10-Day African Safari in Uganda from Kampala

Travelling through Uganda’s diverse landscapes on this 10-day safari offers a genuine look at one of Africa’s most vibrant wildlife destinations. From the thundering Murchison Falls to the forested home of mountain gorillas, this tour promises unforgettable encounters with nature. It’s perfect for those seeking a comprehensive, well-organized adventure with the flexibility of a private guide.

What we love most about this experience is the attention to detail, from early-morning game drives to the chance to observe chimpanzees in Kibale Forest. We also appreciate the quality of guides, who are both knowledgeable and passionate, making each game drive and walk meaningful. The all-inclusive pricing is another plus, removing the stress of hidden costs. However, keep in mind that the long drives between parks require patience and a love for scenic journeys.

This tour suits travelers who want a deep dive into Uganda’s wildlife without the hassle of planning each detail. It’s ideal for those who value comfort, personalized service, and authentic encounters with nature’s giants. If you’re ready for a safari that blends adventure with comfort, this could be your perfect match.

Key Points

• Fully personalized private tour with expert guides enhances your experience
• Includes meals, accommodation, and transfers, offering excellent value
• Diverse wildlife encounters from lions and elephants to mountain gorillas and chimpanzees
• Long drives are part of the adventure but require patience
• Optimal time to visit is December to February for easier animal sightings
• Authentic experiences with knowledgeable guides who often receive glowing reviews

An In-Depth Look at the 10-Day Uganda Safari

Starting off in Entebbe: The First Impressions

The tour begins with pickup from Entebbe Airport, where a friendly representative from Gorilla Safari Uganda greets you. You’ll stay overnight at the cozy Zika Forest Cottages, with pond views that set a relaxing tone for your adventure. This initial stop is a good chance to settle in and get a taste of Uganda’s lush environment, even if you arrive late. While dinner isn’t included, the peaceful surroundings make it easy to unwind after your journey.

Day 2 & 3: Murchison Falls National Park – The Power of Water and Wildlife

The drive to Murchison Falls is a highlight in itself, passing through Uganda’s countryside; expect scenic views of tea plantations and expansive plains. Once there, the park—Uganda’s largest—is where you’ll witness the iconic Murchison Falls, where the Nile squeezes through a narrow gorge, creating a thunderous spectacle.

Early morning game drives here are highly recommended. Guides emphasize that animals are most active at dawn, making this the best time for sightings. Expect to see elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, lions, leopards, and various antelope species. Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their expertise—one noted that their guide, Diana, made the experience truly special. You can also take a boat safari up the Nile, offering close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds, with some reviewers saying they felt like “getting eye-to-eye with Africa’s animal kingdom.”

Day 4 & 5: Kibale Forest National Park – Primates and Forest Walks

The journey to Kibale is scenic, with lush greenery and coffee plantations dotting the landscape. Once at Kibale, primate lovers will be in heaven. This park is known for its high primate diversity, including chimpanzees, which you’ll have the chance to track in their natural habitat. Expect to spend about an hour with the chimps—an experience many reviewers describe as “life-changing,” with guides who are adept at locating the elusive primates.

Along With chimp tracking, the swamp walk offers opportunities to see other primates and birds, as well as enjoying the vibrant local community and scenery. The guides’ local knowledge shines here, making the walk both informative and lively. One reviewer mentioned spotting the blue turaco, a colorful bird that adds an extra element of excitement.

Day 6 & 7: Queen Elizabeth National Park – Big Cats and Kazinga Channel

Queen Elizabeth is a favorite for its varied landscapes and abundant wildlife. The drive from Kibale takes you past rolling hills, with plenty of opportunities to spot animals along the way. The park’s large game populations are particularly notable, including elephants, buffalo, hippos, and lions.

Early morning game drives are again recommended, and reviewers highlight the guides’ skill in spotting animals. The early start allows for sightings before the heat of the day sets in. The boat safari along the Kazinga Channel is a highlight, with viewers describing it as a “hippo playground,” and they often see elephants bathing, crocodiles lounging, and a variety of waterfowl.

The accommodation at Marafiki Safari Lodge, built with local materials, adds to the authentic and eco-friendly vibe, making you feel closer to nature.

