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2896

14 Days Uganda’s Iconic Big Five Adventure

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Safari Overview

Discover the hidden gems of Eastern and Northern Uganda on this immersive 14-day adventure, combining breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural encounters, and unforgettable wildlife experiences. From the vibrant city of Entebbe and the source of the Nile in Jinja to the dramatic slopes of Sipi Falls and the unique Karamoja region, this journey showcases a side of Uganda that few travelers experience.

Continue into the remote wilderness of Kidepo Valley National Park, widely regarded as one of Africa’s most spectacular safari destinations, where exceptional game drives reveal abundant wildlife against a backdrop of rugged mountains and vast savannahs. The adventure then leads to the iconic Murchison Falls National Park, home to the mighty Nile River, diverse wildlife, and the dramatic Murchison Falls. Before departing, enjoy an overnight stay at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, offering the unique opportunity to track Uganda’s wild rhinos on foot.

This carefully crafted itinerary offers the perfect blend of adventure, wildlife, culture, and scenic beauty, providing an authentic exploration of Uganda’s less-traveled eastern and northern regions.

 

Trip Highlights

  • Discover Entebbe on a guided cycling adventure through vibrant local markets, the Botanical Gardens and the scenic shores of Lake Victoria
  • Discover Jinja, the adventure capital of East Africa and the source of the mighty River Nile.
  • Experience an authentic Arabica coffee tour and breathtaking scenery in the foothills of Mount Elgon at Sipi.
  • Journey into the rugged landscapes of Karamoja and immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the Karimojong people.
  • Explore the remote wilderness of Kidepo Valley National Park, one of Africa’s most spectacular safari destinations, on thrilling game drives in search of elephants, lions, giraffes, buffalos, leopards, zebras, and a variety of antelope species.
  • Visit the fascinating Ik Community and gain a rare insight into one of Africa’s smallest and most isolated indigenous tribes.
  • Boat ride on the mighty River Nile to the base of the spectacular Murchison Falls, where exceptional wildlife and breathtaking scenery await.
  • Witness the dramatic Top of Murchison Falls, where the Nile squeezes through a narrow gorge before plunging into the valley below.
  • Track endangered white rhinos on foot at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, completing Uganda’s iconic Big Five experience.
Travel Program

Day 1Arrival At Entebbe International Airport

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your professional driver-guide and transferred to your hotel overlooking the tranquil shores of Lake Victoria.

Depending on your arrival time, take a stroll through the beautiful gardens, enjoy a spectacular sunset over Africa’s largest lake, or simply relax and unwind after your international flight.

Day 2Explore Entebbe

After a hearty breakfast, transfer with your guide to the starting point where your cycling adventure begins with a briefing and a local guide leading the way.

This exciting activity takes about 3 to 4 hours. You’ll pedal along the beaches on the shores of Lake Victoria with stops at the zoo, botanical gardens, Nakiwogo fishing area and local market, showcasing daily community life and have a chance to enjoy Uganda’s famous Rolex (local street food) or opt for a local beer tasting experience

As the day unfolds, you’ll savour a delightful lunch and have an optional sunset boat ride (USD 60 per person). This boat ride will take you to the equator, where you can marvel at the unique experience of being on this imaginary line.

Thereafter, transfer to your hotel, freshen up and have dinner.

Day 3Transfer To Jinja

After a leisurely breakfast, leave Entebbe behind as you journey east towards Jinja, the charming town where the mighty River Nile begins its legendary journey to the Mediterranean. Along the way, soak in Uganda’s vibrant countryside as you pass bustling roadside markets, colourful trading centres, lush sugarcane plantations and picturesque rural villages, offering a glimpse into everyday local life.

You will arrive at your lodge in time for lunch, with a chance to unwind before setting out to discover Jinja’s relaxed atmosphere. Wander through its historic streets, lively local markets and colonial architecture while learning about the town’s fascinating connection to the world’s longest river. After return to your lodge for a relaxing evening and dinner

Day 4Optional Adventures In Jinja

Wake up to the peaceful sounds of the Nile and enjoy a relaxed breakfast before spending the day discovering why Jinja is known as East Africa’s adventure capital. Whether you seek excitement or a slower pace, the day offers unforgettable optional activities.

