6-Day Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Murchison Falls & Kibale Safari (Midrange Tour)
Tour Type: Solo, Private or Group Tour
Style: Midrange lodges and tented camps with scenic views, personalized service, and authentic safari experiences Destinations: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary • Murchison Falls National Park • Kibale Forest National Park
Uganda’s Ultimate Wildlife Triangle
This 6-day safari takes you through Uganda’s most diverse wildlife corridor, from the open plains of Murchison Falls to the dense rainforests of Kibale and the rhino-rich savannahs of Ziwa. It’s a journey that offers the Big Five (with rhinos at Ziwa), thrilling game drives, boat cruises on the Nile, and unforgettable chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest. Designed for travelers who want a well-paced, high-impact safari with comfort and authenticity.
Key Tour Highlights & Unique Selling Points
- On-foot rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
- Game drives in Murchison Falls NP with chances to spot lions, elephants, giraffes, and buffaloes
- Boat cruise to the base of Murchison Falls, Africa’s most powerful waterfall
- Visit to the top of the falls for panoramic views
- Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest with expert guides
- Scenic drives through tea plantations and crater lakes
- Midrange lodges with wildlife proximity, local cuisine, and warm hospitality
Major Attractions
Location | Highlight |
---|---|
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary | Guided rhino tracking on foot |
Murchison Falls NP | Big game, Nile cruise, waterfall views |
Kibale Forest NP | Chimpanzees, primates, birding |
Top of Murchison Falls | Scenic viewpoint and photo opportunity |
Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary | Community-run birding and primate walk |
Accessibility Options
- By Road: Kampala → Ziwa → Murchison → Kibale → Kampala (~1,200 km total)
- By Air (Optional): Charter flights available to Pakuba (Murchison) and Kasese (Kibale)
- Transfers: All ground transfers provided in 4x4 safari vehicles with pop-up roof and bottled water
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Kampala → Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary → Murchison Falls
Activities:
- Guided Rhino Tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Walk with rangers to observe endangered white rhinos in their natural habitat. Duration: 1.5–2 hours
- Visit to the Top of Murchison Falls Hike to the top of the falls for breathtaking views of the Nile crashing through a narrow gorge. Duration: 1 hour
Accommodation: Murchison River Lodge / Fort Murchison
Amenities: Riverside views, en-suite rooms, pool, restaurant & bar, solar power
Day 2: Game Drive & Nile Boat Safari
Activities:
- Morning Game Drive in Northern Murchison Spot lions, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and antelopes in the savannah. Duration: 2.5–3 hours
- Afternoon Boat Cruise to the Base of the Falls Cruise along the Nile spotting hippos, crocodiles, and water birds. Optional hike to the top. Duration: 2–3 hours
Accommodation: Same as Day 1
Day 3: Transfer to Kibale Forest via Fort Portal
Drive Time: ~6–7 hours
Activities:
- Scenic Drive through Tea Plantations & Rwenzori Foothills Enjoy views of crater lakes and stop for lunch in Fort Portal. Duration: Full-day transfer with breaks
- Evening Nature Walk or Crater Lake Visit Optional short walk near your lodge to stretch and enjoy the landscape. Duration: 1 hour
Accommodation: Turaco Treetops / Isunga Lodge
Amenities: Forest views, eco-friendly design, fireplace lounge, Wi-Fi
Day 4: Chimpanzee Tracking & Bigodi Wetland Walk
Activities:
- Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest Trek through rainforest to observe chimpanzees and other primates. Duration: 2–4 hours
- Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary Walk Guided walk through a community-run wetland rich in birdlife and local culture. Duration: 1.5–2 hours
Accommodation: Same as Day 3
Day 5: Optional Forest Walk & Leisure
Activities:
- Optional Guided Forest Walk or Birding Tour Explore nearby trails for birdwatching and primate spotting. Duration: 1.5 hours
- Afternoon Leisure or Visit to Local Community Project Relax at the lodge or engage in a cultural visit with local artisans. Duration: 1.5 hours
Accommodation: Same as Day 3
Day 6: Kibale → Kampala
Activities:
- Scenic Transfer Back to Kampala Depart mid-morning with lunch en route and optional stop at a craft market or the equator monument. Duration: ~6–7 hours
What to Carry & Requirements
- Valid passport and Uganda visa
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate
- Lightweight clothing in neutral colors
- Sturdy walking shoes or boots
- Sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, sunglasses
- Binoculars and camera with extra batteries
- Reusable water bottle and personal medications
- Rain jacket (especially March–May or Oct–Nov)
- Moderate fitness for chimpanzee tracking
✅ Inclusions
- All ground transport in 4x4 safari vehicle
- 5 nights midrange accommodation
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Park entry fees and ranger guides
- Rhino tracking, chimpanzee permit, boat cruise, game drives
- 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 |
---|---|---|
Murchison River Lodge | Murchison Falls NP | Riverside deck, pool, solar power |
Turaco Treetops | Kibale Forest | Forest views, eco-design, Wi-Fi |
Ready to Track Rhinos, Cruise the Nile & Meet the Chimps?
This midrange safari offers the perfect blend of Big Five encounters, primate tracking, and scenic relaxation, ideal for private or group travelers.