11-Day Uganda Family Safari Highlights

• Day 1: Welcome to the pearl of Africa!
• Day 2: Along tea fields and crater lakes to Kibale Forest
• Day 3: Chimpanzee trekking and much more!
• Day 4: On safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Day 5: Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari Activities
• Day 6: On to the fairytale Lake Mutanda
• Day 7: Gorilla trekking or enjoy activities at Lake Mutanda
• Day 8: A wonderful day in a magical place!
• Day 9: Lake Mburo National Park
• Day 10: Mountain biking or walking past zebras and giraffes
• Day 11: Return home

Day 1: Welcome to the pearl of Africa!

Today is the first day of your Ugandan family trip. Upon your arrival in Entebbe, a driver will be waiting for you at the airport. Getting to the first lodge is a about fifteen-minute drive.

The town of Entebbe is located near Lake Victoria. The largest lake in Africa is this one. Saginaw is a picturesque peninsula where the city sits. As soon as you step outside, you’ll feel at ease under the warm tropical sun and crisp air. The former capital of Uganda is Entebbe. “Seat” is the Luganda translation of the word Entebbe. This is still the official home and office of the president even as we speak.

Unwind and savour your inaugural evening in Uganda this evening. Soak in the African night sky while sipping a cool beverage. After that, go to bed and rest well. Your quest will resume tomorrow.

Day 2: Along tea fields and crater lakes to Kibale Forest

Your guide will be waiting for you when you wake up. Before your journey, you will be briefed. After that, you’ll start the roughly five-hour journey westward to Kibale Forest National Park.

Villages, tropical forests, tea plantations, and crater lakes are all stops during today’s drive. The destination is Fort Portal. The snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains are visible on days with good visibility.

Kibale Forest is like stepping into another dimension. A monkey-filled planet!

You are invited to unwind by the pool during the day. Take in the breathtaking scenery as well. Go for a stroll in the adjacent jungle if that sounds good to you. Nearly an hour passes on footfall. The path is beautiful. Monkeys are a common sight. (Sold separately, $12/person.)

Kibale Forest National Park

In Africa, the Kibale rainforest is home to a plethora of primate species. Thirteen kinds of primates call this forest home. Monkeys with red tails, black-and-white colobus, red colobus, diademed monkeys, mantled mangabeys, and bush infants are all part of this group. Approximately 1,300 meters above sea level is where the park is located. On the northern edge of the forest, you may see tea plantations. In the south, you can find papyrus marshes. Observing birds is another wonderful pastime in the region, particularly in the Bigodi Wetland.

Forest Walk at Turaco Treetops (Optional)

On thirteen acres of verdant jungle is Turaco Treetops. The Kibale Forest National Park is adjacent to it. The stroll in the woods often lasts between one to one and a half hours. The path is not difficult or demanding. Among the six primate species that you might observe are vervets, mantled mangabeys, black-and-white colobus, red-tailed monkeys, L’Hoëst monkeys, and red colobus. The Grey-eared Hornbill, Lady Ross’s Turaco, and Giant Turaco are among the birds that you might see. The route is characterised by elevated walkways and wooded pathways. Elephant tracks in the forest are also possible to spot.

Day 3: Chimpanzee trekking and much more!

Our focus today is on monkeys. The adjacent marshes and forests will be your destinations. Chimpanzee trekking takes place first thing in the morning.

Early in the day, you will meet your guide. After that, you set out for the woods. In order to locate the chimpanzees, the journey makes use of hints such as splintered branches, droppings, and noises. The walk through the rainforests of the tropical rain forest takes around two to four hours. Still, nothing beats being up close and personal with a chimpanzee. Unexpectedly human-like features characterise these big apes.

The afternoon is at your leisure following the walk. Take it easy by the pool at the lodge. Feel free to select an alternative pursuit. Scroll down for a list of options. Costs fifty dollars each rider. Entrance to other events is $30 each.

Minimum Age for Chimpanzee Trekking

Twelve years of age is the bare minimum.
With a parent’s signed letter, children as young as 10 or 11 years old may be granted permission. We have the option to ask for a waiver for this.
You can save $200 USD off the trip fee if neither you nor your child participate in the chimpanzee trek.

