7 Days Safari and Rhino Trekking

Travelers looking for an immersive wildlife adventure in Africa often find Uganda to be an underrated gem. This 7-day safari tour, organized by Jeruz Bitone Adventures, promises to showcase some of Uganda’s most iconic parks — Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kibale Forest, and Murchison Falls — along with a memorable rhino trekking experience. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed itinerary, rave reviews, and genuine experiences offered suggest it’s a well-rounded journey that packs a lot into a relatively short time.

What we love about this experience: diverse landscapes, expert guides, and authentic encounters. The opportunity to see a vast array of animals — from lions to chimpanzees — combined with boat trips on Kazinga Canal, makes it feel like a true African adventure. The inclusion of rhino trekking at the end adds an exclusive touch that’s increasingly rare.

One point to consider: the price of $3,550 per person is on the higher side, but many travelers find the value justified given the comprehensive itinerary, accommodations, and guided experiences. This tour is best suited for those seeking a mix of wildlife, adventure, and culture, especially if they aim to pack a lot into a week.

Key Points

• Comprehensive and well-organized itinerary covering Uganda’s top parks and highlights
• Includes diverse activities like game drives, boat safaris, chimpanzee tracking, and rhino trekking
• Full-board accommodations and expert guides ensure a comfortable, educational experience
• Authentic encounters with wildlife and scenic landscapes, often accompanied by insightful commentary
• Good value for a 7-day safari considering the inclusions and variety of activities
• Limited group size for personalized attention and interaction

Analyzing the Itinerary: What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Day 1 & 2: Queen Elizabeth National Park — The Heart of Uganda’s Wildlife

Starting your adventure at Queen Elizabeth National Park, you’re greeted with a landscape of savannahs, wetlands, and the stunning backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains. This park is known for its rich biodiversity, hosting over 600 bird species and numerous mammals including elephants, lions, buffalo, crocodiles, and hippos.

Travelers mention the unforgettable boat trip on the Kazinga Canal, where hippos splash, elephants wade along the banks, and the birdlife is lively — some of which are seasonal immigrants. Reviewers highlight the close-up views as a real highlight, with one noting they could observe wildlife more closely than on TV.

Expect early mornings and long days filled with game drives and wildlife spotting. The safari vehicle with a pop-up roof promises great vantage points, making it easier to see and photograph animals. The tours are designed to maximize sightings without feeling rushed.

Day 3 & 4: Kibale Forest — Chimpanzee Tracking

Next, the journey takes you southwest to Kibale Forest National Park, a prime spot for primate lovers. The focus here is on chimpanzee tracking, which involves a walk with a ranger through the lush jungle. From reviews, we learn that guides are knowledgeable, helping visitors spot chimpanzees in their natural habitat and explaining their behaviors.

One reviewer mentions: “On foot we roam a jungle with a Ranger in search of a family of chimpanzees living in the wild,” highlighting the authentic nature of this encounter. This experience is often described as magical and intimate, especially for those who enjoy wildlife on foot rather than in a vehicle.

Day 5: Waterfalls and Wilderness

Traveling northwest, you’ll hike to Murchison Falls, where the Nile roars through a narrow gorge — a truly spectacular sight. A private lodge in the park provides a transportation base amidst nature, offering tranquil surroundings and the chance to unwind after days of activity.

The waterfall hike is described as a “loud roar,” and reviewers appreciate the chance to get close to this natural wonder. The lodge’s seclusion also offers authentic experiences away from crowds, ideal for travelers seeking peace and natural beauty.

Day 6: Murchison Falls National Park — Classic Safari

This day combines early game drives with boat safaris along the Nile. Expect to see lions, leopards, hyenas, elephants, Rothschild giraffes, buffalo, and antelopes during the drives. The boat trip offers unique views of hippos and crocodiles up close, along with bird species along the riverbanks — a favorite among reviewers who praise the scenic, close-up animal encounters.

The boat captain, experienced and knowledgeable, often points out interesting behaviors of the animals and birds, creating an engaging experience. Expect around 3 hours on the water, with plenty of opportunities for photography and wildlife observation.

Day 7: Rhinos at Masindi — The Final Highlight

The last day centers on rhino trekking, a rare opportunity as many parks have limited rhino populations. The tour concludes with this exclusive activity, giving travelers a final adrenaline rush and a chance to witness these majestic creatures.

