5-Day Uganda Big Five & Chimpanzee Tracking Safari

Starting Your Journey: Pickup from Entebbe or Kampala

Your 5-Day Uganda Big Five & Chimpanzee Tracking Safari adventure begins with a comfortable pick-up from either Entebbe or Kampala, the major entry points to Uganda. Renai Venture Safaris ensures a smooth start to your trip with a fully air-conditioned 4×4 safari vehicle and a professional guide who will accompany you throughout the journey. As you embark on this road transfer to Murchison Falls National Park, your guide will share fascinating details about Uganda’s history, culture, and wildlife.

The drive will take you through Uganda’s scenic countryside, offering stunning views of lush green landscapes, farms, and rural life. During the journey, you will pass through towns such as Masindi and enjoy the diverse terrain of the country.

Stopover at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for Rhino Tracking

Along the way to Murchison Falls, you will make a stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. This is Uganda’s only sanctuary dedicated to rhino conservation, and it plays a critical role in the reintroduction of rhinos into the wild after they were declared extinct in Uganda in the 1980s. Here, you will have the opportunity to track rhinos on foot with the guidance of experienced rangers.

The rhino tracking experience is both thrilling and educational, as it allows you to get up close to these endangered animals and learn about their behavior, conservation efforts, and the importance of protecting them. Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is also home to various bird species, making it a perfect stop for birdwatchers.

Arrival at Murchison Falls and Hike to the Top of the Falls

After the rhino tracking, you will continue your journey to Murchison Falls National Park. Upon arrival, you will have time to check into your lodge or campsite, enjoy a delicious lunch, and then head out for a hike to the top of Murchison Falls. The hike takes about 1 to 2 hours, depending on your pace, and provides stunning views of the falls and the surrounding landscape.

The power and beauty of the waterfall are breathtaking, as the Victoria Nile River plunges 43 meters into the river below, creating a mist that can be seen from miles away. The hike to the top of Murchison Falls allows you to get up close to one of Africa’s most spectacular natural wonders.

Evening Game Drive: Wildlife Viewing in Murchison Falls National Park

In the late afternoon, you’ll embark on an evening game drive in Murchison Falls National Park. As the temperatures cool down, the park’s wildlife becomes more active, and you’ll have the chance to spot some of Uganda’s most iconic animals. The park is home to elephants, giraffes, lions, buffaloes, and many other species.

Your 5-Day Uganda Big Five & Chimpanzee Tracking Safari guide will take you through the park’s various ecosystems, where you can observe the animals in their natural habitats. The evening game drive is also a great opportunity to witness predators like lions and leopards beginning to hunt.

Morning Game Drive: A New Day of Wildlife Exploration

Your day begins with an early morning game drive through Murchison Falls National Park. The early hours are ideal for spotting wildlife, as many animals are more active during this time. You will likely encounter herds of elephants, groups of buffaloes, and giraffes grazing in the savannah. Keep an eye out for lions, which tend to rest in the cool morning hours before becoming more active later in the day.

The 5-Day Uganda Big Five & Chimpanzee Tracking Safari guide will offer expert insights on the animals’ behavior, providing a deeper understanding of the ecosystem and the roles different species play in maintaining the balance of the park’s wildlife.

Boat Cruise on the Victoria Nile

In the afternoon, you will take a boat cruise along the Victoria Nile River, one of the highlights of a Murchison Falls safari. This peaceful yet exciting boat ride offers a chance to spot wildlife from the water, including hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species such as the rare shoebill stork. The cruise offers stunning views of Murchison Falls from below, giving you a different perspective of this iconic landmark.

The boat cruise is a fantastic opportunity for photographers, as you’ll be able to capture incredible shots of animals in their natural environment while enjoying the tranquil beauty of the river.

Afternoon Game Drive: Exploring New Areas of the Park

Following the boat cruise, you will embark on another game drive to explore different parts of Murchison Falls National Park. The diverse ecosystems of the park, ranging from savannahs to riverine forests, provide a variety of habitats for different species. You may encounter more elephants, buffaloes, and giraffes, as well as antelope species such as the Uganda kob and waterbuck.

The late afternoon is also an ideal time to spot predators like lions, leopards, and hyenas as they become more active. Your guide will take you to the best spots for wildlife viewing, ensuring that you have the chance to witness a wide range of animals during your 5-Day Uganda Big Five & Chimpanzee Tracking Safari.

Early Morning Game Drive: Final Wildlife Encounters in Murchison Falls

Day 3 begins with one last early morning game drive in Murchison Falls National Park. This final game drive allows you to spot any wildlife you may have missed on the previous days and provides a last opportunity to appreciate the park’s beauty before departing. You might encounter herds of elephants, buffaloes, or perhaps even a lion pride on the hunt.

Road Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park

After the morning game drive, you will embark on a scenic road transfer to Kibale Forest National Park, located approximately 5-6 hours away. The drive offers beautiful views of Uganda’s rural landscapes, rolling hills, and farmlands. Your 5-Day Uganda Big Five & Chimpanzee Tracking Safari guide will provide information about the regions you pass through, sharing stories and facts about the local culture and wildlife.

Upon arrival at Kibale, you’ll check into your lodge or campsite and have some time to relax and prepare for the exciting activities in store.

Chimpanzee Tracking: An Unforgettable Primate Adventure

Day 4 is dedicated to tracking chimpanzees in Kibale Forest. Kibale is home to over 1,500 chimpanzees, making it one of the best places in the world for chimpanzee tracking. The tracking begins early in the morning with a briefing from your guide, who will explain the forest’s rules and what to expect during the trek.

The forest is dense and lush, and while the trek can be physically challenging, the reward is immense. Once you locate the chimpanzees, you’ll have the chance to observe them as they go about their daily activities—feeding, grooming, and playing. Watching chimpanzees in the wild is an awe-inspiring experience, as they are one of the most intelligent and social animals on the planet.

Bigodi Swamp Walk: Exploring the Rich Biodiversity of Kibale

In the afternoon, you’ll take a walk-through Bigodi Swamp, a scenic wetland located near Kibale Forest. The swamp is home to a variety of wildlife, including rare bird species such as the Great Blue Turaco, Red-tailed monkeys, and a variety of other primates. The swamp walk is a leisurely and peaceful activity that allows you to explore the unique ecosystems of Kibale and appreciate the park’s incredible biodiversity.

This is also a fantastic opportunity for birdwatching, as Bigodi Swamp is known for its rich birdlife and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Final Wildlife Viewing: A Last Game Drive in Kibale Forest

On your final day, you’ll enjoy a morning game drive or nature walk around the edges of Kibale Forest, offering a last opportunity to spot wildlife before heading back. You might encounter forest elephants, primates, or other forest dwellers as you explore the park’s perimeter.

Road Transfer to Kampala/Entebbe

After your final activity, you’ll embark on a road transfer back to Kampala or Entebbe, where your 5-Day Uganda Big Five & Chimpanzee Tracking Safari will come to an end. The journey back takes around 5-6 hours, allowing you to reflect on your incredible experiences in Uganda’s national parks.