Inspiration Itinerary

Uganda Unveiled

Diverse Explorations

From forests to falls

Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa,” is a land of astonishing beauty and remarkable biodiversity. This journey takes you deep into its wild landscapes, from misty rainforests and shimmering lakes to vast savannahs teeming with wildlife. Encounter endangered mountain gorillas, track chimpanzees, cruise along the legendary Nile River, and witness the power of Murchison Falls, all while staying in some of Uganda’s finest safari lodges.

One of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences on Earth, trekking to see mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is both exhilarating and humbling. Led by expert trackers, venture into the dense, mist-cloaked rainforest, following trails where only a select few have walked before. The trek can be challenging, winding through tangled vines and steep slopes, but the moment you come face-to-face with a majestic silverback and his family, the effort fades into insignificance.

Spend an unforgettable hour in their presence, observing their tender social interactions—mothers cradling their young, juveniles tumbling playfully, and the powerful yet gentle silverback keeping watch over his troop. With nearly half the world’s remaining mountain gorillas calling Bwindi home, this is an encounter few are privileged to experience.

After your trek, retreat to Buhoma Lodge, a charming eco-lodge nestled on the forest’s edge. Here, the calls of distant primates and the rustle of leaves provide the perfect soundtrack to your evening. Indulge in a complimentary post-trek massage, sip a sundowner on the terrace, and reflect on an experience that will stay with you forever.

Your adventure continues with a boat cruise through the Mabamba Swamps, a wetland paradise home to the elusive shoebill, one of the world’s most sought-after birds. Glide through the papyrus reeds in a traditional canoe, watching as this prehistoric-looking bird stalks the shallows, its piercing gaze fixed on the water below. With luck, you’ll also spot a dazzling array of kingfishers, herons, and jacanas, making this a birdwatcher’s dream.

Journey north to Paraa Safari Lodge in Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area. En route, stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to track rhinos on foot, bringing you within breathtaking proximity of these critically endangered giants.

Murchison Falls itself is a spectacle of raw power—where the mighty Nile River is forced through a narrow seven-metre gorge before crashing 43 metres below in a roaring cascade. Explore the park with game drives across the rolling savannah, home to elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, buffalo, Uganda kobs, and warthogs. Along the riverbanks, basking Nile crocodiles, wallowing hippos, and a wealth of birdlife, including the African fish eagle, make for incredible wildlife viewing.

Enjoy a private Nile River cruise, drifting past herds of elephants drinking at the water’s edge, pods of hippos jostling for space, and vibrant bee-eaters nesting along the cliffs. For the adventurous, a trek to the top of Murchison Falls offers a dramatic view of the thunderous cascade.

This journey is designed for intrepid travellers and wildlife lovers, offering a rich tapestry of landscapes, wildlife, and culture. From the towering forests of Bwindi to the golden plains of Murchison Falls, each day brings new discoveries and outstanding photographic opportunities.

You will love

  • Spending time with mountain gorillas
  • The Majesty of Murchison Falls
  • An array of wildlife
  • Trekking rhinos at Ziwa
  • Exquisite green and fertile landscapes
  • Warm hospitality

9 MAGICAL DAYS

DAY 1 | ENTEBBE | 1 NIGHT

Welcome to Uganda. You will be greeted at the airport and taken the short distance to your boutique hotel accommodation for your overnight stay and time to unwind after your journey. 

DAY 2 | BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST NATIONAL PARK | 3 NIGHTS

After breakfast, transfer to Entebbe Airport for a scenic 90-minute flight to Kihihi airstrip, soaring over Uganda’s emerald landscapes. This is a small aircraft flight, with a luggage limit of 15kg per person.

On arrival, your guide will be waiting to escort you through charming villages and rolling farmlands on a picturesque two-hour drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The journey offers a first glimpse into Uganda’s rural beauty, where local life unfolds against a backdrop of misty mountains and lush jungle.

Settle into Buhoma Lodge, your home for the next three nights, an intimate forest retreat with breathtaking views of the Bwindi canopy. The afternoon is yours to relax—soak in the serene atmosphere, explore the local village, or simply unwind with a drink on the terrace, listening to the forest’s gentle hum.

DAY 3 | BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST NATIONAL PARK

Encountering Mountain Gorillas in the wild is a profound and humbling experience—one that words can scarcely capture. Led by expert trackers, set off at dawn for an immersive trek into Bwindi’s ancient rainforest, navigating steep, misty slopes in search of these extraordinary primates.

Trekking can be challenging, with durations ranging from 45 minutes to eight hours, often at high altitudes and in humid conditions. We recommend hiring a local porter for assistance. While sightings are never guaranteed, success rates exceed 95%. Once you locate your gorilla family, spend an unforgettable hour in their presence, watching their interactions unfold just a few metres away—a moment to savour beyond the camera lens.

