Destinations: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park • Lake Bunyonyi • Queen Elizabeth National Park
Style: Midrange lodges and camps
Ideal for: Solo travelers, couples, small groups, and adventure seekers
Uganda’s Wild Heart in Five Days
This safari blends three of Uganda’s most iconic destinations into a compact, unforgettable journey. Trek through the misty jungles of Bwindi to meet endangered mountain gorillas, unwind by the island-dotted waters of Lake Bunyonyi, and explore the savannahs and wetlands of Queen Elizabeth National Park, home to tree-climbing lions, elephants, and hippos. Whether you're traveling solo or with friends, this itinerary offers the perfect mix of thrill, tranquility, and discovery.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Transfer from Kampala/Entebbe to Bwindi
Drive Time: ~8–9 hours (with scenic stops) Activities:
- Scenic Road Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Depart early and travel southwest through Uganda’s lush countryside, crossing the equator and passing tea plantations and rolling hills. Duration: Full-day transfer with lunch stop in Mbarara
- Evening Relaxation at Lodge Arrive at your lodge near Bwindi and enjoy a quiet evening with views of the forest canopy. Duration: Flexible
Accommodation: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge / Rushaga Gorilla Camp
Amenities: En-suite rooms, hot showers, Wi-Fi, forest views, restaurant & bar
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking & Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
Activities:
- Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park After breakfast, head to the park headquarters for briefing. Trek through dense forest with expert rangers to locate your assigned gorilla family. Spend one magical hour observing these gentle giants. Duration: 2–6 hours depending on gorilla location
- Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi After lunch and rest, drive ~2–3 hours to Lake Bunyonyi, known for its scenic islands and cool climate. Duration: Afternoon transfer
Accommodation: Birdnest Bunyonyi Resort / Arcadia Cottages
Amenities: Lakeside views, restaurant, bar, canoe rentals, Wi-Fi
Day 3: Lake Bunyonyi Exploration & Transfer to Queen Elizabeth NP
Drive Time: ~4–5 hours to Queen Elizabeth NP via Kabale and Ishasha Activities:
- Morning Canoe Ride or Island Visit Explore the lake in a traditional dugout canoe, visiting Punishment Island or Kyahugye Island for birdwatching and cultural stories. Duration: 1.5–2 hours
- Scenic Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park Drive through the Ishasha sector, known for tree-climbing lions. Optional game viewing en route. Duration: 4–5 hours with wildlife stops
Accommodation: Twin Lakes Safari Lodge / Enganzi Game Lodge
Amenities: Panoramic views, en-suite rooms, pool, restaurant, Wi-Fi
Day 4: Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Safari
Activities:
- Morning Game Drive in Kasenyi Plains Spot elephants, buffaloes, lions, antelopes, and warthogs in the savannah. Your guide will help track wildlife and share ecological insights. Duration: 2.5–3 hours
- Afternoon Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel Enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the channel, famous for its dense population of hippos, crocodiles, and water birds. Duration: 2 hours
Accommodation: Same as Day 3
Day 5: Return to Kampala/Entebbe
Drive Time: ~6–7 hours Activities:
- Scenic Drive Back to Kampala or Entebbe Depart after breakfast, stopping for lunch and a photo opportunity at the equator monument. Duration: Full-day transfer
- Optional Airport Drop-Off or Overnight Stay Depending on your flight schedule, you may opt for an overnight stay in Entebbe or Kampala. Duration: Flexible
Key Tour Highlights
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi’s ancient rainforest
- Canoe ride and island visits on Lake Bunyonyi
- Game drive in Queen Elizabeth NP’s savannah plains
- Boat safari on the hippo-filled Kazinga Channel
- Scenic drives through Uganda’s highlands and tea estates
Major Attractions
Destination | Highlight |
---|---|
Bwindi Impenetrable NP | Mountain gorillas, rainforest trekking |
Lake Bunyonyi | Canoeing, birdwatching, island visits |
Queen Elizabeth NP | Big game viewing, boat cruise, tree-climbing lions |
✅ Inclusions
- Gorilla trekking permit (USD 800 per person)
- All ground transport in 4x4 safari vehicle
- 4 nights midrange accommodation
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Park entry fees and ranger guides
- Canoe ride on Lake Bunyonyi
- Kazinga Channel boat cruise
- Bottled drinking water during transfers
❌ Exclusions
- International flights
- Uganda visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Tips and personal expenses
- Optional activities not listed
- Alcoholic beverages
Accommodation Overview
Lodge Name | Location | Key Amenities |
---|---|---|
Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge | Bwindi | Forest views, hot showers, Wi-Fi |
Birdnest @ Bunyonyi Resort | Lake Bunyonyi | Lakeside dining, canoe rentals, Wi-Fi |
Twin Lakes Safari Lodge | Queen Elizabeth NP | Panoramic views, pool, en-suite rooms |
Ready to Trek, Cruise, and Explore Uganda’s Wild Wonders?
Whether you're traveling solo or with a group, this midrange safari offers the perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and cultural immersion.
Book your safari
Request a customized itinerary
Email: info@nileabenteuer.com
Website: www.nileabenteuersafaris.com
Call: +256 393 000382
WhatsApp: +256 742 603325
Let Uganda move you.