Mabamba Wetlands Shoebill Stork Search and Journey to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Mabamba Swamp Bird Watching - The 16-Day Great Loop Uganda Safari kicks off with a pickup from your hotel in Entebbe or Kampala, heading towards the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, a 4-hour drive from Entebbe. The first stop is Mabamba Swamp, renowned for sightings of the Shoebill Stork and other water-bird swamp specialists in Uganda. Situated along Lake Victoria, Mabamba Swamp is a RAMSAR site. A fishing boat with an expert birding guide will navigate the swamp’s narrow channels to spot the Shoebill Stork. This sought-after bird can be seen in the early morning, standing still in the swamp hunting for lungfish and other prey. You can often get close enough for excellent photos. The activity usually concludes by 10:30 am – 11 am. The journey continues to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, arriving at 3:30 pm. Check into Ziwa Rhinos Guesthouse, featuring permanent tented cottages.

On-foot Rhino Tracking and Travel to Gulu Town en Route to Kidepo Valley Park

Rhino Fund Uganda - At Ziwa Rhinoceros Sanctuary, visitors can track southern white rhinos on foot. Experienced Uganda Wildlife Rangers will guide you to the rhinos’ location on the day of your visit. Witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, spanning 7,000 hectares. The sanctuary is also home to other wildlife, including Uganda Kobs, oribis, bushbucks, waterbucks, and numerous bird species. This is a unique opportunity not to be missed! Your guide ensures your safety, so it’s crucial to heed the safety briefing. The trek lasts about 1½ hours, depending on the rhinos’ location. Wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots with woolen socks, long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, and a hat. Don’t forget effective insect repellent.

Gulu - After the trek, the journey continues to Gulu town for lunch, dinner, and an overnight stay. The drive north takes approximately 3½ hours.

Morning Drive to Kidepo Valley Park and Afternoon Game Drive

Kidepo Valley National Park - After an early breakfast, the journey continues to Kidepo Valley Park, arriving around lunchtime. The drive traverses diverse terrain, offering a unique experience in Uganda. Few venture here due to the long drive, but those who do are astounded by the park’s beauty and the journey itself. The drive passes through the Karamajong region, where pastoralists maintain their ancient ways, with cattle being central to their culture. There are many exciting sights along the way. Lunch is either en route or at your Kidepo lodge, depending on the previous night’s stay. Check into the lodge, enjoy a late lunch, and settle in with a refreshing drink. Wildlife is often visible near the lodge, followed by an afternoon game drive lasting until dusk.

Kidepo Valley Park - Game Drives

Kidepo Valley National Park - Game drives occur in two areas: the wildlife-rich Narus Valley, best explored early in the morning around 6 am, when lions and other predators return from night hunts. Leopards, cheetahs, and various other cats, some unique to Kidepo Valley Park, can also be seen. The park is famous for its vast buffalo herds and unique antelopes. You might even spot Spartacus, a lion often seen on a rock, reminiscent of The Lion King. Game drives last over 3 hours, with a 4-wheel drive vehicle featuring a pop-up roof. A Uganda Wildlife Authority Ranger accompanies you for wildlife spotting and security.

Kidepo Valley National Park - During the morning and afternoon game drives, some enjoy a nap, but a book is recommended. After lunch or the afternoon game drive, savor a Ugandan Waragi with Krest Bitter Lemon, a Ugandan beer, or a Tangawizi – Stoney Soda. At 3 pm, embark on a drive through the arid Kidepo Valley to the Kanangorok Hot Springs, passing stunning landscapes. North of Apoka, beyond the river crossing, the road winds between rock outcrops and hills before descending into the Kidepo Valley, crossing the Kidepo Sand River, and traversing open plains extending past Kanangorok Hot Springs towards mountains across the Sudanese border. This area is known for ostrich sightings. While wildlife is less common here than in the Narus Valley, the scenery is worth the drive. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Kidepo Valley Park – Gulu Town

Kidepo Valley National Park - After breakfast, visit Karamojong Manyatta with a guide, meeting the cattle herders and warriors to learn about their culture and traditions. Then, drive to Gulu for an overnight stay at Churchill Courts Hotel.

Travel to Murchison Falls Park and Afternoon Game Drive

Murchison Falls National Park - After breakfast, continue the journey to Murchison Falls National Park, arriving before lunchtime to check into the chosen lodge, Pakuba Lodge. The drive takes about 3 hours. A mid-afternoon game drive at 3:30 pm offers sightings of lions, giraffes, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, birds, and various antelopes. The drive lasts about 3 hours, with sunset around 6:45 pm and darkness setting in after 7 pm.

Murchison Park Game, Afternoon Nile River Boat Safari, and Top of Falls Hike/Excursion

Murchison Falls National Park - An early morning game drive offers wildlife sightings in one of Uganda’s premier wildlife parks. Murchison Falls Park boasts Africa’s largest giraffe population, thriving with over 1,000 individuals. Elephant numbers are increasing due to effective conservation and anti-poaching measures.

