12 days best Uganda self-drive tour

12 days best Uganda self-drive tour

12 days best Uganda self-drive tour, Uganda is a landlocked country located in East Africa, bordered by Kenya to the east, South Sudan to the north, the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west, Rwanda to the southwest, and Tanzania to the south. It is known for its diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich wildlife. Here are some of the reasons why Uganda must be on your bucket list;

• Natural beauty: Uganda is known as the “Pearl of Africa” due to its stunning landscapes, including lush forests, diverse wildlife, majestic mountains, and beautiful lakes like Lake Victoria and Lake Bunyonyi.
• Wildlife and safaris: Uganda offers excellent opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts to see some of Africa’s most iconic animals, including mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, elephants, lions, and more. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park are popular destinations for safaris.
• Gorilla trekking: Uganda is one of the few countries where you can go gorilla trekking and have a chance to observe these incredible and endangered creatures in their natural habitat.
• Cultural diversity: Uganda is home to numerous ethnic groups, each with its own traditions, languages, and customs. Exploring the rich cultural diversity can be a fascinating experience.
• Friendly locals: Ugandans are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness towards visitors.
• Adventure activities: For adrenaline junkies, Uganda offers opportunities for white-water rafting, kayaking, bungee jumping, and more.

Detailed itinerary for 12 days best Uganda self-drive tour

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe

Firstly arrive in Entebbe International Airport where you will pick up your rental car and check into your accommodation for rest. Relax as you wait for tomorrow’s adventure.

Location: Kampala/Entebbe

Accommodation options:

Luxury: Latitude 0 Degrees Serena Hotel Kigo

Mid-range: Cassia Lodge, Boma Guest House

Budget: Via Via hotel

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 2: Drive Murchison Falls National Park

Have an early morning breakfast then drive straightaway to Murchison Falls National Park. Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest and oldest national park, covering an area of approximately 3,840 square kilometers (1,480 square miles). Located in the northern part of the country, the park is named after the spectacular Murchison Falls, where the mighty Nile River is forced through a narrow gorge, creating a thunderous waterfall. Check into your lodge. Have lunch and later enjoy an afternoon game drive in the park. Finally have dinner and rest for what tomorrow brings.

Location: Murchison Falls National park

Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge | Chobe Safari Lodge

Mid-Range: Murchison River Lodge | Pakuba Safari Lodge

Budget: Hornbill Safari Lodge | Heritage Safari Lodge|Red Chilli Rest Camp

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Drinking Water Throughout

Day 3: Murchison Falls National Park

Take an early morning game drive to spot the park’s early risers such as lions, elephants, giraffes, and more. Head back to the lodge and have breakfast and rest.

In the afternoon after lunch , take a boat cruise on the Nile to the base of Murchison Falls. As the boat sets off along the Nile River, you’ll be surrounded by the stunning scenery of the park. The lush riverbanks are teeming with wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. Overnight in or near the park

Location: Murchison Falls National park

Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge | Chobe Safari Lodge

Mid-Range: Murchison River Lodge | Pakuba Safari Lodge

Budget: Hornbill Safari Lodge | Heritage Safari Lodge|Red Chilli Rest Camp

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Drinking Water Throughout

Day 4: Murchison Falls to Kibale Forest National Park

Early morning after breakfast drive to Kibale Forest National park. Kibale National Park is one of Uganda’s most renowned national parks, located in the western part of the country. It is famous for its remarkable population of chimpanzees and other primates, making it a top destination for primate trekking and wildlife enthusiasts. Rest and relax at your lodge in the evening.

Location: Kibale Forest National Park

Accommodation Option:

Budget: Lake Nkuruba Camp Site | Rweteera Safari Park 

Midrange: Chimpanzee Guest House | Kibale Forest Camp

Luxury: Kyaninga Safari Lodge | Papaya Lake Lodge

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Drinking Water throughout

Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest

Early Breakfast at the lodge, after your guide will take you to the park head offices for briefing about the dos and dont’s while with chimps and after set out for Chimpanzee tracking through the forest. During the trek, you stand a big chance to spot more species of primates that live in the forest plus various species of birds.

Once the chimps are met, you are only allowed 1 hour with the chimpanzees, you may find them doing their daily activities like feeding, breast feeding, making nest for the following night, playing among etc. 8 Days Kibale Queen & Bwindi: On seeing chimpanzees, other primates can be spotted such as the Red Tailed Monkeys, LHoest’s Monkeys, Blue Monkeys, Black & White colobus Monkeys among others and also elephants, antelopes, buffaloes can be spotted in the forest. After this breathtaking experience, you will follow the guide back to the lodge for lunch.

