Looking for the ultimate 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour? This comprehensive safari covers the very best of Uganda’s incredible wildlife and landscapes – from the thunderous Murchison Falls to chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest, gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and the tree-climbing lions of Queen Elizabeth National Park. This 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour is the pinnacle of Ugandan safari experiences, designed for travelers who want to see everything this remarkable country has to offer. Afraeka Adventures has crafted this 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour to showcase the incredible diversity of Uganda’s wildlife – from the Big Five to mountain gorillas and chimpanzees, all set against a backdrop of stunning landscapes. With expert local guides, comfortable accommodation, and seamless logistics, this is the ultimate African adventure.
Quick Facts
- Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights
- Price (USD): From $5,500 per person (depending on accommodation level)
- Start/End Location: Entebbe International Airport (EBB), Uganda.
- Best Time to Go: Dry seasons (June to September & December to February) offer the best trekking and game viewing conditions for this 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour.
- Permits Included: 1 gorilla permit ($800) and 1 chimpanzee permit ($250).
- Parks Covered: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Murchison Falls NP, Kibale NP, Queen Elizabeth NP, Bwindi Impenetrable NP, Lake Bunyonyi.
- Big Five: Lion, Elephant, Buffalo, Rhino, Leopard (all possible).
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe & Transfer to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Your 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour begins with a warm welcome at Entebbe International Airport. Your Afraeka Adventures guide will greet you and begin the scenic 3-4 hour drive north to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Uganda’s only wild rhino breeding sanctuary and home to over 30 Southern white rhinos. This is your first stop on the Big Five quest – the rhino. Arrive at the sanctuary, check into your comfortable lodge, and enjoy a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, embark on a guided walking safari with an experienced ranger to track the rhinos. You’ll walk through the bush, learning about the sanctuary’s conservation efforts and getting up close to these magnificent creatures – often within 20-30 meters. Return to your lodge for a relaxing evening and a hearty dinner. This first day of your 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour gives you an incredible start to your Big Five adventure.
- Accommodation: Mid-range lodge or tented camp at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
- Meals: Lunch and Dinner.
- Activity: Guided rhino tracking walk (Big Five: Rhino).
Day 2: Morning Rhino Walk & Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
Today, your 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour offers a second opportunity to see the rhinos. Wake up early for a morning rhino tracking walk, when the animals are most active and the light is perfect for photography. After the walk, return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast. Then, continue north to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area. The drive takes approximately 3-4 hours, with stopovers for lunch and scenic views of the Nile. Arrive at your lodge overlooking the park, check in, and enjoy a relaxing afternoon. In the late afternoon, embark on a game drive in the northern sector of the park, looking out for elephants, buffaloes, lions, and various antelope species. As the sun sets, enjoy a sundowner with your guide. Return to the lodge for a sumptuous dinner. This day of your 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour adds three more Big Five animals – elephant, buffalo, and lion.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge in Murchison Falls NP.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Activity: Morning rhino walk & afternoon game drive (Big Five: Elephant, Buffalo, Lion).
Day 3: Game Drive & Boat Cruise to Murchison Falls
Start your day early with a morning game drive in Murchison Falls National Park, tracking the park’s abundant wildlife. The park is home to lions, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, hippos, and a variety of antelope. Keep an eye out for leopards – the final member of the Big Five. After breakfast, embark on a 3-hour boat cruise on the Nile River to the base of the spectacular Murchison Falls, where the mighty Nile forces its way through a narrow gorge, creating a thunderous spectacle. The boat ride offers excellent opportunities to see hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and a spectacular array of waterbirds. You’ll also get up close to the falls. Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, you can take an optional hike to the top of the falls or enjoy the lodge’s amenities. This day of your 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour is filled with adventure and wildlife.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge in Murchison Falls NP.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Activity: Morning game drive & boat cruise to the falls (Big Five: Leopard possible).
