UGANDA CNN Travel listed Kidepo as Number 3 in ‘Africa’s 10 Best National Parks’ The world naturalists primate and cultural safari combo Uganda 9Days 8Nights Kidepo Valley & Murchison Falls Kibale Forest National Parks Day 1: Lake Victoria, Entebbe Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you'll be greeted by your host and transferred to your chosen hotel in Entebbe. Your options for accommodations include Marriot, Protea Hotel, Hotel No.5, Seven Seasons Hotel, Boma Guest House, Papyrus Guest House, or K Hotel Entebbe. Check-in and relax for the night. Day 2: Rhino Sanctuary via Gulu City Start your day with an early breakfast before embarking on a journey to the Rhino Sanctuary in Nakasongola. Here, you'll have the exciting opportunity to track rhinos. The sanctuary is also home to other wildlife such as bushbuck, Uganda Kob, crocodiles, hippos, and numerous bird species, including the rare Shoebill Stork in Lugogo wetlands. After your thrilling rhino adventure, enjoy lunch and then head to the vibrant city of Gulu or Kitgum, passing by the picturesque Karuma Falls. Take some time to explore the local market before settling in for the night at Bomah Hotel, Churchill Courts in Gulu, or Fugly's in Kitgum. Day 3: Apoka - Kidepo Valley National Park Following an early breakfast, you'll continue your journey to Kidepo Valley National Park, crossing remarkable bluff and rocky mountain plains. Upon arrival, check in at your chosen accommodation, which could be Apoka Lodge, N'gamoru Camp, or Savannah Camp. After lunch, immerse yourself in the untamed wilderness of Kidepo, characterized by stunning landscapes, including Mount Morungole and the Kidepo and Narus Rivers. Enjoy an afternoon game drive to witness the park's diverse wildlife. Return to your lodging for a hearty dinner and a restful night. Day 4: Game Drive, Visit Karenga Village, Cave Exploration Rise early for a cup of tea or coffee as you watch the sun's first rays. Embark on a morning game drive through the park, exploring the tributaries of the Narus River. Afterward, return to your lodge for a well-deserved lunch. In the afternoon, delve into the local culture by visiting the nomadic Karimojong tribe in the village of Karenga. You also have the option to climb caves and visit hot springs. Dinner and overnight will be at your chosen accommodation within the park.
Day 5: Head for Murchison Falls National Park After breakfast, you'll set off for Murchison Falls National Park, with a stop for lunch in Gulu. As evening approaches, arrive at your selected lodging options, which may include Paraa Safari Lodge, Fort Murchison, Kabalega, or Twiga Lodge. Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda's largest protected area, offering a rich ecosystem of Borasus palm and grassland inhabited by a variety of wildlife, including birdlife, lions, buffaloes, elephants, Uganda kob, Rothschild’s giraffe, and many others. Day 6: Game Drive, Launch Cruise Begin your day with an early wakeup call and a scrumptious breakfast. Head out for a thrilling morning game drive to observe the park's diverse wildlife. After lunch, prepare for an afternoon launch cruise along the Nile River. During the cruise, you'll have the opportunity to spot numerous bird species and wildlife along the riverbanks. The cruise includes a visit to the base of the falls, where you can embark on a hike to witness the awe-inspiring power of Murchison Falls. Finally, you'll be transferred to Budongo Eco-Lodge for dinner and a peaceful night's sleep. Day 7: Chimpanzee Tracking This day begins early with a delicious breakfast. Then, head out for an exciting chimpanzee tracking adventure. Don't forget to pack a picnic lunch for your trek. In addition to tracking chimpanzees, the forest offers excellent birding opportunities, including the chance to spot rare species like the yellow-footed flycatcher, Ituri batis, and white-tithed hornbill. Other primates, such as black and white colobus monkeys and blue monkeys, can also be observed. After your chimpanzee tracking experience, check out of your accommodation and depart for Kampala via Masindi, with an anticipated late afternoon arrival. Check in at either Kampala Sheraton or Humura Hotel for dinner and a peaceful night's rest. Day 8: Leisure in Kampala Wake up at your own pace and enjoy breakfast at your leisure. You have various options to explore in Kampala, including visiting crafts villages, souvenir shops, Gadaffi Mosque, Namugongo Martyrs Shrine, food markets, and Kasubi Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage site and burial grounds of former kings of the Buganda kingdom. Gain insight into the area's rich history, culture, and traditions as you explore. The afternoon is yours to relax and enjoy. Dinner and overnight at your chosen accommodation. Day 9: Departure As your journey comes to an end, complete the check-out process at your hotel. You will then be transferred to Entebbe International Airport to catch your return flight home. Be sure to pick up any souvenirs or last-minute gifts before leaving Uganda.