7-Day Ultimate Big Five Uganda Safari (Midrange Safari)
Destinations: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary • Murchison Falls National Park • Kibale Forest • Queen Elizabeth National Park
Safari Style: Midrange lodges with scenic views, personalized service, and authentic safari experiences
Ideal for: Private travelers, couples, families, and small groups seeking Uganda’s most iconic wildlife and nature experiences
Uganda’s Big Five Safari Circuit
Uganda’s western and northern safari circuit offers a rare opportunity to encounter all members of Africa’s legendary Big Five, lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino, plus chimpanzees and gorillas in their natural habitats. This 7-day journey takes you from the savannahs of Murchison Falls to the forests of Kibale and Queen Elizabeth, combining thrilling game drives, boat cruises, primate tracking, and cultural encounters. It’s the ultimate wildlife adventure in the Pearl of Africa.
Key Tour Highlights & Unique Selling Points
- Guided rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
- Game drives in Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth NP
- Boat cruises on the Nile and Kazinga Channel
- Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest
- Scenic crater lake exploration and Rwenzori views
- Midrange lodges with wildlife proximity and warm hospitality
- Ideal for travelers seeking high-impact wildlife encounters in one seamless itinerary
Major Attractions
Location | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary | On-foot rhino tracking |
| Murchison Falls NP | Big game, Nile cruise, waterfall views |
| Kibale Forest | Chimpanzee tracking, birding, primates |
| Queen Elizabeth NP | Lions, elephants, crater lakes, boat safari |
| Kazinga Channel | Hippos, crocodiles, water birds |
Accessibility Options
- By Road: All destinations accessible via scenic drives from Kampala/Entebbe
- By Air (Optional): Charter flights available to Pakuba (Murchison), Kasese (Queen Elizabeth), and Semuliki
- 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 / Pakuba Safari Lodge
Amenities: En-suite rooms, swimming pool, restaurant & bar, Wi-Fi, river views
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 & Crater Lakes Enjoy views of the Rwenzori Mountains 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: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth NP & Game Drive
Drive Time: ~3 hours
Activities:
- Scenic Transfer to Queen Elizabeth NP Drive through the Rwenzori foothills and arrive at your lodge near the park. Duration: Morning transfer
- Afternoon Game Drive in Kasenyi Plains Spot lions, elephants, warthogs, and antelopes. Duration: 2.5–3 hours
Accommodation: Twin Lakes Safari Lodge / Elephant Hub Lodge
Amenities: Panoramic views, pool, en-suite rooms, restaurant, Wi-Fi
Day 6: Kazinga Channel Cruise & Cultural Visit
Activities:
- Morning Boat Safari on Kazinga Channel Cruise past hippos, crocodiles, and water birds. Duration: 2 hours
- Afternoon Visit to Local Community or Salt Lake Learn about traditional salt mining or visit a nearby village for cultural exchange. Duration: 1.5 hours
Accommodation: Same as Day 5
Day 7: Sunrise Safari & Return to Kampala
Activities:
- Optional Sunrise Game Drive or Nature Walk Enjoy a final game drive or guided walk to spot early risers and soak in the morning light. Duration: 1.5–2 hours
- Scenic Transfer Back to Kampala or Entebbe Depart mid-morning with lunch en route and optional stop at the equator monument. Duration: ~6 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)
✅ Inclusions
- All ground transport in 4x4 safari vehicle
- 6 nights midrange accommodation
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Park entry fees and ranger guides
- Rhino tracking, chimpanzee permit, boat cruises, game drives
- Cultural visits and crater lake drive
- 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 |
| Twin Lakes Safari Lodge | Queen Elizabeth NP | Panoramic views, pool, en-suite rooms |
Ready to Track, Cruise, and Conquer the Big Five?
This midrange safari offers the perfect blend of wildlife, culture, and scenic beauty, ideal for private or group travelers.