10-Day Wildlife Big 5, Murchison Falls and Gorilla Safari

Planning a safari in Uganda can feel overwhelming—so many parks, animals, and adventure options. This 10-day tour from Lulu Safaris promises a comprehensive trek through Uganda’s most iconic wildlife and landscapes. While I haven’t personally taken this trip, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a picture of an immersive, well-organized adventure designed for those eager to see the Big 5, primates, and majestic waterfalls.

What immediately stands out about this experience are the personalized private guides, the thoughtfully structured itinerary, and the inclusive nature of meals and accommodations—removing much of the usual travel hassle. However, the long drives between parks could be tiring for some, especially those less fond of extensive road time.

This tour suits wildlife lovers, first-time safari travelers, and anyone craving a deep dive into Uganda’s varied ecosystems—without the stress of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• All-inclusive value: Meals, parks, and accommodations are covered, saving you money and stress.
• Expert guides: Guides like Samuel and Audence are praised for their knowledge, eye for wildlife, and friendliness.
• Diverse experiences: From game drives and boat safaris to chimpanzee and gorilla trekking, this itinerary covers Uganda’s top highlights.
• Flexible optional activities: Hot air balloon safaris and night drives are available at extra costs for added adventure.
• Long travel days: Expect some lengthy drives, but they’re often complemented by stunning scenery and interesting stops.
• Authentic encounters: Reviews highlight intimate moments with wildlife, especially during primate treks—an unforgettable feature.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Entebbe

Landing at Entebbe International Airport, you’ll be greeted by a driver from Lulu Safaris. This personal meet-and-greet sets the tone for a smooth trip. If your flight arrives early, a visit to the Entebbe Botanical Garden is recommended, offering a peaceful stroll amid birds, monkeys, and lush greenery. Expect a quiet, scenic start to your adventure—an ideal introduction to Uganda’s natural charm.

Day 2: Murchison Falls National Park — Big 5 First Stop

The journey to Murchison Falls begins with a scenic drive in either a safari land cruiser or van—depending on availability. This park features Uganda’s largest plains and the captivating roar of the falls. First stop is Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where you’ll get your first Big 5 experience with rhino tracking—an intense, close-up encounter that sets the wildlife tone for the trip.

Day 3: Game Drive and Water Safari

Early morning game drives are a highlight, with chances to spot lions, elephants, giraffes, and possibly leopards. Bird enthusiasts will love the variety on show during the drive. After a rest and lunch, an optional hot air balloon ride adds an unforgettable aerial view of the savannah (extra cost). The afternoon boat trip at the falls reveals hippos, crocodiles, and water birds—an iconic Uganda experience that captures the essence of the country’s aquatic wildlife.

Day 4: Kibale Forest and Chimpanzee Trekking

The drive to Kibale National Park is long but scenic, passing through villages and tea plantations. This park is a primate hotspot, especially for chimpanzees. Expect to see these intelligent primates swinging through the trees or feeding on wild fruit. Reviewers like those from Tripadvisor mention how guide Samuel’s eagle-eye spotting made primate encounters particularly memorable. Check into your lodge for a restful evening after a busy day.

Day 5: Chimps in the Wild and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth

Morning primate tracking in Kibale offers an hour of close observation—an emotional highlight for many travelers. Post-lunch, you’ll head to Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its unique landscapes and varied wildlife. Arriving in the evening, the atmosphere is relaxed, and anticipation for the next day’s adventures builds.

Day 6: Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Safari

Early morning game drives in the Kasenyi plains give chances to see elephants, buffalo, lions, and elusive leopards. The afternoon boat trip along the Kazinga Channel is a crowd favorite, with sightings of hippos, crocodiles, and abundant bird species. Reviewers often mention how these boat trips offer a different perspective on the park’s animals, making it a must-do activity.

Day 7 & 8: Bwindi Gorilla Trekking

A scenic transfer takes you from Queen Elizabeth into Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to roughly half of the world’s mountain gorillas. The trek itself can vary in difficulty depending on the gorilla group location, but the reward is a priceless hour with these gentle giants. Reviewers describe the experience as “spectacular” and “unforgettable,” emphasizing the privilege of seeing such endangered creatures in their natural habitat.

