6-Day Murchison Falls and Kidepo NP Wildlife Safari

Traveling to Uganda for a wildlife adventure often means dreaming of iconic sights like the roaring Murchison Falls or spotting elusive species in remote parks. This 6-day safari curated by Home To Africa Tours and Travel promises just that — a balanced mix of thrilling wildlife encounters, scenic drives, and cultural exploration. While we haven’t personally taken this journey, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it’s a well-designed, value-packed experience.

What truly catches our eye? Firstly, the chance to see Uganda’s Big 5 at Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary — a rare opportunity for many travelers. Then, the spectacular boat trip at Murchison Falls offers a different perspective on the park’s wildlife and landscapes. Lastly, the visit to Kidepo Valley, Uganda’s most pristine and less-traveled reserve, promises an authentic, untouched wilderness experience.

One potential consideration? The drive from Murchison to Kidepo is long, which might be tiring for some. But if you enjoy scenic road trips and want to maximize wildlife sightings, this is a small trade-off. This tour suits adventurous travelers who appreciate guided wildlife safaris, cultural exchanges, and don’t mind a bit of travel time to reach remote areas.

Key Points

• Authentic wildlife encounters with Big 5 and bird species like the elusive shoebill stork.
• Expert guides and comfortable transportation make the journey smooth and informative.
• Balanced mix of game drives, boat trips, and cultural visits enhance the experience.
• Long drives are compensated by stunning scenery and exclusive park access.
• All meals and accommodations are included, which adds convenience and value.
• Limited group size ensures personalized attention and better wildlife viewing.

An In-Depth Look at the 6-Day Uganda Safari

This safari offers a well-rounded experience that combines Uganda’s best-known parks with some lesser-visited gems. Here’s what each part of the trip entails, and why it might be just what you’re looking for.

Day 1: Arrival, Pickup, and Rhinos at Zziwa Sanctuary

The adventure begins at Entebbe Airport, where your driver/guide from Home To Africa will greet you. The first highlight? A detour to Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary for your initial Big 5 encounter. Rhino tracking is a rare treat — and here, you’ll spend about an hour seeing the endangered rhinos in a semi-wild setting. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, with one mentioning, “Nasser was our guide/driver… a friendly, enthusiastic and knowledgeable man.”

After this wildlife stop, you head to Murchison Falls National Park. The journey itself offers glimpses of Uganda’s rural landscapes, setting the tone for the trip ahead. Accommodation at Pakuba Safari Lodge offers a comfortable base to relax after your busy day, with dinner and lunch included.

Day 2: Game Drive and Boat Trip at Murchison Falls

Early mornings are best for wildlife viewing, and this day doesn’t disappoint. The northern section of Murchison hosts a wealth of savannah animals, from elephants to lions. The landscape is expansive, giving a wide-open feel perfect for spotting large herds of buffalo and possibly predators lurking nearby.

Later in the day, a three-hour boat trip takes you to the base of the falls. The view of the powerful water crashing down is awe-inspiring. Many reviewers mention how the boat cruise offers unique perspectives and opportunities to see hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife, including the rare shoebill stork. You can also opt for a short hike to the top of the falls if you’re feeling energetic, which provides panoramic views and great photo opportunities.

Day 3: From Murchison to Kidepo — An Epic Drive

The drive from Murchison to Kidepo Valley National Park is the longest of the trip, but the scenery makes it worthwhile. Expect vast plains, rugged hills, and perhaps glimpses of local villages. The journey is around 8-10 hours, so it’s an excellent chance to relax and soak in Uganda’s varied landscape.

Upon arrival at Kidepo Savannah Lodge, you’ll settle into a peaceful environment. Reviewers loved the peacefulness here, describing it as a true escape from the crowded tourist spots.

Day 4: Kidepo Game Drive and Community Visit

Kidepo is known for its relatively untouched wilderness and high concentration of wildlife. The day starts with a game drive in Narus Valley in the park’s south, where herds of elephants, buffalo, and predators roam freely. Multiple reviews highlight the stunning scenery and abundance of animals, with one traveler sharing, “The view here is amazing… deserving of 5 stars.”

Later, you’ll visit a local Karamojong community, providing insight into the culture and traditions of Uganda’s nomadic tribes. Many visitors find these cultural exchanges enriching and authentic, giving a deeper understanding of the land and its people.