Day 4: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park via Fort Portal
Today, your 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour continues south to Kibale Forest National Park, the primate capital of East Africa. The drive (approx. 6-7 hours) takes you through the scenic Albertine Rift, with a stopover at the crater lakes near Fort Portal for lunch and breathtaking views. Arrive at your lodge near Kibale, check in, and enjoy a relaxing evening. Your guide will conduct a briefing on chimpanzee tracking, preparing you for the next day’s adventure. This day of your 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour transitions you to the lush rainforests of western Uganda.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge near Kibale.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Activity: Scenic drive with crater lake stops.
Day 5: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest
This is the first primate highlight of your 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour. After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing on chimpanzee tracking. Kibale is home to over 1,500 chimpanzees, and you’ll have the best chance to see them during the morning hours when they are most active. Accompanied by expert rangers and trackers, you’ll venture into the lush forest to locate a habituated chimpanzee group. The trek can last 2-5 hours. The moment you encounter a community of chimpanzees, with their complex social behaviors and playful antics, is an unforgettable experience. You’ll spend a precious hour observing these fascinating primates. After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided walk in the nearby Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a paradise for birdwatchers and a chance to see other primates like the red colobus and black-and-white colobus monkeys. This day of your 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour is filled with primate encounters.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge near Kibale.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Activity: Chimpanzee tracking (permit included) & Bigodi wetland walk.
Day 6: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park – Tree Climbing Lions
Your 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour now heads to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most popular savannah reserve. The drive (approx. 3-4 hours) takes you through the scenic landscape of western Uganda. You’ll head directly to the Ishasha sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions – one of only two populations in the world known for this unique behavior. Your experienced guide knows the best areas to find these incredible felines, which rest in the branches of fig trees during the heat of the day. You’ll spend the afternoon on a dedicated game drive searching for lions, along with other wildlife such as elephants, buffaloes, and a variety of antelope. After a successful sighting, enjoy a sundowner before transferring to your lodge for the night. This day of your 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour is the highlight of your Big Five quest.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge in Queen Elizabeth NP.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Activity: Game drive in Ishasha sector – tree-climbing lion search.
Day 7: Game Drive & Boat Safari on Kazinga Channel
Start your day with a morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, tracking the park’s abundant wildlife – elephants, buffaloes, lions, and a variety of antelope. After breakfast, enjoy a unique 2-hour boat safari on the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway connecting Lake George and Lake Edward. This boat cruise offers exceptional wildlife viewing – hippos, crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes, and a spectacular array of waterbirds. The boat safari is a photographer’s dream. Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, you can visit the nearby communities or simply relax. This day of your 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour is packed with wildlife sightings.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge in Queen Elizabeth NP.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Activity: Morning game drive & Kazinga Channel boat safari.
Day 8: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Your 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour now heads to the grand finale – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to roughly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The drive (approx. 4-5 hours) takes you through the scenic landscape of southwestern Uganda. Arrive at your lodge nestled on the edge of the impenetrable forest, where you’ll be greeted with a welcome drink and panoramic views. Settle into your comfortable room, enjoy a gourmet dinner, and attend a private briefing from your guide about the next day’s gorilla trekking adventure. This day of your 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour builds anticipation for the incredible gorilla encounter ahead.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge near Bwindi.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Activity: Scenic transfer and evening briefing.
Day 9: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
This is the pinnacle of your 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour. After an early breakfast, you’ll be driven to the park headquarters for a briefing by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. You’ll be assigned to a gorilla family group based on fitness levels. Accompanied by expert rangers and trackers, you’ll venture into the dense, misty forest. The trek can last anywhere from 2 to 8 hours depending on the gorillas’ location. The moment you encounter a family of mountain gorillas, with the dominant silverback leading his troop, is an experience that defies words. You’ll spend a precious hour observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. After the trek, return to your lodge for a well-deserved rest. In the evening, you can relax and reflect on this extraordinary experience. This day of your 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour is the highlight of the entire journey.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge near Bwindi.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Activity: 1-hour gorilla trekking experience (permit included).
