Dive into an action-packed exploration of Uganda’s top national parks on this 4-day blitz safari, experiencing diverse wildlife, landscapes, and adventures. From Queen Elizabeth’s famed Kazinga Channel and lion sightings to the mesmerizing gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, this fast-paced tour covers the best of Uganda’s natural beauty and wildlife in a short time. Ideal for adventurers with limited time, this itinerary combines breathtaking game drives, boat cruises, and an unforgettable gorilla encounter.
Trip Highlights:
- Take a thrilling game drive through Queen Elizabeth National Park, with chances to spot tree-climbing lions.
- Cruise down the Kazinga Channel, home to hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife.
- Experience gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with endangered mountain gorillas.
- Enjoy the lush landscapes and rich biodiversity of Uganda’s iconic parks.
Itinerary
Kick off your adventure with a morning departure from Kampala for the scenic drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park. This 6-7 hour drive takes you through beautiful countryside, tea plantations, and the lush terrain of southwestern Uganda.
Lunch En Route in Mbarara:
Stop in Mbarara town for a traditional Ugandan lunch at a local restaurant. Try dishes like matoke, chapati, and grilled meats as you enjoy the view of the rolling hills.
Afternoon Game Drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park:
Arrive at Queen Elizabeth National Park and head straight into an afternoon game drive in the Kasenyi Plains. This region of the park is known for lions, elephants, buffaloes, and antelope. Watch for Uganda kob and warthogs as your guide takes you through prime wildlife areas.
Evening Meal:
Arrive at your lodge in time for a relaxing dinner, prepared with fresh local ingredients and international flavors.
Accommodation:
Park View Safari Lodge or Bush Lodge, offering mid-range comfort with beautiful views over the park
Start your day with an early game drive, focusing on the Kasenyi area where lions often hunt Uganda kob. Early mornings are ideal for spotting predators on the move and for capturing beautiful sunrise views over the savannah.
Breakfast:
Return to the lodge for a delicious breakfast before preparing for the next adventure.
Lunch:
Enjoy a relaxing lunch at your lodge before heading to the Kazinga Channel.
Afternoon Boat Cruise on the Kazinga Channel:
In the afternoon, embark on a two-hour boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake Edward and Lake George. The channel is famous for its high concentration of hippos, Nile crocodiles, and diverse bird species. Along the banks, you may spot elephants, buffaloes, and a variety of waterbirds like African fish eagles, pelicans, and kingfishers.
Evening Meal:
Enjoy a hearty dinner at your lodge, sharing stories of the day’s wildlife sightings and reflecting on the serene beauty of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Accommodation:
Park View Safari Lodge or Bush Lodge.
Depart from Queen Elizabeth National Park and make your way to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The journey takes about 4-5 hours, with scenic views of Uganda’s highlands, including the famous Ishasha sector, known for its tree-climbing lions.
Lunch En Route in Ishasha Sector:
Stop for lunch in the Ishasha region, where you may have a chance to spot the unique tree-climbing lions resting in fig trees.
Afternoon Arrival in Bwindi and Lodge Check-In:
Arrive at Bwindi and check into your lodge, nestled in the forested hills. Spend the afternoon at leisure, taking in the calming ambiance of the forest and preparing for your gorilla trek.
Evening Meal:
Enjoy a forest-inspired dinner at the lodge, with local dishes and fresh ingredients to energize you for the next day’s adventure.
Accommodation:
Gorilla Mist Camp or Buhoma Community Rest Camp, offering comfortable and eco-friendly accommodations close to the trekking trails.
After an early breakfast, proceed to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking. Your guide will provide instructions on gorilla behavior and safety protocols for the trek. Trekking groups are kept small to ensure minimal impact on the gorillas.
Gorilla Trekking Experience:
Embark on your trek through Bwindi’s dense rainforest in search of a mountain gorilla family. The trek can take from 1 to 6 hours depending on the gorillas’ location, and your guide will lead you through thick vegetation and steep terrain. When you encounter the gorillas, spend a magical hour observing them as they feed, groom, and interact—a truly unforgettable wildlife encounter.
Lunch After Trekking:
Enjoy a packed lunch in the forest or at the park headquarters after the trek, savoring the moment and reflecting on your experience with the gorillas.
Afternoon Departure to Kampala:
Begin the journey back to Kampala in the afternoon, taking time to relax and enjoy the scenic route. Reflect on the incredible wildlife encounters and unforgettable moments you experienced in Uganda’s national parks.