Mabamba Shoebill • Murchison Falls • Kibale Chimpanzees • Queen Elizabeth • Bwindi Gorillas • Lake Mburo

Discover Uganda's Richest Birding Circuit with Mountain Gorillas, Chimpanzees, Big Five Encounters & Over 650 Recorded Bird Species

Overview

Experience Uganda at its absolute finest on this extraordinary 13-Day Ultimate Birding and Gorilla Trekking Safari, a carefully crafted expedition designed for passionate birdwatchers, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, conservation travelers, and nature lovers seeking Africa's most biodiverse destination.

This remarkable safari traverses Uganda's most iconic national parks and Important Bird Areas, taking you through tranquil papyrus wetlands, mighty rivers, sweeping savannahs, ancient tropical rainforests, crater lakes, and mist-covered mountains that collectively support more than 650 recorded bird species, including numerous Albertine Rift endemics, sought-after forest specialists, iconic raptors, and migratory birds.

Your adventure begins at the renowned Mabamba Swamp, one of Africa's premier wetland birding destinations and the best place to search for the legendary Shoebill Stork. Journey north to Murchison Falls National Park, where the world's longest river explodes through a narrow seven-metre gorge before plunging dramatically into the Nile below. Here, spectacular game drives and unforgettable boat cruises reveal elephants, lions, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and an exceptional diversity of waterbirds and raptors.

Continue south into the lush forests of Kibale National Park, celebrated as the primate capital of East Africa and home to thirteen primate species, including habituated chimpanzees. Explore the biodiversity-rich Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, where forest and swamp habitats produce remarkable birding opportunities featuring the elusive Green-breasted Pitta, Great Blue Turaco, African Pitta (seasonal), and countless colorful forest birds.

Your safari then unfolds across the vast savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda's most diverse protected area. Search for tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha Sector, cruise the wildlife-rich Kazinga Channel, and witness enormous concentrations of elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, hippos, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species thriving around volcanic crater lakes and open grasslands.

The highlight awaits in the ancient rainforest of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where nearly half of the world's remaining mountain gorillas live. Trek through one of Africa's oldest forests before spending an unforgettable hour in the presence of a habituated gorilla family. Bwindi also offers some of Africa's finest montane birding, rewarding enthusiasts with Albertine Rift endemics including the African Green Broadbill, Shelley's Crimsonwing, Bar-tailed Trogon, Rwenzori Batis, Handsome Francolin, and Mountain Masked Apalis.

Complete your journey in the tranquil landscapes of Lake Mburo National Park, where rolling acacia woodlands, shimmering lakes, zebras, giraffes, elands, and more than 350 bird species provide a fitting finale before returning to Entebbe.

Blending Uganda's finest birding destinations with world-renowned primate encounters, classic African game viewing, breathtaking scenery, and authentic conservation experiences, this safari delivers an unforgettable exploration of the Pearl of Africa.

Safari Highlights

✔ Shoebill Stork Birding at Mabamba Swamp
✔ Gorilla & Chimpanzee Trekking
✔ Rhino Tracking & Big Game Safaris
✔ Murchison Falls & Nile Boat Cruise
✔ Queen Elizabeth & Ishasha Tree-Climbing Lions
✔ Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
✔ Albertine Rift Endemic Birding
✔ Lake Mburo Walking Safari & Boat Cruise
✔ Over 650 Bird Species & Incredible Photography Opportunities

Accommodation

Mid-range

Papyrus Guest House – Entebbe, Murchison River Lodge, Turaco Treetops, Enganzi Game Lodge, Gorilla Mist Camp, Rwakobo Rock

Luxury

Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa ,Nile Safari Lodge ,Primate Lodge Kibale ,Mweya Safari Lodge, Buhoma Lodge / Gorilla Forest Camp ,Mihingo Lodge

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival at Entebbe International Airport

Welcome to Uganda—the Pearl of Africa.

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your professional safari guide from Invictus Safaris before transferring to your comfortable hotel overlooking the shores of Lake Victoria.

Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a relaxed evening around the hotel gardens where numerous birds including Black-headed Heron, Great Cormorant, African Pied Wagtail, African Openbill, Little Egret, and Pied Kingfisher are often seen.

Your guide will conduct a detailed safari briefing covering the exciting adventure ahead, birding expectations, photography opportunities, and gorilla trekking preparations.

Relax after your international journey and prepare for thirteen unforgettable days exploring Uganda's extraordinary wildlife and birdlife.