Source of the Nile Boat Cruise ($40 pp | Minimum 4 guests): Glide across the calm waters to the exact point where the Nile begins its remarkable 6,650-kilometre journey, surrounded by beautiful scenery and abundant birdlife.

Itanda Falls Hike ($20 pp): You will follow scenic riverside trails to spectacular viewpoints overlooking the roaring rapids of Itanda Falls, one of the Nile’s most powerful and breathtaking stretches.

Quad Biking (1 hour – $55pp/ 2hrs – $85pp/ 3hrs -$105pp/ 4hrs – $125pp): Venture off the beaten track as you ride through traditional villages, lush forests, sugarcane plantations and scenic trails along the Nile, offering an exciting blend of adventure and cultural encounters.

White Water Tubing ($45 pp): Float gently down calmer sections of the Nile, taking in the beautiful scenery while enjoying a refreshing and uniquely relaxing river adventure.

Horseback Riding (1hr – $65 pp, 2 hrs – $95 pp): you will explore the tranquil countryside on horseback, following scenic trails along the Nile through local communities and open landscapes rarely seen by visitors.

After your preferred activity, return to your lodge and spend the remainder of the day relaxing at your own pace.

Day 5Transfer To Sipi – Coffee Experience

After breakfast, journey towards the breathtaking foothills of Mount Elgon, where winding roads reveal rolling green hills, cascading waterfalls and spectacular panoramic views. As you drive higher into Uganda’s coffee-growing region, the cool mountain air and dramatic landscapes signal your arrival in the beautiful villages of Sipi.

Following lunch, immerse yourself in one of Uganda’s finest traditions with an authentic coffee experience. You will walk through a local coffee farm alongside the farmers who have cultivated these hills for generations, learning every step of the journey from bean to final cup. Roast your own coffee over an open fire before enjoying a freshly brewed cup while overlooking the magnificent mountain scenery.
In case you’re up for more adventure, below are some optional activities to choose from

Guided hike to the spectacular Sipi Falls (2-3hrs | $15 pp): Together with your site guide, follow the trails that lead to all three waterfalls, offering scenic vistas and opportunities to interact with local communities.

Abseiling beside the thundering main waterfall (1hr | $50pp): If you are an adventure enthusiast, abseiling down the main waterfall provides an adrenaline-pumping experience.

Sunset walk (1hr | $15 pp): During this walk, you will reach a panoramic viewpoint where you will see the Karamoja plains, three sipi waterfalls and three lakes, which are Opeto, Bisina and Kyoga.

Thereafter, return to your lodge for dinner and a peaceful evening surrounded by nature.

Day 6Transfer To Moroto – Afternoon Cultural Experience

Have breakfast before your drive north into the dramatic landscapes of Karamoja, one of Uganda’s most authentic and culturally rich regions. Along the way, watch the scenery transform from fertile highlands into vast open plains, rugged mountains and traditional pastoral communities, offering an entirely different side of Uganda.

You will arrive at your lodge in time for lunch before stepping into the colourful world of the Karimojong people. Visit the Cultural Workshops, where talented local artisans showcase generations-old skills in bead making, weaving and pottery, while sharing stories of their traditions and way of life.

Alternatively, you may choose to visit a traditional herbal healer (USD 30 per person) and gain a fascinating insight into indigenous medicine and healing practices that have been passed down through generations

After the activity, return to your lodge for dinner and a relaxing evening beneath Karamoja’s endless skies

Day 7Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve

Following breakfast, venture into the vast wilderness of Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve, one of Uganda’s largest and least explored conservation areas. With few visitors and endless open plains, the reserve offers an authentic safari experience where every wildlife sighting feels exclusive.

Spend the morning exploring this untouched landscape in search of giraffes, zebras, buffalos, Grant’s gazelles, and an impressive variety of birdlife thriving in this remote wilderness.

You will return to the lodge for lunch before enjoying a leisurely afternoon or joining an optional guided cycling tour (USD 30 per person) through nearby villages. This is a wonderful opportunity to interact with the welcoming Karimojong community while taking in the region’s beautiful scenery from a different perspective. Return to your lodge and have dinner.

Day 8Transfer To Kidepo Valley National Park

Today, you will journey into one of Africa’s last great wilderness areas. After breakfast, set off on one of Uganda’s most scenic drives towards the spectacular Kidepo Valley National Park.

