6 Days Murchison Falls and Lake Mburo Savannah Milicia excelsa Tree-Planting Safari from Entebbe to Murchison and Lake Mburo

This six-day safari combines two of Uganda’s most rewarding wildlife destinations: Murchison Falls National Park and Lake Mburo National Park. Starting in Entebbe, you travel north to Murchison Falls for game drives, a Nile boat cruise, and a guided chimpanzee trekking experience in Budongo Forest. You then continue southwest to Lake Mburo, where open savannah, acacia woodland, wetlands and lakes support a different range of wildlife.

The safari includes a GreenSpot tree-planting programme that supports local conservation and community restoration initiatives. You will participate in planting indigenous and locally suitable tree species at selected community or restoration sites near the safari destinations. The programme also introduces you to the importance of native trees in protecting wildlife habitats, supporting local livelihoods and improving the environment.

In Murchison Falls, you can look for elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, lions, Uganda kob, hartebeests and numerous bird species. Budongo Forest offers an opportunity to track wild chimpanzees and explore one of Uganda’s important tropical forest habitats. At Lake Mburo, expect opportunities to see zebras, impalas, elands, buffaloes, warthogs, hippos and several savannah bird species.

The journey covers different landscapes and ecosystems, making this safari suitable for travellers interested in wildlife, primates, birdwatching, nature and practical conservation activities.

Tree species featured in the planting programme

The GreenSpot planting programme features indigenous and locally suitable tree species selected for their ecological, environmental and community benefits. Planting locations will depend on the restoration needs and arrangements with participating communities, schools or landowners.

Milicia excelsa – Mvule

Main uses: Mvule is valued for its strong, durable timber, traditionally used in furniture, construction, doors and joinery. Its broad canopy provides shade, while its fruits support birds and other wildlife.

Why plant it? Mvule is an important indigenous timber tree that has faced pressure from commercial harvesting. Planting it supports the recovery of native tree populations, improves biodiversity and provides a long-term resource for future generations.

Planted at: Selected community and restoration sites around Murchison Falls and Lake Mburo, subject to local planting plans and site suitability.

Markhamia lutea – Nile tulip tree

Main uses: The Nile tulip tree produces attractive yellow flowers and provides shade. Its timber can be used for light construction, poles and household purposes. It also contributes to habitat structure and supports insects and other organisms.

Why plant it? This indigenous species adapts to a range of local conditions and can contribute to farm forestry, landscape restoration and biodiversity. Its flowering season also makes it valuable in landscapes where pollinators are present.

Planted at: Community farms, schools and restoration areas near the safari destinations.

Albizia coriaria – Musizi

Main uses: Musizi is a large indigenous tree that provides shade, contributes organic matter through its fallen leaves and offers habitat for wildlife. Its wood has traditional uses, although its value and suitability vary with the intended application.

Why plant it? Planting Musizi helps restore native woodland, improve soil cover and create habitat for birds and other wildlife. Its broad crown makes it useful in suitable community landscapes and agroforestry systems.

Planted at: Selected community and restoration sites in the Murchison Falls and Lake Mburo regions.

Ficus natalensis – Mutuba

Main uses: Mutuba is traditionally important for the production of barkcloth in Uganda. Its leaves and fruits provide food for wildlife, while mature trees offer shade and nesting opportunities for birds.

Why plant it? The species has cultural, ecological and economic value. Planting Mutuba supports traditional barkcloth heritage, provides food and shelter for wildlife and contributes to the conservation of indigenous trees.

Planted at: Community sites and suitable cultural or agroforestry landscapes.

Khaya anthotheca – East African mahogany

Main uses: East African mahogany is a large forest tree valued for quality timber used in furniture, cabinetry, interior fittings and construction. Its mature canopy contributes to forest structure and provides habitat for wildlife.

Why plant it? The species has experienced pressure from timber exploitation and habitat loss. Planting it in suitable restoration areas supports the regeneration of native forest species and helps maintain long-term timber resources.

Planted at: Appropriate forest restoration and community forestry sites, particularly in suitable landscapes around the Budongo region.

Entandrophragma cylindricum – Sapele

Main uses: Sapele is a valuable African timber tree used for furniture, decorative woodwork, flooring, doors and interior finishing. Its timber is known for its attractive grain.

Why plant it? Commercial demand has placed pressure on many valuable African forest trees. Planting Sapele in suitable managed forestry and restoration sites can support future timber resources and contribute to the recovery of native forest composition.