Our scheduled departures typically secure permits for Buhoma and Ruhija, with some requiring a scenic road transfer. After your trek, unwind with a complimentary massage at Buhoma Lodge or explore the vibrant Bwindi community.

DAY 4 | BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST NATIONAL PARK

Today, choose between another unforgettable gorilla trek or a more leisurely exploration of Bwindi’s enchanting surroundings. If you wish to trek again, venture deep into the misty rainforest with expert trackers for another extraordinary encounter with Mountain Gorillas—a privilege that never ceases to amaze.

Alternatively, immerse yourself in Bwindi’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Take a guided village walk to meet the Batwa people, one of the region’s oldest indigenous communities, or enjoy a serene forest walk, where the calls of exotic birds echo through the ancient trees. Bwindi is home to over 345 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.

Please note that additional trekking permits must be pre-purchased, so do let us know at the time of booking if you’d like to experience this once-in-a-lifetime adventure again.

DAY 5 | ENTEBBE | 1 NIGHT

After breakfast, transfer to Kihihi airstrip for your scenic flight back to Entebbe, soaring over Uganda’s lush landscapes to begin the next chapter of your journey. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and take some time to unwind.

In the afternoon, set off on a boat excursion to the Mabamba Swamps, a vast wetland on the shores of Lake Victoria. This biodiverse haven is one of the best places in Africa to spot the elusive Shoebill, a prehistoric-looking bird that stands motionless in the reeds before striking with lightning speed. As you glide through the tranquil waterways, keep an eye out for a wealth of other bird species, from malachite kingfishers to African jacanas. The peaceful rhythm of the swamp and the thrill of the search make for an unforgettable experience.

DAY 6 | MURCHISON FALLS NATIONAL PARK | 3 NIGHTS

After breakfast, meet your safari guide and set off towards Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, home to Uganda’s only wild rhinos. Accompanied by an expert ranger, venture on foot into the reserve for an intimate rhino tracking experience, observing these majestic creatures up close in their natural habitat.

Continue north to the breathtaking Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area. On arrival, take a guided walk to the Top of the Falls, where the mighty Nile River is forced through a narrow seven-metre gorge before crashing 43 metres into the Devil’s Cauldron below—a mesmerizing display of raw power and beauty. Feel the spray on your skin and listen to the thunderous roar of the falls before retiring to your lodge.

Settle in at Paraa Safari Lodge, a timeless retreat overlooking the Nile, where you can unwind and soak in the sights and sounds of the African wilderness.

DAY 7 | MURCHISON FALLS NATIONAL PARK

Begin the day with an early morning game drive across the sweeping savannahs of Murchison Falls National Park. As the golden light bathes the landscape, search for elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, and antelopes roaming freely in their natural habitat. With luck, you may even spot a prowling lion or the elusive leopard, blending into the bush.

In the afternoon, set out on a Nile boat cruise to the base of the mighty Murchison Falls. Glide past pods of hippos, watch crocodiles basking on the riverbanks, and marvel at the sheer variety of birdlife, from African fish eagles to elegant kingfishers. As you approach the falls, witness the dramatic spectacle of the Nile surging through a narrow gorge, crashing down in a thunderous display of power. This unforgettable journey offers a front-row seat to one of Uganda’s most breathtaking natural wonders.

DAY 8 | MURCHISON FALLS NATIONAL PARK

Rise early for an enchanting chimpanzee trek in the heart of Budongo Forest, a pristine rainforest within Murchison Falls National Park. Led by expert trackers, venture into the dense foliage, where the morning air is alive with the calls of birds and primates. Follow the rustling leaves and distant hoots until you come face-to-face with a troop of wild chimpanzees, observing their playful interactions and fascinating social bonds—a truly humbling experience.

In the afternoon, set out on a scenic game drive, traversing golden savannahs where elephants, giraffes, and Uganda kobs roam freely. Keep an eye out for predators lurking in the tall grass and hippos retreating to the river as the day cools. As the sun dips below the horizon, return to your lodge, the sounds of the wilderness settling into a peaceful night.

DAY 9 | RETURN TO ENTEBBE

Depart after an early breakfast for the drive back to Entebbe, arriving late afternoon.

If your flight leaves prior to 7pm, it may be necessary to factor in an additional night in Entebbe.

Note

This itinerary is a suggestion only and can be amended in terms of length, destination and properties to be included.

WHERE YOU’LL STAY

A selection of the finest safari camps

Buhoma Lodge – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Buhoma Lodge commands uninterrupted views of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, home to the rare mountain gorilla. Ten comfortable, rustic cottages have been sustainably built, each with its own private veranda, allowing wonderful views of the forest canopy. It is just a short distance from the meeting point for gorilla tracking, placing you perfectly for a primate safari. Read More

THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW

9 Days / 8 Nights

9 Days / 8 Nights

This itinerary can be tailored to your exact requirements - please enquire for pricing.

