trips to Murchison falls gorillas/jinja /Serengeti /massia

Planning a trip to Uganda offers an exciting mix of iconic wildlife, stunning landscapes, and vibrant local culture. From tracking mountain gorillas in Bwindi to rafting the Nile in Jinja, this tour package promises a comprehensive experience. Although we haven’t personally taken this trip, we’ve gathered detailed insights from reviews, guides, and the offered itinerary to give you an honest, balanced overview.

What we love about this experience is its focus on authentic encounters — whether it’s spotting gorillas, cruising past the Murchison Falls, or exploring the source of the Nile. The affordability of $80 per person for such a rich variety of activities is another big plus. We also appreciate the flexibility in customizing trips depending on your budget, preferences, and seasonality.

One aspect to consider is the potential for rain during certain months, which might affect some outdoor activities like game drives or boat trips. Nevertheless, the tour’s well-rounded itinerary makes it suitable for adventurous travelers, wildlife lovers, and those seeking a taste of Uganda’s diverse natural beauty.

If you’re after a practical, value-packed introduction to Uganda’s must-see sights, this guided tour could be just what you need. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want knowledgeable local guides, flexibility in activities, and a balance of cultural and wildlife experiences.

Key Points

• Affordable pricing: $80 per person for a variety of safaris, gorilla tracking, and local adventures.
• Flexible packages: Options for short city tours, day trips, or multi-day safaris.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guides like Steven bring local expertise, making your experience richer.
• Diverse activities: From wildlife safaris and gorilla tracking to rafting, bird watching, and cultural visits.
• Customizable arrangements: Accommodation, permits, and activities can be tailored to your budget and preferences.
• Seasonal considerations: Sightseeing can be affected by rain, especially in the low season.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Tour Experience

This tour package from Steven, a local guide born and raised in Entebbe, offers a practical way to explore Uganda’s famous wildlife, scenic sites, and cultural hotspots. It’s designed for travelers seeking a well-rounded adventure without breaking the bank.

What stands out immediately is the diversity of activities — whether you’re marveling at the power of Murchison Falls, tracking gentle giants like gorillas, or enjoying the rush of Nile rafting, there’s something for all. Plus, with prices starting at just $80 per person, it offers impressive value considering everything included.

Among the highlights we admire is the emphasis on authentic, local-led experiences. Steven and his team are known for their knowledge and flexibility, helping you tailor your trip based on your interests and schedule. The option to arrange airport pickups and short city tours adds convenience, especially for travelers arriving in Uganda for the first time.

However, it’s worth noting that some activities depend on seasonal conditions, and permits—especially for gorilla tracking—require planning ahead, often up to six months before travel. This is typical for such adventures, but it’s something to keep in mind for those with flexible schedules. This tour appeals most to adventurous, curious travelers eager to see Uganda’s wildlife, scenery, and culture with a trusted local guide.

What You Can Expect from This Tour

Multi-Day Safaris to Murchison Falls and Gorilla Forests

The long safaris are carefully designed to maximize wildlife viewing and cultural encounters. On the 3-day Murchison Falls safari, you’ll start with a pickup from your hotel, then head to the park in a comfortable open-roof 4×4 vehicle — a key feature that enhances game viewing. Expect early mornings filled with game drives, where animals like elephants, lions, and giraffes roam freely.

The highlight is the boat trip to the top of Murchison Falls, which provides a spectacular view of the river squeezing through the narrow gorge — a photo moment guaranteed to impress. The evening game drive often yields sightings of nocturnal animals or those hiding in the shadows, which seasoned travelers note is particularly exciting.

For accommodation, options like Fort Murchison Lodge, Red Chill Safari Lodge, or Murchison River Lodge are available, depending on your budget. Guests appreciate the combination of comfort and proximity to wildlife, with some reviews praising the guides’ ability to spot animals and share insightful facts.

Gorilla Tracking Adventures

Gorilla trekking, a cornerstone of Uganda safaris, is thoughtfully scheduled for early mornings, with the tour stopping at the source of the Nile en route. Travelers typically stay at lodges like Gorilla Mist, Buhoma Lodge, or Ichumbi Lodge, chosen based on permit locations and availability.

The actual gorilla tracking is usually around one hour, which is manageable even for those with moderate fitness. Reviewers mention that guides are experienced in navigating the forest, making the walk more accessible and enjoyable. One reviewer described it as “a humbling experience to spend time with these gentle giants,” emphasizing the emotional impact.

Given the need for permits, which are often arranged six months in advance, travelers should plan accordingly. The tour’s flexibility allows for additional activities such as visiting Lake Bunyonyi or relaxing at the lodge after tracking.

More Great Tours Nearby

Jinja and Nile Adventures

The tour also excels in offering adventures in Jinja, the source of the Nile. Expect boat trips, white-water rafting, and activities like quad biking or visiting Mabira Forest. Some travelers stay overnight at Rive Camp or Holland Park, enjoying the lively atmosphere and scenic views along the Nile.

Participants love the adrenaline rush of rafting, with reviews highlighting the professionalism of guides and safety measures. The source of the Nile is more than just a photo op; it’s an immersive experience that brings history and nature together.

City Tours and Cultural Experiences

For those wanting a break from wildlife, the city tours in Entebbe and Kampala are packed with sights like the old Taxi Park, historic churches, craft markets, and the British colonial architecture. These short trips are ideal for understanding Uganda’s local culture and history, with experienced guides adding depth to each site.

Jinja’s cultural tour visits the source of the Nile, and the tour includes a boat trip that offers sunset views of Lake Victoria. Reviewers appreciate the mix of natural beauty and local life, making these city excursions a refreshing complement to wildlife safaris.

Customization and Flexibility

One of the key advantages of this tour is its adaptability. Whether it’s adjusting the number of game drives, extending your stay in the gorilla region, or including volunteer projects like football coaching or cooking, Steven and his team are committed to tailoring your experience.

The tour supports various accommodation budgets, from basic B&Bs to luxury lodges, providing options that suit different needs. Payment options are flexible, with deposits or cash on arrival, and permits arranged well in advance for peace of mind.

Trip Logistics and Practical Details

Transportation and Timing

Traveling in the provided 4×4 open-roof safaris makes for excellent wildlife viewing and photos. The schedule is designed to optimize daylight hours for game drives, typically starting early mornings around sunrise. This is when animals are most active, and lighting conditions are ideal for photos.

Pickup and drop-off services are available, especially for airport arrivals, though this may incur an extra fee for trips covering more than 5 km. Short city and site tours within Entebbe and Kampala are easily accessible, and the tour can be adjusted based on your arrival times.

Duration and Itinerary Flexibility

While the core safaris last 3 days, the tour can be extended or customized to include additional activities like Lake Mburo safaris, national parks in Kenya or Tanzania, or cultural visits. The possibility of combining Uganda and Kenya safaris, including Maasai Mara, is also mentioned, offering a broader East African adventure.

Cost and Value

At $80 per person, this tour offers outstanding value considering the number of activities, transportation, and guide expertise included. Additional costs, such as park entry fees and permits, are usually covered by the tour fee or can be arranged separately.

It’s important to note that some activities or extra permits may cause additional charges, but the overall package aims to be affordable for budget-conscious travelers seeking authentic experiences.

What’s Not Included

Some extras, like night safaris, additional game ranger guides, special lighting, or extra chimp or gorilla permits, are not included but can be organized upon request at an extra cost. Food and drinks are also not included unless specified, so bringing snacks or arranging meals is advisable.

Who Will Benefit Most from This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to explore Uganda’s wildlife and landscapes with an experienced, local guide. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate flexible scheduling, authentic encounters, and value for money.

It caters to a range of budgets, from mid-range to luxury, making it accessible for different travelers. If you’re interested in combining wildlife safaris, gorilla tracking, river adventures, and cultural experiences—all in one trip—this tour offers a comprehensive package.

While it requires some planning around permits and seasonal conditions, the personalized approach and knowledgeable guides ensure you’re well-supported throughout your journey.

The Sum Up

This guided tour from Steven offers a practical, authentic way to see the best of Uganda’s wildlife, scenery, and culture. With a focus on local expertise, flexible options, and excellent value, it’s a strong choice for travelers looking for a well-rounded adventure without the hefty price tag.

From the thrill of spotting elephants and lions in Murchison Falls to the awe of meeting mountain gorillas, this tour balances adventure with comfort. The variety of activities, including river rafting and city tours, means you’ll return home with a well-versed appreciation of Uganda’s rich landscapes and warm people.

Most importantly, the arrangement emphasizes knowledgeable guides who bring both experience and local insight—making your trip not just memorable but meaningful. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or a thrill-seeker, this tour has something to offer.

FAQs

How much does the tour cost?
The basic price is $80 per person, covering activities, some park fees, guide fees, and transportation in 4×4 safaris. Additional costs like permits, meals, or extras may apply depending on your itinerary.

Can I customize the trip?
Yes, the tour is flexible. You can tailor the activities, accommodations, and durations depending on your interests, budget, and schedule.

What activities are included?
Highlights include safaris in Murchison Falls, gorilla tracking in Bwindi, boat trips on the Nile, city tours in Entebbe and Kampala, and adventure activities like rafting and quad biking.

Are permits arranged in advance?
Permits, especially for gorilla tracking, are typically arranged six months ahead. Steven’s team can organize these, but advanced planning is recommended due to limited availability.

What is the best season for this tour?
Sightseeing may be affected by rain during low seasons (October-November, March-April), but the tour can be booked year-round. Some reviews note that rain can influence game drive visibility and boat trips.

How long are the safaris?
Long safaris are around three days, with options to extend or combine with other destinations like Kenya or Tanzania.

What accommodation options are available?
From budget B&Bs to mid-range lodges like Gorilla Mist or Buhoma Lodge, accommodations are flexible and can be matched to your budget.

Is transportation comfortable?
Traveling in open-roof 4×4 vehicles provides good visibility and comfort for game viewing. The schedule is designed to maximize daylight for activities.

How do I pay for the trip?
Payments can be made via deposit to Steven’s account or cash on arrival. Permits are usually arranged months in advance, especially during high season.

Who is this tour best suited for?
It’s perfect for travelers wanting authentic wildlife and cultural experiences, with guides who are knowledgeable and helpful, on a budget or seeking luxury options.

This tour offers a gateway to Uganda’s most iconic natural sights, guided by local experts who make your journey both enjoyable and meaningful. Whether you’re after the thrill of wildlife encounters or cultural insights, this experience promises a memorable adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: