Gorilla Around Bushes

    18 Days Rafting and Primates Tour

    • Uganda
    • 18 days

    Overview

    Embark on an exhilarating adventure in Uganda by exploring its wild waters. Experience the beauty of the wilderness and the Nile. Brace yourself for a thrilling trip as you navigate the fierce river on a rafting adventure with experts, tourists, and thrill-seekers. After whitewater rafting on the Nile, explore Uganda’s magical safaris in Murchison, Queen Elizabeth, Ishasha, and Bwindi. This dynamic itinerary promises unforgettable memories.

    Best time to visit: July - August

    Duration

    18 days

    Map Overview

    • Entebbe Airport – Uganda
    • Jinja
    • Murchison Falls National Park
    • Murchison Falls National Park – Fortportal
    • Kibale Forest National Park
    • Queen Elizabeth National Park
    • Ishasha
    • Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
    • Kampala
    • Entebbe Airport

    Places to Visit

    Aberdare National ParkAberdare National Park
    Bwindi Impenetrable NPBwindi Impenetrable NP
    IshashaIshasha
    JinjaJinja

    Day by Day Itinerary

    Your arrival will be a warm welcome by our company representative then taken for refreshments and depending on the time of arrival. You will check in at your hotel then acclimatize. Briefing about your safari is also done today and final payments if any.

    Accommodation: Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort and Spa
    Meals: Breakfast

    After breakfast our guide will pick you up from the agreed place (07:00 am), then we drive to Jinja (80km). We’ll have a stopover at the mighty Ssezibwa falls. Your guide will explain to you the secrets behind the formation of the falls and more about the traditional coronation of Buganda kings (Kabaka). You will have some nature walk in Mabira Forest and then also visit the Source of the Nile.

    Accommodation: Source of the Nile Hotel
    Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

    Have your breakfast at the briefing point after which you will be briefed by the rafting experts who will be with you on the boat. You will then board your boats for water rafting on the Nile. It is an amazing and adventurous time rafting on these falls. Later have your lunch, and we drive back to the hotel and relax.

    Accommodation: Source of the Nile Hotel
    Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

    Early departure from Jinja to Murchison Falls, which is about 7 to 8 hours journey including some interesting stops. Looking at the Big Five, we shall be introduced to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, a natural habitat for Rhinos in Uganda. The 2 -3-hour tracking of these special endangered Rhinos not found elsewhere in Uganda Parks is so rewarding and captivating. Time allowing continue to Amuka Safari Lodge for lunch or you can have it at the Rhino Fund Restaurant. Proceed to Murchison Falls National Park arriving in the evening.

    Accommodation:Twiga Safari Lodge for budget or Paraa Safari Lodge for an upgrade
    Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

    Clients can choose to take an early coffee or tea then head on for the game drive on the northern bank of the Nile, with chances of seeing lots of wildlife in search for food; on the list you may find giraffes, elephants, lions, hartebeest and different species of birds. You will return for breakfast, then relax until lunch and in the afternoon the Safari will be continued with a boat cruise on the River Nile for game viewing at close quarters. The boat cruise takes you to the bottom of the falls which is a nice view and also to see are lots of Nile Crocodiles and Hippos. Return for dinner and overnight at the lodge.

    Accommodation: Twiga Safari Lodge for budget or Paraa Safari Lodge for an upgrade
    Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

    Clients can choose to take an early coffee or tea then head on for the game drive on the northern bank of the Nile, with chances of seeing lots of wildlife in search for food; on the list you may find giraffes, elephants, lions, hartebeest and different species of birds. Another interesting but more placid activity is the boat trip through the extensive papyrus delta through which the Victoria Nile flows into Lake Albert. Here again, there are plenty of animals and birds to see with an excellent chance of seeing the rare Shoebill. This trip takes four to five hours.

    Accommodation: Twiga Safari Lodge for budget or Paraa Safari Lodge for an upgrade
    Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

    We depart Murchison Falls and head towards Fort Portal which is about 8 hours, less or more. This long journey will be rewarded with stunning views as you pass small villages and local markets with an en route stop for lunch. Arrive early evening, check in and relax at the lodge.

    Accommodation: Kibale Forest Camp or Primate Lodge Kibale for an upgrade
    Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

    This day is full of exciting walks! In the morning we go to the forest to search for the chimpanzees, also to see are the red-tailed monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys and many other primates in Kibale Forest. The walk in the forest may last for the whole morning, returning only for lunch and then later we can take you for another local but interesting walk in Bigodi Village, we will visit the swamp, known for its rich diversity of birds, butterflies, and rare plant species. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

    Accommodation: Kibale Forest Camp or Primate Lodge Kibale for an upgrade
    Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

    Get a relaxed breakfast then transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park. A view of the crater lakes is stunning then continue to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Depending to where you are sleeping tonight, a game drive as you enter the park can be rewarding.

    Accommodation: Simba Safari Camp or Mweya Safari Lodge
    Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

    Early coffee then begin your day by heading for the mating ground of the Uganda kobs where we may be lucky to spot some lions and leopards hunting. We will also look out for elephants and other wild animals in their natural habitat. Return for lunch, and in the afternoon we take on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, which gives you the opportunity to enjoy some more of the African wildlife. The Kazinga Channel is the place where we find the highest concentration of Hippos in East Africa. It’s a highlight of the safari and a must-do activity as well.

    Accommodation: Kibale Forest Camp or Primate Lodge Kibale for an upgrade
    Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

    Enjoy your breakfast and head southwest of Queen Elizabeth national park in search of tree climbing lions in the Ishasha sector where on a lucky day, you will be able to spot many of them lounging on trees and enjoying the sun.

    Accommodation: Enjojo Lodge or Ishasha Wilderness Camp
    Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

    Early coffee then you will begin your day by heading to the park where we may be lucky to spot the Hyenas, lions before they climb the trees to relax. We shall head to the hotel for lunch and then return late evening for another game drive in the park.

    Accommodation: Enjojo Lodge or Ishasha Wilderness Camp
    Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

    The morning options are either a forest walk in Maramagambo or a chimp trek in Kyambura Gorge before we head to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The forest is famous for the blue lake, unique trees, and bat caves while the Kyambura Gorge is famous for its view and wild chimpanzees. One can choose to go in and search for the chimpanzees in Kyambura Wildlife Reserve which is a beautiful gorge completely covered with tropical rainforest (this option comes at an extra fee). By late morning we will depart for Bwindi with packed lunch; arrive at the home of the endangered mountain gorillas early evening then check in for overnight.

    Accommodation: Buhoma Community Rest Camp or Buhoma Lodge for an upgrade
    Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

    Early breakfast, then with packed lunch head for the briefing about your gorilla trekking. This is the highlight of your safari indeed. Today you will meet with the gentle giants of Bwindi Impenetrable National park! Expect to walk a long distance in steep and muddy conditions, sometimes with rain overhead, before you encounter any gorillas and so you must be physically fit. It’s definitely worthwhile observing the gorillas closely while they feed, play and relax.

    Accommodation: Buhoma Community Rest Camp or Buhoma Lodge for an upgrade
    Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

    The day is dedicated for village walks, birding and visiting several communities and we shall crown it with a hike up to the Pygmies (very short people) and enjoy their entertainment.

    Accommodation: Buhoma Community Rest Camp or Buhoma Lodge for an upgrade
    Meals: Breakfast Lunch and Dinner

    After breakfast, get on board for a scenic journey through the beautiful terrain of the rolling hills with terraced landscapes, an area referred to as the “Switzerland of Africa.” Observe the systematic cultivation of the Bakiga people along the mountain slopes and enjoy the experience of what has been referred to as the ‘Switzerland of Africa’ because of its cool nature. Along the way, break off for hot lunch, and then proceed to Kampala reaching the capital late afternoon, then drop off at the Hotel.

    Accommodation: Biraj Hotel for budget or Mestil Hotel for luxury
    Meals: Breakfast

    After breakfast, we will have a city tour where we will visit major places. We will head out to Kasubi Tombs, the burial grounds of the legendary Buganda Kingdom Kabaka (kings). Then to the Uganda Museum for optimum exposure to Uganda’s history and culture, then proceed to either Martyr’s shrine Namugongo, Namirembe or Lubaga cathedrals as well as the Old Kampala mosque which are the “meeting corner of faiths and civilizations.” Then finally to the Kampala business Centre.

    Accommodation: Biraj Hotel for budget or Mestil Hotel for luxury
    Meals: Breakfast

    This marks the end of the ‘18 day Rafting & Wildlife Tour with Primates ‘and the airport transfer of today will be given to you by our friendly drivers at the time of your flight. If the airport transfer is late, then we shall also offer a city tour around Kampala’s famous and historical sites then drop you off to the airport in time for your flight and see you off.

    Inclusions

    • Gorilla Permit
    • A professional driver/guide
    • All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
    • All Taxes/VAT
    • All Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
    • Drinking water on all days

    Exclusions

    • Tanzania Visa: $50 per person on arrival, USA and CANADA passport holders USD 100
    • International flights (from/to home)
    • Tips (tipping guideline US$20.00 pp per day)
    • Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
    • Services not mentioned in the program
    • Travel insurance and medical repatriation
    • Items of a personal nature

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What’s Included and Excluded in Every Tour?

    The inclusions and exclusions vary by tour. Each tour has its specific set of inclusions and exclusions. Please refer to the individual tour page to see what is specifically included in that tour.

    What Are Your Cancellation Terms?

    Our cancellation terms are standard within the industry. For more information on our cancellation policy, please visit the designated page.

    What Vaccines and Health Requirements Are Needed?

    The requirements vary depending on the country and nationality. For the most accurate information, please visit the page specific to your destination and consult the corresponding embassy page for the latest information.

    Can I Choose Other Accommodation Than What’s Specified?

    Yes, if you have a special preference, let us know, and we will offer alternatives from our vast network of company-owned and partner accommodations. Booking with us allows you to enjoy discounted rates as we have special agreements with our partners.

    Will My Mobile/Cellular Phone Work During the Tour?

    Yes, though signal strength may vary in different areas.

    What Activities Can My Kids Do While on a Safari?

    A safari offers an enriching experience for children, allowing them to observe animals in their natural habitat. Some camps and lodges offer amenities for children, such as playrooms and pools, though these are not universally available. We suggest bringing activities that your children enjoy.

    What Payment Methods Do You Accept?

    We accept various payment methods, including card payments. For more information on acceptable payment methods, please visit our payment information page.

    What If I Have Special Needs or Requirements?

    We strive to cater to all requirements, such as providing wheelchair-friendly accommodation or rooms on the first floor if stairs are a challenge. Please communicate with us in advance about your needs.

    What Are the Road Conditions Like?

    Most safari parks have bumpy but manageable roads, with some roads being paved. Generally, guests do not view this as a problem.

    Is Electricity Available 24 Hours in the Lodges and Camps?

    Most standard camps and lodges are equipped with generators, so electricity is generally available 24 hours. However, some interruptions may occur but are typically not a significant concern for guests.

    What About My Special Diet and Food Preferences?

    We cater to all diets, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, among others. Please inform us in advance about your dietary preferences.

    Is Tipping Required?

    Tipping is not required but is recommended. The amount varies by country, but you should tip according to what you feel is appropriate.

    Take Off on a Memorable Safari Experience and Explore the Wild Right Away!

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