Planted at: Selected managed forestry and restoration sites where the species is ecologically appropriate.

Funtumia elastica – Rubber tree

Main uses: Funtumia elastica is a tropical African tree historically associated with natural rubber production. It also contributes to forest structure and provides habitat within suitable woodland and forest environments.

Why plant it? This indigenous species contributes to the diversity of tropical forest landscapes. Including it in suitable restoration projects supports native vegetation and helps maintain a wider range of tree species.

Planted at: Suitable community forestry and restoration sites, particularly in areas with appropriate forest conditions.

Vachellia sieberiana – Paperbark acacia

Main uses: Paperbark acacia is a savannah tree that provides shade, browse and habitat for wildlife. Its flowers attract insects, while its presence contributes to the structure of open woodland and grassland landscapes.

Why plant it? This species is well suited to many savannah environments. It can support biodiversity, provide shade for livestock and wildlife, and contribute to the restoration of suitable degraded landscapes.

Planted at: Selected savannah restoration sites and community landscapes around Lake Mburo and Murchison Falls.

Vachellia hockii – Hock’s acacia

Main uses: Hock’s acacia is a native savannah and woodland species. It provides browse, shelter and habitat for insects and other wildlife. It can also contribute to soil protection in suitable landscapes.

Why plant it? Its suitability for savannah environments makes it useful in restoration programmes that aim to maintain indigenous woodland and improve habitat diversity.

Planted at: Appropriate community and savannah restoration sites near Lake Mburo and Murchison Falls.

Combretum molle – Velvet bushwillow

Main uses: Velvet bushwillow is a native woodland and savannah tree. It provides shade and habitat for wildlife, and its wood has traditional uses, including fuelwood and small-scale construction.

Why plant it? The species contributes to the natural structure of savannah woodland and can support habitat restoration. It is a useful choice for appropriate sites where native bushland and woodland vegetation need regeneration.

Planted at: Selected restoration sites and community landscapes around Lake Mburo and Murchison Falls.

Ziziphus mucronata – Buffalo thorn

Main uses: Buffalo thorn produces fruits eaten by birds and other animals. It provides shelter and nesting cover, and its thorny branches can form protective hedges. The tree also has traditional cultural and household uses.

Why plant it? Its fruits support wildlife, while its branching structure provides refuge for smaller animals and birds. Planting Buffalo thorn can improve biodiversity and restore native vegetation in suitable savannah and woodland landscapes.

Planted at: Community farms, boundary planting areas and suitable savannah restoration sites.

Day 1: Entebbe to Murchison Falls National Park

Your safari begins with an early departure from Entebbe. Meet your driver-guide for a briefing before travelling north towards Murchison Falls National Park. The journey takes you through central Uganda, rural settlements, agricultural landscapes and trading centres.

Depending on your departure time and road conditions, you may stop for refreshments and lunch along the way. You can also visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary as an optional activity to track southern white rhinos on foot. This experience is not automatically included and requires additional time and payment.

Continue towards Murchison Falls National Park, entering the park through the appropriate gate for your accommodation. The landscape gradually changes into open savannah, woodland and riverine vegetation. After arriving at your lodge, check in and relax.

If time allows, enjoy the views around the lodge and listen for birds as the day comes to an end. Your guide will brief you about the following day’s activities.

Accommodation: Lodge or safari camp near Murchison Falls National Park, selected according to your preferred budget.

Meals: Lunch and dinner.

Day 2: Game drive and Nile boat cruise in Murchison Falls National Park

Start the day with an early breakfast before heading out for a game drive in the northern sector of Murchison Falls National Park. This area contains extensive grasslands, woodland and riverine habitats that support a variety of wildlife.

Your guide will help you search for elephants, Rothschild’s giraffes, buffaloes, Uganda kob, hartebeests, waterbucks and warthogs. Lions may also be encountered, although wildlife sightings depend on animal movements and conditions in the park. The early morning hours offer favourable opportunities to observe animals while they are active.

Return to your lodge for lunch and some time to rest before the afternoon boat cruise on the Victoria Nile. The boat takes you towards the base of Murchison Falls, passing sections of river where hippos gather and Nile crocodiles rest along the banks. You may also see elephants approaching the water and a variety of birds, including African fish eagles, kingfishers, herons and cormorants.