This itinerary can be tailored to your exact requirements - please enquire for pricing.

Inclusions

  • Meet & greet VIP service at Entebbe airport
  • Airport transfers
  • One-way flight from Entebbe to Kihihi
  • Transfers to & from Buhoma from Kihihi
  • Guide and driver services
  • Park entry fees
  • Game drives in Murchison Falls National Park
  • Boat cruise on to the foot of the falls
  • Chimpanzee trekking in Budongo
  • Mabamba Swamps excursion
  • Ziwa rhino trekking
  • 2 nights’ accommodation in Entebbe
  • 3 nights’ accommodation at Buhoma Lodge
  • 3 nights’ accommodation at Paraa Safari Lodge

*Please note: Total weight limit for transfer flight from Entebbe to Kihihi is 15kg in soft bags. XL seats available for those with additional luggage/ needing more space.

Exclusions

  • International flights
  • Gorilla & chimp trekking permits
  • Gratuities for gorilla trekking porters
  • Optional excursions, including forest walks & cultural visits
  • Extra activities, visas, insurance, items of a personal nature

*Should permits be purchased for Ruhija gorilla families, there will be an additional amount of USD 83 per person for the extra transfer/s.

FLIGHTS & INSURANCE ON REQUEST

Exellent and wonderful, reaching way above expectations.

Elizabeth Mackintosh

We wanted the opportunity to see as many wildlife parks as possible and the Classic Safari Company provided an action-packed itinerary that included six, with 11 tiger sightings and nine leopard. This was overlaid with an introduction to Jaisalmer, Jaipur and the 'real' India. Pench and Panna were the hidden gems of a really great trip, very well organised, seamless and enjoyable. As a solo traveller I felt incredibly safe at all times. I want to go back!

Mark Taylor

Julia you did a fantastic job - everything was first class. Well organised, efficient and stress free. We all agreed it was the best holiday we've ever had. Cant wait to travel with CSC again.

Milford family

We are so happy we put our trust in CSC, we had an amazing adventure and would recommend them to anyone.

Kim & Brad Balance

The trip exceeded my expectations and was the best family holiday I have ever had. Our children simply loved it and now I know more about African wildlife than they do about our own farm animals.

Rowntree family

Classic Safari are the people who genuinely know other culture and offer incredible insight to perfectly meet your expectations.

Melanie McMillan & Iain Jones

We loved it all. Our son wants to go back tomorrow. We would ALL go back again!

Laurence & Remi Cunningham

An amazing experience - the best family holiday we have ever had. We were extremely impressed by the meticulous attention to our itinerary. I can't speak highly enough of all the elements of this exciting journey!

Sheryl & Robert Taylor

Thank you for making our trip to Africa so spectacular. The attention to detail really made it special. It really was the trip of a lifetime.

Paul Cozzi

Very knowledgeable and patient. Our trip was all that we hoped for. Wonderful!

Jane & Robert Happell

Everything was perfect! Advice and information on destinations and activities hit everything I had hoped to experience. I contacted the Classic Safari Company upon recommendation and have now, in turn, recommended to others.

Tim Bradley

You can't improve on perfection. I had my best birthday and holiday with my family celebrating my 80th birthday in Africa. Everything that Julia organised was perfect and the whole trip was a highlight!

Buckingham Family

The trip of a lifetime, couldn't have dreamt of a better adventure if I tried.

Emma Jeffcoat

Absolutely everything was first class & so well organised.

Simon & Jackie Adams

Classic Safari Company has done it again! A unique experience that ticked all the boxes - wildlife, culture and dining experience. A dream come true!

Ros Wheeler

Their experience and knowledge of Africa is evident and we couldn't have been happier with the total package. This has given us a taste for Africa - now we are ready for more.

Andrew & Pip Stevens

If you want the most sensational experience in Africa let Julia and the staff at Classic Safari Co plan it for you! Their knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm for their job means your every wish will be fulfilled.

Miriam & Joseph Harrison

Classic Safari is the place to go to for "top end" adventure travel.

Ron & Alison Guthrie

Classic Safari Company were brilliant - 10/10

Di & Kingsley Yates

The Classic Safari Company is the best I have dealt with. Extremely knowledgeable & professional, friendly, patient & understanding of first timers to Africa.

Annette Whiley

It certainly was the best trip we have EVER had. The experiences were mind blowing.  We want everyone we know to experience Africa - the animals, the people - magical.

Jo-anne & Dean Mifsud

Would do it all again and not change a moment. Best holiday ever!

The McGowan Tribe

An absolutely fantastic travel company - every one of the many trips they have organised for us over 22 years have been faultless and fabulous.

Judith & Roger Williams

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