Additionally in the evening go for a nature walk through the Bigodi wetland where you will see different species of birds, primate species for instance the baboons, bush babies among other wildlife species. Go back to the lodge for dinner and an Overnight stay at the lodge.

Location: Kibale Forest National Park

Accommodation Option:

Budget: Lake Nkuruba Camp Site | Rweteera Safari Park 

Midrange: Chimpanzee Guest House | Kibale Forest Camp

Luxury: Kyaninga Safari Lodge | Papaya Lake Lodge

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Drinking Water throughout

Day 6: Kibale to Queen Elizabeth National Park

After enjoying an early breakfast at the lodge, embark on a scenic journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park. This renowned park is known for its abundant wildlife species and is considered one of Uganda’s outstanding wildlife destinations. The park boasts a remarkable variety of wildlife, including over 600 bird species and mammals such as elephants, buffaloes, and more.

As you drive to the park, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views, including glimpses of the majestic Rwenzori mountain ranges and other picturesque scenery. Once you arrive, check into your pre-booked accommodation and savor a delicious lunch.

Later in the evening, prepare for an exciting game drive. During this safari adventure, you will have the opportunity to spot numerous animals that inhabit the park’s diverse landscapes. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, buffaloes, and a myriad of other fascinating wildlife species. The game drive promises to be an unforgettable experience as you immerse yourself in the beauty of Queen Elizabeth National Park.

After a rewarding day of wildlife encounters, head back to your lodge for a delectable dinner, followed by a restful overnight stay.

Location: Queen Elizabeth National Park

Accommodation Option:

Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge |Katara Lodge

Mid-Range: Irungu Forest Safari Lodge | Elephant Hub Lodge

Budget: Pumba Safari Cottages | Bush Lodge

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Drinking Water throughout

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: A nature walk within Maramagambo Forest & an afternoon game drive

After a delightful breakfast, the day’s adventure begins with a nature walk through the Maramagambo forest, known as one of Uganda’s largest forests after Mabira. This pristine forest is teeming with diverse wildlife, including various primate species and forest dwellers.

As you stroll through the lush canopy, keep an eye out for colorful butterflies, a plethora of bird species, and the fascinating world of bats. Notably, the Kyambura Gorge within the forest is home to a population of chimpanzees, offering you an incredible opportunity for a chimpanzee trekking experience. The trek may last between 1 to 6 hours, and once you encounter the chimpanzees, you are permitted one hour to observe and appreciate their behaviors in their natural habitat.

As the walk progresses, you will also explore volcanic caves that house thousands of bats and are home to predator pythons, who prey on the bats residing within the cave.

Additionally, during the nature walk, you’ll come across the mesmerizing blue lake Kimeranjo, which earned its name after swallowing an elephant. The intriguing stories and sights of the forest will captivate your imagination.

After a rewarding morning of nature exploration, return to the lodge for a delectable lunch and some relaxation. In the afternoon, get ready for another exciting game drive through the Ishasha sector of the park. Here, you have a unique opportunity to spot the elusive tree-climbing lions, a rare sight indeed. Along with the lions, keep an eye out for other fascinating wildlife species such as birds, buffalos, elephants, kobs, monkeys, and more.

Location: Queen Elizabeth National Park

Accommodation Option:

Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge |Katara Lodge

Mid-Range: Irungu Forest Safari Lodge | Elephant Hub Lodge

Budget: Pumba Safari Cottages | Bush Lodge

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Drinking Water throughout

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Queen Elizabeth to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Embark on a scenic drive to the renowned Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.  Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in southwestern Uganda. It is one of the most biologically diverse areas in Africa and is renowned for its population of endangered mountain gorillas. The park is characterized by thick, impenetrable forests, rugged terrain, and breathtaking landscapes.. Upon arrival, settle into your comfortable lodge and take some time to unwind, preparing yourself for the thrilling gorilla trekking experience that awaits.

Location: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Accommodation Option:

Luxury: Gorilla Safari Lodge | Buhoma Lodge

Mid-range: Gorilla Mist Camp | Silverback Lodge Bwindi

Budget: Bakiga Lodge | Buhoma Community Camp

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Drinking Water Throughout

Day 9: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

After preparing and receiving a briefing from experienced guides, embark on an awe-inspiring gorilla trekking expedition deep into the heart of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The trek through the dense rainforest is an adventure in itself, as you navigate rugged terrain and lush vegetation in search of the mountain gorillas.

