Experience Uganda’s wild heart: chimpanzee trekking in Kibale, classic game drives in Murchison Falls, and a dramatic Nile boat cruise. This compact 5-day itinerary balances thrilling wildlife encounters with comfortable lodge stays therefore it’s perfect for first-time visitors and repeat adventurers alike.
Tour Highlights
Chimpanzee trekking at Kibale (Kanyanchu) with a 1-hour viewing opportunity.
Morning game drive in Murchison Falls for giraffes, Uganda kob, buffalo and more.
Afternoon launch (boat) cruise to the base of Murchison Falls hippos, crocodiles and rich birdlife up close.
Optional experiences: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary stopover, hot-air balloon alternative to the morning game drive, and Bigodi Swamp nature walk after chimp trekking.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival → Murchison Falls
Firstly, your guide meets you at Entebbe Airport or your Kampala hotel for a short briefing. Then, enjoy a scenic 5–6 hour drive north with lunch in Masindi. Optionally, you may stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for rhino tracking before entering Murchison via Kachumbanyobo gate. Finally, ascend to the top of the falls for stunning views, then check in at Paraa Safari Lodge or Fort Murchison Lodge for dinner and overnight.
Day 2: Morning Game Drive & Afternoon Boat Cruise
After breakfast, embark on an early game drive to spot Uganda kobs, Rothschild’s giraffes, buffalo, lions and numerous birds. Afterwards, return to the lodge to relax and eat. Then, in the afternoon, take a launch on the Nile to the base of the falls where hippos and huge Nile crocodiles often line the banks. Optionally, substitute the morning drive with a sunrise balloon ride for a truly memorable start to the day.
Day 3: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
Early breakfast and check-out precede a long, scenic drive west. Meanwhile, stop in Fort Portal for lunch and, if time allows, visit crater lakes or Amabere Ganyinamwiru caves. Eventually arrive in Kibale in the evening; then check in at Chimpanzee Forest Guest House, Primate Lodge, or Kyaninga Lodge for dinner and overnight.
Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking & Bigodi Swamp Walk
Rise early for orientation at the park HQ, and then trek into the Kanyanchu area in search of chimpanzees. Trekking can take roughly 30 minutes up to 4 hours depending on the chimps’ location; once found, you’ll have one precious hour to observe, photograph and learn about their behavior. Afterwards, enjoy your packed lunch and a guided nature walk in Bigodi Swamp a birder’s paradise with the Great Blue Turaco and Papyrus Gonolek among its highlights.
Day 5: Return to Kampala / Departure
Finally, after breakfast you depart Kibale and head back east. Stop for lunch in Mityana, and then continue to Kampala. At the end of the day, your guide will drop you at Entebbe International Airport for your onward flight home.
Practical Notes & Quick Tips
Pickup: Entebbe Airport or Kampala hotel; Drop-off: Entebbe Airport.
Trekking: Expect muddy trails and variable durations; therefore wear sturdy boots and bring rain protection.
Wildlife: Bring a camera (no flash for chimps), binoculars and light layers for mornings and evenings.
Lodges: Paraa / Fort Murchison in Murchison; Chimpanzee Forest Guest House, Primate Lodge or Kyaninga in Kibale.