Day 5: Northern Kidepo and Leisure Time

Another game drive takes you to Kidepo Valley in the north, a lesser-visited part of the park that offers different wildlife views and landscape. Expect to see more predators and possibly rare sightings of endemic species.

In the afternoon, you can relax at the lodge, soaking in the serenity and perhaps enjoying a drink while watching the sunset over the plains. Reviewers frequently praise the guides’ expertise and the lodge’s peaceful setting.

Day 6: Return to Entebbe

After breakfast, the journey back to Entebbe begins, a lengthy drive but one filled with scenic vistas and memories of an incredible trip. You’ll arrive late afternoon or evening, ready for your flight out.

What Makes This Safari Stand Out?

Value for Money is a significant plus here. For just under $3,000, you receive all-inclusive lodging, meals, transportation, and guided activities. Considering the exclusivity of visiting Kidepo and the boat trips on Murchison, this itinerary offers excellent value, especially with the personalized service and small group sizes.

Guides and logistics are consistently praised. Reviewers mention how the guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, making the experience more than just a sightseeing tour. The use of comfortable safari vehicles ensures you’ll be comfortable during long drives — an important factor when traveling between remote parks.

Wildlife viewing is another highlight. From Big 5 sightings at Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary to boat sightings of hippos and crocodiles, you’ll get multiple angles on Uganda’s wildlife. Bird lovers will especially enjoy the chance to see species like the shoebill stork, which is a rare sight in many safaris.

Cultural interactions at Kidepo add depth, allowing travelers to connect with local tribes and learn about their traditions — a valuable aspect often missing in more touristy parks.

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

The main challenge? The long drives, especially on Day 3, which can be tiring. However, if you’re prepared for a road trip and enjoy scenic landscapes, this is a minor issue. Also, note that some activities, like visits outside the itinerary, are not included — you’ll want to plan for optional extras if you wish to extend your experience.

The tour is designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as some activities involve walking or light hikes (like the falls hike). Also, travelers should be aware that a tourist visa and flights are not included in the package.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari appeals most to wildlife enthusiasts eager to see both iconic and rare species, adventure travelers willing to cover some long distances, and those seeking an authentic Uganda experience. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who appreciate guided tours and cultural exchanges. If you want to combine wildlife, scenery, and meaningful interactions in one trip, this is a strong contender.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day safari offers a thoughtfully curated look into Uganda’s wildlife and landscapes, blending iconic sights with lesser-known treasures. The inclusion of Big 5 encounters, boat trips, and cultural visits maximizes your exposure to Uganda’s natural and cultural richness while maintaining good value.

Travelers who enjoy guided tours, comfortable accommodations, and a mix of adventure and relaxation will find this trip very appealing. While it involves some long drives, the scenery and wildlife sightings make every minute worthwhile. If you’re after an authentic, well-organized safari that balances adventure with comfort, this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is pickup offered?
Yes, pickup is included, starting from Entebbe Airport, making the start of your trip smooth and hassle-free.

Are all meals and accommodations included?
Absolutely. The tour package covers all meals, accommodations, and activities as per the itinerary, ensuring you don’t need to worry about extra expenses on the ground.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You’ll have opportunities to see large mammals like elephants, lions, buffalo, and rhinos. Bird watchers might be lucky to spot the elusive shoebill stork and other species.

How long are the drives between parks?
The drive from Murchison to Kidepo is the longest, lasting roughly 8–10 hours, but the scenery makes it a memorable part of the adventure.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The minimum age is 5, so it’s suitable for families with children who are moderately physically fit and prepared for long drives.

What should I pack?
Light clothing for day safaris, warm layers for early mornings or cool evenings, binoculars, camera gear, and sun protection are recommended.

Are cultural visits included?
Yes, a community visit to the Karamojong tribe is part of Day 4, offering a chance to learn about local traditions.

Do I need a visa to join this tour?
Yes, a tourist visa is required for Uganda, which should be arranged before travel.

This safari promises a true taste of Uganda’s wilderness, combining wildlife with cultural insights and scenic road trips. It’s crafted for explorers who want depth, authenticity, and a splash of adventure in their wildlife holiday.