Tour Overview

Tour Highlights

9-Day Photographic Safari Expedition in Uganda: Detailed Itinerary

 Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park

As you embark on your thrilling nine-day photographic safari expedition in Uganda, the anticipation is palpable. Your journey begins as you touch down at Entebbe International Airport, where you’re greeted by the warm tropical breeze and the friendly smiles of your guides. After a smooth immigration process, you meet your experienced safari team, who will be your companions throughout this adventure.
From Entebbe, you set off on a picturesque drive towards Murchison Falls National Park, one of Uganda’s most spectacular wilderness areas. The journey takes you through lush countryside landscapes, dotted with traditional villages and rolling hills. Along the way, your knowledgeable guides share insights into Uganda’s rich cultural heritage and biodiversity, setting the stage for the incredible experiences that lie ahead.
Upon arrival at Murchison Falls National Park, you check into your comfortable accommodation, nestled amidst the wilderness. As the sun begins to set, casting a golden hue over the savannah, you enjoy a refreshing welcome drink and a briefing session with your guides. They outline the itinerary for the days ahead, highlighting the park’s diverse wildlife and the photographic opportunities it offers.

Accommodation options:

• Red chili rest camp or Heritage Safari lodge (budget)
• Pakuba Safari lodge (mid-range)
• Paraa Safari Lodge (luxury)

Destination:  Murchison Falls National Park

Day 2: Morning Game Drive and Boat Safari

As the first light of dawn illuminates the landscape, you eagerly embark on your first game drive within Murchison Falls National Park. With your camera at the ready, you traverse the rugged terrain in search of the park’s iconic inhabitants, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and an array of antelope species. The soft morning light creates the perfect ambiance for capturing stunning wildlife portraits and breathtaking landscapes.
After a rewarding morning exploring the savannah, you return to your lodge for a hearty breakfast, replenishing your energy for the adventures ahead. In the afternoon, you embark on a thrilling boat safari along the Victoria Nile, the lifeline of Murchison Falls National Park. Cruising upstream towards the base of the falls, you encounter a wealth of aquatic wildlife, from pods of hippos basking in the sun to elusive Nile crocodiles lurking along the riverbanks.
As you approach the legendary Murchison Falls, the sheer power of nature is awe-inspiring. The roaring waters cascade through a narrow gorge, creating a magnificent spectacle that leaves you mesmerized. With your camera poised to capture the moment, you frame the majestic falls against the backdrop of verdant vegetation, immortalizing this iconic landmark in your photographs.

Day 3: Chimpanzee Tracking in Budongo Forest Reserve

Today, you venture into the heart of Budongo Forest Reserve, a pristine wilderness sanctuary renowned for its rich biodiversity and thriving chimpanzee population. After a scenic drive through the forest, you arrive at the trailhead, where experienced guides await to lead you on an unforgettable chimpanzee tracking expedition.
As you trek through the dense forest canopy, the air is filled with the sounds of exotic birdcalls and the rustling of leaves overhead. Your guides expertly navigate the labyrinth of trails, interpreting signs of chimpanzee activity along the way. Suddenly, a distant hoot reverberates through the forest, signaling the presence of our closest primate relatives.
With bated breath, you follow the sound, your anticipation mounting with each step. And then, amidst a flurry of foliage, you catch your first glimpse of a troop of chimpanzees, swinging effortlessly through the trees. With your camera clicking away, you observe their playful antics and intricate social interactions, capturing intimate moments that offer a fascinating glimpse into their world.
After an exhilarating encounter with the chimpanzees, you bid farewell to Budongo Forest and return to your lodge, where you spend the evening reminiscing about the day’s adventures around a crackling bonfire under the starlit sky.

Day 4: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Leaving Murchison Falls National Park behind, you embark on a scenic journey southward towards Queen Elizabeth National Park, a mosaic of ecosystems encompassing sprawling savannahs, dense forests, and shimmering crater lakes. En route, you pass through traditional Ugandan villages, where friendly locals wave and children playfully chase after your vehicle.
Upon reaching Queen Elizabeth National Park, you check into your luxurious accommodation overlooking the picturesque landscapes. After a leisurely lunch, you set out to explore the park’s southern sector on an afternoon game drive. As the golden hour approaches, you traverse the vast plains in search of iconic African wildlife, from majestic lions lounging beneath acacia trees to herds of graceful antelopes grazing peacefully in the distance.
As the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, you capture the beauty of the African savannah in the soft evening light. Returning to your lodge, you enjoy a sumptuous dinner accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of the wilderness, savoring the unforgettable moments of the day.