Bigodi Swamp Walk (Optional – Afternoon)

Bigodi Swamp is open for a stroll in the afternoon. Both birds and monkeys love this area. Foraging monkeys come in numerous varieties. Among the most notable is the gigantic turaco. At midday, the temperature drops and the animals come out to play.

Cultural Village Walk in Bigodi (Optional)

Enjoy a glimpse of the local culture during this stroll. You are going to see a conventional physician. He will elucidate local beliefs, therapeutic plants, and herbs. Also, you’ll get to see a local house. Weddings, rituals, and tribal life will be the topics of the village elder’s storytelling. You could stop at a church or school on your journey.

Day 4: On safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Your journey continues today after your time in the rainforest. It is Queen Elizabeth National Park that you will be visiting. On this journey, you will pass through rural Uganda. Crater lakes, verdant hills, and tea plantations will all be on your route. The scenery transforms into arid savannah in no time.

You will pass through many local marketplaces as you travel. You may see the local life unfold before your eyes at these markets. You can really immerse yourself in the local culture this way.

Get ready for an exhilarating first-person Jeep safari in the park this afternoon.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Almost 2,000 km² make up Queen Elizabeth National Park. It is situated in the Rift Valley. The northern Rwenzori Mountains are in the distance. Lake Edward lies to the west. The Kazinga Channel is the park’s most famous feature. This canal links the two lakes, Edward and George. Spectacular boat safaris are available here.

The terrain is marked with several volcanic craters to the west of the Kazinga Channel. A vast fissure in the savannah is known as the Kyambura Gorge. Chimpanzees and rainforests are found there. Many animals call this park their home, including crocodiles, lions, leopards, topi, buffalo, and elephants. It is home to around 600 different bird species.

Queen Elizabeth Game Drive– Afternoon

As the sun sets, your afternoon safari will take you on a hunt through vast herds of animals. Buffalo and elephants could be in your sights. Along with this, you could see hyenas, leopards, lions, topi, and Ugandan kobs. As you drive, the scenery changes. On your journey, you’ll come across meadows, crater lakes, and woodlands.

The park takes on a mystical quality as the sun goes down. Take in breathtaking vistas of the Kazinga Channel and volcanic craters. Enjoy a gourmet meal while gazing at the twinkling African stars this evening.

Day 5: Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari Activities

Nature and wildlife are the main topics today. You can go boating or hiking around Queen Elizabeth National Park. Today is a balanced day. A daring morning adventure awaits.

Calmness during the interval. Afternoon wildlife once more. Jeep safaris across the park begin early in the morning. As the sun sets, you’ll be treated to a boat safari unlike any other in Africa. You can have lunch and relax at your lodge in between activities. You can also choose from a variety of optional activities. You can incorporate these by adding an additional day at the park or by substituting one of the scheduled events.

Queen Elizabeth Game Drive– Morning

You leave for your safari after a leisurely breakfast. Over the savannah, the sun rises. There is still a hint of morning fog in the air. You are engulfed in the melodies of the African jungle. The scenery and wildlife are more beautiful at this time of year.

Queen Elizabeth Boat Safari – Afternoon

Lakes Edward and George form a triangle with the park in the middle. It is the Kazinga Channel that connects these lakes. This channel is full of life. This place really shines when you go on a boat safari. Huge herds of hippos will be visible to you. Resting along the riverbank are crocodiles. Buffalo drink from water sources. Wildlife abounds. Everything will be perfect if water cannons resembling elephants materialise.

Optional Activities

Predator Tracking – Morning

Embark on an exclusive safari with a park biologist. Studying lions and leopards is something you pick up on. Assisting in animal tracking are radio collars. You will definitely see lions. Possible, but not guaranteed, are leopards. You are free to drive off-road. Conservation research is supported by this experience.

Kyambura Gorge Trek – Optional

Pedal your way through the Kyambura Gorge. Through the savannah, this enormous abyss slices. The Kyambura River winds its way through a verdant jungle within. Although seeing chimpanzees is not assured, it is possible here. The pleasure comes from walking. This trek is among the most picturesque in all of Uganda. You should be prepared to climb and scramble.

