6-Day Murchison Falls, Chimp Trekking and Big Game Combo

Review of the 6-Day Murchison Falls, Chimp Trekking and Big Game Combo

Traveling through Uganda with this safari promises an adventure packed with iconic wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and close-up primate experiences. From the thunderous roar of Murchison Falls to the playful antics of chimpanzees in Kibale, this journey hits some of the country’s most celebrated spots.

What we love about this tour is how it combines the thrill of big game safaris with the intimacy of chimpanzee tracking, all wrapped up in a well-structured six-day itinerary. The accommodations seem thoughtfully chosen, offering comfort amidst wilderness. Plus, the inclusion of boat trips and game drives means you’ll see a wide variety of wildlife in their natural habitat.

That said, it’s a fairly packed schedule, which might leave some tired explorers wishing for a bit more downtime. Also, considering the price of around $2,876 per person, you’ll want to value the rich experiences and expert-guided tours that come with it.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive Ugandan safari without sacrificing quality—adventurous yet comfortable, immersive yet well-organized. Perfect for wildlife lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those eager to see Uganda’s Big 5 and chimpanzees in one seamless trip.

Key Points

• Balanced Itinerary: Combines wildlife safaris, chimp trekking, and boat rides for diverse experiences.
• Authentic Encounters: Close-up views of chimpanzees, Big 5 sightings, and stunning waterfalls.
• Comfort & Convenience: Comfortable 4×4 transport and carefully selected lodges enhance the experience.
• Guided Expertise: Full-time, English-speaking guides add value with local insights and smooth logistics.
• Value for Price: All meals, activities, and transportation included make this an all-in-one adventure.
• Authentic African Wilderness: Expect breathtaking views and memorable wildlife encounters throughout.

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

Starting Point and First Stop: Kampala to Murchison Falls

The tour kicks off from Kampala, with a scenic drive to Murchison Falls National Park. Travelers are picked up at their hotel or Entebbe Airport, making for a seamless start. The first major highlight is a stop at Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary for rhino tracking, a rare chance to see Africa’s Big 5 at close range in a private reserve. Reviewers mention how this adds a special touch, with one noting: “We had an excellent driver who knew a lot and helped us with all our questions.”

This initial experience sets a tone of intimacy with wildlife, even before entering the national park. The drive itself is comfortable, thanks to the use of a 4×4 vehicle, ensuring good visibility and ease over Uganda’s sometimes bumpy roads.

Exploring Murchison Falls

Day 2 is dedicated to exploring Murchison Falls—Uganda’s largest protected area. The early morning game drive takes you through the northern section, where large herds of elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and antelopes roam the savannah. We loved the way the guides seem to anticipate animal movements, enhancing the chances of sightings.

After a hearty lunch, the boat trip to the base of the falls becomes the highlight. You’ll marvel at the roar of the water as it plunges through a narrow gorge—an unforgettable sound and sight. Many reviewers mention how the boat ride offers fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities, with one saying, “We loved the views along the Kazinga Channel, especially the hippos and crocodiles basking on the shores.”

For those who like a bit of adventure, there’s an optional hike to the top of the falls for spectacular panoramic views—definitely worth considering if you’re up for a bit more activity.

Transition to Kibale Forest National Park

On Day 3, after breakfast and a last look at the falls, you’ll start the journey southward to Kibale. The drive offers scenic vistas, with lush greenery and rolling hills, setting the stage for the primate adventure ahead. The journey is longer, but most travelers appreciate the chance to see Uganda’s countryside.

Staying at Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse, you’ll be immersed in an environment that feels authentic, with the chance to relax amidst nature. One reviewer praised the lodges for their beauty, noting they were “very beautiful,” which elevates the overall experience.

Chimpanzee Trekking Experience

Day 4 begins with a morning briefing before heading into Kibale Forest for chimpanzee tracking. The guides provide clear instructions about how to behave around these intelligent primates, making the encounter respectful and safe.

Locating the chimpanzees can be a bit unpredictable, but when you do find them, you’re granted up to an hour to observe their social behaviors and playful antics—a truly special moment. Reviewers have expressed how awe-inspiring this is, with one sharing: “We were fascinated by these awesome apes.”

