Uganda: 6-Day Big Five Tour Adventure & Chimpanzee Tracking

Travelers eager to experience Uganda’s abundant wildlife, stunning landscapes, and iconic sights will find this 6-day tour from EMMKAMP TOURS a compelling choice. It combines exhilarating game drives, close encounters with chimpanzees, and breathtaking views of Murchison Falls, all wrapped into one carefully planned itinerary.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, it’s an opportunity to see the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino) in one of Africa’s most impressive parks. Second, the chance to track chimpanzees in Kibale National Park offers a deeply personal wildlife experience. Lastly, the trip includes visits to the Equator, adding a fun, photo-worthy highlight that’s unique to Uganda.

One consideration? The tour involves quite a lot of driving — around 4 to 6 hours between parks — which might feel long for some travelers. However, the scenic routes and cultural stops help break up the journey.

This adventure is best suited for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking an authentic safari experience in Africa’s “Pearl of Africa.” It’s ideal for travelers comfortable with moderate physical activity and open to a packed, adventure-filled schedule.

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Key Points

Wildlife Highlights: Expect to see lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos, alongside early risers and predators during game drives.
Iconic Sights: The thunderous Murchison Falls, the Equator crossing, and boat trips offer memorable photo ops and engaging natural displays.
Chimps & Culture: Kibale’s chimpanzee tracking provides a rare, close-up look at our closest relatives.
Comfort & Convenience: All activities, park fees, meals, and transportation are included, making this a hassle-free experience.
Value for Money: At $2,750 per person, the tour covers extensive safaris, accommodations, and expert guidance, delivering a comprehensive Ugandan safari.
Potential Long Drives: Expect some lengthy transfers, but scenic routes and cultural stops add value.

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A Closer Look at the 6-Day Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrival and Rhino Sanctuary

Your safari kicks off with a pick-up from the airport or your hotel, followed by a visit to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. Here, a guided hour-long walk offers a rare chance to see rhinos in the wild, an experience highlighted by reviews stating that the rhinos are “impressively close and relaxed.” This stop sets the tone for the trip’s focus on genuine wildlife encounters, not just photos from afar. Afterward, a scenic drive through the countryside takes you to Masindi for lunch, nestled at the gateway to Murchison Falls.

Day 2: Murchison Falls National Park – Game Drive & Boat Cruise

The early morning game drive is a highlight, with a chance to spot predators like lions and leopards as they begin their day. Reviewers mention that the early start is worth it — “You get to see animals before the heat drives them into hiding,” one said. Keep your camera ready for elephants, giraffes, and Uganda Kobs, which are plentiful here.

The afternoon boat cruise on the Victoria Nile is a thunderous, awe-inspiring experience. Watching the calm Nile squeeze through a 7-meter wide gorge to drop 150 feet is as dramatic as it sounds. Many travelers note the chance to see buffaloes and elephants along the riverbank, with some adding that the sound of the falls is bone-rattling but exhilarating.

Day 3: Transfer to Kibale – Cultural & Scenic Drive

After a morning game drive, you’ll set out for Kibale Forest National Park. This journey takes you through the lush landscapes of Hoima and the Albertine Escarpment, with plenty of scenic stops and opportunities to appreciate Uganda’s rural charm. Arriving in Fort Portal, known as the “Tooro Kingdom’s capital,” gives travelers a taste of local culture and history. Many reviews praise the drive for its beautiful tea plantations and mountain views, making it more than just a transfer—it’s an experience in itself.

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Day 4: Chimps & Queen Elizabeth

The day begins with a chimpanzee trek in Kibale Forest, often described as a magical experience. Reviewers mention the close-up sightings of playful chimps and the chance to observe their social behaviors. Following lunch, the journey continues to Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its diverse wildlife and scenic crater lakes. The Baboon Safari Resort provides a comfortable base with easy access to park activities.

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Day 5: Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Cruise

Another early start for a game drive helps you catch those elusive early risers like lions and hyenas. Many guests say that spotting the predators at dawn truly sparks your safari spirit. Later, the Kazinga Channel cruise offers a relaxed afternoon with hippos, elephants, and water birds, making it a peaceful yet exciting way to end the day. The highest concentration of hippos in Africa makes this cruise a unique highlight.

Day 6: Return to Kampala & The Equator

On the final day, you’ll head back towards Kampala, with a pause at the Equator line — a must-see for most travelers. The photo opportunities and the feeling of standing in two hemispheres make this stop a fun and memorable part of your adventure. Many reviews mention that the souvenir shops here are perfect for picking up gifts, and the overall energy of standing at the Earth’s crossing point is quite special.

Practical Aspects & Travel Tips

Transportation & Group Size

You’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle with a professional driver/guide, who reviewers say is knowledgeable and friendly. The tour is designed for small groups, allowing for a more personal experience and easier access to wildlife viewing. The long drives between parks are inevitable but are often compensated by stunning scenery and cultural stops.

Accommodation & Meals

All accommodations are included, with stays at well-rated lodges like Kabalega Dinners and Baboon Safari Resort. Meals are provided as per the itinerary, with some reviewers noting the local cuisine is flavorful and hearty — perfect fuel for a busy safari. Drinks and snacks are not specified but carrying extra water and snacks is always wise.

Cost & Value

At $2,750 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package that covers park fees, permits, activities, transportation, and guiding. Given the inclusion of chimp tracking permits and multiple safaris, the price represents good value for travelers seeking an all-in-one African safari experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This safari is perfect for wildlife lovers, adventure seekers, and those wanting a well-rounded Ugandan experience. It’s especially suitable for travelers who don’t mind a busy schedule and are eager to see a variety of animals, landscapes, and cultural sights. It’s not ideal for very young children or pregnant women due to the physical nature of some activities and long drives.

FAQs

What animals can I expect to see during the game drives?
Expect to see lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, antelope, Uganda Kobs, and other wildlife typical of Murchison Falls National Park.

Is chimpanzee tracking included?
Yes, one permit per person is included for chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest, giving you the chance to observe these intelligent primates in their natural habitat.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, water, and light, weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

Are the transfers comfortable?
Yes, you’ll be traveling in a reliable, air-conditioned vehicle with a friendly driver-guide, making long drives more pleasant.

Can I book this tour with flexible payment options?
Yes, the provider offers a “Reserve & Pay Later” option, allowing you to secure your spot without immediate payment.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 5 years, pregnant women, or those with back problems due to the physical and travel demands.

Final Thoughts

This 6-day Uganda safari provides a wonderful introduction to the country’s diverse wildlife, stunning scenery, and vibrant culture. The combination of game drives, boat cruises, chimpanzee tracking, and iconic sights like the Murchison Falls and the Equator makes for a well-rounded adventure that appeals to both wildlife enthusiasts and cultural explorers.

The itinerary balances active wildlife encounters with cultural stops and scenic drives, all wrapped up in a manageable schedule. While the long transfers may challenge some, the scenery and experiences along the way are well worth it. This tour offers great value, with all major activities and park fees included, making it easier to focus on enjoying every moment.

In short, if you’re seeking a comprehensive and authentic Ugandan safari, this tour is a strong contender. It’s best for travelers ready for a lively, wildlife-packed journey with enough comfort and guidance to ensure a memorable experience.