Once you encounter the gorilla group, you will have a magical hour to observe these majestic creatures up close, witnessing their captivating behaviors and familial interactions. It’s an incredibly humbling and unforgettable experience to share a moment with these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

After the trek, you have the option to engage in additional activities. You can choose to explore the local community, where you can interact with the Batwa pygmies and learn about their traditional way of life. Alternatively, you may opt for a forest walk, where a knowledgeable guide will lead you through the enchanting rainforest, providing insights into the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this remarkable ecosystem.

Location: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Accommodation Option:

Luxury: Gorilla Safari Lodge | Buhoma Lodge

Mid-range: Gorilla Mist Camp | Silverback Lodge Bwindi

Budget: Bakiga Lodge | Buhoma Community Camp

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Drinking Water Throughout

Day 10: Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park

After a satisfying breakfast, we will set off to Lake Mburo National Park, which is Uganda’s smallest park and conveniently close to the capital city, Kampala. Despite its size, the park is rich in wildlife, making it a rewarding destination for nature enthusiasts.

As we enter Lake Mburo National Park, be prepared to encounter a variety of animals, including a large number of zebras, impalas, oribis, buffaloes, warthogs, and waterbucks. Additionally, the park is a haven for birdwatchers, as it boasts an impressive diversity of over 332 bird species.

The drive from Lake Bunyonyi to Lake Mburo will take approximately 4 to 5 hours, offering you plenty of opportunities to admire the stunning scenery, pass by farms, and observe plantations along the way. We will make a stop for lunch en-route to recharge and continue our journey.

Upon arriving at Lake Mburo, if you still have energy and enthusiasm, you can embark on an afternoon boat cruise along the tranquil waters of the lake. This cruise promises exceptional photo opportunities, allowing you to capture the beauty of the park and its inhabitants.

Location: Lake Mburo national park

Accommodation Option:

Luxury: Mantana tented camp/ Mihingo lodge

Mid-range: Lake Mburo Safari Lodge/Arcadia cottages

Budget: Rwonyo camp/Eagles Nest

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Drinking Water Throughout

Day 11: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi is a stunningly beautiful and serene lake located in southwestern Uganda, near the border with Rwanda. The journey from Bwindi to Lake Bunyonyi takes you through scenic landscapes, passing through charming villages and lush countryside.

As you approach Lake Bunyonyi, you’ll be greeted by the sight of the tranquil lake surrounded by rolling hills and terraced fields. The lake is famous for its breathtaking beauty and is dotted with numerous small islands, some of which have intriguing stories behind their names.

Lake Bunyonyi offers a perfect opportunity for relaxation and reflection after the excitement of gorilla trekking. You can take leisurely boat rides on the lake, visit the islands, or simply unwind by the shores, enjoying the peaceful ambiance.

The area around Lake Bunyonyi also offers cultural experiences, as you can interact with the local communities and learn about their traditions and way of life. It’s a wonderful chance to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Later overnight at your accommodation

Location: Lake Bunyonyi

Accommodation Option:

Budget: Hawks Eye Lodge | Bunyonyi View Resort

Mid-Range: Bunyonyi Overland Resort | Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort

Luxury: Bird nest @ Bunyonyi resort | Arcadia Lodges Lake Bunyonyi

Meals Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

Drinking Water and Fruits throughout

Day 12: Departure from Entebbe

As your safari adventure comes to a close, it’s time to drive back to Entebbe, where your journey began. The scenic drive will allow you to reflect on the incredible wildlife encounters and unforgettable experiences you’ve had during your time in Uganda.

If there’s some time before your departure flight, you can choose to visit the Entebbe Botanical Garden, a tranquil oasis filled with a diverse collection of plants and bird species. Stroll through the garden’s pathways, appreciate the natural beauty, and enjoy the serenity it offers.

Alternatively, you may opt to visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC), where you can learn about the country’s conservation efforts and see various rescued animals up close. The UWEC provides valuable insights into Uganda’s rich biodiversity and the challenges faced in protecting its wildlife.

Once you’ve had your last moments of exploration and discovery, it’s time to return the rental car and make your way to Entebbe International Airport for your departure. As you bid farewell to Uganda, carry with you cherished memories of its incredible wildlife, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality, knowing that this adventure has left a lasting imprint on your heart. Safe travels, and until we meet again!