Ultimate African Encounters

From the remote wilds of Kidepo to Nile rapids, golden monkeys, and Kampala’s music and fashion scene - experience the full spectrum of Uganda’s culture, wildlife, and creative spirit.

BOOK NOW

Ultimate African Encounters
with Lubugo Tours

This 22-day Uganda safari is an expansive journey, combining adrenaline activities like white water rafting with extensive wildlife viewing in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, and Lake Mburo, including rhino tracking and tree-climbing lions. A primate enthusiast's dream, it features chimpanzee habituation and two gorilla trekking experiences. The tour also includes golden monkey tracking, Semuliki hot springs, Batwa cultural encounters, relaxation at Lake Bunyonyi, and shoebill stork viewing and moments with Ngamba Island's orphaned chimpanzees.

Please note, prices vary depending on season, group size, activities, accommodation and more. To get a quote for a tour, fill out our enquiry form and one of our travel consultants will get back to you as soon as possible. If you're looking for other options on where to go, what to see and what to do, take a look at our home page:

Book Now

Trip Overview

This extensive 22-day safari vacation is meticulously designed to offer the ultimate Ugandan experience, encompassing its diverse landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant cultures. From thrilling water adventures and close encounters with primates to comprehensive game viewing and cultural immersions, this journey promises an unforgettable exploration of the "Pearl of Africa."

Trip Highlights:

Visit Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary on Lake Victoria
Game drives & Nile River boatcruise in Murchison Falls
Chimpanzee tracking & walks in Kibale Forest & Bigodi Swamp
Explore Semuliki National Park: hot springs and night game drive
Wildlife viewing and Kazinga Channel cruise in Queen Elizabeth
Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Cultural experience with the Batwa Pygmy community
Scenic relaxation at Lake Bunyonyi
Walking safari and hyena tracking in Lake Mburo National Park
Diverse landscapes: forests, savannahs, crater lakes, and wetlands

1/7

Inclusions:

Accommodation for 21 nights at carefully selected lodges and hotels (luxury, midrange, or budget – as per booking)
All meals as outlined in the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Professional English-speaking safari guide/driver throughout the tour
Ground transportation in a comfortable 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for game viewing
Driver/Guide: Professional, English-speaking safari driver-guide.
Airport Transfers: Pick-up and drop-off on Day 18.
Water: Bottled drinking water provided in the safari vehicle during travel and activities

Activities & Entry Fees

All park entry fees and activity permits, including:
White water rafting on the Nile (Jinja)
Rhino tracking permit (Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary)
Chimpanzee habituation experience (Kibale)
2 Gorilla trekking permits (Bwindi Forest)
Golden monkey tracking permit (Mgahinga NP)
Game drives in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth, Ishasha & Lake Mburo
Boat cruises (Murchison Falls, Kazinga, Mburo)
Night game drive in Lake Mburo National Park
Nature and crater lake walks
Zip-lining or quad biking (Lake Mburo)
Birdwatching tour in Mabamba Swamp (shoebill)
Cultural visits (Batwa, crafts workshops, markets)
Fashion immersion and studio tour in Kampala
Island tour and canoeing at Lake Bunyonyi
Entry and guided visit to Ngamba Island

Daily
Itinerary

Choose this tour or use it to inspire your own custom-designed journey.

Day 1: Arrival & Kampala Welcome

Upon your arrival at Entebbe International Airport (EBB), you will be warmly welcomed by our company representative. You will then be transferred directly to your selected hotel in Kampala. Settle in, relax after your journey, and enjoy dinner.

Day 4: Murchison Falls National Park

After an early breakfast, you will drive from Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda's largest and one of its most impressive parks. Known for the world's most powerful waterfall, Murchison Falls, and abundant big game. Upon arrival, you will visit the majestic Top of the Falls, witnessing the Nile River's dramatic squeeze through a narrow gorge before plunging down. In the evening, embark on a sunset game drive, offering opportunities to spot various wildlife species as they become active. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Accommodation Options: Paraa Safari Lodge / Chobe Safari Lodge (Luxury); Murchison River Lodge (Midrange); Red Chili Rest Camp (Basic)

Day 7: Chimpanzee Habituation Experience & Bigodi Eco-Swamp

After breakfast, proceed to the Kanyanchu visitor center for a briefing on the chimpanzee habituation experience. This full-day immersive activity allows you to accompany researchers and trackers as they follow chimpanzees, observing their behavior and daily routines as they gradually become accustomed to human presence. Along the way, you may encounter other primate species such as red colobus, black-and-white colobus, L'Hoest's monkeys, and various bird species. In the afternoon, explore the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary on a guided walk, a community initiative famous for its rich birdlife and primates, showcasing the unspoiled nature of the area.
Accommodation Options: Primate Lodge / Ndali Lodge / Kibale Safari Lodge (Luxury); Kibale Forest Camp (Midrange); Chimpanzee Guesthouse (Budget)

