Uganda:15-Day Best of Uganda Wildlife Safari Adventure

Planning a safari to Uganda is no small feat, especially with so many options vying for your attention. This 15-day tour from Emmkamp Tours promises an authentic journey through Uganda’s most iconic landscapes, wildlife, and local communities. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances thrilling game drives, cultural exchanges, and breathtaking scenery.

What makes this trip stand out? First, you’ll get to visit remote parks like Kidepo Valley, often overlooked but bursting with wildlife. Second, the itinerary includes unique encounters such as chimpanzee tracking in Kibale and gorilla treks in Bwindi, both offerings that are genuinely special. Third, the tour features a variety of activities—boat cruises, hiking, community visits—ensuring there’s always something new to experience.

One possible concern? The tour’s length and packed schedule mean you’ll need to be comfortable with early mornings and long drives. It’s not a leisurely vacation but a comprehensive wildlife expedition. This trip is best suited for those with a passion for wildlife, stunning landscapes, and culture who don’t mind a bit of adventure and travel fatigue.

Key Points

Diverse Wildlife Encounters: From Big Five safaris in Kidepo and Murchison Falls to chimpanzees and mountain gorillas, the tour covers Uganda’s most compelling wildlife moments.
Authentic Cultural Experiences: Meet the Karamojong in their traditional settings and visit the Batwa community for a genuine taste of local life.
Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking views at Sipi Falls, the Nile’s source, and crater lakes in Queen Elizabeth.
Comprehensive Itinerary: The tour balances game drives, boat safaris, hikes, and community visits, giving a well-rounded Uganda adventure.
Value for Price: At over $6,000 per person, it’s an investment, but the inclusions—permits, activities, accommodation—add up to a packed experience.
Travel Practicality: All transportation, park fees, and guides are included, making logistics smoother—though expect some long travel days.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from This 15-Day Safari

Starting Strong: Arrival and the Nile’s Source

Your journey begins in Entebbe, where a friendly driver from Emmkamp Tours picks you up and takes you to explore Uganda’s most famous river. The visit to Mabira Forest offers a chance to stretch your legs and appreciate Uganda’s lush greenery. The highlight is the boat cruise to the Nile’s source at Jinja, a must-see that’s both peaceful and awe-inspiring. You’ll love the views of the river winding through the landscape—just picture yourself floating on the water, surrounded by lush scenery.

Exploring Sipi Falls and the Mountain Views

Hiking to the spectacular Sipi Falls is a favorite activity here. The three waterfalls—100m, 85m, and 75m—are set amidst scenic terraced farms and rugged terrain. Guides are knowledgeable about local flora and fauna, making this more than just a walk, but an engaging experience. Expect stunning photo opportunities and the chance to enjoy cool, misty breezes.

Venturing into Remote Kidepo Valley National Park

Kidepo stands out for its remoteness and diversity. The drive here is long, but the reward is extraordinary wildlife viewing. Expect to see elephants, lions, leopards, and a variety of bird species. Reviews reveal “Kidepo is a spectacular, less-visited gem,” with visitors appreciating the chance to encounter wildlife in a less crowded environment. You’ll also meet the Karamojong tribes, learning about their traditional lifestyle—an authentic cultural experience that adds depth to your safari.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Iconic Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison offers classic safari scenes—elephants drinking at the riverbanks, lions lazing in the grass, and the dramatic Murchison Falls itself. An afternoon game drive introduces you to Uganda’s abundant wildlife, while the boat safari to the falls makes for one of the trip’s most memorable moments—standing close to the thundering water as crocodiles and hippos lounge nearby.

Kibale and Chimps: A Close Encounter

Kibale Forest National Park is renowned for its primates, and you’ll get to track chimpanzees. Expect a guided walk through lush greenery, with chances to see wild chimps in their natural environment. Visitors describe it as “heartwarming” and “among the highlights,” with the Bigodi Wetland walk afterward adding an extra layer of wildlife spotting and birdwatching.

Queen Elizabeth and the Kazinga Channel

The park’s varied landscapes—from savannah to lakes—are best experienced on a game drive and a scenic boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel. This boat ride offers spectacular views of hippos, crocodiles, and flocking birds—ideal for photography. The experience is often praised for its relaxed pace and the chance to see animals from a different perspective.

