The Ultimate River Nile Horse Safari Itinerary Guide

Immerse yourself in rural Uganda on this Ultimate River Nile Horse Safari Itinerary vacation as you pass through plantations, villages, and woods along the banks of the world’s longest river.

Among the great explorers’ most iconic quests, the one to discover the Nile’s headwaters is right up there with those of the Northwest Passage and the Oregon Trail. If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable experience, this is the Ultimate River Nile Horse Safari Itinerary for you. It’s off the beaten path. The sensation of standing at the headwaters of the longest river in the world is tremendous. The fact that it can be incorporated into a riding vacation elevates the experience!

You will stay at four wonderful lodges while riding through rural Africa, passing through agriculture, forests, rapids, and rivers. As you ride through traditional villages, you’ll feel like you’re the Pied Piper, leading the youngsters who shout “Jambo!” as they race after the horses. In the beginning, you can take a horseback ride through sugar cane and tea farms, or you can saddle up beside the Nile River and feel the white water rush by. Discover verdant rain forests, traverse swamps, and ascend hills with breathtaking views, all while immersed in the adventure of a jungle explorer on the hunt for exotic birds and monkeys. Ride your bike around the shores of the enchanted Lake Victoria for a day, then follow the Nile River all the way to its headwaters.

Experience a spiritual feast every day of the week thanks to Africa’s world-famous sunrises and sunsets and the breathtaking and varied landscapes that surround them. Choose from a variety of stunning and unique lodges, from a rustic cabin in the woods to a floating island in the midst of the Nile! White river rafting, swimming pools with stunning vistas, and Nile sunset cruises are just a few of the activities offered at the resorts, in addition to fantastic riding. This Ultimate River Nile Horse Safari Itinerary vacation will be one you won’t soon forget because to the spectacular scenery of Uganda, the beautiful communities, the iconic rivers and lakes, the monkeys abound, the perfect rain forest, and the excellent birding.

Horse riding safari around the source of the Nile, in Jinja, Uganda

By keeping to smaller groups, we can better cater to the needs of each rider and adapt the speed to their abilities. The horses are highly intelligent, enthusiastic, and proud of their sanctuary. Fit and responsive, several of the horses participate in dressage and events. You will be rewarded handsomely if you are comfortable in the saddle and can maintain a trot or canter for extended durations so that you can enjoy this thrilling River Nile Horse Safari experience to the fullest. Long canters are a delight on the dirt trails, and there are some fantastic places for quicker gallops as well! If you’re looking to gain self-assurance, this is the perfect ride for you; by week’s end, we almost promise you’ll be racing at the front!

Seeing the mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is an absolute must-do while in Uganda, therefore we highly suggest adding a few more nights to your Ultimate River Nile Horse Safari Itinerary!

Detailed River Nile Horse Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Introduction Ride

Flights departing from Entebbe International Airport can be booked internationally. You can skip the airport and get right to your adventure because many flights land early in the morning. We can make accommodation arrangements if you would like to arrive a day early and spend the night in Entebbe. Your transfer to Jinja will begin at approximately 9 AM on the first day of your River Nile Horse Safari. The drive, which can take up to three hours due to traffic, passes through verdant farmlands and vibrant marketplaces.

When you go to Holland Park, which is close to Jinja, you may enjoy a refreshing drink while taking in breathtaking views of the Nile River. After you have made yourself at home, stroll down to the river’s edge to hop on the Nile boat tour. During lunch, the crew will give you the rundown on all the amazing things happening next week.

Once you’ve met the horses and your guides, it’s time to jump on your horse for a 1.5-hour ride. As the sun sets, you can ride your bike through the picturesque village and along the Nile Riverbanks in the golden light of afternoon. Spend the night at Holland Park and have dinner while gazing out over the Nile.

Day 2: Ride Through the Sugar and Tea Plantations

Get ready for a four-hour ride through traditional communities and sugar plantations after waking up to a beautiful African morning and a hearty breakfast. This path winds its way around the verdant and productive countryside. As you pedal up the hills to your picnic area for lunch, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the landscape below. Take advantage of the long canters to enjoy the broad spaces and unrestricted movement. Host your overnight bash at Holland Park.