Day 10: Lion Tracking Experiential & Tree Climbing Lions of Ishasha

Begin your day with an early morning lion tracking experiential in Queen Elizabeth National Park, participating with researchers to locate and learn about the park's lion prides. Afterward, drive to the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its unique tree-climbing lions. Enjoy lunch at a lodge in Ishasha and then embark on a sunset game drive, specifically looking for these iconic lions lounging in fig trees, along with other savanna dwellers like elephants and buffaloes.
Accommodation Options: Mweya Safari Lodge / Ishasha Wilderness Camp / Katara Lodge (Luxury); Bush Lodge (Midrange); Mweya Hostel / Bush Lodge at the Camp (Budget)

Day 13: Second Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi National Park

Today offers another incredible opportunity for gorilla trekking! After breakfast, you will again gather at the trailhead for a briefing. You can choose to track a different gorilla family from the previous day, or revisit the same one for another hour of profound interaction. This second trek provides a deeper appreciation for these magnificent primates and their forest home.
Accommodation Options: Same as Day 11 & 12

Day 16: Travel to Lake Bunyonyi for Canoeing and Island Tour

After breakfast, depart from Kisoro and drive to the picturesque Lake Bunyonyi, often called the "Switzerland of Africa." In the afternoon, embark on a relaxing canoe ride, exploring some of its approximately 29 islands, each with unique stories and abundant birdlife, including the poignant "Punishment Island." Enjoy the serene surroundings and beautiful sunset.
Accommodation: Birdnest@Bunyonyi / Arcadia Cottages (or similar standard)

Day 19: Transfer to Kampala - Fashion Immersion

Transfer to Kampala in the morning. In the afternoon head to IGC Fashion Studio to meet the team behind Lubugo Tours and learn about the cause the tours are supporting. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at how garments are designed and made, meet some of the team, and learn about our approach to circular fashion, community collaboration, and ethical production. From pattern cutting to hand-finishing, the visit offers an honest look at what it takes to build a fashion brand rooted in environmental and social responsibility.

Day 22: Departure

After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, you may have some leisure time or an optional brief city tour of Entebbe/Kampala. You will then be transferred to Entebbe International Airport for your onward flight, concluding your unforgettable 22-day Uganda safari.

Day 2: White Water Rafting at the Source of the Nile in Jinja

Begin your day with an early breakfast before embarking on a scenic road trip to Jinja, the adventure capital and source of the Nile. The drive takes you through lush Mabira Forest and past vast sugarcane plantations. Upon arrival in Jinja, you will engage in a full day of exhilarating white water rafting on the Nile River, one of the world's most renowned rafting destinations. Afterward, return to your hotel in Jinja for relaxation, dinner, and overnight.
Accommodation: Haven Lodge Jinja / Nile Safari Lodge (or similar standard)

Day 5: Game Drives and Launch Trip at the Falls

Rise early for breakfast and head out for a thrilling morning game drive with a park guide. Explore the savanna plains in search of giraffes, buffaloes, warthogs, bush elephants, lions, leopards, and various antelope species, alongside a rich array of birds. After 2-3 hours, return to the lodge for lunch and a brief rest. In the afternoon, embark on a captivating launch cruise to the bottom of Murchison Falls. This 2-3 hour boat trip offers astonishing views of colossal hippos, formidable crocodiles, and numerous water birds. You can opt to hike to the top of the falls from the boat, where your driver will meet you to transfer back to the lodge.
Accommodation Options: Paraa Safari Lodge / Chobe Safari Lodge (Luxury); Murchison River Lodge (Midrange); Red Chili Rest Camp (Basic)

Day 8: Crater Lake and Semuliki National Park – Sempaya Hot Springs

Enjoy breakfast before embarking on a hike to the beautiful Crater Lakes surrounding Kibale. Take in the stunning scenery of tea and banana plantations and interact with local communities. Later, drive to Semuliki National Park. Upon arrival, visit the Sempaya Hot Springs, where you can witness the male and female hot springs, boiling eggs and plantains in their natural heat. This park is known for its unique lowland tropical rainforest and diverse birdlife.
Accommodation: Semliki Safari Lodge (Luxury); Ntoroko Game Lodge (Midrange); Semliki Safari Lodge (Budget, though often pricier here)

Day 11: Game Drives in Ishasha & Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Enjoy a final morning game drive in the Ishasha sector to search for the tree-climbing lions once more. Proceed with your journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Enjoy lunch at Savanna Resort, before continuing to Bwindi, preparing for your highly anticipated gorilla trekking experiences.
Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge / Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge (Luxury); Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge / Gorilla Mist Camp (Midrange); Gorilla Safari Lodge / Buhoma Community Rest Camp (Budget)

Day 14: Transfer to Mgahinga National Park – Gahinga Volcano Hike

After breakfast, drive to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Today's adventure involves a hiking experience. You will hike through Mount Gahinga Volcano, which offers breathtaking scenery, lush landscapes, and opportunities to spot various wildlife and birds. After your hike, proceed to your accommodation for dinner and overnight.
Accommodation: Travelers Rest Hotel (or similar standard)

Day 17: Morning Walk and Drive to Lake Mburo National Park & Quad Biking / Zip-lining

Begin your day with an early morning guided nature walk around Lake Bunyonyi, taking in its tranquility. Afterward, embark on your journey to Lake Mburo National Park. You will have lunch in Mbarara town (e.g., Agip Hotel) en route. Upon arrival, you'll have the option for an exciting activity: Quad Biking through the park's fringes or a thrilling Zip-lining experience.
Accommodation Options: Mihingo Lodge / Rwakobo Rock Lodge (or similar standard)

Day 20: Ethical souvenirs, community moments.

Start your day at Owino Market. Owino is a hub for secondhand clothes from Europe, North America, and Asia, and home to over 2,000 vendors, the majority of whom are women.
As you weave through its crowded lanes, your guide will share the market’s history and its crucial role in Uganda’s informal economy. You’ll learn how discarded clothing is repurposed and sold, and explore the market’s impact on sustainability and livelihoods.
Next, visit Mawejje studios or Letasi design studios to try your hand at sustainable crafts - banana fibre weaving or batik cloth making. This is a great opportunity to connect with local communities and projects, which are bettering the environment. Make and shop for presents for friends at home or for you to remember your trip by.
Accommodation: forest cottages or protea Skys hotel.

Day 3: Travel to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for Tracking

Enjoy breakfast at your leisure before departing Jinja and driving through Kampala towards the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. This sanctuary is Uganda's only rhino breeding program in the wild and offers a unique opportunity. In the afternoon, you will embark on a guided rhino tracking experience on foot, getting up close to these magnificent creatures. After the tracking, proceed to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Accommodation: Amuka Safari Lodge (or similar standard)

Day 6: Drive to Kibale National Park

After an early breakfast, depart Murchison Falls National Park and begin your journey to Kibale National Park, renowned as the "Primate Capital of the World." The scenic drive takes you through breathtaking landscapes, including escarpments. Arrive in the late afternoon, check into your lodge, and enjoy some relaxation before dinner and overnight.
Accommodation Options: Primate Lodge / Ndali Lodge / Kibale Safari Lodge (Luxury); Kibale Forest Camp (Midrange); Chimpanzee Guesthouse (Budget)

Day 9: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park – Boat Cruise

After breakfast, transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park. The journey offers picturesque views. Upon arrival, check into your lodge. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway connecting Lake Edward and Lake George. This cruise offers incredible close-up views of large concentrations of hippos, formidable crocodiles, and a vast array of water birds, as well as other animals coming to the water's edge to drink.
Accommodation Options: Mweya Safari Lodge / Ishasha Wilderness Camp / Katara Lodge (Luxury); Bush Lodge (Midrange); Mweya Hostel / Bush Lodge at the Camp (Budget)

Day 12: First Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi National Park – Visit Batwa Pygmies

An exhilarating day begins with an early breakfast at your lodge. You will then gather at the respective trailhead in Bwindi National Park for a comprehensive briefing on gorilla trekking rules and regulations. With packed lunch and bottled water, you will embark on your primate adventure around 8:00 AM, assigned to one gorilla family in a group of 8 visitors, accompanied by a park ranger guide. The trek can last 2-6 hours, culminating in a magical hour face-to-face with the mountain gorillas. In the evening, enjoy a cultural tour to the Batwa community, learning about their traditional forest life. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Accommodation Options: Same as Day 11

Day 15: Golden Monkey Tracking in Mgahinga National Park

Following an early morning breakfast, you will gather at the Ntebeko visitor center for a briefing on the golden monkey tracking guidelines. Then, embark on your adventure to track these vibrant and elusive primates. Along the way, you may also encounter other forest creatures and a variety of bird species. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at your lodge.
Accommodation: Travelers Rest Hotel (or similar standard)

Day 18: Morning Game Drives, Boat Ride and Night Game Drive in Lake Mburo

Enjoy breakfast and then embark on a morning game drive in Lake Mburo National Park. Spot impalas, zebras, buffaloes, elands, topis, and various bird species. After lunch, you will enjoy a launch trip along Lake Mburo, offering amazing views of hippos, crocodiles, and water birds. After the day, go on a night game drive. Spot nocturnal animals that are not seen during the day, such as leopards, civets, genets, and bushbabies.
Accommodation Options: Same as Day 17

Day 21: Mabamba Wetland Birding Tour & Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary

After breakfast, begin your drive back towards Entebbe. En route, make a stop at the Equator for photo opportunities and perhaps some souvenir shopping. Continue to Entebbe, where you will embark on a fascinating bird-watching tour at Mabamba Wetland, located on the shores of Lake Victoria. This wetland is one of the best places in Uganda to spot the highly sought-after and rare Shoebill Stork from a canoe. Finally, set off for a half-day excursion to Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary. This sanctuary provides a safe haven for orphaned chimpanzees rescued from the illegal wildlife trade. You will take a boat ride to the island, observe the chimpanzees during feeding times, and learn about their rehabilitation and conservation efforts. Return to Entebbe in the afternoon for leisure, dinner, and your final overnight stay.

Bella B, UK