8-Day Uganda Wildlife & Chimps Tracking Safari

Wildlife & Chimps Tracking Safari

8-Day Uganda Wildlife & Chimps Tracking Safari Experience

Uganda is one of Africa’s premier safari destinations, offering visitors a wide range of breathtaking wildlife experiences. Known for its diverse ecosystems, Uganda is home to the world-famous Mountain Gorillas, rare species like the shoebill stork, and vast landscapes of jungles, savannahs, and wetlands. With this 8-day Uganda Wildlife & Chimps Tracking Safari Experience, curated by Renai Venture Safaris, travelers will witness some of Uganda’s best national parks, including Kidepo Valley National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, and the Budongo Forest, home to the incredible chimpanzees.

This 8 Days Uganda Wildlife & Chimps Tracking Safari is specially designed to offer a blend of wildlife viewing, cultural experiences, and thrilling adventures like game drives, nature walks, boat cruises, and chimpanzee tracking. With this guide, we will walk you through each day of your journey, providing essential details of what to expect on this once-in-a-lifetime safari adventure.

 

Detailed 8-Day Uganda Wildlife & Chimps Tracking Safari

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe Airport and Check-in at the Hotel

Arriving in Uganda

Your exciting 8 Days Uganda Wildlife & Chimps Tracking Safari begins with your arrival at Entebbe International Airport. Upon arrival, a warm Renai Venture Safaris representative will be waiting to greet you and assist with all airport formalities. You’ll be transferred to your pre-arranged hotel in Entebbe, where you can relax and unwind after your international flight.

Check-in and Rest

Entebbe is Uganda’s gateway, situated on the shores of Lake Victoria. Depending on your arrival time, you may have a chance to explore the peaceful town or enjoy the lush views of the lake before your safari begins. You’ll have the rest of the day at leisure, allowing you to prepare for your exciting wildlife adventure the following day. Enjoy a restful overnight stay at your hotel, gearing up for your upcoming journey.

Day 2: Early Morning Road Transfer to Kidepo Valley National Park

A Scenic Journey to Kidepo Valley

On Day 2, your 8 Days Uganda Wildlife & Chimps Tracking Safari adventure truly begins as you embark on a road transfer to Kidepo Valley National Park, one of Uganda’s most remote and untouched national parks. The journey from Entebbe to Kidepo Valley takes about 8-9 hours, offering a spectacular view of Uganda’s countryside. As you pass through small towns, picturesque hills, and open savannah, you’ll be treated to glimpses of rural life and the rich natural landscapes of Uganda.

Arrival and Evening Relaxation

Upon arrival at Kidepo Valley, you’ll check in to your accommodation within or near the park. Kidepo is known for its serene, untouched wilderness, with vast open savannah and rugged mountains. You will have the opportunity to rest and relax in the peaceful surroundings.

Day 3: Full Day Adventure in Kidepo Valley National Park (Game Drives, Nature Walk, and Relaxation)

Morning Game Drive: Wildlife Viewing in Kidepo Valley

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll set off for a morning game drive in Kidepo Valley National Park. This park is home to some of the most exciting wildlife in Uganda. You’ll encounter herds of elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and various species of antelopes like Kobs and Topis. Additionally, you might spot the rare cheetah and lions lounging in the long grass. As the park is less crowded than other national parks, it provides a truly intimate experience with nature.

Nature Walk: Immersing in the Wilderness

In the afternoon, you will take part in a nature walk with an experienced 8 Days Uganda Wildlife & Chimps Tracking Safari guide. This walk offers the opportunity to explore Kidepo’s hidden gems and learn about the local flora and fauna. You might encounter smaller wildlife, like monkeys, baboons, and birdlife while learning about the park’s conservation efforts. Kidepo is also an excellent destination for birdwatching, as it hosts over 450 species of birds.

Relaxing Afternoon

After a full morning of adventure, return to your lodge for an afternoon of relaxation. Whether it’s unwinding by the pool, having a refreshing drink, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the park, you’ll have plenty of time to recharge for the following day

Day 4: Another Day in Kidepo Valley National Park (Game Drives, and Karamojong Cultural Experience)

Game Drives in Kidepo Valley

Kidepo offers multiple opportunities for game drives, and Day 4 will allow you to explore even more of the park’s vast beauty. The park’s topography, including the Narus Valley, offers different perspectives on wildlife and their habitats. You’ll likely encounter herds of zebras, buffaloes, and large predators like lions and hyenas. Be on the lookout for the hyena dens and jackals that inhabit the area.

