When you think of Africa, a safari often comes to mind, endless savannahs, lions basking under acacia trees, elephants crossing dusty trails, and gorillas peeking through the thick jungle canopy.
But while Kenya and Tanzania often grab headlines, Uganda– the pearl of Africa remains one of the most rewarding safari destinations in the world.
One of the most common questions travelers ask us at Primate Holidays is: “How many days do I need for a safari in Uganda, and what’s the best itinerary?”
The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all safari. Uganda offers so many experiences from gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, Big five safaris, birding, to cultural tours. Your itinerary will depend on your time, budget, and interests.
In this blog, we’ll break down different Uganda safari itineraries, from quick 3-day Uganda to epic 14- day Uganda safari so you can pick the journey that’s perfect for you.
Why Itineraries Matter in Uganda?
Uganda is compact compared to some African countries, but its national parks and attractions are spread across different regions. Travel between destinations often involves 5-8 hours by road though the scenic landscapes, rolling hills, tea plantations, and villages make the journey part of the adventure.
Choosing the right itinerary ensures:
- You maximize wildlife experiences without rushing
- You see a mix of savannah, rainforest, lakes, and mountains
- You balance adventure with relaxation
At Primate Holidays, we carefully design itineraries to match your travel style whether you’re a couple on a honeymoon, a family, or an adventurer on a bucket list mission.
Short Uganda Safari Itineraries (3-5 Days safaris)
These are perfect for travelers with limited time or those who want to add Uganda as part of a longer East Africa trip.
3 Days- Murchison Falls Safari
Highlights: Game drives in Uganda’s largest park and a boat cruise to the bottom of the falls.
Wildlife: Lions, Elephants, Giraffes, Buffalo, Hippos, Crocodiles and countless birds.
Special Touch: A hike to the top of Murchison Falls, the most powerful waterfall in the world.
This safari is ideal for first time safari travelers, short business breaks and travelers entering from Entebbe or Kampala.
3 Days- Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
Highlights: Trekking to see the endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Experience: A life-changing close encounter with gorillas, watching them feed, groom, and play.
Optional: Spend a night at Lake Bunyonyi, one of Africa’s most beautiful lakes
This safari is ideal for adventure seekers and wildlife enthusiasts ticking off a bucket list experience.
5 Days- Gorilla Trekking & Queen Elizabeth Safari
Day 1: Kampala to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Day 2: Game drive + boat cruise on Kazinga channel
Day 3: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking
Day 5: Return to Kampala/ Entebbe
This safari is ideal for travelers wanting to combine both gorilla trekking and savannah wildlife in one trip.
Medium Uganda Safari Itineraries (7- 10 Days Safari)
These itineraries give you a balanced mix of gorillas, chimps, and game drives without feeling rushed.
7 Days- Gorilla, Chimps & Queen Elizabeth Safari
Day 1-2: Kibale Forest National Park + Chimpanzee Tracking
Day 3-4: Queen Elizabeth + Game Drive + Boat cruise
Day 5-6: Bwindi Impenetrable + Gorilla Trekking
Day 7: Return to Kampala or Lake Bunyonyi relaxation
This safari is ideal for wildlife lovers who want the best of primates and Big Five safari in a week.
8 Days- Murchison Falls, Kibale and Bwindi Impenetrable National Parks
Day 1-2: Murchison Falls + Game drives + Nile Cruise
Day 3-4: Kibale National Park + Chimpanzee Tracking
Day 5-6: Queen Elizabeth National Park + Game drives
Day 7-8: Bwindi Impenetrable + Gorilla trekking
This safari is perfect for travelers who want a true circle safari covering north, west, and south Uganda.
10 Days- Ultimate Uganda Safari
Murchison Falls National Park (2 Days): Lions, Elephants, Giraffes, Waterfalls
Kibale Forest National Park (2 Days): Chimpanzees, Birding
Queen Elizabeth National Park (2 Days): Tree-climbing lions, elephants, Kazinga channel cruise
Bwindi Impenetrable Park (2 Days): Gorilla trekking, Batwa community tour
Lake Bunyonyi (1 Day): Relaxation, canoeing
Departure
This safari itinerary is perfect for travelers who want the best Uganda safari.
Long Uganda Safari Itineraries (12- 18 Days)
For those who want to go all in, long itineraries cover everything from gorillas and Big Five wildlife to cultural immersion and off the beaten path adventures.
12 Days- Gorilla, Chimps, Big Five & Lake Bunyonyi Safari
Combines all major highlights with time for relaxation at Lake Bunyonyi
Great balance of wildlife, culture, and scenery.
14 Days- Best of Uganda Safari
Destinations Covered: Murchison Falls, Kibale Forest National Park, Queen Elizabeth Park, Bwindi Impenetrable, Lake Bunyonyi, Lake Mburo
Add- on: Cultural visits to local villages, crater lakes, and optional adventure in Jinja for Nile rafting
A perfect two-week odyssey across Uganda
18 Days- Ultimate Uganda & Kidepo Safari
Includes Kidepo Valley National Park in the far northeast, one of Uganda’s most remote and wild parks.
Wildlife sightings: Cheetahs, lions, Buffalo, Gorillas, Chimpanzee, Elephants, Rhino, Kobs, Zebras etc.
Blends all Uganda’s gems into one thrilling itinerary.
Insider Tips for Choosing Your Itinerary
- Time is Key: If you have less than 5 days, stick to one region (eg Gorillas only or Murchison Falls)
- Add gorillas if possible: Gorilla trekking is Uganda’s crown jewel
- Mix it up: Combine savannah game drives with forest trekking for variety
- Consider Pace: If you don’t like long drives, include domestic flights.
- Travel style: Luxury lodges vs Budget camping can shape your experience
Why Book Your Safari with Primate Holidays?
At Primate Holidays, we don’t just sell packages, we design personalized itineraries that fit you perfectly. Whether you want a quick gorilla trek, a family-friendly safari, or a luxury 2-week adventure, we handle everything:
- Permits: Securing gorilla & chimp trekking permits
- Transport: Comfortable 4×4 safari vehicles with expert driver guides
- Accommodation: From cozy lodges to luxury safari camps
- Flexibility: Custom itineraries designed around your preferences
With us, your safari is stress free, seamless, and unforgettable.
Final Thoughts: Your Safari, Your Story
Uganda is not a one trip fits all destination. Each traveler writes their own story here, whether it’s locking eyes with a silverback, cruising down the Nile past elephants, or watching lions lounge in fig trees.
With the right itinerary, you’ll leave Uganda with more than just photos, you’ll leave with memories that stay forever.
At Primate Holidays, we’re ready to help you create the perfect safari. Whether it’s 3 days or 18, we’ll make sure every moment counts.