Meals: Dinner

Day 2 – Mabamba Swamp Shoebill Birding & Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park

Rise early for one of Uganda's most celebrated birding experiences as you journey to Mabamba Swamp, an internationally recognized Ramsar Wetland and one of Africa's finest locations to search for the prehistoric-looking Shoebill Stork.

Board a traditional motorized canoe and glide silently through tranquil papyrus channels while your expert bird guide scans the wetlands for one of Africa's most sought-after birds.

Besides the Shoebill, expect sightings of Papyrus Gonolek, White-winged Warbler, Blue-breasted Bee-eater, African Jacana, Purple Swamp hen, Long-toed Lapwing, Malachite Kingfisher, African Marsh Harrier, Swamp Flycatcher, Lesser Jacana, and numerous herons, egrets, and weavers.

Following this unforgettable birding excursion, begin the scenic drive north through rural Uganda toward Murchison Falls National Park, passing vibrant towns, rolling farmland, and traditional villages that offer a glimpse into everyday Ugandan life.

Arrive at your lodge in the evening and settle in with spectacular views of the Nile or surrounding wilderness.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3 – Rhino Tracking at Ziwa, Top of the Falls & Evening Game Drive

After breakfast, travel to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Uganda's only protected breeding population of southern white rhinos.

Accompanied by experienced rangers, enjoy an exciting guided walking safari as you track these magnificent giants on foot while also searching for birds including African Wattled Lapwing, Black-headed Batis, Red-throated Bee-eater, Piapiac, and African Grey Hornbill.

Continue into Murchison Falls National Park, stopping at the spectacular Top of the Falls, where the mighty River Nile forces itself through a dramatic seven meter wide gorge before plunging more than forty metres into the Devil's Cauldron below.

The thunderous roar, swirling spray, and rainbow-filled mist provide one of Africa's most breathtaking natural spectacles and outstanding photography opportunities.

Later, enjoy an introductory evening game drive across the northern savannah in search of Rothschild's giraffes, Uganda kob, oribi, Jackson's hartebeest, elephants, buffaloes, lions, and an impressive variety of savannah birds.

As sunset paints the grasslands in golden hues, return to your lodge for dinner under the African sky.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4 – Morning Game Drive & Nile Boat Safari

Set out before sunrise for an exhilarating game drive across the expansive Buligi Game Tracks, when predators remain active and the cool morning air brings abundant wildlife onto the open plains.

Watch for prides of lions resting after the night's hunt, elusive leopards hidden among acacia trees, towering Rothschild's giraffes browsing peacefully, large herds of African elephants, buffaloes, warthogs, bushbucks, waterbucks, and numerous antelope species.

Bird enthusiasts will delight in the exceptional diversity of raptors and savannah specialists including Martial Eagle, Secretary bird, Bateleur, Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, Black-bellied Bustard, Denham's Bustard, Northern Carmine Bee-eater, Saddle-billed Stork, Silver Bird, Red-necked Falcon, and numerous vultures soaring overhead.

After lunch, embark on one of Africa's most rewarding wildlife cruises along the Victoria Nile toward the base of Murchison Falls. The riverbanks teem with enormous pods of hippos, basking Nile crocodiles, bathing elephants, buffaloes, and countless water birds including Goliath Heron, African Fish Eagle, Giant Kingfisher, Pied Kingfisher, African Skimmer (seasonal), Yellow-billed Stork, and Pink-backed Pelican.

As the boat approaches the thunderous falls, witness the Nile gathering immense power before crashing through the narrow gorge-a spectacular finale to an unforgettable day in Uganda's largest national park.

Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch &Dinner

Day 5 – Scenic Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park & Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary

Wake to the sounds of the African bush before enjoying breakfast and beginning your journey south towards the lush tropical forests of Kibale National Park, often referred to as the Primate Capital of East Africa. This scenic drive traverses Uganda's changing landscapes—from open savannahs and traditional villages to fertile tea plantations, crater lakes, and rolling hills—providing excellent roadside birding opportunities throughout the day.

Your guide will make regular birding stops whenever interesting species are encountered. Depending on the season, possible sightings include White-crested Turaco, Black-and-white Casqued Hornbill, Grey Parrot, African Harrier-Hawk, Black Bee-eater, Ross's Turaco, African Green Pigeon, Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater, Crowned Hornbill, and numerous sunbirds and weavers.