Karamojong Cultural Experience

In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Karamojong community, a semi-nomadic group who live in the northeast of Uganda. The Karamojong are well known for their vibrant cultural traditions and lifestyle. During this visit, you’ll have the chance to engage with the locals, learn about their customs, and watch traditional dance performances. This experience offers a fascinating insight into the lives of Uganda’s indigenous people.

Day 5: Morning Road Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park (Have Evening Game Drive) and Relax

Transfer to Murchison Falls

On Day 5 of 8 Days Uganda Wildlife & Chimps Tracking Safari, after breakfast, you will begin your scenic road transfer to Murchison Falls National Park. The journey takes approximately 7-8 hours, and along the way, you’ll pass through lush forests, scenic villages, and rolling hills. The excitement builds as you head towards one of Uganda’s most iconic parks, renowned for its Murchison Falls, one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world.

Evening Game Drive in Murchison Falls

Upon arrival at Murchison Falls National Park, you will check into your lodge and have time to relax. In the evening, embark on a game drive to spot wildlife. As the park’s animals become more active in the cooler evening hours, you will likely encounter giraffes, elephants, buffaloes, and various species of antelopes. Keep your eyes peeled for predators such as lions and hyenas, which are often on the hunt at dusk.

Day 6: Full Days Adventure in Murchison Falls National Park (Game Drives and Boat Cruise Safari)

Morning Game Drive: Exploring the Park

Day 6 is an action-packed day in Murchison Falls National Park. You will begin with a morning game drive, which will allow you to explore the park’s extensive savannah and woodland areas. Murchison Falls is home to an abundance of wildlife, including hippos, elephants, lions, and giraffes. The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 450 species of birds, including the elusive shoebill stork.

Boat Cruise Safari on the Victoria Nile

In the afternoon, you will enjoy a boat cruise on the Victoria Nile. This iconic activity offers breathtaking views of the Murchison Falls as the river flows through a gorge. On the boat, you’ll get a chance to observe hippos, crocodiles, and water birds up close. The boat ride also provides a fantastic opportunity for photography. Keep your eyes open for other wildlife that congregates around the riverbanks.

Day 7: Morning Game Drive, Hike to the Top of Murchison Falls, Afternoon Chimpanzee Tracking in Budongo Forest and Evening Relaxation

Morning Game Drive and Hike to the Top of Murchison Falls

Start your day with a morning game drive in Murchison Falls National Park. Afterward, embark on a hike to the top of Murchison Falls. The hike offers magnificent panoramic views of the falls and surrounding landscapes. You’ll witness the tremendous power of the river as it plunges through a narrow gorge, creating a thunderous roar.

Afternoon Chimpanzee Tracking in Budongo Forest

In the afternoon, head to the Budongo Forest, located on the southwestern edge of the park. Budongo is renowned for its chimpanzee tracking experience, as it is home to one of the largest populations of wild chimpanzees in Uganda. You’ll hike through the forest, and with the help of expert trackers, you’ll have the chance to observe these incredible primates in their natural habitat. This is a truly immersive and thrilling experience.

Evening Relaxation at the Lodge

After an exhilarating day, return to your lodge for a well-deserved evening of relaxation. Enjoy a delicious dinner, and reflect on the day’s adventures in the midst of the park’s stunning natural beauty.

Day 8: Morning Road Transfer to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for Rhino Tracking (1 Hour Experience), Afternoon Drive to Entebbe Airport for Departure

Rhino Tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

On your final day, you’ll drive to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, located on the way back to Entebbe. This sanctuary is home to the only rhinos in Uganda. After a brief introduction, you’ll embark on a 1-hour rhino tracking experience. Accompanied by a guide, you’ll walk through the sanctuary’s vast grounds to spot the endangered white rhinos. This is a fantastic way to conclude your wildlife journey.

Transfer to Entebbe and Departure

After your rhino tracking adventure, you’ll continue your afternoon transfer to Entebbe. Depending on your flight time, you might have a chance to stop at the Uganda Equator for photos before heading to the airport. Finally, you’ll be transferred to Entebbe International Airport for your departure, bringing your unforgettable 8 Days Uganda Wildlife & Chimps Tracking Safari experience to an end.

Safari Inclusions:

  • Accommodation at selected lodges and camps.
  • All meals as per the itinerary (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
  • Private safari vehicle with an experienced guide/driver.
  • All park entry fees for Kidepo Valley, Murchison Falls, and Budongo Forest.
  • Game drives, boat cruises, and nature walks.
  • Chimpanzee tracking in Budongo Forest.
  • Rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
  • Cultural visits, including the Karamojong cultural experience.
  • Transfer to and from the airport.

Safari Exclusions:

  • International flights to and from Uganda.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Visas for Uganda.
  • Personal expenses such as souvenirs and tips.
  • Drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) during meals and at accommodations.
  • Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary.