7 Days Western Uganda Circuit Tour

Your journey begins with a transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park, a gem in Uganda’s wildlife conservation areas. The drive takes you through picturesque landscapes with sightings of the majestic Rwenzori Mountains as you approach the park. Upon arrival at Queen Elizabeth National Park, check into your lodge. Spend the evening enjoying a delicious dinner and relaxing in preparation for the adventures that await you.

Rise early for a thrilling morning game drive in the Kasenyi Plains, renowned for its abundance of wildlife. The plains are a prime location for spotting lions, often seen stalking their prey among the large herds of Uganda kobs. Your experienced guide will help you track these and other animals, such as elephants, buffalo, and various antelope species, as the sun casts its first light over the savannah.

In the afternoon, embark on a boat trip along the Kazinga Channel, a highlight of any visit to Queen Elizabeth National Park. This natural waterway is teeming with wildlife; you will see large pods of hippos wallowing in the water, crocodiles basking on the banks, and a diverse array of birds, including fish eagles, pelicans, and kingfishers. The boat trip provides a unique vantage point to observe the park's rich biodiversity.

Following the boat cruise, visit Katwe Salt Lake, located near the park. Here, you will learn about the traditional methods of salt extraction that have been practiced for centuries.

After breakfast, set off for a game drive in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its unique tree-climbing lions. With luck, you might witness these extraordinary lions lounging in the branches of fig trees, a sight rarely seen elsewhere. Besides lions, Ishasha is home to a variety of other wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, and numerous bird species.

After the game drive, continue your journey towards Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The drive takes you through scenic landscapes and rural communities, providing an opportunity to appreciate Uganda's natural beauty and cultural richness. Upon arrival in Bwindi, check into your lodge and relax in preparation for the next day’s gorilla trekking adventure.

After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing on trekking rules and what to expect. Accompanied by skilled trackers, venture into the dense forest in search of a habituated gorilla family. The trek can be challenging, navigating steep and muddy trails, but the reward is an unforgettable encounter with these majestic primates. Spend a precious hour observing the gorillas as they interact, play, and go about their daily lives.

After the trek, enjoy your lunch before transferring to Lake Bunyonyi, renowned for its scenic beauty and tranquility. Upon arrival, settle into your lakeside accommodation and spend the evening relaxing, perhaps taking a swim in the bilharzia-free waters or enjoying the serene surroundings.

Following breakfast, depart from Lake Bunyonyi and head to Lake Mburo National Park. This park is the smallest of Uganda’s savannah national parks but is rich in biodiversity and boasts a unique landscape of rolling hills, open grasslands, and acacia woodlands. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and enjoy a leisurely lunch.

In the afternoon, embark on a guided nature walk in the park. This walk offers an intimate experience with nature, providing opportunities to spot wildlife at close range. Expect to see zebras, impalas, elands, and various bird species as your guide shares insights into the flora and fauna of the park.

Start the day with an early morning game drive in Lake Mburo National Park. The park is home to a variety of animals, including zebras, giraffes, topis, and leopards. The landscape's diversity ensures a rich and varied game-viewing experience. Your guide will help you track these animals and provide information about their behavior and the park's ecology.

In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Mburo. The cruise offers a chance to see hippos, crocodiles, and numerous water birds, including the rare African finfoot. The serene waters of the lake and the surrounding scenery make this a relaxing and enjoyable activity. After the boat cruise, spend the afternoon at your leisure. You can relax at the lodge or engage in optional activities such as horse riding or cycling. Offering you a unique perspective on wildlife viewing, allowing you to get closer to animals than you might not while in a vehicle.

On your final day, after breakfast, begin your journey back to Kampala or Entebbe. En route, stop at the Uganda Equator in Kayabwe. The Equator stop is a great place for photos and also features interesting demonstrations of the Coriolis effect. Enjoy a light lunch and shop for souvenirs from local artisans.

Continue your drive towards Entebbe, reflecting on the incredible experiences and diverse landscapes you’ve encountered during your trip. Depending on your schedule, you might have time for a brief visit to the Entebbe Botanical Gardens or the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre before heading to the airport for your departure flight.