Travel through remote villages, sweeping savannahs and dramatic mountain landscapes, with every kilometre revealing scenery that feels untouched by time. Arrive at your lodge in time for lunch before settling in and soaking up the breathtaking surroundings, where the sounds of the African wilderness provide the perfect welcome.

Spend the remainder of the afternoon at leisure before dinner.

Day 9Ik Community Experience – Evening Game Drive

This morning, you will journey to the foothills of Mount Morungole for an unforgettable visit with the Ik people, one of Africa’s smallest and most isolated indigenous communities.

Receive a warm traditional welcome through music and dance before spending time with community members as they share their history, customs and way of life. Walk through the village, listen to captivating stories, and gain a rare insight into a culture that has remained remarkably preserved over generations.

Later, you will return to Kidepo for an evening game drive as the golden light transforms the landscape and wildlife becomes increasingly active. Keep watch for elephants, buffalos, lions and other animals emerging during the cooler hours of the day.

Day 10Full Day Safari In Kidepo Valley National Park

Rise early, have breakfast and set out for a full day exploring the breathtaking wilderness of Kidepo, a destination celebrated for its spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife.

You will traverse sweeping savannahs, seasonal riverbeds and dramatic mountain backdrops in search of elephants, lions, buffalos, giraffes, zebras, leopards and an incredible variety of antelope species. With very few vehicles in the park, every wildlife encounter feels intimate and exclusive.

Pause for lunch while soaking in the untouched beauty surrounding you before continuing your afternoon safari. As the golden light begins to stretch across the plains, the landscape comes alive once more, creating magical opportunities for wildlife viewing and unforgettable photography.

Return to the lodge in the evening to relax and reflect on another extraordinary day in the wild.

Day 11Transfer To Murchison Falls National Park

Enjoy an early breakfast before departing for Murchison Falls National Park. The scenic drive of approximately 7–8 hours which takes you through Uganda’s beautiful countryside, passing bustling trading centres where local vendors display fresh produce.

Stop en route for lunch and proceed with your journey to the park. Upon arrival at the lodge, check in and unwind before dinner.

Day 12Morning Safari – Afternoon Scheduled Waterfall And Sundowner Boat Cruise

As Murchison Falls National Park is renowned for its predators, which are most active during the early morning hours, enjoy an early breakfast or opt for a packed breakfast before setting off on your morning game drive for the best chance of spotting lions and other wildlife before they retreat into the bush.

Your guide will make a stop at the delta with a scenic view of the hippos wallowing in water, different bird species and a variety of antelopes as they feed. Here you can step out, stretch your legs, and soak in the natural surroundings as you enjoy an authentic bush breakfast experience amidst the wild.

Continue your game drive in search of elephants, giraffes, buffalos, antelopes, and the many bird species that inhabit the open savannah.

Return to the lodge for lunch before transferring to Paraa for your afternoon boat cruise along the mighty River Nile towards the base of the magnificent Murchison Falls. As the sun begins to set, enjoy exceptional wildlife viewing and photography opportunities while soaking in the golden light reflected across the water.

Keep an eye out for colorful birdlife, Nile crocodiles basking along the riverbank, pods of hippos, and other wildlife that gather at the water’s edge.
Return to the lodge to freshen up before dinner.

Day 13Top Of Falls Visit – Transfer To Ziwa – Rhino Tracking Activity

Have breakfast and bid farewell to Murchison Falls National Park with a final visit to the spectacular Top of the Falls, where the mighty Nile squeezes through a narrow 7-metre gorge before crashing powerfully into the valley below. Take in the thunderous roar, dramatic views and excellent photo opportunities before continuing your journey to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

You will arrive at your lodge in time for lunch before heading out for an unforgettable rhino tracking experience. After a safety briefing from your ranger, set off on foot across the sanctuary in search of the southern white rhinos. Watching these magnificent animals at close range in their natural habitat is a truly special experience, while your guide shares fascinating insights into their behaviour and the remarkable conservation efforts that have brought rhinos back to Uganda. Return to your lodge to relax, freshen up and enjoy dinner.

Day 14Transfer To Entebbe International Airport – Departure

Enjoy your breakfast and begin your journey back to Entebbe, travelling through Uganda’s vibrant countryside where colourful trading centres, local villages and roadside fruit markets offer a final glimpse into everyday life. If you wish, stop along the way to sample fresh seasonal fruits such as pineapple, jackfruit or sweet bananas from the local vendors.