Day 3: The Shores of Lake Victoria

Set out on an exciting excursion after a hearty breakfast. Before you get on your horse, you can take a tour of a nearby school if you’d like. The horses will be brought to your starting spot. Please feel free to donate any books suitable for elementary school students that you may have on hand. The next day, embark on a scenic five- or six-hour ride around Lake Victoria, along winding roads past picturesque plantations and woodlands. After yet another spectacular canter, take a refreshing dip in Lake Victoria before making your way to the lookout point, where a picnic is waiting. Nestled in the hills overlooking Jinja town and the lake is today’s lunch destination. On River Nile Horse Safari journey, you may take in breathtaking panoramas of the lake, sugar cane fields, and historic towns. Your new home for the next two nights will be brought to you after your ride. Indulge in a lazy afternoon by the pool or go for a swim in the river while taking in the breathtaking white water rapids. The bar is a good vantage point for seeing otters, fish eagles, and monitor lizards. As the sun sets, the red-tail monkeys perform a spectacular aerial show, soaring from one tree to another. Host your overnight stay at The Haven.

Day 4: Rainforest Ride

Riding for three and a half hours through the charming Mabira forest after breakfast, you can look for indigenous monkey species unique to this forest, as well as uncommon forest primates like grey-cheeked mangabeys. Due to the potentially muddy conditions in the forest, your guides may need to forge new paths for the horses, which can add an extra layer of excitement to the journey. Even some streams need to be crossed or jumped, but that just adds to the adventure! Just around the corner is a great place to have lunch while taking in the sights of the forest’s avian inhabitants. Afternoons are perfect for returning to The Haven for a massage, poolside relaxation, or afternoon nap. Check into The Haven Lodge for the night.

Day 5: Rainforest to River

Approximately five hours of riding through forested areas, tea plantations, and viewing sites awaits you today. Countless beautiful strolls and lightning-fast canters! You can either have another picnic in the tea plantations or get to your next stop in time for a late lunch. Leaving the horses behind is the next step after soaking in the breathtaking xxx falls and capturing some unforgettable images. Taking the little boat to WildWaters Lodge is an exciting journey in and of itself. Stunning white water rapids round the island where the lodge sits in the center of the Nile. Kick back on your deck and relax for the night, or grab a drink and swim in the main pool area while you watch the rapids. WildWaters Lodge, overnight.

Day 6: Optional White Water Rafting of Other Activity

Rafting the Nile – Jinja, Uganda

Today is your day to do whatever you want around here. Experience the thrill of a lifetime on a day of white water rafting on some of the world’s most breathtaking rivers, complete with mild water and world-class rapids. Quad riding, bungee jumping, mountain biking, kayaking, and birding trips up the river are some alternatives to rafting that you might like. We can arrange for you to participate in these activities, but they are not part of the trip. If you have any specific interests, please let us know. You can also speak to the staff while you’re there. On your own veranda, you have the option to unwind at the Wild Waters. Let WildWaters Lodge be your home for the night.

Day 7: Horseback Swim and Ride to Wildwater Lodge

On your final morning of the vacation, get up early and have a delicious breakfast before going for a horseback swim in a picturesque bay with a sandy bottom and no hippos or crocodiles. Following the Nile downstream gives us excellent views of the rapids. Before you reach Kalagala Falls, your last trip will take you to a vantage point where you can see the Nile from above. You will ride the little boat to the lodge after bidding farewell to your horse and grooms. With plenty of time to sightsee upon arrival, you can go for an afternoon swim. Savor your final lunch while remembering the exciting events of the week and marveling at the ethereal scenery. Let WildWaters Lodge be your home for the night.

Day 8: Onwards Travel

Before making the journey back to Entebbe, you can enjoy breakfast and some free time at the lodge, depending on your plans. Plan to spend the night in Entebbe or book your flight after 17h00. Spending an extra night or two in Bwindi to observe gorillas, wildlife in Murchison Falls, or Queen Elizabeth National Park is something we strongly suggest.

End of the 8 Days River Nile Horse Safari Itinerary

Inclusions

• 7 nights Accommodation throughout the trip
• Transfers to and from Entebbe Airport
• All meals mentioned in the itinerary
• All drinks at meals and when riding
• All riding on well-trained and responsive horses
• Water and drinks while riding
• Activities mentioned in the itinerary
• Knowledgeable and Professional Guiding

Exclusions

• International flights to Entebbe
• Visas (approx USD $50)
• Comprehensive Travel and Medical Insurance
• Overnight in Entebbe if applicable
• Gratuities
• Additional activities like White Water Rafting

Want an in-depth insight into this River Nile Horse Safari Itinerary? Essential Trip Information provides, visa info, How to get to Uganda, the Best Time to visit – pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.