One reviewer calls Uganda “a beautiful country,” noting that everything was “well organized,” and highlights the African food and friendly guides. The rhino trekking is a standout feature, thanks to its exclusivity and the chance to see a critically endangered species in the wild.

Transportation, Guides, and Overall Experience

All travel is conducted in a safari vehicle with a pop-up roof, designed for optimal wildlife viewing. The tour includes full-board accommodations, meaning meals and lodging are taken care of, allowing travelers to focus on experiences rather than logistics.

Guides are described as friendly and knowledgeable, often impressing visitors with their expertise and ability to spot wildlife. Many reviews mention the guides’ thorough explanations, which elevate the quality of the safari from a mere viewing experience to an educational one.

The tour is designed for most travelers, with confirmation received within 48 hours of booking, and the tour being private for your group. Pickup is available, making logistics easier for travelers arriving in Kampala.

What We Think About the Price and Value

At $3,550 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but when you consider all-inclusive full-board accommodations, guided activities, game drives, boat trips, and exclusive experiences like rhino trekking, it offers good value. Many travelers feel the experience exceeds expectations, especially given the diversity of wildlife and landscapes covered in just a week.

It’s worth noting that the reviews emphasize professional organization and memorable experiences, which often justify the cost. The inclusion of community activities adds an extra layer of authenticity, making this more than just a wildlife tour.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari suits travelers who want to cover multiple parks within a short time frame, mix wildlife with scenic hikes, and enjoy guided, educational experiences. It’s ideal for first-time visitors to Uganda seeking an overview or seasoned safari enthusiasts looking for a well-organized trip with unique highlights like rhino trekking.

Those who appreciate local culture, authentic encounters, and scenic landscapes will find this tour rewarding. However, given the price, it’s best for travelers ready to invest in a comprehensive, high-quality safari experience.

The Sum Up

This 7-day Uganda safari tour delivers a well-balanced mix of wildlife viewing, scenic adventures, and culture. With visits to Queen Elizabeth, Kibale Forest, and Murchison Falls, you gain a diverse perspective on Uganda’s rich environments. The inclusion of boat trips, chimpanzee tracking, and rhino trekking makes it especially appealing for those craving a full-spectrum experience.

The guided nature of the tour ensures you won’t miss key sights, and the accommodations provide a comfortable retreat after busy days. While the cost may seem steep, the value lies in the variety of activities, expert guides, and authentic moments that leave a lasting impression.

Perfect for travelers eager to see Uganda’s wildlife in close proximity, appreciate stunning landscapes, and enjoy a hassle-free, immersive adventure. If you seek a trip that balances adventure with comfort and authenticity, this safari is worth considering.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
All accommodations on full-board basis, English-speaking guides, transportation in safari vehicles with a pop-up roof, game drives, boat rides, and all activities listed are included.

Are the activities suitable for most travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the tour is private for your group, ensuring personalized attention.

What should I expect during the chimpanzee tracking?
You’ll walk through Kibale Forest with a ranger, searching for wild chimpanzees, with a possibility of seeing other primates and enjoying the jungle scenery.

How long are the game drives and boat trips?
Game drives typically take a few hours, and boat trips on Kazinga Canal last around 3 hours, offering immersive wildlife viewing and scenic vistas.

Is the rhino trekking activity safe?
While the itinerary doesn’t specify safety details, rhino trekking in Uganda is generally conducted by experienced guides and rangers, prioritizing visitor safety.

What is the best time of year for this tour?
The tour details don’t specify seasons, but Uganda’s wildlife viewing is generally good year-round, with the dry season being more favorable for game drives.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a private tour, customization might be possible—discuss directly with Jeruz Bitone Adventures.

What is the average group size?
The tour is private for your group, so no large crowds; it’s tailored for individual or small groups.

Do I need a visa for Uganda?
Visa requirements are not specified, but travelers should check current regulations before booking.

Are there any additional costs I should prepare for?
Extra beverages at accommodations, insurance, flights, and personal souvenirs or tips are not included.

This safari tour combines adventure, comfort, and authentic wildlife encounters, making it a solid choice for those ready to explore Uganda’s diverse landscapes and incredible animals.