Day 9: Lake Bunyonyi and Community Life

A change of pace brings you to Lake Bunyonyi, known for its stunning hilltop views and peaceful ambiance. Here, you’ll get a brief ranger-guided walk during the gorilla experience, and many praise the dense, dramatic scenery. The lakeside setting offers a relaxing end to the primate adventures, with reviews noting how the landscape’s beauty creates perfect photo opportunities.

Day 10: Return via Lake Mburo

Before heading back to Entebbe, a morning bush walk at Lake Mburo introduces you to more wildlife—zebras, giraffes, and antelopes up close. The walk, accompanied by armed park rangers, is a favorite among travelers seeking a more personal wildlife encounter. The scenic drive back provides one last chance to appreciate Uganda’s landscape before ending your tour at Entebbe Airport.

What We Loved About the Tour

Personalized Guides: The reviews frequently praise guides like Samuel, Audence, and Sam for their wildlife expertise, calm demeanor, and ability to spot animals from great distances. Their local knowledge turns what might be ordinary drives into extraordinary sightings.

Seamless Logistics: Transports between parks are well-organized, with comfortable vehicles and clear communication. The inclusion of all meals and accommodations simplifies planning, especially for travelers unfamiliar with Uganda.

Authentic Wildlife Encounters: From the Big 5 to primates and waterfowl, this trip covers Uganda’s most exciting species. Reviewers’ comments about close encounters, especially during chimpanzee and gorilla treks, highlight how special these moments can be.

Variety of Activities: The combination of game drives, boat safaris, primate treks, and optional hot air balloon rides offers a well-rounded experience. You won’t just see animals—you’ll see them from multiple perspectives and settings.

Value for Money: Considering the price of $6,620, the tour offers comprehensive coverage—covering almost every major park and activity without hidden costs. Many reviews confirm that the experience exceeds expectations for price paid.

Practical Considerations: What to Expect

While the tour offers incredible value, it’s important to be prepared for some longer travel days—several drives can take hours through scenic but sometimes bumpy roads. Reviewers note that the guides help make these days enjoyable with interesting commentary and breaks.

The hot air balloon safari, available at an extra cost, is a highlight for those wanting a bird’s eye view of the plains. The night game drives at Lake Mburo are also optional but highly recommended for night-owl wildlife lovers.

The accommodation options are generally well-rated for cleanliness and comfort, which is crucial after busy days of wildlife watching. Meals are included, usually hearty local fare, praised for their quality and variety.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This safari is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts seeking a thorough exploration of Uganda’s best parks, first-timers eager to experience primates and Big 5 animals, or those looking for a hassle-free, guided adventure. Its private guide setup ensures personalized attention, making it perfect for travelers who want an authentic, comfortable experience with insider knowledge.

The Sum Up

This 10-day safari from Lulu Safaris offers a balanced, carefully curated look at Uganda’s natural wonders. The combination of game drives, primate treks, boat safaris, and scenic drives means you’ll leave with a comprehensive understanding—and plenty of photos—of this “Pearl of Africa.”

The emphasis on expert guides, seamless logistics, and inclusive pricing largely justifies the cost. If you’re after a wildlife adventure that’s rich in variety, comfortable, and led by passionate professionals, this tour is hard to beat.

It’s best suited for travelers who value authentic encounters and expert guidance over luxury splurges. For those willing to spend a little more for a well-rounded, hassle-free experience, it promises memories that will stick with you long after you’re back home.

FAQ

Is transportation provided for the entire tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation is included, with private vehicles used throughout the trip, ensuring comfort and convenience.

Are meals included?
Meals are included for the duration of the tour, which helps avoid unexpected expenses and planning stress.

Can I customize the itinerary?
This is a private, tailored tour, so there’s room for adjustments based on your interests or special requests.

What is the guide quality like?
Guides like Samuel and Audence are highly praised for their knowledge, wildlife spotting skills, and friendly demeanor—making the experience more enriching.

Are optional activities available?
Yes, activities like hot air balloon safaris and night game drives are available at extra costs, adding extra excitement.

How long are the travel days?
Expect some long drives, especially between parks like Queen Elizabeth and Bwindi, but the scenery and wildlife sightings make up for the travel time.

What type of accommodation is included?
The tour includes accommodations that are generally well-rated, combining comfort with authentic local character to enhance your experience.

This 10-day Uganda safari promises an authentic, well-organized, and wildlife-rich adventure—perfect for those ready to explore the Pearl of Africa with a knowledgeable guide by their side.