The cruise provides a different perspective of the park and its wildlife. You can observe the riverbanks and surrounding vegetation while approaching the powerful falls.

Return to your lodge after the excursion and enjoy dinner.

Accommodation: Lodge or safari camp near Murchison Falls National Park.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 3: Budongo Forest chimpanzee trekking and tree planting

After breakfast, travel to Budongo Forest for a guided chimpanzee trekking experience. Budongo is one of Uganda’s important tropical forests and is known for its population of wild chimpanzees. The forest also supports other primates, forest birds, butterflies and a wide range of plant species.

Before entering the forest, receive a briefing from the guides and follow their instructions throughout the trek. The search for chimpanzees may involve walking along forest trails and uneven ground. Trekking duration varies according to the location and movement of the chimpanzee group.

Once you find the chimpanzees, you will have an opportunity to observe their behaviour under the guidance of the forest staff. You may see them feeding, grooming, resting, communicating or moving through the trees. Visitors must maintain the required distance and follow all conservation rules.

After the forest experience, enjoy lunch before participating in a GreenSpot tree-planting activity at an agreed community or restoration site near the Budongo area. The planting programme may feature indigenous forest species such as Khaya anthotheca, Entandrophragma cylindricum, Funtumia elastica, Milicia excelsa and other suitable trees.

Local participants will explain the planting process, including how to prepare the ground, position seedlings, cover the roots and provide initial care. You will also learn why long-term seedling monitoring and protection are necessary for successful restoration.

Return to your lodge in the afternoon for relaxation and dinner.

Accommodation: Lodge or safari camp near Murchison Falls National Park.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 4: Murchison Falls to Lake Mburo National Park

Enjoy breakfast before checking out and beginning the journey southwest towards Lake Mburo National Park. This is a long road transfer, taking you through changing landscapes, towns, farms and rural communities.

You will travel through central Uganda, with suitable stops for refreshments and lunch along the way. Your guide will manage the journey to allow time for breaks and arrival at Lake Mburo before the day becomes too late.

Lake Mburo is known for its rolling hills, open grasslands, acacia woodland, rocky outcrops and wetlands. It is one of Uganda’s important savannah wildlife destinations and offers a different environment from Murchison Falls.

After reaching the park area, check in at your lodge. Depending on your arrival time and the lodge’s location, you may enjoy views of the surrounding landscape or take a short walk around the property.

Dinner and overnight stay at your lodge near Lake Mburo.

Accommodation: Lodge or safari camp near Lake Mburo National Park.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 5: Lake Mburo game drive, boat excursion and tree planting

Begin the day with breakfast before exploring Lake Mburo National Park on a guided game drive. The park’s open grasslands and woodland provide opportunities to see zebras, impalas, elands, topis, buffaloes, warthogs and other wildlife.

Lake Mburo is particularly known for its zebra and impala populations. You may also encounter giraffes, which have been introduced to the park, and several antelope species. Your guide will explain the relationship between the park’s vegetation, grazing animals and predators.

Continue with a boat excursion on Lake Mburo, where you can look for hippos, crocodiles and waterbirds. The lake and surrounding wetlands attract species such as African fish eagles, herons, egrets, kingfishers and other water-associated birds.

After lunch and a short rest, participate in a GreenSpot tree-planting activity at an agreed community or restoration site near Lake Mburo. The planting programme may include savannah and woodland species such as Vachellia sieberiana, Vachellia hockii, Combretum molle and Ziziphus mucronata, together with other suitable indigenous trees.

You will work with local participants to plant seedlings and learn about their role in supporting wildlife, protecting soils, providing shade and maintaining healthy savannah landscapes. The activity also introduces the importance of caring for planted trees after the initial planting day.

Return to your lodge in the afternoon. Enjoy your final evening near Lake Mburo and reflect on the wildlife and conservation experiences from the safari.

Accommodation: Lodge or safari camp near Lake Mburo National Park.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Day 6: Lake Mburo to Entebbe

Enjoy breakfast at the lodge before checking out and beginning the return journey to Entebbe. Depending on your departure time, you may have a final short wildlife-viewing opportunity as you leave the Lake Mburo area.

Travel through central Uganda, with a stop for lunch and refreshments along the way. The journey provides opportunities to observe rural landscapes and local communities before reaching Entebbe.

Arrive in Entebbe in the afternoon or early evening, depending on road conditions and the time of departure. Your driver-guide will drop you at your hotel, residence or Entebbe International Airport.

