8-Day Murchison Falls, Chimp and Epic Gorilla Trekking

Travelers dreaming of Uganda’s incredible wildlife encounters will find this 8-day private safari from Ngoni Safaris Uganda an exceptional choice. Designed for those who want a seamless, guided experience, it takes the stress out of planning while offering access to prime wildlife destinations like Murchison Falls, Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, and Bwindi.

What makes this trip stand out? First, the attention to detail in logistics and accommodations; second, the expert guides who bring the landscape alive; third, its balanced mix of game drives, boat cruises, and trekking—ensuring a varied, immersive experience.

A possible consideration is the tour’s price point—$12,000 per group—which is on the higher end but reflects the inclusion of private transport, guided tours, meals, and top-tier lodges. This is best suited for travelers seeking a luxury, hassle-free adventure with a focus on wildlife and primate encounters, especially those new to Uganda or those wanting a well-rounded, comprehensive safari.

Key Points

• All-inclusive package covers accommodations, meals, transport, and activities.
• Expert guides like Reagan and Eddy consistently receive praise for their knowledge and personable approach.
• Private, customized experience ensures flexibility and personal attention.
• Variety of wildlife experiences: game drives, boat cruises, chimpanzee and gorilla trekking.
• Seamless logistics from Entebbe Airport to remote parks.
• Authentic, up-close encounters with Uganda’s iconic species—gorillas, chimps, lions, and more.

An Overview of the Experience

This tour offers a well-curated look at Uganda’s most renowned wildlife areas, from its thunderous falls to its lush rainforests and savanna plains. The entire journey is designed for ease and comfort, making it ideal for those who prefer to avoid the typical logistical headaches of independent travel.

Starting at Entebbe Airport, travelers are greeted and transported directly to Murchison Falls National Park—Uganda’s largest and perhaps most iconic park. Over the following days, the itinerary balances exciting game drives, boat safaris, primate treks, and scenic drives, culminating in an unforgettable gorilla encounter in Bwindi.

What impresses most about this experience is the narrative the guides create. Reviewers highlight Reagan’s personable style, noting that “he made the experience more like visiting a friend in Uganda,” and Eddy’s extensive knowledge made each day highly educational. Their ability to combine professionalism with warmth adds genuine value to the tour.

Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Arrival and Murchison Falls

Arriving in Uganda, your first stop is Murchison Falls National Park. The vast plains and roaring rapids immediately set the tone for the trip. Expect your driver to handle navigation, allowing you to relax and take in the scenery.

Murchison is known for its diverse wildlife—lions, giraffes, buffalo, elephants, and hartebeest—plus the water’s edge teeming with hippos and crocodiles. Bird enthusiasts will be thrilled by the possibility of spotting the elusive shoebill stork, dwarf kingfisher, and Goliath heron.

Day 2: Game Drive and Boat Safari

Your morning begins with a game drive in the park’s northern section, where chances of spotting the Big Five—buffalo, lions, elephants, leopards, and rhinos—are high. Reviewers mention that the drive offers a good variety, including Rothschild giraffes and waterbucks.

In the afternoon, a three-hour boat trip takes you close to the base of Murchison Falls. Cruise past pods of hippos and crocodiles, with abundant waterbirds along the banks. Guests consistently praise this cruise as “the highlight,” noting how it brings you face-to-face with aquatic wildlife in their natural habitat.

Day 3: Nile Delta and Transfer to Kibale

Before leaving Murchison, a visit to the Nile Delta provides a peaceful boat safari with birdwatching opportunities—perfect for early risers. This area hosts hundreds of bird species and offers glimpses of fishermen, hippos, and crocodiles along the banks.

Post-visit, you’ll transfer to Kibale National Park, home to Uganda’s most diverse primate population. The scenic drive sets the stage for the primate adventures ahead.

Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale

Kibale is primate central, with a dense population of chimpanzees and other primates like red colobus and red-tailed monkeys. The trekking experience is on well-maintained trails, meaning the walk is manageable for most.

Reviewers share that their chimp encounters were truly magical—close enough to observe their behaviors and interactions authentically. The guides’ familiarity with each troop ensures a higher chance of sighting, making this one of the trip’s most memorable moments.

Day 5: Queen Elizabeth Game Drive

Driving south to Queen Elizabeth National Park, you’ll get your first taste of its vastness and diversity. The park supports over 5,000 hippos, 2,500 elephants, and more than 10,000 buffalo, creating a vibrant backdrop for your evening game drive.

Expect to see lions, leopards, buffalo, and a variety of antelope. Baboons and colobus monkeys are also common along the trees, illuminating the park’s lively ecosystem.

Day 6: Tree-Climbing Lions and Transfer to Bwindi

The morning is dedicated to exploring the Ishasha Sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions. Reviewers describe these lions as “photogenic” and unlike anything they’d seen before, lounging comfortably in fig trees—an extraordinary sight.