After lunch, the journey continues to Queen Elizabeth National Park. The transition from thick forest to wide-open plains highlights Uganda’s incredible biodiversity.

Queen Elizabeth National Park: Game Drives and Boat Safari

On Day 5, the early morning game drive offers sweeping views of the park’s diverse landscapes—terraced hills, savannahs, and wetlands. Expect to see elephants, lions, buffalo, and possibly leopards, especially in the early hours when animals are most active.

Post-lunch, you’ll take a boat trip along the Kazinga Channel, renowned for its birdlife and large concentrations of hippos and crocodiles. This water-based safari is often described as a highlight; one review states, “The boat trip was magnificent, with close-up wildlife encounters at every turn.”

Final Day and Departure

Day 6 wraps up with a relaxed breakfast before heading out to Entebbe. Depending on your flight time, optional visits to Katwe Salt Lake or a crater drive might be possible—adding a bit of extra adventure before saying goodbye.

The tour ends with comfortable transfers back to Entebbe, making sure your trip concludes smoothly.

Practical Considerations and Value

Price Point & Value: At $2,876 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive experience with all meals, accommodation, transport, and most activities included. For the itinerary’s scope—covering Big 5 safaris, chimp trekking, boat trips, and scenic drives—it represents good value. Many reviewers appreciate the seamless organization and attentive guides, with one mentioning how everything was “very well organized,” which adds to the trip’s overall worth.

Transport & Guides: Traveling in a private 4×4 means comfort and flexibility. The guides, like Karim and Hedmond, are lauded for their knowledge and responsiveness, enhancing the experience with their insight and friendliness.

Accommodation: Lodges such as Pakuba Safari Lodge and Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse seem to strike a balance between comfort and immersion. Reviewers mention the lodges are “very beautiful,” adding a layer of enjoyment to the trip.

Included & Not Included: The package covers essentials—meals, water, activities, and internal transport—making it straightforward and stress-free. Extras like personal expenses, drinks, or additional activities aren’t covered, but that’s typical for safaris of this kind.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This six-day tour is best suited for adventurous wildlife enthusiasts who want a well-rounded Ugandan safari without sacrificing comfort. It appeals to those eager to see the Big 5, observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat, and enjoy Uganda’s stunning waterfalls and water channels.

Travelers with moderate physical fitness will find the activities manageable, though some walking and boat rides are involved. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate expert-guided tours that blend wildlife viewing with cultural and scenic moments.

It’s also perfect for first-time visitors wanting an all-in-one experience or seasoned safari-goers looking to tick Uganda off their list with a reliable, highly-rated operator.

FAQ about the 6-Day Murchison Falls, Chimp Trekking and Big Game Combo

What is included in the tour price?
All meals, accommodation, ground transportation in a 4×4 vehicle, water, boat trips, airport/hotel transfers, and activities listed in the itinerary are included.

How many days does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 6 days, covering major parks and wildlife experiences in Uganda.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The minimum age is 15, so it’s best for teens and older travelers. The activities are moderate, but some walking and boat rides require a decent level of fitness.

What type of vehicle is used for transportation?
A comfortable 4×4 vehicle ensures good visibility and smooth travel across Uganda’s varied terrain.

Are meals and drinks included?
Yes, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and bottled water are provided. Other drinks, phone calls, and bar bills are not included.

Can I customize this tour?
This is a private tour, so you can discuss any specific requests or adjustments with the provider before booking.

What should I consider before booking?
Make sure you have a valid tourist visa, and be prepared for potentially early mornings during game drives and activities.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day safari offers a thoughtfully curated mix of Uganda’s most iconic wildlife and scenic highlights. The combination of big game safaris, chimpanzee encounters, and stunning waterfalls makes it ideal for those wanting a comprehensive view of Uganda’s natural beauty.

The guides’ expertise, quality accommodations, and well-planned itinerary ensure that you’ll experience the best of what Uganda has to offer, all while staying comfortable and engaged. While the pace is energetic, the variety of activities promises enough excitement and awe to satisfy wildlife lovers and adventure seekers alike.

If you’re looking for an efficient, value-packed safari that balances adventure and comfort, this tour is a solid choice—an excellent way to create unforgettable memories in Uganda’s wilderness.