After arriving at your lodge and enjoying lunch, head to the nearby Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, one of Uganda's finest community-managed ecotourism projects and an internationally recognised Important Bird Area.

This diverse wetland ecosystem combines swamp, forest edge, grassland, and cultivated land, creating exceptional habitats for both resident and migratory birds. Accompanied by an experienced local bird guide, stroll through wooden boardwalks and shaded forest trails in search of some of Uganda's most sought-after species.

Bird enthusiasts may encounter: Great Blue Turaco ,White-spotted Flufftail ,Papyrus Gonolek, White-winged Warbler ,Yellow-billed Barbet ,Hairy-breasted Barbet ,Joyful Greenbul ,Black-and-white Shrike Flycatcher ,African Emerald Cuckoo ,Grey-headed Oliveback ,Yellow-throated Greenbul ,Blue-throated Roller

Bigodi is also renowned for its primate diversity. Keep watch for Black-and-white Colobus Monkeys, Red-tailed Monkeys, Grey-cheeked Mangabeys, L'Hoest's Monkeys, Blue Monkeys, Olive Baboons, and occasionally playful Vervet Monkeys feeding along the forest edge.

As evening falls, return to your lodge nestled within the rainforest, where the sounds of nocturnal birds and insects create a magical atmosphere.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6 – Chimpanzee Trekking & Forest Birding in Kibale National Park

Today promises one of Uganda's most exhilarating wildlife encounters.

Following an early breakfast, report to the Uganda Wildlife Authority Visitor Centre for a comprehensive briefing before entering the ancient rainforest accompanied by experienced ranger guides.

Kibale National Park protects one of Africa's largest populations of wild chimpanzees, with over 1,500 individuals inhabiting this magnificent forest. The trek offers an intimate opportunity to observe these remarkably intelligent primates as they communicate through loud pant-hoots, groom one another, forage for fruits, and move effortlessly through the forest canopy.

Beyond chimpanzees, Kibale supports thirteen species of primates, making every trek an exciting wildlife experience. You may also encounter: Red Colobus Monkeys, Uganda Red Colobus, Grey-cheeked Mangabey, L’Hoest’s Monkey, Blue Monkey, Black-and-white Colobus, Olive Baboon, Bushbuck, and Forest Elephant (rare)

For birdwatchers, Kibale is nothing short of paradise. The park boasts over 375 recorded bird species, many of which are difficult to find elsewhere in East Africa.

Target birds include: Green-breasted Pitta , African Pitta (seasonal), Dusky Crimsonwing ,Blue-headed Bee-eater ,Yellow-spotted Barbet ,Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird ,African Emerald Cuckoo, Black Bee-eater ,White-naped Pigeon ,Brown Illadopsis ,Red-faced Woodland Warbler ,Black-capped Apalis ,Sabine's Spinetail ,White-tailed Ant Thrush.

After spending one unforgettable hour with the chimpanzees, continue exploring selected forest trails in search of Kibale's remarkable birdlife before returning to your lodge for lunch.

The remainder of the afternoon offers time to relax on your lodge veranda overlooking the forest canopy, where hornbills, turacos, and colourful butterflies frequently make appearances.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7 – Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Following breakfast, depart Kibale Forest and travel southwest toward the magnificent Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda's most diverse protected area and one of Africa's premier wildlife destinations.

The journey itself is spectacular; passing through the shadow of the legendary Rwenzori Mountains-often called the "Mountains of the Moon"—lush tea estates, volcanic crater lakes, and picturesque farming communities.

Upon entering the national park, wildlife sightings begin almost immediately. Uganda Kob graze peacefully across the open plains, elephants wander through euphorbia woodlands, while buffaloes cool themselves in seasonal wetlands.

Your guide will conduct leisurely birding stops throughout the drive, searching for: Grey Crowned Crane ,African Wattled Lapwing ,Saddle-billed Stork ,Martial Eagle ,Long-crested Eagle ,African Fish Eagle ,Black-headed Gonolek ,White-winged Widowbird ,Flappet Lark ,Rufous-naped Lark ,Speckle-fronted Weaver ,Fan-tailed Widowbird

After checking into your lodge, enjoy an afternoon at leisure while observing birds around the lodge gardens, many of which attract sunbirds, barbets, kingfishers, and hornbills.