Accommodation options:

• Topi Lodge, Simba safari camp (budget)
• Park view safari lodge, Marafiki safari lodge or Twin lakes lodge (mid-range)
• Mweya Safari lodge (luxury)

Destination:  Queen Elizabeth National Park

Day 5: Morning Hot Air Balloon Safari and Ishasha Sector Expedition

Today promises to be a highlight of your safari adventure as you embark on a once-in-a-lifetime hot air balloon safari over the vast plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Before dawn breaks, you rise early to board the balloon basket, where experienced pilots await to guide you on an aerial odyssey above the African wilderness.
As the balloon gently ascends into the sky, the landscape unfolds beneath you like a patchwork quilt, revealing the intricate tapestry of Queen Elizabeth National Park in all its splendor. From the lofty vantage point of the balloon, you witness the stirring spectacle of wildlife awakening to the new day, from herds of elephants lumbering across the plains to solitary leopards prowling in search of prey.
With your camera poised to capture panoramic vistas and close-up shots alike, you savor the unparalleled thrill of soaring above the treetops, where the only sound is the whisper of the wind and the occasional roar of a distant lion. As the sun climbs higher in the sky, painting the landscape in golden hues, you descend back to earth, filled with a sense of wonder and gratitude for the unforgettable experience.
After a champagne breakfast to celebrate your aerial adventure, you embark on an expedition to the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, renowned for its population of tree-climbing lions. As you traverse the rugged terrain in search of these elusive predators, you marvel at the park’s diverse ecosystems, from lush riverine forests to vast savannah plains.
With your eagle-eyed guides leading the way, you scan the branches of towering fig trees, hoping for a glimpse of a lion lounging in the shade. And then, as if on cue, you spot a pride of lions draped languidly across the boughs, their amber eyes glistening in the dappled sunlight. With your camera clicking away, you capture this surreal sight, immortalizing the unique behaviour of Ishasha’s famous tree-climbing lions.
As the day draws to a close, you return to your lodge, exhilarated by the day’s adventures and filled with a sense of wonder at the natural wonders of Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Day 6: Exploration of Kibale Forest National Park

Today, you bid farewell to Queen Elizabeth National Park and journey northwards towards Kibale Forest National Park, a haven for primates and a paradise for nature enthusiasts. En route, you traverse the picturesque Rwenzori Mountains, known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” whose snow-capped peaks rise majestically above the surrounding landscapes.
Upon reaching Kibale Forest National Park, you check into your charming accommodation
nestled amidst the emerald-green canopy of the forest, where you’re greeted by the melodic chorus of tropical birds and the rustling of leaves in the gentle breeze. After a delicious lunch, you embark on an afternoon exploration of the park, accompanied by expert guides who share their wealth of knowledge about the forest and its inhabitants.
Your first stop is the enchanting Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a hidden gem nestled on the fringes of Kibale Forest. Here, you embark on a guided nature walk through the lush wetlands, traversing boardwalks and winding trails that meander through a mosaic of swamps, grasslands, and marshes. Along the way, you encounter a myriad of bird species, from colorful kingfishers to majestic African fish eagles, as well as playful primates such as black-and-white colobus monkeys and red-tailed monkeys.
As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the wetlands, you capture the beauty of this pristine ecosystem in your photographs, immortalizing the serene landscapes and abundant wildlife that call Bigodi home. With the day drawing to a close, you return to your lodge, where a delectable dinner awaits, accompanied by the soothing sounds of the forest enveloping you in a sense of tranquility.