Private Boat Safari – Afternoon (Optional)

The Kazinga Channel is the perfect place to relax aboard a private boat. You can have a better look at the wildlife with a smaller boat. Personalisation is key. A more intimate and low-key encounter awaits you. Families and small groups will love it.

Day 6: On to the fairytale Lake Mutanda

Your journey today begins with a departure from the savannah. You head south, in the direction of Uganda’s volcanic mountains. The road is picturesque. The diversity of the country is truly evident.

Forests and crater lakes are sights to behold as you go. The hills are lined with coffee plantations. Surrounding you, mountains rise. Next, we see Lake Mutanda.

This view is very stunning. You and the kids may make the most of the lake during the following days. A lot of things can be done. Among your options are swimming, paddleboarding, sailing, and kayaking. You have the option to ride a motorboat. Hikes and excursions to nearby villages are also on the table.

You can approach Lake Mutanda in two ways. The pavement is lovely and the scenery is breathtaking. Ishasha, Bwindi, and Lake Bunyonyi are all stops along the off-road path. In terms of scenery, this is the journey’s crown jewel. It is smoother and adds approximately 1.5 hours. An optional short safari in Ishasha to see tree-climbing lions is also an option. That extra fifteen minutes will add up. Due to the excessive length of the day, we do not advise this choice for younger children. To get the most out of your trip, consult your guide.

Lake Mutanda

In extreme southwestern Uganda is located Lake Mutanda. The Virunga Volcanoes are at its base. The Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda are all connected by this volcanic chain. Surrounding the lake are rainforests. Endangered mountain gorillas call these woods home.

Gorilla hiking is best done from Lake Mutanda. The Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest are the locations of the treks. Additionally, the region is teeming with several species of animals. Kingfishers and the grey-crowned crane are birds that you might see. It is along the coastlines that you can find otters, chameleons, frogs, and lizards. The natural world is all around us.

Watersports on Lake Mutanda (Optional)

A wide variety of water sports are available at Mutanda Lake Resort. The lake is devoid of bilharzia, therefore you can swim in it. Take it easy on a jettie. Sail, go kayaking, or stand-up paddleboard. Canoeing in a traditional dugout is a great way to get a feel for the area. Another option is a motorboat. You can relax with a drink in hand while observing the birds.

On site booking is available for all activities.

Day 7: Gorilla Trekking or Relax at Lake Mutanda

Things can be adjusted today. Opt for excitement or unwinding.

You will depart for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest this morning if you have scheduled a gorilla trekking excursion. You might say this is the best part of your whole vacation. You will be returning to Lake Mutanda in the afternoon. It is time to unwind and remember this once in a lifetime event.

There is a lot to do by the lake if you don’t feel like trekking today. Float on the transparent water. Otters are also possible to see. The lake is perfect for paddleboarding, sailing, kayaking, or motorboating. You can also go hiking in the hills that are nearby.

Plus, there’s an active option you can go with. Explore the surrounding area on foot or head to Mgahinga National Park for a more difficult volcano hike. Another fantastic option is a trek with the Golden Monkeys. Refer to Day 8 for the possibilities.

Minimum Age for Gorilla Trekking

You must be at least 15 years old to undertake gorilla trekking. For minors above the age of 13, we can seek an exemption with a letter of written parental approval.

Babysitting Service at Mutanda Lake Resort

A babysitter service is available at Mutanda Lake Resort in case you like to go gorilla trekking without your children. I will make sure your kids are taken care of. Along with food and drink, they will have the opportunity to participate in aquatic activities and play games. I can speak English with the babysitter. Sixty dollars.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

When visiting Africa, one of the best places to see gorillas is in Bwindi. It safeguards over half of the mountain gorillas left on Earth, along with the Virunga Mountains. More than 350 bird species and 120 mammal species call this park home.

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest (Optional)

You will be walking through thick jungle on this walk. Through the woods, you stoop, climb, and follow paths. You are escorted by seasoned rangers from the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Nests, faeces, and shattered bamboo are telltale signs of where gorillas have been. A wild encounter with a silverback is an intense and moving experience. A memorable experience.