Enjoy lunch with a soft drink before continuing to Entebbe International Airport, arriving in good time for your departure flight.

Depending on your flight departure time, a day room can be arranged at an additional cost for your comfort before departure.

Summary Table

 

DAY

DESTINATIONS

ACCOMMODATIONS

MEAL PLAN

Day 1

Entebbe

The Boma

BB

Day 2

Entebbe

The Boma

BB

Day 3

Jinja

Haven Eco Lodge

FB

Day 4

Jinja

Haven Eco Lodge

FB

Day 5

Sipi

Sipi Heritage Lodge

FB

Day 6

Moroto

Karatunga Safari Camp

FB

Day 7

Moroto

Karatunga Safari Camp

FB

Day 8

Kideo Valley NP

Kidepo Savannah Lodge

FB

Day 9

Kideo Valley NP

Kidepo Savannah Lodge

FB

Day 10

Kideo Valley NP

Kidepo Savannah Lodge

FB

Day 11

Murchison Falls NP

Murchison River Lodge

FB

Day 12

Murchison Falls NP

Murchison River Lodge

FB

Day 13

Ziwa

Ziwa Rhino Hotel

FB

Day 14

Entebbe Airport – Departure

 

 
Photos

Tour Price

The prices outlined below are subject to availability and may change without prior notice. All rates are quoted per person sharing (PPS) in a double or twin room.

Please note that activities and accommodation options included in this safari itinerary can be customized to suit individual preferences and requirements.

Tour cost based on  clients travelling in 2026/2027

Tour arrangement from: 5.322 USD pps

 

Includes

  • Meet and greet, transfer to your accommodation.
  • Transfers throughout the trip.
  • Entrance fees for national parks listed in the itinerary.
  • Transport in a 4WD safari Land Cruiser with a professional English-speaking guide.
  • All accommodations and meals as specified in the itinerary are inclusive of mineral water.
  • FB – Full board includes bed, breakfast, (packed) lunch and dinner.
  • HB – Half Board includes bed, breakfast and dinner.
  • BB – Bed & Breakfast includes bed and breakfast only

 

Excursions & Activities

  • Cycling in Entebbe
  • City tour in Jinja
  • Coffee experience in sipi
  • Cultural experience in Moroto
  • Game drive in Pai Upe Reserve
  • 2 Game drives in Kidepo Valley National Park
  • Visit the IK tribe
  • 2 Game drives in Murchison Falls National Park
  • Boat ride in Murchison Falls National Park
  • Top of the Falls visit in Murchison Falls National Park
  • Rhino Tracking in Ziwa

 

Excludes

  • All international flights, all internal flights unless specifically listed.
  • Cost of entry visas.
  • Travel, medical and/or personal insurance.
  • Gratuities and items of a personal nature.

Optional Activities

Safari Terms

General Terms

  • This safari proposal is subject to availability at the time of booking and may be subject to changes without prior notice.
  • If accommodation options or safari activities listed in this itinerary are not available at the time of booking, suitable alternatives will be offered.
  • The following wildlife permits are required to be paid together with the deposit for this safari:
  • Gorilla Tracking – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (BINP): USD 800 per person for Foreign Non-Residents (FNR). Low Season (April, May & November): USD 600 per person/permit.
  • Chimpanzee Tracking – Kibale National Park (KNP): USD 300 per person for Foreign Non-Residents (FNR). Low Season (April, May & November): USD 200 per person/permit.
  • The cost for the above permits is non-refundable. In case of cancellation, we shall endeavor to resell tickets through the available official channels.
  • A language-specific driver/tour guide is available at a surcharge.
  • For internal charter and/or scheduled local flights, the following baggage restrictions apply: 15 kgs in soft-sided bags.

 

Payment Terms

  • 100% of the Gorilla and Chimpanzee permit price within 7 days of written tour confirmation.
  • Deposit: 30% of the rest of the Safari price within 7 days of written tour confirmation.
  • Balance: 70% to be paid 30 days before the start of the trip.
  • Reservations within 45 days or less prior to arrival: Immediate full prepayment due.

 

Cancellation fees:

  • 60+ Days before arrival, you lose the 30% deposit on the booking.
  • 59-30 Days before arrival attracts a 50% charge of the total booking price.

29-0 Days before arrival attracts a 100% charge of the total booking price.