Waterfall Cruises - Murchison Falls - After lunch, embark on the renowned boat safari along the River Nile to the falls. The leisurely journey reveals pods of hippos, numerous crocodiles, elephant herds, buffaloes, antelopes, monitor lizards, and more. This is a highlight of your Murchison Falls Park visit. The boat safari offers more wildlife, birds, and reptiles than any game drive. At the base of the world’s most powerful waterfall, disembark and hike up the falls’ side to the top, where the Driver Guide awaits to return you to the lodge for dinner. The Nile’s calmness after descending the escarpment is remarkable. The foam in the water is not pollution but vegetation churned up by the waterfall.

Transfer to Kibale Park - The Primate Capital of East Africa - Best Place for Chimpanzee Trekking in East Africa

Kibale Forest National Park - After an early breakfast, travel to Kibale Forest, passing through beautiful countryside. Drinking water is provided during the journey. Arrive in the Fort Portal area for lunch. The drive takes 7 – 8 hours.

Day 4 Chimpanzee Tracking (Trekking) in Kibale Forest and Bigodi Wetlands – Jungle Swamp Walk

Kibale Forest National Park - Enjoy breakfast at the lodge before heading to Kibale Forest Headquarters for the Chimpanzee Tracking activity. The guided trek offers sightings of at least five or six of the park’s 13 primate species. The forest’s natural beauty and rugged terrain are breathtaking. The park is home to diverse butterflies and exotic birds, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts. While chimpanzee tracking is popular, the stunning natural environment offers much more, providing a sanctuary for wildlife, birds, plants, and trees. The habituated chimpanzees are accustomed to humans. The Chimpanzee Trek lasts about 3½ hours, with a minimum age of 15. An alternate activity with Rangers is available for children. Option: Instead of chimpanzee trekking, join an all-day Chimpanzee Habituation Experience.

Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary - In the mid-afternoon, explore the Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary, a captivating jungle swamp with abundant natural wonders. The guided nature walk takes you along boardwalks above the water. Birdwatching enthusiasts will find this destination a must-see, with the large blue Turaco commonly spotted. In the afternoon, chimpanzees often forage from Kibale Forest, and other monkey species can be seen. You may also glimpse the elusive Sitatunga Antelope, a semi-aquatic species with webbed toes for navigating the swampy terrain. Your guide, a member of the Bigodi community, is dedicated to protecting the local swamp and its wildlife. This area is recognized as a UNESCO Sustainable Tourism Eco-Site.

Queen Elizabeth Park – Kasenyi/Mweya Area

Queen Elizabeth National Park - After breakfast, embark on a 3-hour drive to Queen Elizabeth Park. Before checking into your preferred lodge, enjoy the scenic Explosion Crater Drive, featuring craters and lakes with stunning views from the highest point in the lodge. The drive takes about 2½ hours, with some craters featured in National Geographic. The breathtaking sights offer numerous photo opportunities. The accompanying ranger will explain the formation of this park section. Check in at Enganzi Game Lodge, a top-notch mid-range lodge known for its quality.

Lunch

Queen Elizabeth National Park - Experience the thrill of an afternoon game drive on the vast Kasenyi plains of Queen Elizabeth Park, where you can witness majestic lions, leopards, elephant herds, buffaloes, and antelopes up close. Accompanied by an experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority Ranger and your driver-guide, you’ll slowly drive down a game track, taking in all the wildlife sights and sounds. With two expert guides on board, you won’t miss a thing during the 2½ to 3-hour game drive. Plus, you’ll have the advantage of a pop-up roof for the best wildlife-viewing experience.

Queen Elizabeth Park - Morning Safari Drive and Afternoon Kazinga Channel Boat Safari

Queen Elizabeth National Park - You have the option to have breakfast before or after embarking on your second game drive, typically starting at 6:30 am. Morning game drives offer the opportunity to witness predators returning from their nightly hunts, with the stunning Savannah Sunrise adding to the experience.

One exciting opportunity is the Lion Tracking Research, where you can join researchers in their search for collared lions. This project is in collaboration with the Uganda Carnivore Project and Uganda Wildlife Association. You can also learn about the habits and behaviors of these majestic animals during the experience.

Kazinga Channel - In the afternoon, the Kazinga Channel Boat Safari is the main attraction of any safari trip to Queen Elizabeth Park. This two-hour boat ride offers sightings of a variety of wildlife, birds, and reptiles. You have the option to choose a smaller boat at a higher cost or take the larger Uganda Wildlife Authority boat, both of which provide excellent views of elephants, buffalo herds, antelopes, crocodiles, monitor lizards, hippos, and a multitude of water birds, including large schools of pelicans. The Kazinga Channel boasts a high number of hippos and is also home to various bird species. Additionally, it is a popular gathering spot for large herds of elephants and buffaloes.