Gorilla Trekking and Cultural Immersion in Bwindi

Gorilla trekking is a highlight—challenging but life-changing. The chance to spend an hour observing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is a true bucket-list moment. Post-trek, you’ll visit the Batwa community, where traditional dances and cultural exchanges provide insight into local traditions and history. Reviews note that the gorilla permits are included, making this activity accessible without additional hassle.

Ending at Lake Mburo and Departure

The last days focus on relaxing wildlife encounters in Lake Mburo, with game drives looking for zebras, elands, and other species. An early morning guided walk gives you one last chance to connect with Uganda’s nature, before heading back to Entebbe and the airport.

Practical Details and Value

Transportation and Group Size

Travel is included in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles, with a professional guide leading each day’s activities. While the exact group size isn’t specified, tours like these typically run with small groups, which enhances the experience and interaction. Expect long drives—especially when heading to remote parks—but the scenic views and wildlife sightings make it worthwhile.

Accommodation and Meals

All lodging is included unless upgraded, and meals are provided daily, allowing you to focus on the adventure rather than logistics. Reviewers highlight that the lodges often feature cozy, authentic settings that blend well with the environment—perfect for unwinding after busy days.

Cost and Inclusions

At $6,188 per person, this isn’t a cheap trip, but it encompasses park fees, gorilla permits, most activities, meals, and transport. For wildlife enthusiasts seeking comprehensive access to Uganda’s best spots, it offers good value—especially considering the cost of individual permits and activities outside the tour.

What’s Not Included

International flights, personal expenses, visas, and optional activities aren’t included. Travelers should budget for these separately, but the tour’s logistics are well managed, reducing unexpected surprises.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari suits travelers who crave a full-fledged wildlife adventure combined with culture. It’s ideal for those prepared for the physical and travel demands of a busy schedule, with early mornings and long drives. If seeing Big Five animals, chimpanzees, and gorillas ranks high on your bucket list, this trip delivers.

Families with children over five, those with a sense of adventure, and anyone keen to experience Uganda’s diverse landscapes will find this tour rewarding. It’s perfect for travelers who prioritize authenticity, value well-organized logistics, and want a variety of activities—from boat rides to community visits—all in one trip.

Final Thoughts

This 15-day Uganda safari offers a remarkable blend of wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, and cultural experiences. It’s a trip that doesn’t compromise on variety or authenticity, making it suitable for serious wildlife lovers and curious travelers alike.

While the itinerary is intensive, the payoff is profound—stunning views, unforgettable animal sightings, and meaningful cultural exchanges. Whether you’re tracking mountain gorillas, spotting lions at dawn, or meeting the Karamojong, this tour promises a comprehensive taste of Uganda’s wild heart.

In terms of value, it’s a solid investment for those seeking an all-inclusive, well-organized expedition with expert guides. Just be ready for some long days—your reward will be memories filled with breathtaking scenery and extraordinary wildlife moments.

FAQ

What is included in the price of $6,188?
The price covers park fees, all activities unless optional, meals, drinking water, accommodation, roundtrip airport transfer, a professional guide, transportation, and taxes/VAT.

Are gorilla permits included?
Yes, the tour includes one non-resident gorilla permit per person, making the gorilla trek accessible without additional costs.

What is the best time to do this safari?
While the specific season isn’t mentioned, Uganda’s dry season (roughly June to September and December to February) typically offers better wildlife viewing and fewer rain-related disruptions.

Are there options for additional activities?
Optional activities like white-water rafting are available, especially around Jinja and Kapchorwa, but are not included in the base price.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under five, likely due to the physically demanding activities and long travel days.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, rain gear, insect repellent, binoculars, and personal items.

How is the transportation arranged?
All transportation is included in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles with a professional guide, suitable for long drives between parks.

What kind of accommodation can I expect?
All lodges are included unless upgraded, generally offering cozy, authentic settings close to nature.

Can I reserve my spot and pay later?
Yes, the booking is flexible—reserve now and pay later, with full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

This Uganda safari is a well-crafted journey into the wild heart of Africa—ideal for travelers seeking genuine wildlife encounters and cultural insights. It’s a trip that promises not just sights, but stories and memories that will last a lifetime.

You can check availability for your dates here: