5 Days Queen Elizabeth National Park
Overview
Tour Overview:
Embark on an extraordinary five-day journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Uganda, where you’ll have the chance to encounter captivating wildlife and majestic mountain gorillas. Your adventure begins in Queen Elizabeth National Park, where thrilling game drives and boat safaris await, allowing you to immerse yourself in the remarkable biodiversity of this unique ecosystem. Witness herds of elephants, graceful lions, and a myriad of bird species in their natural habitat.
Next, venture into the dense jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for an awe-inspiring mountain gorilla trekking experience. Traverse lush vegetation guided by experienced trackers as you seek out these gentle giants. Get up close to a gorilla family, observe their behavior, and witness the undeniable connection between their world and ours.
Throughout your journey, you’ll be immersed in Uganda’s stunning landscapes, from rolling savannahs to misty rainforests. Engage with local communities, learn about their cultures, and support sustainable tourism initiatives that benefit both wildlife and local residents.
This five-day adventure offers a unique blend of thrilling wildlife encounters and intimate gorilla interactions, leaving you with cherished memories and a profound appreciation for Uganda’s natural wonders.
Included/Exclude
Included:
- Airport Transfers: Convenient airport transfers are provided for a hassle-free start and end to your journey.
- Transportation by a 4 x 4 Land Cruiser: Travel comfortably and safely in a 4 x 4 Land Cruiser, suitable for various terrains.
- One Gorilla Permit Per Person: Your package includes one gorilla trekking permit per person, valued at $700, ensuring your unforgettable encounter with mountain gorillas.
- Community Walks in Bwindi: Immerse yourself in local culture with community walks in Bwindi, offering insights into the lives and traditions of the local community.
- Accommodation and Meals: Enjoy comfortable accommodation and meals as outlined in the itinerary, ensuring a pleasant stay and culinary delights.
- Two Game Drives: Embark on two exhilarating game drives, enhancing your chances of spotting wildlife and experiencing the beauty of natural landscapes.
- Igongo Cultural Visit: Explore the lifestyle and culture of the Ankole and Bahima people at Igongo Cultural Village, providing a unique cultural experience.
- Two-Hour Boat Trip along Kazinga Channel: Set sail on a scenic two-hour boat trip along the renowned Kazinga Channel, where you can observe wildlife and diverse bird species.
- Park Fees: Entrance fees to national parks are covered, granting access to Uganda's remarkable natural wonders.
- Driver/Guide Subsistence Allowance: Your driver/guide's subsistence allowance is included in the package, ensuring their well-being during your journey.
- Enroute Lunches: Enjoy lunches during travel breaks, ensuring you stay energized and refreshed.
- Ranger Guide Fees: Fees for ranger guides are included, ensuring your safety and guidance during activities such as gorilla trekking.
- All Government Taxes: All relevant government taxes are covered, ensuring transparency and hassle-free travel.
Excluded:
- International or Local Flights: The cost of international or local flights is not included in the package.
- Travel Insurance: Travel insurance, including coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and personal belongings, is not included but is highly recommended.
- Personal Expenditures: Expenses such as souvenirs, alcoholic beverages, and personal purchases are not included in the package.
- Tips and Gratuities to the Guides: Tips and gratuities for guides are not included but are typically appreciated and can be estimated at approximately $10 USD per person.
Tour Plan
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival Entebbe Airport-Kampala (Travel Time +1hr)
Upon your arrival at Entebbe Airport, you will receive a warm welcome from our guide who will then escort you to your accommodation at either Serena Kampala Hotel (High end) or Cassia Lodge (Mid-range). Enjoy a delicious dinner at your hotel.
Meal plan: Dinner
Day 2: Kampala-Queen Elizabeth NP (Travel Time +7hr)
Your guide will pick you up at 7:30 am from your hotel or residence for your journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park. The route takes you via Fort Portal with a lunch stop in Kasese, allowing you to savor the picturesque scenery of Mt. Rwenzori's foothills.
After lunch, continue your drive to Queen Elizabeth NP, where you'll be greeted by stunning landscapes. In the evening, embark on an exciting two-hour boat cruise along the renowned Kazinga channel, offering opportunities to spot hippos, buffalo, kobs, elephants, warthogs, and various bird species.
Dinner and overnight stay at Mweya Safari Lodge/Jacana Safari Lodge (Lodge Facility) or Enganzi Lodge (Mid Lodge)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 3: Queen Elizabeth –Bwindi (Travel Time +3hr)
Start your day with a cup of coffee and embark on an early morning game drive along Kasenyi and Queens Mile. This adventure provides chances to encounter elephants, buffalo, water bucks, warthogs, lions, Uganda Kobs, lakes, and diverse birdlife.
Following the game drive, journey through the Ishasha Sector, where you may opt for a mini-game drive to search for the renowned tree-climbing lions. Continue to Bwindi Forest National Park.
Dinner and overnight stay at either Buhoma Lodge/Mahogany Springs/Gorilla Safari Lodge (high-end lodge) or Sliver back Lodge/Chameleon Hill Lodge (Mid-range)
Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 4: Bwindi Gorilla Trekking
Enjoy breakfast before your gorilla trekking adventure, commencing at 8:00 am with a briefing from UWA staff. Ensure you have essential items such as a rain jacket, drinking water, snacks, jungle boots, etc.
Expert guides will lead you into the jungle to encounter the elusive primates of the gorilla family you've been assigned to. Don't forget your lunch boxes and necessary gear for this extraordinary wildlife experience, which may last 2 to 6 hours.
In the afternoon, partake in a village walk in Buhoma. The Buhoma Village Walk offers insights into the lives and culture of the local people while directly supporting the community.
Dinner and overnight stay at either Buhoma Lodge/Mahogany Springs (High-end lodge) or Sliver back Lodge/Chameleon Hill Lodge (Mid-range)
Meal plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 5: Bwindi –Kampala/Entebbe Out (Travel Time +8hr)
Return to Kampala, then to Entebbe via Mbarara, making a stop at Igongo Cultural Village. Here, you can explore the lifestyle and culture of the Ankole and Bahima people, bridging the past and future. Enjoy lunch en route and take a break at Equator Uganda before your evening departure.
Alternatively, you may opt for a flight back from Bwindi to Entebbe at an additional cost. Spend your morning relaxing in Bwindi National Park before catching either a morning or afternoon flight to Entebbe.
This marks the end of your journey.
Note: The estimated travel times are included for each day.