As the sun sets over the distant savannah, enjoy dinner surrounded by one of Africa's richest wildlife ecosystems.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8 – Kasenyi Plains Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Safari

Today showcases why Queen Elizabeth National Park is considered one of East Africa's finest safari destinations.

Depart before sunrise for an extensive game drive across the famous Kasenyi Plains, where vast grasslands provide exceptional opportunities to observe predators and herbivores in their natural habitat.

Early mornings offer the highest chances of encountering lions returning from their nightly hunts, while elusive leopards may still be active before retreating into thick vegetation.

Other mammals frequently encountered include: African Elephants ,Cape Buffaloes ,Uganda Kob, Defassa Waterbuck ,Warthogs ,Topi ,Bushbuck ,Giant Forest Hog ,Spotted Hyena

Birdlife across these open plains is equally impressive.

Possible sightings include: Secretary bird ,Kori Bustard ,Martial Eagle ,Bateleur ,Brown Snake Eagle ,Wahlberg's Eagle ,Temminck's Courser ,African Pipit ,Grey Crowned Crane ,Black-headed Lapwing ,White-tailed Lark ,Rufous-chested Swallow ,Red-necked Falcon

Return to the lodge for a leisurely lunch before embarking on one of Uganda's most celebrated wildlife experiences-the Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise.

Connecting Lake George and Lake Edward, the Kazinga Channel supports one of the highest concentrations of hippos anywhere in Africa, often numbering in the thousands. The shoreline teems with elephants, buffaloes, crocodiles, monitor lizards, and an astonishing diversity of aquatic birdlife.

Bird enthusiasts should watch for: African Fish Eagle ,Goliath Heron ,Saddle-billed Stork ,Pink-backed Pelican ,Great White Pelican ,Yellow-billed Stork ,African Spoonbill ,Water Thick-knee, Malachite Kingfisher ,Pied Kingfisher ,Giant Kingfisher ,White-faced Whistling Duck ,African Jacana ,Spur-winged Lapwing ,Common Sandpiper ,Western Osprey (seasonal)

Golden evening light reflecting across the channel creates extraordinary opportunities for wildlife and landscape photography.

Return to your lodge for dinner and relaxation while listening to the distant sounds of hippos emerging from the water to graze under the cover of darkness.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 9 – Scenic Drive through the Ishasha Sector to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After breakfast, depart Queen Elizabeth National Park and journey south through the remote Ishasha Sector, a spectacular wilderness famous for its rare population of tree-climbing lions. Unlike most lions that spend their days on the ground, Ishasha's prides are often seen lounging high in the branches of ancient fig trees, escaping the midday heat while surveying the open savannah below.

The drive through Ishasha offers one of Uganda's finest wildlife experiences. Keep your camera ready as your guide searches for lions, elephants, buffaloes, topi, Uganda kob, and large troops of baboons moving through the acacia woodlands.

For bird enthusiasts, the Ishasha plains provide excellent opportunities to observe a fascinating mix of savannah and woodland species, including: African Cuckoo-Hawk ,Brown Snake Eagle ,Martial Eagle ,Bateleur ,African Hobby ,Grey Kestrel ,Black Coucal ,White-headed Barbet ,Black-headed Gonolek ,Green Wood Hoopoe ,White-browed Coucal ,Black-lored Babbler ,African Grey Hornbill ,White-winged Black Tit ,Spot-flanked Barbet

Following lunch, the landscape gradually transforms as rolling savannah gives way to steep terraced hills, mist-covered mountains, and dense tropical rainforest. The winding roads leading into Bwindi Impenetrable National Park offer breathtaking panoramic views of one of Africa's oldest forests, estimated to be over 25,000 years old.

Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bwindi protects nearly half of the world's remaining mountain gorillas and is considered one of the continent's greatest biodiversity hotspots. The forest shelters more than 120 mammal species, over 350 bird species, countless butterflies, and an extraordinary diversity of plants found nowhere else on Earth.

Arrive at your lodge in the late afternoon, nestled deep within the forest or overlooking its emerald canopy. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a short bird walk around the lodge grounds where species such as the Rwenzori Batis, African Blue Flycatcher, White-tailed Blue Flycatcher, Mountain Wagtail, and Black-faced Rufous Warbler are often encountered.

Spend the evening preparing for tomorrow's unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure while the sounds of the rainforest echo through the surrounding hills.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 10 – Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Today marks the pinnacle of your Ugandan safari—an extraordinary encounter with the endangered Mountain Gorilla, one of the most profound wildlife experiences on Earth.

