10 Days Private Uganda Safari with Pick-up

Exploring Uganda’s Wildlife on a 10-Day Private Safari

If the idea of tracking mountain gorillas in Bwindi, seeing chimpanzees in Kibale, or spotting lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park sounds like your kind of adventure, this 10-day private Uganda safari might just be the trip you’ve been dreaming of. While I haven’t personally been on this exact tour, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and the reputation of the provider, Discovery Journeys, suggest it’s a truly immersive and well-organized experience.

What makes this safari stand out? First, the expert-guided approach ensures you’re in knowledgeable hands, making every encounter richer and more insightful. Second, the diverse itinerary offers a perfect mix of primates, savanna wildlife, and scenic landscapes, giving you a well-rounded taste of Uganda’s natural beauty. Third, the value for money is notable—considering the inclusions like private transport, multiple game drives, and park fees, it’s clear this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck.

That said, the tour involves quite a bit of long driving—up to 8 hours in some cases—which might be tiring for some travelers. It’s best suited for those who love wildlife, don’t mind some travel time, and want a comprehensive experience that hits Uganda’s prime national parks. This safari appeals most to wildlife enthusiasts and adventure seekers eager to explore Uganda’s remarkable biodiversity.

Key Points

• Diverse Wildlife Encounters: From gorillas and chimpanzees to tree-climbing lions and hippos, the itinerary covers Uganda’s top animal sights.
• Expert Guides: Well-knowledgeable guides like Gavis enhance every part of the trip with insights and a friendly approach.
• Scenic Variety: Expect breathtaking views at the Equator, crater lakes, and the spectacular Murchison Falls.
• Long Drives: Be prepared for extended transfers between parks, sometimes up to 8 hours, which are necessary for accessing remote locations.
• Authentic Experiences: Opportunities like community visits and nature walks add depth beyond just wildlife viewing.
• Value for Money: The package includes all transportation, most meals, and park fees, making it easier to budget.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Lake Mburo National Park

The safari kicks off with a scenic drive from Kampala, stopping at the Equator for a quick photo op—an iconic moment for many travelers and a fun addition to your African adventure. Arriving at Lake Mburo, you’ll enjoy a game drive where zebras, giraffes, and buffaloes roam freely. This park is often less crowded, meaning you’ll get more intimate wildlife encounters and a peaceful start to your safari.

Day 2: Transition to Bwindi Impenetrable

After breakfast, you’ll go for a walk to the salt lick—an intriguing spot where animals gather to mineralize—and then depart for Bwindi, known worldwide for its mountain gorillas. The drive, about 3-4 hours, offers glimpses of Uganda’s lush landscape, setting a tranquil tone for the gorilla trek ahead.

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

This is the highlight for many visitors. You’ll start with a briefing at the park headquarters, then head into the forest to find the endangered mountain gorillas. The hike can take between 2 to 6 hours depending on gorilla movements, so physical fitness helps. Once found, you’ll spend an hour observing these gentle giants—an awe-inspiring moment. Reviewers like “Gavis, our guide, was very professional,” highlighting the importance of experienced guides in making such encounters meaningful.

Day 4: Queen Elizabeth National Park and Ishasha

Traveling to Queen Elizabeth, you’ll explore the Ishasha sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions (a rare sight). The game drives are designed to maximize wildlife sightings, with the chance to see elephants, buffalo, and perhaps even a leopard. The scenic drive itself showcases Uganda’s diverse landscapes, from savanna plains to lush forests.

Day 5: Nature Walks and Kazinga Channel Cruise

Start with a morning walk through the Kyambura Gorge or at the bat cave, spotting primates and bird species. In the afternoon, a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel offers unforgettable wildlife views: hippos, crocodiles, and countless bird species, all in a single trip. One reviewer noted how the boat cruise provided “many opportunities to see wild animals and birds up close,” making it a standout activity.

Day 6: Kibale National Park and Crater Lakes

The early morning game drive in Kasenyi is packed with animal activity, setting the tone for the day. Passing the Ndali and Kaseda crater lakes, you’ll enjoy some of Uganda’s most picturesque scenery—ideal for photography and relaxing moments.