- Optional: Hire a porter for the trek ($20-30, highly recommended).
Day 10: Relaxation & Community Visit at Bwindi
After the physical exertion of gorilla trekking, your 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour includes a full day of relaxation and cultural exploration. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and spend the morning relaxing at the lodge – perhaps a spa treatment or a nature walk around the lodge’s grounds. In the afternoon, your guide will take you on a community visit to meet the Batwa people, the indigenous forest dwellers. You’ll learn about their traditional way of life, hear their stories, and experience their music and dance. This cultural experience adds a rich dimension to your 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour. Return to the lodge for a relaxing evening.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge near Bwindi.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Activity: Spa treatments & Batwa community visit.
Day 11: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi – Relaxation & Boat Ride
Your 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour now heads to one of Uganda’s most beautiful and tranquil destinations – Lake Bunyonyi. The drive (approx. 2-3 hours) takes you through the scenic highlands of southwestern Uganda. Arrive at your lakeside lodge, nestled on the shores of Lake Bunyonyi with stunning views of its 29 islands. Enjoy a private lunch and settle into your suite. In the afternoon, embark on a private boat ride on the lake, exploring some of the islands and learning about their fascinating history. Lake Bunyonyi is bilharzia-free, so you can even take a refreshing swim. Return to your lodge for a sunset cocktail and a gourmet dinner. This day of your 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour is pure relaxation.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge on Lake Bunyonyi.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Activity: Private boat ride on Lake Bunyonyi.
Day 12: Departure from Lake Bunyonyi to Entebbe
Enjoy a final breakfast at your lakeside lodge, savoring the last moments of your 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour. Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll transfer back to Entebbe (8-9 hours). A stop for lunch en route provides one last taste of local cuisine. Arrive at Entebbe International Airport in time for your international departure. If time permits, your guide can arrange a visit to the Entebbe Botanical Gardens or a craft market. Your Afraeka Adventures guide will ensure a seamless end to this unforgettable safari. This final day of your 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour is a fitting conclusion to an extraordinary adventure.
- Accommodation: Not included (post-safari hotel can be arranged).
- Meals: Breakfast and Lunch.
- Activity: Transfer to Entebbe.
What’s Included in This 12 Day Ultimate Uganda Wildlife Safari and Gorilla Trekking Tour
Included:
- Gorilla Permit: One guaranteed gorilla trekking permit per person ($800 value).
- Chimpanzee Permit: One chimpanzee tracking permit per person ($250 value).
- Rhino Tracking: Two rhino tracking walks at Ziwa Sanctuary.
- Transport: Private 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for wildlife viewing.
- Fuel: All fuel for the entire safari.
- Accommodation: 11 nights’ stay in mid-range or luxury lodges (as per your chosen package) on a full-board basis.
- Meals: As specified in the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
- Services: Services of an experienced, English-speaking Ugandan guide/driver, as highlighted by Afraeka Adventures commitment to “experienced local guides.”
- Park Entry Fees: All national park entrance fees.
- Bottled Water: Complimentary bottled water throughout the safari.
- Boat Safaris: Boat cruise to Murchison Falls, Kazinga Channel boat safari, Lake Bunyonyi boat ride.
- Game Drives: Multiple game drives as specified in the itinerary.
- Ishasha Sector: Dedicated game drive for tree-climbing lions.
- Community Visit: Batwa community visit in Bwindi.
- Bigodi Wetland Walk: Guided walk in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary.
Excluded:
- International Flights: Airfare to and from Uganda.
- Visas: Entry visa for Uganda (can be obtained online or on arrival).
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel and medical insurance is mandatory.
- Tips & Gratuities: For guides, lodge staff, rangers, and porters.
- Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, laundry services, phone calls, and any additional activities not mentioned.
- Alcoholic & Soft Drinks: Beverages at lodges (unless specified).
- Porter Hire: Hiring a porter for gorilla trekking (recommended at $20-30).