Gorilla Habituation Experience – Bwindi Forest (Optional)

Gorilla habituation days are an alternative to regular trekking. Along with the researchers, you get to witness a family of gorillas adjusting to human presence.
The gorillas are open to visitors for as long as four hours. A maximum of four people per group is allowed. It was a unique and personal encounter.

Bwindi & Lake Mutanda Excursions (Optional)

Everyone can find what they’re looking for in this verdant area. Take part in kayaking and paddleboarding adventures on Lake Mutanda. It is strongly advised to go on a motorboat excursion at sunset while sipping a drink.
Explore Mgahinga National Park and go on a Virunga volcano climb or go monkey tracking. In Bwindi, you can join a Batwa cultural experience, go on a guided forest walk, or visit a community.

Belong to a particular group? Make sure to inform your travel expert. You can book some activities ahead of time and others right there.

Day 8: A wonderful day in a magical place!

You have three nights at the stunning Lake Mutanda, so today is at your leisure. Everyone can find what they’re looking for in this area.

Immerse yourself in the local culture, conquer surrounding volcanoes, or visit Mgahinga National Park to see the joyful Golden Monkeys. Do you like a more leisurely pace? Take a dip in the lake, do stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or sailing for some tranquillity.

However you spend the day, the setting alone makes it unforgettable.

Bwindi & Lake Mutanda Excursions (Optional)

Discover the wonders of this verdant and diverse terrain. Sailing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking are all fun activities around Lake Mutanda. I definitely recommend going on a motorboat sunset sail while sipping a cocktail.

The Virunga volcanoes and Golden Monkey trekking are among the difficult activities available in Mgahinga National Park, which extends beyond the lake. The Bwindi jungle is not only a great place to go gorilla trekking, but it also offers beautiful walks. Additionally, you can have cultural activities like visiting a Batwa community or going on a village tour.

What are your hobbies and interests? Make sure to inform your travel expert. Come up with a plan for pre-booked events and make last-minute arrangements as a group.

Watersports on Lake Mutanda (Optional)

A wide variety of first-rate water sports are right at your fingertips at Mutanda Lake Resort. Enjoy a swim in the bilharzia-free lake or unwind on one of the three jetties at the resort. Try stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or laser boat sailing for something a little more energetic. Experience the local culture by paddling a classic dugout boat.

You may also rent a motorboat, which is great for relaxing on the water with a glass of wine while watching the birds or just taking in the sights. Take your time and appreciate the beauty of this serene lake, no matter what you decide.

At Mutanda Lake Resort, you can reserve any activity right there.

Golden Monkey Trekking – Mgahinga National Park (Optional)

The stunning and endangered Golden Monkeys are waiting for you on a journey today. At the base of the Virunga volcanoes, Mgahinga National Park is inhabited by multiple habituated communities. When you get to them, you can spend as much as an hour watching how they act. Photographing them is a thrill and a challenge because of their boundless energy and enthusiasm for play.

Sabyinyo Volcano Trek – Mgahinga National Park (Optional)

The most daring walk in Mgahinga National Park is the ascent to the top of Mount Sabyinyo. Only hikers in excellent physical condition with a fear of heights should attempt this strenuous trail. It takes about 8 or 9 hours to complete the walk.

Climbing steep trails will lead you into a bamboo forest and a cloud forest shrouded in mist, where beard moss grows thick. There are steep ravines, rocky trails, and tiny ridges along the way. With the aid of wooden ladders and steps, you may safely ascend the steepest areas, with the guidance of knowledgeable rangers and frequent rest stops.

You will be greeted with a breathtaking panorama upon reaching the peak. At this same spot, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda all come together. Underneath, on days with good visibility, you may make see the picturesque Lake Mutanda.