Day 7: Chimpanzee Tracking and Bigodi Wetlands

A morning briefing prepares you for chimpanzee tracking in Kibale. Watching these intelligent primates and other species like monkeys and birds makes for lively wildlife viewing. The Bigodi wetlands walk adds a different dimension—this community-managed sanctuary is perfect for birdwatchers and primate lovers alike.

Day 8-9: Murchison Falls National Park

A longer drive (7-8 hours) takes you to Murchison, Uganda’s largest protected area. Early morning game drives in the northern sector promise sightings of lions, giraffes, and elephants. The highlight is the boat cruise to the base of Murchison Falls, where the mighty river squeezes through a narrow gorge—a moment for awe and some great photos. Reviewers praised the guide’s insights and the stunning views along the river.

Day 10: Return to Kampala via Rhino Sanctuary

On your final day, you’ll stop at Rhino Ziwa Sanctuary for rhino tracking—a rare chance to see these critically endangered animals in their natural environment—before heading back to Kampala. This wrap-up provides a fitting closing to your wildlife-filled journey.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The guided nature of the tour ensures you’re never lost or uncertain about what you’re seeing, especially during the gorilla and chimpanzee treks. Reviewers like “Gavis was very professional,” highlighting how knowledgeable guides enhance the experience—pointing out behaviors, history, and ecological insights that deepen your understanding.

Transportation is private and comfortable, with WiFi onboard, making the long drives more manageable. The daily schedule balances activity and rest, although some days involve lengthy drives—important to consider if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

Wildlife encounters are the core of this safari. The chance to see the tree-climbing lions in Ishasha or the hippos and crocodiles along Kazinga Channel* adds variety to your experience. The parks are well-chosen to cover Uganda’s most iconic habitats, from lush forests to open savanna.

How the Price Reflects Value

At $6,500 per person, this tour includes transportation, most meals, park entry fees, and guided activities, which collectively offer convenience and peace of mind. While it’s a premium price, the extensive itinerary, expert guides, and the opportunity to see Uganda’s top wildlife justify the cost. For travelers seeking a thorough, hassle-free wildlife adventure, this package offers significant value.

Practical Considerations

• Travel time: Some days require long drives—up to 8 hours—so be prepared for a bit of road time.
• Physical activity: Gorilla and chimpanzee treks involve hiking, sometimes over uneven terrain, so comfortable, sturdy footwear is recommended.
• Group size: As a private tour, it caters exclusively to your group, allowing flexibility and personalized attention.
• Budgeting: Extras like tips and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari suits wildlife enthusiasts eager to see Uganda’s famous primates and big game in their natural habitat. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided experiences, value convenience, and want a rundown of Uganda’s diverse ecosystems. The long drives might not appeal to everyone, so if you prefer short, relaxed trips, consider a different itinerary.

FAQs

Is pick-up included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel or the airport, making your start seamless.

Are meals included?
Most breakfasts, dinners, and lunches are included—10 lunches, 9 dinners, and 9 breakfasts—but extra beverages are not.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You’ll likely see zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, elephants, lions, hippos, crocodiles, and primates like chimpanzees and gorillas, depending on the park.

How long is the gorilla trek?
Gorilla trekking can take anywhere from 2 to 6 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location, and lasts about an hour once you find them.

What should I pack?
Bring sturdy hiking shoes, lightweight long sleeves, insect repellent, a camera, and personal essentials for outdoor activities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations made at least 3 days in advance are fully refundable; less notice means no refund.

To sum it up, this 10-day private Uganda safari offers a well-rounded, immersive experience that combines wildlife viewing, primate encounters, and scenic landscapes. It’s perfect for travelers who crave authentic adventure with expert guidance and are ready for some long days on the road. The carefully curated itinerary and positive reviews affirm its reputation as a top-tier wildlife safari in Uganda, especially for those who value comfort, convenience, and genuine nature encounters.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time safari-goer, this tour promises not just pictures, but memories you’ll keep forever.