8-Day Uganda Safari Itinerary | Gorillas, Chimps, Big 5 Game
An 8-day Uganda safari typically follows a loop through the western part of the country, covering major highlights like mountain gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, and Big Five game drives.
This 8-day Uganda self-drive safari itinerary covers Uganda’s major highlights, including Murchison Falls, Kibale Forest, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
8-Day Uganda Self-Drive Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Transfer to Murchison Falls
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport. Begin the drive north to Murchison Falls National Park, often stopping at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for white rhino tracking on foot.
Day 2: Murchison Falls Game Drive & Boat Cruise
Early morning game drive to spot lions, leopards, and giraffes. In the afternoon, take a boat cruise on the Nile to the base of the world’s most powerful waterfall.
Day 3: Transfer to Kibale Forest
Drive through scenic tea plantations to Kibale National Park, known as the “Primate Capital of the World”.
Day 4: Chimpanzee Tracking & Bigodi Swamp
Trek through the rainforest to spend time with habituated chimpanzees. In the afternoon, visit the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for birdwatching and community tours.
Day 5: Queen Elizabeth National Park
Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Enjoy an afternoon boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, home to massive hippopotamus and crocodile populations.
Day 6: Tree-Climbing Lions & Transfer to Bwindi
Drive through the Ishasha sector to search for legendary tree-climbing lions. Continue to the misty Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Day 7: Gorilla Trekking Adventure
The trip’s highlight: trek into the dense jungle to spend one hour with endangered mountain gorillas. After the trek, relax or visit a local Batwa community.
Day 8: Return to Entebbe
Drive back to Entebbe for departure, with a stop at the Equator for photos and souvenirs.
End of the 8-Day Uganda Safari Itinerary | Gorillas, Chimps, Big 5 Game