Following an early breakfast, transfer to the Uganda Wildlife Authority headquarters for a comprehensive briefing conducted by experienced rangers. Here, you will learn about gorilla behavior, conservation efforts, trekking etiquette, and the importance of protecting these remarkable primates.

Accompanied by expert trackers and armed rangers, begin your trek through Bwindi's ancient rainforest. Depending on the location of your assigned gorilla family, the trek may last anywhere from one to six hours, traversing steep ridges, bamboo stands, tangled vines, and moss-covered forest trails.

The journey itself is an exceptional wildlife experience. Along the way, your guide will point out medicinal plants, colorful orchids, towering mahogany trees, rare butterflies, and signs of other forest inhabitants.

Birdwatchers will find Bwindi to be one of Africa's greatest montane birding destinations, with opportunities to observe many of the Albertine Rift's most sought-after endemic species.

Possible sightings include: African Green Broadbill (seasonal), Shelley's Crimson wing, Bar-tailed Trogon ,Handsome Francolin ,Rwenzori Batis ,Mountain Masked Apalis ,Black Bee-eater ,Red-throated Alethe ,Archer's Robin-Chat ,Strange Weaver ,White-tailed Blue Flycatcher ,Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher ,Blue-headed Sunbird ,Regal Sunbird

Then comes the unforgettable moment—the first glimpse of a mountain gorilla family quietly feeding, grooming, and interacting in their natural habitat.

Spend a magical hour observing these gentle giants as silverbacks watch protectively over their families, mothers nurture playful infants, and juveniles tumble through the undergrowth. Every movement, expression, and interaction offers a moving reminder of our close evolutionary connection.

This once-in-a-lifetime encounter is both deeply emotional and humbling, leaving an impression that remains long after the journey ends.

Return to the lodge for a well-deserved rest while reflecting on one of the world's greatest wildlife experiences.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 11 – Birding the Legendary Mubwindi Swamp Trail

Today is dedicated to one of Africa's most celebrated birding locations-the Mubwindi Swamp Trail in the Ruhija sector of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Widely regarded as the premier site for Albertine Rift endemic birds, this challenging yet immensely rewarding trail winds through pristine montane forest before descending into a secluded high-altitude swamp surrounded by giant tree ferns, bamboo, and ancient hardwoods.

Accompanied by your expert bird guide, spend the day searching for some of Africa's rarest and most desirable bird species.

Target birds include: African Green Broadbill ,Grauer's Rush Warbler ,Shelley's Crimson wing, Archer's Robin-Chat ,Rwenzori Nightjar ,Mountain Masked Apalis ,Grauer's Swamp Warbler, Rwenzori Batis ,Black-faced Rufous Warbler ,Stripe-breasted Tit ,White-bellied Robin-Chat, Yellow-eyed Black Flycatcher ,Cinnamon Bracken Warbler ,Dusky Crimson wing ,Collared Apalis.

Beyond its exceptional birdlife, the trail offers breathtaking scenery. Mist drifts silently through towering trees while crystal-clear streams weave through the swamp below, creating an atmosphere of remarkable tranquility.

Keep watch for L'Hoest's Monkeys, Black-and-white Colobus Monkeys, forest duikers, colorful butterflies, and countless orchids blooming beneath the rainforest canopy.

Photographers will appreciate the constantly changing light filtering through the forest, creating dramatic compositions of moss-covered trees, hanging vines, and elusive forest birds.

Return to your lodge in the late afternoon for relaxation and another evening immersed in the sights and sounds of Bwindi.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 12 – Birding "The Neck" Trail to Buhoma

After breakfast, enjoy one final full day exploring Bwindi's remarkable birdlife by following the famous "The Neck" Trail, a narrow forest corridor connecting the Ruhija and Buhoma sectors.

This biologically rich habitat supports one of the highest concentrations of Albertine Rift endemic birds anywhere in East Africa and provides excellent opportunities to observe species often missed elsewhere in the park.

Walking quietly beneath towering rainforest trees, your guide will help locate many of Bwindi's most prized birds.

Possible highlights include: Black-throated Apalis ,Rwenzori Turaco ,Grauer's Warbler ,Short-tailed Warbler ,Purple-breasted Sunbird ,Blue-headed Sunbird ,Chapin's Flycatcher ,Equatorial Akalat ,Petit's Cuckoo shrike ,Kivu Ground Thrush ,Black-billed Turaco ,White-starred Robin, Mountain Illadopsis ,White-browed Crombec

The trail also offers magnificent viewpoints overlooking terraced hillsides, traditional Bakiga farming communities, and the seemingly endless rainforest stretching toward the Virunga Volcanoes.