Accommodation options:

• Chimpanzee Forest guest house (budget / mid-range)
• Primates lodge, Papaya Lodge, Crater lodge (luxury)

Destination:  Kibale Forest National Park

Day 7: Chimpanzee Habituation Experience

Today holds the promise of an extraordinary adventure as you embark on a full-day chimpanzee habituation experience in Kibale Forest National Park. Unlike traditional chimpanzee tracking, which offers brief glimpses of these fascinating primates, the habituation experience allows you to spend an entire day in the presence of a chimpanzee family, observing their behavior and social dynamics up close.
Setting out before dawn breaks, you venture deep into the heart of the forest in search of the chimpanzee group undergoing habituation. Led by experienced trackers and researchers, you navigate the dense undergrowth and towering trees, following the telltale signs of chimpanzee activity, such as discarded fruit remnants and freshly-made nests.
As the sun rises higher in the sky, you finally encounter the chimpanzee family, as they forage for food and engage in playful interactions amidst the leafy canopy. With your camera poised to capture every moment, you observe their intricate social hierarchy, playful antics, and close familial bonds, gaining insight into the complex lives of these remarkable primates.
Throughout the day, you follow the chimpanzees as they move through the forest, documenting their behaviors and interactions with unparalleled intimacy. From tender moments between mothers and infants to displays of dominance and camaraderie among adult males, you witness the full spectrum of chimpanzee life, capturing images that convey the essence of this unique experience.
As the day draws to a close and the chimpanzees retire to their nests for the night, you reluctantly bid farewell to your newfound friends and return to your lodge, filled with a profound sense of gratitude for the privilege of spending a day in the presence of wild chimpanzees.

Day 8: Exploration of Queen Elizabeth National Park – Northern Sector

With your time in Kibale Forest National Park drawing to a close, you embark on a scenic journey back to Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you’ll spend your final days exploring the park’s northern sector. Upon arrival, you check into your luxurious accommodation, perched atop a hill overlooking the vast savannah plains and shimmering crater lakes below.
After a leisurely lunch, you set out to explore the northern reaches of Queen Elizabeth National Park on an afternoon game drive. As you traverse the rugged terrain in search of wildlife, you encounter a diverse array of species, from towering elephants and graceful giraffes to elusive leopards and hyenas prowling in the shadows.
As the sun begins to set, casting a warm glow over the landscape, you capture the beauty of the African savannah in the soft evening light, framing iconic scenes of wildlife against the backdrop of distant mountains and acacia-studded plains. With each click of your camera shutter, you immortalize the timeless allure of Queen Elizabeth National Park, creating lasting memories of your safari adventure.
As darkness falls and the nocturnal creatures emerge from their daytime hiding places, you return to your lodge, where a sumptuous dinner awaits, accompanied by the sounds of the African night echoing in the distance. Gathered around the campfire, you recount the highlights of the day’s adventures, savoring the camaraderie and shared experiences of your safari journey.

Accommodation options:

• Simba safari camp (budget)
• Park view safari lodge, Marafiki safari lodge or Twin lakes lodge (mid-range)
• Mweya Safari lodge (luxury)

Destination:  Queen Elizabeth National Park

Day 9: Transfer to Entebbe and Departure

As your unforgettable photographic safari expedition in Uganda draws to a close, you bid farewell to Queen Elizabeth National Park and embark on a scenic journey back to Entebbe, where it all began. Along the way, you reflect on the incredible experiences and cherished memories you’ve accumulated over the past nine days, from close encounters with chimpanzees and tree-climbing lions to exhilarating hot air balloon safaris and serene moments in the heart of the African wilderness.
Arriving in Entebbe, you’re filled with a sense of gratitude for the natural wonders you’ve witnessed and the friendships you’ve forged along the way. With memories captured in countless photographs and stories to last a lifetime, you say goodbye to your safari companions and board your onward flight, carrying with you the spirit of adventure and the enduring magic of Uganda’s wild landscapes.

End of Tour

Includes & Excludes

Getting There

The trip will start from Kampala or Entebbe to Murchison Falls National Park to Queen Elizabeth National Park to Kibale Forest National Park and you will be dropped off at your hotel in Kampala or Entebbe international airport after the trip.

Fill in and send the safari request form, we shall respond as soon as we receive your message.
You can also reach us on Whats-app Number: +256753750983 for urgent requests.