If you have an international flight on this day, allow sufficient time between your expected arrival in Entebbe and your flight departure. An additional overnight stay is advisable when flight schedules are tight.

Accommodation: Not included.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch.

Optional activities

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: Add a guided rhino-tracking experience on foot during the journey to or from Murchison Falls, subject to routing and available time.

Hike to the top of Murchison Falls: Take a guided walk to viewpoints overlooking the falls. This activity offers close views of the Nile as it forces its way through a narrow gorge.

Murchison Falls chimpanzee habituation experience: Ask about available forest experiences and permits if you want a longer or more specialised primate activity. Availability and eligibility depend on the current programme.

Guided nature walk in Lake Mburo: Explore the park on foot with an authorised ranger. This activity provides opportunities to learn about animal tracks, plants, birds and smaller wildlife.

Night game drive in Lake Mburo: Join an authorised night drive to search for nocturnal animals. Possible sightings include bushbabies, nightjars, genets and other species, depending on conditions.

Horseback safari in Lake Mburo: Explore selected areas on horseback with an authorised operator. This is a distinctive way to observe wildlife and the savannah landscape.

Birdwatching: Arrange additional birding time in Budongo Forest, along the Nile and around Lake Mburo’s wetlands and woodland habitats.

Frequently asked questions

How many nights are included in this six-day safari?

The itinerary includes five nights: three nights near Murchison Falls National Park and two nights near Lake Mburo National Park. The final night is not included because the safari ends in Entebbe.

Can I see chimpanzees in Budongo Forest?

Budongo Forest supports wild chimpanzees, and guided trekking activities offer opportunities to find and observe them. However, sightings are not guaranteed because chimpanzees move freely through the forest.

Is chimpanzee trekking included in the safari?

The itinerary includes a planned Budongo chimpanzee trekking experience. The applicable permit or activity fee should be clearly stated in the final quotation, as prices and booking arrangements can change.

What wildlife can I expect to see?

Murchison Falls is known for elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, lions, Uganda kob, hartebeests and hippos. Budongo is known for chimpanzees and forest wildlife. Lake Mburo supports zebras, impalas, elands, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles and numerous birds. Sightings depend on season, weather and animal movements.

Will I plant trees in both national parks?

Tree planting will take place at agreed community, school, farm or restoration sites outside protected national park areas, unless a specific authorised programme states otherwise. This approach supports local participation while respecting park conservation regulations.

Which trees will be planted near Budongo?

The programme may include suitable forest and woodland species such as Khaya anthotheca, Entandrophragma cylindricum, Funtumia elastica, Milicia excelsa, Markhamia lutea, Albizia coriaria and Ficus natalensis. Final selection depends on the planting site’s ecological conditions and local restoration plan.

Which trees will be planted near Lake Mburo?

The Lake Mburo planting programme may focus on savannah and woodland species such as Vachellia sieberiana, Vachellia hockii, Combretum molle and Ziziphus mucronata. Other species may be included where local conditions support their growth.

Is the drive from Murchison Falls to Lake Mburo long?

Yes. The transfer takes a substantial part of the day. The itinerary allows Day 4 for the journey, with stops for meals and refreshments. Actual travel time depends on the route, traffic and road conditions.

Can families take part in this safari?

Families can enjoy the game drives, boat excursions and tree-planting activities. However, chimpanzee trekking has age restrictions. Uganda’s minimum age for chimpanzee trekking is generally 12 years, subject to the current rules of the responsible authority. Confirm eligibility before booking.

What should I pack?

Bring comfortable walking shoes, lightweight clothing, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, a camera, a reusable water bottle and a small daypack. For Budongo, wear long trousers and clothing suitable for walking in a tropical forest. A light rain jacket is useful throughout the year

Wildlife experiences across the two parks

Murchison Falls and Lake Mburo offer contrasting wildlife environments. Murchison Falls has extensive savannah, woodland and river habitats, supporting large mammals and a wide range of birds. The Nile is an important wildlife viewing area, particularly for hippos, crocodiles and water-associated species.

Lake Mburo has a more compact landscape of grasslands, acacia woodland, wetlands and lakes. Its wildlife includes zebras, impalas, elands, topis and buffaloes. The park is also important for birdwatching, with wetland, woodland and open-country species found in different habitats.

Combining the two destinations gives you a broader experience of Uganda’s savannah wildlife and river and lake environments.