Lake Mulehe Canoe Trip & Hike (Optional)

Near Lake Mutanda, you’ll find the beautiful Lake Mulehe, which you should definitely check out. An idyllic canoe or boat ride across serene Lake Mulehe is the first stop on this adventure, which also includes a stroll along the lake’s edge. Take in the breathtaking scenery of the Bwindi jungle and the Virunga volcanoes as you gaze out over the two lakes. A traditional medicine man, welcoming people, and fisherman are all things you might expect to encounter on your travels. Lunch at a nearby restaurant is on the house.

The trek is not particularly challenging, although it does have some hilly stretches. This six-hour outing is the ideal blend of relaxing activities, beautiful scenery, and meaningful interactions with locals. At Mutanda Lake Resort, you have the option to reserve this tour in advance.

Day 9: Lake Mburo National Park

You depart from Lake Mutanda today with priceless memories. The unforgettable Gorillas in the Mist encounters with Dian Fossey’s renowned proteges and the untamed force, beauty, and individuality of Central African environment will remain with you always.

You’ll take a picturesque route that links Rwanda, Kampala, and Kenya as you head north in the direction of Lake Mburo National Park. You will reach your resort in the afternoon and have the remainder of the day to yourself to unwind. Unwind in the tranquil pool area or take in the breathtaking African scenery.

For a new take on animal viewing, consider going on an optional night safari in the early evening when the sun goes down.

Lake Mburo National Park

Although it is the smallest national park in Uganda, Lake Mburo is home to a diverse array of animals and breathtaking landscapes. Impala and eland are unique to this park; no other park in the nation has them. Hippos, crocodiles, and an incredible diversity of birds call Lake Mburo home, making it a nature lover’s heaven.

Lake Mburo Night Safari (Optional)

An thrilling night safari will be your destination right before supper. You will use spotlights to look for animals that are active at night, including hyenas and galagos, and there is a decent probability that you will see a leopard as well. An exciting and moody way to wind out the day.

Day 10: Mountain biking or walking past zebras and giraffes

Start your day off well with a guided walking safari around Lake Mburo National Park or an exhilarating mountain bike safari. Both options are included. Because there are no dangerous animals like lions or elephants in the park, these tours are a great way to get up close and personal with nature. You will start the drive back to Entebbe, passing the equator on the way, after your morning adventure and a leisurely (late) breakfast. A comfortable guesthouse close to Lake Victoria will be your home for your last night. Your time in Uganda will be truly memorable, and tomorrow you will return home via plane.

Mountain Bike Safari – Lake Mburo (Morning)

Take in the breathtaking scenery as you pedal your mountain bike through Lake Mburo National Park’s undulating hills and expansive grassland. You can expect to see zebras, impalas, and timid eland as you travel and take in breathtaking vistas. This moderately difficult course is perfect for a morning ride because of its mild ascents and descents. (Watch the video if you need some ideas.)

Walking Safari – Lake Mburo (Morning, optional)

You will go on a foot safari in the park with a knowledgeable ranger, looking for animals like giraffes, zebras, and buffalo. Birdwatchers will enjoy adore walking safaris in Lake Mburo, a photographer’s and environmental enthusiast’s paradise thanks to its 310+ bird species.

Day 11: Departure – Flight Home

To catch your trip back home, a driver will take you from your accommodation to Entebbe International Airport today. We hope that you and your family will take home priceless memories of the beautiful landscapes, fascinating wildlife, and priceless times spent together as your Ugandan journey draws to a close. Have a safe trip back home; we look forward to seeing you in Africa again soon.

End of the 11-Day Uganda Family Safari

Inclusions

• Overnight stays at your desired level and accompanying meals
• All entrance fees to the national parks
• Transport in a 4×4 safari Landcruiser
• Transfers as stated
• Professional English-speaking driver and guides
• Chimpanzee trekking, Kibale Forest National Park
• Boat Safari, Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Game drive, Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Mountain bike safari or safari walk, Lake Mburo National Park
• Almost all excursions, unless labeled as optional

Exclusions

• Intercontinental flight
• Other meals, drinks (depending on the accommodation level)
• Single room supplement
• Visa fees
• Travel insurance
• Permit gorilla trekking, Bwindi
• Permit gorilla habituation day, Bwindi
• Night safari Lake Mburo National Park
• All optional excursions