Looking for the ultimate 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth? This comprehensive safari covers all the iconic wildlife experiences Uganda has to offer – from tracking rhinos on foot at Ziwa Sanctuary to exploring the mighty Murchison Falls and witnessing tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park. This 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth is designed for first-time safari-goers and wildlife enthusiasts who want to check off Africa’s Big Five – lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard – in one unforgettable journey. Afraeka Adventures has crafted this 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth to showcase the incredible diversity of Uganda’s wildlife and landscapes. With expert local guides, comfortable lodges, and seamless logistics, this is the ultimate Ugandan wildlife safari.
Quick Facts
- Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights
- Price (USD): From $3,500 per person (based on 2 people sharing)
- Start/End Location: Entebbe International Airport (EBB), Uganda.
- Best Time to Go: Dry seasons (June to September & December to February) offer the best game viewing conditions for this 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth.
- Parks Visited: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Murchison Falls NP, Queen Elizabeth NP.
- Big Five Targets: Lion, Elephant, Buffalo, Rhino, Leopard (all possible).
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe & Transfer to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Your 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth 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. The walking experience offers excellent photography opportunities. Return to your lodge for a relaxing evening and a hearty dinner. This first day of your 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth 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 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth 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 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth 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 the 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. 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, where the mighty Nile forces its way through a narrow gorge, creating a thunderous spectacle. 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 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth 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 Queen Elizabeth National Park via Fort Portal
Today, your 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth continues south to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most popular savannah reserve. 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 overlooking the park, check in, and enjoy a relaxing evening. If time permits, you can take a short game drive in the park’s northern sector, spotting elephants, buffaloes, and other wildlife. This day of your 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth transitions you to the southern savannah.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge in Queen Elizabeth NP.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Activity: Scenic drive with crater lake stops.
Day 5: 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. The park is also famous for its tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector, though you’ll see them later. 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 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth 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 6: Transfer to Ishasha for Tree-Climbing Lions & Return to Entebbe Area
Today, your 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth focuses on the famous tree-climbing lions of the Ishasha sector. After breakfast, drive south (approx. 2-3 hours) to the Ishasha sector, where you’ll embark on a game drive to spot the elusive tree-climbing lions that rest in the branches of fig trees. This is a unique and unforgettable sight. After the drive, enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush. Then, begin the journey back towards Entebbe (approx. 7-8 hours), with a stopover at Lake Mburo or a relaxation break. Arrive at your hotel near Entebbe for an overnight stay. This day of your 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth adds a unique wildlife highlight.
- Accommodation: Hotel near Entebbe (accessible and comfortable).
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Activity: Game drive in Ishasha for tree-climbing lions.
Day 7: Departure from Entebbe
Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel, reflecting on the incredible journey of your 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth. Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll be transferred to Entebbe International Airport 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 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth is a fitting conclusion to an extraordinary adventure.
- Accommodation: Not included (post-safari hotel can be arranged).
- Meals: Breakfast.
- Activity: Transfer to the airport.
What’s Included in This 7 Day Classic Uganda Big Five Safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth
Included:
- Rhino Tracking Permit: Two rhino tracking walks at Ziwa ($50 each).
- Transport: Private 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for wildlife viewing.
- Fuel: All fuel for the entire safari.
- Accommodation: 6 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 and Kazinga Channel boat safari.
- Game Drives: Multiple game drives as specified in the itinerary.
- Ishasha Sector Drive: Game drive in Ishasha for tree-climbing lions.
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, and rangers.
- Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, laundry services, phone calls, and any additional activities not mentioned.
- Alcoholic & Soft Drinks: Beverages at lodges (unless specified).
- 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 Classic Uganda Big Five Safari?
This 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth offers the most comprehensive wildlife experience in Uganda. You’ll track rhinos on foot, explore the mighty Nile at Murchison Falls, and search for tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth. The itinerary covers all the iconic Big Five species and showcases Uganda’s incredible diversity. It’s the perfect introduction to Uganda’s wildlife and a fantastic value for travelers seeking the complete African safari experience.
Why Choose Afraeka Adventures for Your Big Five 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 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth 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 7 Day Classic Uganda Big Five Safari
How much does the 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth cost?
The cost of this 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth is from $3,500 per person. This includes rhino tracking permits, 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 safari?
This 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth 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, 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 safari?
This safari is accessible to most travelers. The rhino tracking walk is at a gentle pace on flat terrain. Game drives and boat safaris require minimal physical exertion. No previous safari experience is needed.
What is the best time of year for this itinerary?
The best time for your 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth is during the dry seasons: June to September and December to February. These months offer the best game viewing conditions with less vegetation and animals gathering around water sources.
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.
Can I combine this Big Five safari with gorilla trekking?
Yes! Many travelers extend their 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth with gorilla trekking in Bwindi. We offer a 5-day gorilla and chimpanzee tracking itinerary that can be combined. Let us know your interests.
What should I pack for this safari?
Pack lightweight clothing in neutral colors, a waterproof jacket, insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, sturdy walking shoes, a camera with extra batteries, and binoculars. Also pack warm layers for cool mornings.
Is this 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth suitable for children?
Yes, this safari is suitable for families with children aged 6 and above. The activities are varied and engaging for young travelers. We can arrange family-friendly accommodation.
How do I book this 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth?
Simply click here to request a free quote or contact our team directly. We’ll check availability, confirm lodges, and handle all logistics. Book at least 3-6 months in advance to secure preferred accommodation.
Book This 7 Day Classic Uganda Big Five Safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth Today
Ready to check off Africa’s Big Five in one incredible safari? This 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth offers the ultimate Ugandan wildlife experience. 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 7 Day Classic Uganda Big Five Safari
Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see the Big Five in Uganda’s most spectacular parks! Contact us today to secure your spots and book your preferred lodges. Our team, led by Tour Operator Victoria Kayaga, is ready to create your dream safari. Book your 7 day classic Uganda Big Five safari Murchison Falls Ziwa and Queen Elizabeth now and create memories that will last a lifetime.