Day 8: Transition to Lake Mutanda – Scenic Drive and Relaxation

After some early game viewing, you’ll head towards Lake Mutanda for a change of scenery. While the primary focus of the day isn’t specified, the drive itself is praised for its beauty, offering more opportunity for wildlife sightings and the chance to enjoy Uganda’s stunning landscapes. The lake’s calm waters and mountain backdrop make it an ideal spot for relaxing and absorbing the views.

Days 9 & 10: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – Gorilla Encounters

The finale of this safari is a visit to Bwindi, where the chance to see mountain gorillas is a key draw. The experience of tracking these gentle giants is what many travelers have described as “the highlight of their trip.” The trek can take anywhere from two to seven hours, depending on the movement of the gorilla groups, but guides are skilled at finding them quickly.

Once you find your assigned gorilla family, you’ll have about an hour with them—an intimate, awe-inspiring encounter. The forest itself is teeming with primates, birds, and butterflies, making the walk equally rewarding even if you don’t see gorillas. Reviewers often mention how guides’ knowledge makes the experience more meaningful, with one saying they felt they gained a true understanding of gorilla conservation.

Day 10: Departure and Reflection

The tour wraps up with a drive back to Kampala or Entebbe, passing through the Equator for that iconic photo op. The final night’s accommodation isn’t included, giving you flexibility depending on your flight schedule. The drive is a good time to reflect on the trip’s highlights and enjoy Uganda’s scenic beauty one last time.

A Fair Look at the Price

At $7,400 per person, this safari isn’t a budget trip, but it offers solid value considering the inclusions: all accommodations, meals, transfers, and expert guides. The reviews highlight that the guides are a significant part of the experience—someone who’s knowledgeable and friendly can make all the difference in spotting elusive wildlife and enriching your understanding of Uganda’s ecosystems.

While the long drives might seem lengthy, they’re part of the adventure, offering scenic views and a chance to see more of Uganda’s countryside. The tour’s private nature offers flexibility and personalized attention, making it well worth the investment, especially for first-time safari-goers or those wanting a comprehensive experience without hassle.

Who Will Love This Safari?

This safari is perfect for travelers seeking a luxurious, all-inclusive wildlife experience with a strong focus on personalized service. It suits those who want to see Uganda’s iconic animals, including gorillas and chimpanzees, without the stress of planning logistics. Nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone keen on experiencing Uganda’s varied landscapes will find this tour both satisfying and memorable.

Final Thoughts

Choosing this 10-day Uganda safari means you’re signing up for more than just a wildlife hunt; it’s about enjoying a country rich in biodiversity, guided by professionals who genuinely care. You’ll enjoy the thrill of early-morning game drives, the serenity of boat safaris, and the awe of encountering mountain gorillas—each experience crafted to maximize your adventure.

The tour’s value lies in its comprehensive itinerary, expert guides, and all-inclusive approach, ensuring you focus on the wildlife and scenery instead of logistics. With positive reviews highlighting the guides’ knowledge and the breathtaking views, this trip offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Uganda’s wild heart.

If you’re ready for an adventure that balances comfort, authenticity, and unforgettable wildlife encounters, this safari could be just what you’re looking for.

FAQ

How long is the entire safari?
The tour lasts approximately 10 days, covering Uganda’s major national parks and wildlife highlights.

Are all transfers included?
Yes, transfers between parks, accommodations, and the airport are included, making the trip seamless.

What is the best time to visit for wildlife sightings?
December to February is ideal for easier animal spotting; June to September is the peak high season.

Do I need to be physically fit?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended, especially for activities like gorilla trekking and long game drives.

Are meals included?
Yes, meals are included throughout the tour, with some days providing packed lunches for longer drives.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private tour, guides can tailor certain activities to your interests, within the itinerary.

What wildlife will I likely see?
Expect elephants, lions, giraffes, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, chimpanzees, and mountain gorillas, depending on the park.

Is the accommodation comfortable?
Yes, accommodations like Pakuba Safari Lodge and Marafiki Safari Lodge are praised for their comfort and authentic local style.

How early are the game drives?
Most game drives start early in the morning, around sunrise, to maximize wildlife sightings.

What’s the refund policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund; cancellations less than 24 hours before are not refundable.

Embark on this Ugandan adventure if you crave a balanced mix of wildlife, scenery, and cultural richness—guided by experts who make every moment count.