- Optional Activities: Additional game drives, nature walks, or cultural experiences.
- Flights: Domestic flights (if you prefer to fly between destinations instead of driving).
Why Choose This Ultimate Uganda Safari?
This 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour offers the most comprehensive wildlife experience in Uganda. You’ll track rhinos on foot, explore the mighty Nile at Murchison Falls, trek chimpanzees in Kibale, witness the unique tree-climbing lions of Ishasha, encounter mountain gorillas in Bwindi, and relax at stunning Lake Bunyonyi. This is the complete Ugandan safari – from the Big Five to the primates, and everything in between.
Why Choose Afraeka Adventures for Your Ultimate Uganda Safari?
Afraeka Adventures is a trusted local safari guide company based in Uganda, specializing in unforgettable Uganda gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, chimpanzee tracking, birding tours, and tailor-made East Africa adventures. Our team, led by Victoria Kayaga, is passionate about creating authentic safari experiences. With transparent pricing, gorilla permits assistance, and 24/7 travel support, we ensure your 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour is seamless and stress-free. Our clients consistently rate us 5/5 on Google for our professionalism, knowledgeable guides, and exceptional service.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 12 Day Ultimate Uganda Wildlife Safari and Gorilla Trekking Tour
How much does the 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour cost?
The cost of this 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour is from $5,500 per person. This includes gorilla and chimpanzee permits, rhino tracking, accommodation, meals, private transport, game drives, boat safaris, and guide services. Contact us for a personalized quote.
What are the chances of seeing the Big Five on this tour?
This 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour has excellent chances of spotting all Big Five species. Rhinos are guaranteed at Ziwa, elephants and buffaloes are common in both parks, lions are frequently seen (including tree-climbing in Ishasha), and leopards are possible, especially on game drives. Our experienced guides know the best areas for spotting them.
How fit do I need to be for this tour?
This safari requires a moderate to good level of fitness. Gorilla and chimpanzee treks can last 2-8 hours through steep, mountainous terrain. Hiring a porter is highly recommended for gorilla trekking. Game drives and boat safaris require minimal physical exertion.
What is the best time of year for this itinerary?
The best time for your 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour is during the dry seasons: June to September and December to February. These months offer the best trekking and game viewing conditions with less rain and clearer trails.
Do I need a visa for this safari?
Yes, you will need a valid Ugandan visa. Many nationalities can obtain a visa online or on arrival. Check with your local embassy or Uganda Immigration for the latest requirements.
What should I pack for this safari?
Pack waterproof hiking boots, long-sleeved shirts and trousers, a waterproof jacket, gardening gloves, insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, a camera with extra batteries, a daypack, and warm layers for cool mornings. A walking stick is provided for treks. Also pack swimwear for Lake Bunyonyi.
Is this safari suitable for families?
Yes, for families with children aged 12 and above (minimum age for gorilla trekking). The itinerary includes a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it suitable for families. We can arrange family-friendly accommodation.
How do I book this 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour?
Simply click here to request a free quote or contact our team directly. We’ll check permit availability, confirm lodges, and handle all logistics. Book at least 3-6 months in advance to secure permits and preferred accommodation.
Book This 12 Day Ultimate Uganda Wildlife Safari and Gorilla Trekking Tour Today
Ready to experience the very best of Uganda’s wildlife and landscapes? This 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour offers the complete Ugandan safari experience – from the Big Five to mountain gorillas and chimpanzees. Afraeka Adventures specializes in crafting tailor-made safaris – every detail is designed to create an unforgettable journey.
Click Here to Get a Free Quote & Book Your 12 Day Ultimate Uganda Safari
Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to explore the best of Uganda! Contact us today to secure your permits and book your preferred accommodation. Our team, led by Tour Operator Victoria Kayaga, is ready to create your dream safari. Book your 12 day ultimate Uganda wildlife safari and gorilla trekking tour now and create memories that will last a lifetime.
