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)