Budongo Forest and chimpanzee conservation

Budongo Forest is one of Uganda’s important natural forest areas. Its trees provide food, shelter and movement routes for chimpanzees and other forest wildlife. The forest also supports many bird species and contributes to the ecological health of the wider Murchison Falls landscape.

Chimpanzee trekking is conducted under established conservation guidelines. Visitors must follow their guides, maintain the required distance from chimpanzees, avoid eating near them and never attempt to touch or feed them. Anyone who feels unwell should follow the responsible authority’s health guidance before entering the forest.

Tree planting around suitable community and restoration sites can complement forest conservation by encouraging native vegetation, supporting local participation and reducing pressure on natural habitats.

GreenSpot tree planting and community conservation

The GreenSpot programme adds a practical conservation activity to the safari. Instead of limiting the experience to wildlife viewing, travellers participate in planting trees with local communities and learn about the environmental value of different species.

The programme can support school greening, community woodlots, farm forestry and restoration of suitable degraded landscapes. Indigenous trees can provide shade, food for wildlife, soil protection, cultural resources and, in some cases, sustainable products for local households.

Tree planting is only the first stage of successful restoration. Seedlings need protection from livestock, weeds, fire and prolonged dry conditions. Local participants should monitor survival, replace failed seedlings where necessary and provide care during establishment.

The species selected for each site will reflect local ecological conditions. Forest trees such as Khaya anthotheca, Entandrophragma cylindricum and Funtumia elastica are more appropriate for suitable forest and managed restoration environments. Savannah species such as Vachellia sieberiana, Vachellia hockii, Combretum molle and Ziziphus mucronata are more suitable for appropriate open woodland and savannah landscapes. Greening projects should avoid introducing unsuitable trees into sensitive natural habitats.

Birdwatching opportunities

This safari offers birdwatching opportunities in three distinct environments: Budongo Forest, the Nile River and Lake Mburo’s wetlands and woodland.

Budongo is suitable for forest birding, with opportunities to search for forest-dwelling species and birds associated with woodland edges. Along the Nile, watch for African fish eagles, kingfishers, herons, egrets and other waterbirds. Lake Mburo provides opportunities to observe savannah, acacia woodland and wetland species.

Bring binoculars and a field guide if birdwatching is a priority. Travellers who want a more specialised birding experience can arrange additional time with a knowledgeable local bird guide.

Practical notes

Chimpanzee trekking permits: Budongo trekking arrangements should be confirmed in advance. Permit availability, fees and age requirements must be checked before final booking.

Gorilla trekking: This itinerary does not include gorilla trekking. It focuses on chimpanzees, savannah wildlife and tree planting.

Travel distances: The transfer from Murchison Falls to Lake Mburo is long. Start early and allow sufficient time for road conditions and meal stops.

Accommodation: Lodges can be selected according to budget, preferred comfort level and location. Staying in suitable locations near the park activities helps reduce unnecessary driving.

Tree planting: Planting locations and species depend on site suitability, seedling availability, community arrangements and seasonal conditions. The programme should include a plan for protecting and monitoring seedlings after planting.

What to wear: Choose comfortable safari clothing in neutral colours. Pack sturdy walking shoes for Budongo, a hat, sunscreen and a light rain jacket.

Health and safety: Follow your guide’s instructions during game drives, boat excursions and forest activities. Avoid approaching or feeding wildlife.

Travel insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended. It should cover medical emergencies, evacuation and the activities included in your safari.

Best booking period: Book early for peak travel periods, particularly if you want a specific lodge or chimpanzee trekking date. Confirm all park activities, permits and accommodation before paying the final balance.

Best time to visit Murchison Falls and Lake Mburo

Murchison Falls and Lake Mburo can be visited throughout the year. The drier periods generally offer easier road access and more predictable conditions for game drives. Wildlife may also become easier to observe around water sources as the dry season progresses.

The main dry periods in Uganda generally occur from June to September and December to February. These months are often popular for safari travel, so accommodation and chimpanzee trekking arrangements should be booked early.

The wetter periods usually occur around March to May and October to November. Rain can make some roads and forest trails more challenging, but the landscapes become greener and birdwatching can be rewarding. Tree planting may also be scheduled around suitable rainfall, since young seedlings need adequate moisture to establish.

Your final travel dates should take account of chimpanzee trekking availability, lodge conditions, road access and the planting season at the selected community sites.