Ishasha -Tree-Climbing Lions – Queen Elizabeth Park - Bwindi

Gorilla Trekking Day - Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Park.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest - After breakfast, attend a pre-tracking briefing to review guidelines for your safety. Gorilla trekking begins soon after and can range from a short walk to an all-day hike through rugged terrain. Typically, it lasts 3 - 5 hours, depending on the gorilla family’s location, with one hour spent with them. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for most (not for those under 15 years of age). To ensure comfort on the trek, wear light trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, sturdy boots, a hat, and a light rain jacket. Some find cotton garden gloves helpful for climbing vines or branches. Bring a daypack for essentials. The driver will assist in hiring a porter. A big walking stick, handy on the trek, is available at the lodge or Gorilla Trailhead. Follow the rules of conduct while tracking for the protection of the Mountain Gorillas and your well-being.

Lake Victoria - Consider staying another night or take a 2½-hour drive to Lake Bunyonyi for exploration and relaxation. Activities at Lake Bunyonyi are optional and not included in the offer.

Don’t Miss Scenic Lake Bunyonyi with its Countless Things to Do and See

Lake Victoria - As the safari nears its end, take time to unwind and relax at Safari Lake Bunyonyi. This hidden gem in the Gorilla Highlands is often overlooked by visitors to Uganda but is worth adding to your must-see list. Note that activities here are not included in the tour cost. Options include swimming, paddling a dugout canoe, riding in a motorboat, or exploring any of the 29 islands. Hiking, biking, and birdwatching are popular for those seeking a more active experience.

After trekking gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga Gorilla Park, enjoy nature walks, village visits, and interactive cultural experiences. Lake Bunyonyi stands out from other East African lakes due to its lack of bilharzia, crocodiles, and hippos, allowing for worry-free swimming in its crystal-clear waters.

On the Way Back to Entebbe, Stopover at Lake Mburo National Park.

Lake Mburo National Park - The Pearl of Africa Safari gradually concludes as we head to Lake Mburo Park. Start the day with an early breakfast before setting off. Lake Mburo is an ideal spot for a break during a long journey and is one of Uganda’s most charming places. The drive takes around 5 hours, so departing at 7 am is recommended for optimal arrival time. A lunch break is taken in Mbarara town. After lunch, continue the journey to Lake Mburo. Before checking in, embark on a 1½ - 2-hour game drive through the rolling hill Savannah, spotting large Eland and other antelopes, giraffes, Burchell zebras, and occasional leopards. Check into Rwakobo Rock Lodge, perched high on a ridge overlooking Lake Mburo Park, featuring delightful cottages and a swimming pool. The boat ride is skipped here, as previous, more exciting ones have been experienced, and meeting the minimum participant number at the chosen time is uncertain.

Lake Mburo Park - Walking Safari – Equator Stop – End of the 16-day Uganda Great Loop Safari Experience

Lake Mburo National Park - After breakfast, embark on a Nature Walk with a UWA Ranger to the Saltlick, where abundant wildlife can be seen. This 90-minute hike includes a hide at the Salt Lick, offering a variety of wildlife sightings. After the game drive, prepare for departure to Kampala – Entebbe. After lunch, stop at the Equator for photos. Proceed to Kampala – Entebbe, arriving in the late afternoon as the 16-day Uganda Great Loop Safari Experience concludes.

• Ground transportation & Airport transfers in a 4X4 pop-up roof safari vehicle & expert driver-guide
• Meals included: Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast
• All activities listed in the itinerary: game drives, walking safari
• Bwindi Forest Gorilla Trekking Permit
• Nile boat safari at Murchison Park and Kazinga Channel boat safari at Queen Elizabeth Park
• Lodging and all meals as per the safari itinerary
• Visitor entry fees for all parks including the car and driver-guide
• Bottled drinking water on all drives
• Services of an English speaking driver/guide and an armed park ranger
• On-foot Rhino Tracking at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
• Chimpanzee tracking permit at Kibale Park
• Bigodi Wetlands Swamp Trail and Mabamba Wetlands Shoebill Stork Search
• Top of Falls Hike or Excursion at Murchison Park

• Gratuities
• Fizzy and alcoholic drinks
• Personal & Travel insurance
• Laundry

Embrace the journey of a lifetime with our 16-day grand Ugandan safari adventure! Envision yourself being awe-struck by the unique Shoebill Stork at Mabamba Wetlands, assisting the noble cause of rhino preservation at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, and reveling in the wild splendor of Kidepo and Murchison Parks. In Kibale Park, get ready to track chimpanzees in their natural habitat, observe lion prides in Queen Elizabeth Park, and undertake a memorable trek to encounter mountain gorillas in Bwindi Park. Finally, unwind at the tranquil Lake Mburo Park.

Our safari isn’t only about observing wildlife; it’s an opportunity to create lasting bonds, collect unforgettable memories, and truly comprehend the heartbeats of Africa. Anticipate marveling at the diverse fauna, immersing yourself in authentic culture, and witnessing landscapes that are sure to leave you speechless. Be prepared to gather memories that will nourish your soul for a lifetime. The magic of Africa is prepared to warmly welcome you.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.