanna Quest Uganda

Local operator based in Uganda

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