Later, the journey continues to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to the mountain gorillas. The landscape becomes more rugged and lush, setting the scene for your primate encounters.

Day 7: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

Gorilla tracking is the highlight for many travelers, and this tour offers a good chance for a close-up view of these gentle giants. The walk can take from 2 to 7 hours, depending on the location of the gorilla family that day.

Reviewers mention the thrill of locating the gorillas and the privilege of observing them quietly for an hour. The guides’ expertise ensures that the experience feels intimate and respectful of the animals.

Day 8: Relaxed Morning and Return

After a relaxed breakfast, you’ll enjoy a short horseback ride in Lake Mburo National Park, offering a different perspective of Uganda’s wildlife, followed by a visit to the Uganda Equator line in Kayabwe—ideal for photos and souvenirs.

Your driver then transports you back to Entebbe, ending the tour with plenty of time to catch your flight. Reviewers say that the logistics are smooth, and the trip wraps up on a high note.

Transportation and Logistics

Throughout the tour, private transport makes the experience comfortable and stress-free. The driver handles navigation and timing, so you can relax and focus on the scenery and wildlife. Reviewers have praised the punctuality and professionalism of guides like Reagan and Eddy, describing them as “knowledgeable,” “friendly,” and “professional.”

The tour is designed for a group of up to four, which strikes a good balance between intimacy and cost-sharing. This private setup allows for flexible schedules and personalized attention, which is apparent from the rave reviews about guides going out of their way to make each day special.

Accommodation and Meals

Meals and accommodations are included, and reviews highlight that lodges are well-chosen, comfortable, and often provide stunning views. This contributes significantly to the overall value, especially given the high-quality wildlife encounters and guided experiences.

Price Analysis

While the $12,000 price tag might seem steep at first glance, it covers nearly everything—private transportation, expert guides, meals, and comfortable lodges—making it a comprehensive, hassle-free package. Coupled with the personalized service and access to prime wildlife areas, many reviewers feel it offers good value for a luxury safari.

Authentic Experiences & Guide Highlights

Reviewers consistently emphasize the guides’ knowledge and personable approach. Reagan in particular is praised for making the chimpanzee and game drive experiences feel like visiting friends. Eddy’s expertise shines during the birding and safari drives, enriching each encounter with fascinating insights.

Guests also note how guides help manage the physical aspects, like navigating the longer gorilla treks or spotting elusive species. The guides’ local expertise and friendly demeanor turn what could be a typical safari into a genuinely engaging adventure.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This safari is perfect for travelers who want a luxurious, all-inclusive Ugandan wildlife trip with minimal planning hassle. It’s ideal for those interested in primates, big game, and scenic landscapes, and who value the guidance of highly knowledgeable locals.

It’s especially suited for first-time visitors seeking a comprehensive introduction to Uganda’s wildlife, or seasoned travelers wanting a stress-free, guided experience with excellent accommodations. The private nature of the tour makes it a good choice for couples, families, or small groups of friends eager to share memorable moments.

The Sum Up

This 8-day safari from Ngoni Safaris Uganda offers a carefully curated taste of Uganda’s most iconic wildlife spots, combining adventure with comfort. The itinerary balances thrilling game drives, up-close primate encounters, and scenic landscapes, all led by guides who are both knowledgeable and personable.

While the price is higher than some budget safaris, the inclusions—private transport, top-tier lodges, expert guides, and seamless logistics—justify that investment for travelers seeking a high-quality, hassle-free experience.

This tour stands out for its authentic wildlife encounters, exceptional guides, and thoughtful planning. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking for a meaningful, immersive Ugandan safari that feels both special and accessible.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour? Yes, the tour includes pickup from Entebbe Airport, making your arrival and departure smooth and hassle-free.

What is included in the price? The $12,000 fee covers round-trip transportation, meals, accommodations, and all activities like game drives, boat safaris, and primate treks.

How many people are in each group? The tour is designed for groups of up to four people, ensuring a private and personalized experience.

Are guides knowledgeable? Absolutely. Reviewers repeatedly praise guides like Reagan and Eddy for their extensive knowledge, friendliness, and ability to enhance the overall experience.

What wildlife might I see? Expect to see lions, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, chimpanzees, gorillas, hippos, crocodiles, and over 450 bird species, including special sightings like the shoebill stork.

Is the tour suitable for anyone with moderate physical fitness? Yes, but keep in mind some activities, like gorilla trekking, may involve long walks of up to 7 hours; moderate fitness is recommended.

Are meals included? Yes, meals are included throughout the tour, and reviewers note the lodges serve good food with excellent views.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.

This safari truly offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Uganda’s wildlife and landscapes—perfect for travelers wanting to see the best without the logistical stress.