The Ultimate Week in Uganda
Primates, Wildlife & Waterfalls in the Pearl of Africa
Trip Overview
This comprehensive 7-day journey through Uganda showcases the country's incredible biodiversity and natural wonders. From tracking mountain gorillas in misty highlands to spotting tree-climbing lions in savannah parks, you'll experience Africa's most thrilling wildlife encounters. The itinerary balances active adventures with scenic relaxation, taking you from thundering waterfalls to tranquil lakes, lush rainforests to volcanic hot springs. You'll witness the powerful Murchison Falls, trek through chimpanzee habitats, and explore unique geological formations. This moderate-paced trip covers Uganda's southwestern and central regions, offering authentic encounters with both wildlife and local communities while maintaining comfortable travel distances between destinations.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrival & Wetland Wonders
Where to Stay Tonight
Entebbe town center or lakeside (Mid-range guesthouse or hotel)
Proximity to the airport and Mabamba Swamp makes this ideal for your first night, with easy access to restaurants and Lake Victoria views
Journey to the Savannah
Where to Stay Tonight
Inside or just outside Lake Mburo National Park (Safari lodge or tented camp)
Staying near the park allows for early morning activities and evening wildlife sounds create an authentic safari atmosphere
Primate Paradise Awaits
Where to Stay Tonight
Kibale National Park area (Forest lodge or eco-camp)
Proximity to the park entrance ensures an early start for chimpanzee trekking and immerses you in the rainforest environment
Chimpanzee Encounter
Where to Stay Tonight
Kibale National Park area (Same lodge as previous night or similar forest accommodation)
Staying another night allows for a relaxed pace and the option to explore more of the Kibale region
Savannah Giants
Where to Stay Tonight
Queen Elizabeth National Park (Mweya Peninsula or Kasenyi area) (Safari lodge with park views)
Central location provides easy access to both morning and afternoon game drives and the Kazinga Channel
Rhinos & Waterfalls
Where to Stay Tonight
Murchison Falls National Park (north bank) (Safari lodge or tented camp near the Nile)
North bank location provides access to the best game viewing areas and the falls themselves
Nile Safari & Departure
Where to Stay Tonight
Entebbe (if staying overnight) (Airport hotel or guesthouse)
Convenient for early morning flights and a comfortable end to your journey
Practical Information
Getting Around
This itinerary requires a 4WD vehicle with driver, which is the standard and safest way to travel between Uganda's national parks. Road conditions vary from paved highways to rough murram roads, especially within parks. Most travelers hire a vehicle through a tour operator which includes fuel, driver accommodation, and park entry for the vehicle. Self-driving is possible but not recommended for first-time visitors due to road conditions and navigation challenges. Internal flights are available between some destinations but significantly more expensive and less flexible for wildlife viewing.
Book Ahead
Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits must be booked 2-6 months in advance (gorilla permits cost $700, chimp permits $200). Accommodation in popular parks like Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls should be reserved 1-2 months ahead during peak season. Boat cruises and game drives can typically be arranged upon arrival or 1-2 days in advance.
Packing Essentials
Lightweight long pants and long-sleeved shirts in neutral colors for trekking, waterproof hiking boots, rain jacket, sun hat, sunscreen, insect repellent with DEET, binoculars, camera with zoom lens, reusable water bottle, headlamp, basic first aid kit, and any prescription medications. Yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry.
Total Budget
$1,540-2,070 for 7 days (excluding international flights and gorilla permits)
Customize Your Trip
Budget Version
Reduce costs by staying in budget guesthouses and campsites instead of lodges ($30-50 per night), using public transport where possible (though this adds significant time), joining group tours to share vehicle costs, preparing some of your own meals, and focusing on fewer parks to minimize travel expenses. Skip the rhino sanctuary and reduce the number of paid activities. Budget travelers can complete this itinerary for $100-150 per day excluding permits.
Luxury Upgrade
Upgrade to high-end safari lodges and luxury tented camps ($300-600 per night) with private verandas overlooking wildlife areas, charter private flights between parks to save time and maximize comfort, hire a private guide and vehicle for personalized attention, add gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest ($700 permit), book private boat charters, and include spa treatments and fine dining experiences. Luxury travelers should budget $500-800 per day.
Family-Friendly
Choose family-friendly lodges with larger rooms or family cottages, add more relaxed activities like nature walks and cultural visits instead of long treks, consider shorter game drives with breaks, visit Ngamba Island Chimpanzee sanctuary instead of forest trekking for easier chimp viewing, allow more downtime for swimming and rest, and build in flexibility for children's energy levels. Many parks have junior ranger programs. Family rooms and child discounts make this manageable on a moderate budget.
Book Activities for Your Trip
Tours, tickets, and experiences in Uganda