5-Day Group Safari to Uganda: Exploring Wildlife and Gorillas

This 5-day group safari to Uganda offers an unforgettable adventure, combining thrilling wildlife encounters in Queen Elizabeth National Park with the awe-inspiring experience of gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The journey begins in Entebbe, transitions through savannah plains, and concludes with a transfer to Kigali, Rwanda. Below is a detailed day-by-day breakdown of the itinerary, including activities, accommodations, and key highlights.

Day 1: Group Arrival in Entebbe & Gathering at the Hotel

Highlights:

  • Arrival at Entebbe International Airport

  • Briefing and group introductions

  • Relaxation at the hotel

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your safari guide and transferred to your hotel. Entebbe, a serene town on the shores of Lake Victoria, serves as the perfect starting point for your adventure.

Activities:

  • Airport pick-up & transfer to the hotel

  • Evening briefing – Your guide will provide an overview of the safari, safety guidelines, and answer any questions.

  • Optional visit to the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC) – A great opportunity to see rescued wildlife up close.

Accommodation Options:

Hotel Name Category Key Features
Lake Victoria Serena Resort Luxury Lakeside views, swimming pool, fine dining
2Friends Beach Hotel Mid-range Budget-friendly, beach access, relaxed atmosphere
The Boma Guesthouse Budget Cozy, garden setting, good for early arrivals

Meals Included:

  • Dinner

Day 2: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park & Evening Game Drive

Highlights:

  • Scenic drive through western Uganda

  • Afternoon game drive in Queen Elizabeth NP

  • Possible sightings of lions, elephants, and buffalo

After breakfast, the group will embark on a 5-6 hour drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most famous wildlife reserves. The journey offers stunning views of the Rwenzori Mountains, tea plantations, and rural villages.

Activities:

  • Stopover at the Equator – A great photo opportunity and a chance to buy souvenirs.

  • Evening game drive – Explore the Kasenyi Plains, known for its tree-climbing lions, elephants, and antelopes.

Accommodation Options:

Lodge Name Category Key Features
Mweya Safari Lodge Luxury Stunning Kazinga Channel views, infinity pool
Parkview Safari Lodge Mid-range Panoramic views, spacious cottages
Bush Lodge (Tented Camp) Budget Close to nature, budget-friendly

Meals Included:

  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Morning Game Drive & Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel

Highlights:

  • Sunrise game drive in search of predators

  • Boat cruise with hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife

An early start ensures the best wildlife sightings during a morning game drive in the park. Later, a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel offers close encounters with hippos, Nile crocodiles, and diverse bird species.

Activities:

  • Game drive (6:30 AM – 9:30 AM) – Spot lions, leopards, and buffalo.

  • Boat cruise (2:00 PM – 4:00 PM) – One of Africa’s most rewarding wildlife boat trips.

Wildlife Spotting Table:

Animal Likelihood of Sighting Best Viewing Area
Lion High Kasenyi Plains
Elephant Very High Mweya Peninsula
Hippo Guaranteed Kazinga Channel
Leopard Moderate Ishasha Sector

Meals Included:

  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Transfer to Bwindi via Ishasha (Tree-Climbing Lions)

Highlights:

  • Game viewing in Ishasha’s savannah

  • Chance to see tree-climbing lions

  • Journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

After breakfast, the group will drive south towards Bwindi, passing through the Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth NP, famous for its tree-climbing lions.

Activities:

  • Game drive in Ishasha – Look for lions lounging in fig trees.

  • Scenic drive to Bwindi – Rolling hills and terraced landscapes.

Accommodation Options:

Lodge Name Category Key Features
Mahogany Springs Lodge Luxury Luxury cottages, close to trekking start point
Gorilla Safari Lodge Mid-range Stunning forest views, great hospitality
Buhoma Community Rest Camp Budget Eco-friendly, supports local community

Meals Included:

  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Gorilla Trekking & Transfer to Kigali for Departure

Highlights:

  • Lifetime gorilla trekking experience

  • Cultural interactions with Batwa communities

  • Transfer to Kigali for departure

The day begins early with a briefing before gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Trekking duration varies (1-6 hours), but the encounter with mountain gorillas is unforgettable.

Activities:

  • Gorilla trekking (7:00 AM – 1:00 PM) – Spend one magical hour with a gorilla family.

  • Transfer to Kigali (4-5 hours) – Cross into Rwanda and visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial (if time allows).

Gorilla Trekking Essentials:

Item Why It’s Important
Hiking Boots Rugged terrain requires sturdy footwear
Rain Jacket Bwindi’s weather is unpredictable
Camera (No Flash) Capture memories without disturbing gorillas

Meals Included:

  • Breakfast, Lunch

This 5-day group safari offers an incredible mix of wildlife, nature, and culture, from the savannahs of Queen Elizabeth to the misty forests of Bwindi. With expert guides, comfortable lodges, and unforgettable wildlife encounters, it’s the perfect short safari for nature lovers.

Why Choose This Safari?

✔ Small group experience (6-12 people)
✔ Expert local guides
✔ Balanced itinerary (game drives, boat cruise, gorillas)
✔ Seamless transfers (End in Kigali for easy flights)