During the afternoon, continue toward the Buhoma sector, enjoying leisurely birding stops and opportunities to photograph one of Uganda's most spectacular landscapes.

Spend your final evening in Bwindi relaxing at your lodge while celebrating the incredible birding achievements of the past several days.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 13 – Lake Mburo National Park, Walking Safari, Boat Cruise & Return to Entebbe

Your final safari day begins with a scenic drive northeast to Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda's smallest savannah national park but one of its most charming and diverse wildlife destinations.

Unlike other Ugandan parks, Lake Mburo offers the rare opportunity to explore on foot. Accompanied by an experienced ranger, enjoy a guided walking safari through open acacia woodland where encounters with zebras, impalas, elands, giraffes, topi, bushbuck, and buffaloes create an exhilarating conclusion to your safari.

The park's lakes, wetlands, and woodland habitats support more than 350 recorded bird species, making it a fitting finale for your birding expedition.

Target species include: African Finfoot ,Southern Ground Hornbill ,Ross's Turaco ,Bare-faced Go-away-bird ,African Fish Eagle ,Black-collared Barbet ,Brown-chested Lapwing ,White-winged Warbler ,Papyrus Yellow Warbler ,Blue-headed Weaver ,Red-faced Barbet ,Lilac-breasted Roller ,Giant Kingfisher

Later, enjoy a peaceful boat cruise across Lake Mburo, where pods of hippos wallow in the shallows while crocodiles bask along the shoreline. Waterbirds abound, offering excellent opportunities for close-range photography.

Following lunch, begin your journey back to Entebbe, stopping at the Uganda Equator Monument for photographs, souvenir shopping, and refreshments. Stand with one foot in the Northern Hemisphere and the other in the Southern Hemisphere—a memorable way to conclude your adventure.

Arrive at Entebbe International Airport in the evening for your onward flight or transfer to your hotel if extending your stay.

As your safari comes to an end, you'll leave with unforgettable memories of mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, the mighty Nile, spectacular birdlife, breathtaking landscapes, and the warm hospitality that has earned Uganda its reputation as the Pearl of Africa.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

What's Included

• Gorilla Trekking Permit (USD 800 per person)
• Chimpanzee Trekking Permit
• Rhino Tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
• All park entrance fees and ranger-guided activities
• Mabamba Shoebill canoe excursion
• Bigodi Wetland guided walk
• Mubwindi Swamp birding excursion
• Game drives as per itinerary
• Nile, Kazinga Channel and Lake Mburo boat cruises
• Private 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser with pop-up roof
• Professional English-speaking driver-guide
• Accommodation for 12 nights
• Meals as indicated
• Bottled drinking water during the safari
• Airport transfers
• Government taxes

What's Excluded

• International flights
• Uganda Visa
• Travel insurance
• Alcoholic and premium beverages
• Laundry services
• Personal expenses
• Optional activities
• Tips and gratuities

Best Time to Visit

This safari operates throughout the year.

For the best overall wildlife viewing, birding, and trekking conditions, we recommend:

• June – September: Dry season with excellent wildlife viewing and easier gorilla and chimpanzee trekking.
• December – February: Pleasant weather, excellent birding, and outstanding photography.
• March – May & October – November: Ideal for birdwatchers, with lush scenery, breeding birds, and migratory species.

Why This Safari Is Special

This carefully designed journey showcases Uganda's remarkable diversity by combining the country's finest birding destinations with unforgettable wildlife encounters. Search for the legendary Shoebill, track rhinos and chimpanzees, enjoy classic African game drives, cruise the Nile and Kazinga Channel, and experience the life-changing privilege of trekking endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

From wetlands and savannahs to ancient rainforests and volcanic landscapes, every destination offers unique ecosystems, exceptional photography, and outstanding opportunities to discover why Uganda is known as the Pearl of Africa.

Community Impact Promise

Every safari booked with Invictus Safaris supports wildlife conservation, community-based tourism, and sustainable livelihoods across Uganda. Your journey contributes to the protection of mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, rhinos, wetlands, and national parks while creating employment opportunities for local guides, rangers, lodge staff, and surrounding communities.