Uganda

Into Uganda’s Wild Heart

From Bwindi’s Mountain Gorillas to Queen Elizabeth’s Plains

DestinationUganda
Duration5 Days
Starting PriceUSD 5000 / Adult

Overview

Embark on an unforgettable 4-day journey through Uganda’s most iconic natural wonders, traveling from the mist-covered forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to the wildlife-rich savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park. This itinerary blends once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking, classic game drives, and scenic landscapes shaped by the Great Rift Valley. The journey is designed for travelers seeking a deep connection with nature in a short time — from intimate encounters with mountain gorillas to sightings of elephants, lions, and hippos along open plains and waterways. Every day reveals a different side of Uganda’s wild beauty, offering powerful experiences and lasting memories.

Itinerary

Depart Kigali in the morning and drive through Rwanda’s rolling hills toward the Uganda border, continuing into the dense forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The journey offers scenic countryside views and rural villages along the way. Arrive at Four Gorillas Lodge in time for lunch, followed by an afternoon at leisure to relax and prepare for the next day’s gorilla trekking adventure.

Highlights:

  • Scenic cross-border drive from Kigali into Uganda’s southwestern highlands
  • Overnight stay near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park at Four Gorillas Lodge
  • Guided mountain gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Forest
  • One-hour intimate encounter with a habituated gorilla family

After an early breakfast, head into the forest for a guided gorilla trekking experience. Trek through thick vegetation in search of a habituated gorilla family, guided by expert trackers. Spend a magical hour observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat — a truly unforgettable wildlife encounter. Return to the lodge later in the day to relax and reflect on this extraordinary experience.

Highlights:

    Depart Bwindi after breakfast and journey north toward Queen Elizabeth National Park, passing through scenic highlands and crater-dotted landscapes. Arrive at Enganzi Lodge in time for lunch, followed by an afternoon game drive in the park. Explore open savannahs and acacia woodlands while searching for elephants, buffalo, antelope, and predators as the sun sets over the plains.

    Highlights:

    • Journey through the Great Rift Valley landscapes to Queen Elizabeth National Park
    • Afternoon game drive across savannah plains and woodland habitats
    • Dinner and overnight at Enganzi Lodge, overlooking Queen Elizabeth NP

    Enjoy an early morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, offering one last opportunity to spot wildlife in the cool morning hours. After breakfast, begin your journey to Entebbe, traveling through picturesque countryside and local communities. Arrive in Entebbe later in the day, marking the end of your Ugandan safari experience.

    Highlights:

    • Scenic return to Entebbe

    Camps & Lodges

    Expected Sightings

    Predator

    The Predators

    High

    The vast plains of Kenya reveal nature’s untamed power. Stealth and speed rule here, where every hunt becomes a display of instinct and survival. The balance of life is written in every chase, every moment of stillness, and every heartbeat of the wild.

    African Lions
    African Leopard
    Cheetahs
    Hyenas
    Jackals
    Nile Crocodile
    Serval Cats

    Best time: All round the year

    Giraffe

    The Giants

    High

    Across the savannah, nature’s titans move with grace and power. Towering shapes march across open fields and riverbanks, reshaping the land as they go. Their presence defines the rhythm of the wilderness — timeless, majestic, and eternal.

    African Elephants
    Giraffes
    Hippopotamus
    Rhinoceros
    Cape Buffalo

    Best time: All round the year

    Nomads 2

    The Nomads

    Seasonal

    Endless herds travel the ancient migration routes, driven by rain and renewal. Their journey across plains and rivers is one of courage and instinct — a breathtaking cycle that sustains life and tells the story of Africa’s eternal migration.

    Wildebeests
    Zebra
    Thompson's Gazelle

    Best time: July to October

    The Plainsfolk

    High

    Life thrives across the golden grasslands. Agile and alert, these grazers embody the pulse of the savannah — harmony in motion, survival in numbers, and grace in every stride beneath the open sky.

    Topi
    Elands
    Impalas
    Warthogs
    Baboons

    Best time: All round the year

    The Skyfolk

    High

    Above the plains, the skies come alive with motion and song. From silent gliders to swift hunters, they command the air with freedom and purpose. Each flight writes its own story against the endless horizon.

    African Fish Eagle
    Vultures
    Secretary Birds
    Marabou Stork
    Kori Bustard

    Best time: All round the year

    The Waterfolk

    Medium

    Where rivers flow and lakes shimmer, life gathers in abundance. The waters nurture both calm and chaos — a realm of reflection, movement, and grace that sustains the heart of the wild.

    Flamingos
    Pelicans
    Tufted Duck
    African Jacana

    Best time: June to October

    What's Included

    Essentials

    • All National Park Entry Fees — full access to Tsavo West, Amboseli, Lake Naivasha, and Masai Mara
    • All Transfers — airport, inter-park, and lodge transfers as scheduled
    • Professional KPSGA-Certified Safari Guide cum driver — expert wildlife interpretation and personal attention
    • Safari Accessories — binoculars, drinking water station, and cool box in the vehicle
    • Travel Consultation — free guidance on visas, packing, and travel requirements
    • All Government Taxes & Levies — no hidden costs

    Experience

    • Exclusive & Unlimited Safari Experiences — enjoy twice-daily game drives or full-day expeditions, with exceptional opportunities to encounter the Big Five and more
    • Lake Naivasha Experiences — private boat safari and guided Crescent Island walking safari
    • Signature Sundowner Experience — enjoy drinks and light bites against an African sunset
    • Authentic Maasai Village Visit — cultural immersion with the Maasai community
    • Curated Safari Lodges & Camps — premium stays with full-board dining throughout your journey
    • Exclusive Private 4x4 Land Cruiser — comfortable, all-window seats, ideal for photography

    What's Not Included

    • International Flights to/from Nairobi
    • Personal Expenses — laundry, shopping, beverages, and e-visa fees
    • Gratuities — suggested USD 10 per adult per day for your guide
    • Optional Experiences: Hot Air Balloon Safari (USD 480 per person)

    Guest Reviews

    Firstly, this trip felt surreal, out of a movie. All credit to Marvels of Africa for organising it so well taking into consideration our needs and requirements.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Big Five safaris in Kenya can be enjoyed all year round, as lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos are resident in the parks throughout the seasons. However, if your dream is to witness the Great Migration, the best time is between July and September, when millions of wildebeest and zebras cross into the Masai Mara in one of nature's most dramatic spectacles.

    Pack light, neutral-colored clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, and a light jacket for cool mornings/evenings. Don't forget binoculars and a good camera.

    On this safari, you’ll experience Kenya’s diverse landscapes and the rich variety of wildlife they support — with rewarding sightings all year round. In Tsavo West: Explore rugged terrain and volcanic landscapes home to large herds of elephants (famous for their red dust coating), buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and diverse antelope species. Predators such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas also roam here, while hippos and crocodiles thrive at Mzima Springs. In Amboseli: Known as the “Land of Giants,” Amboseli is one of the best places in Africa to see large herds of elephants against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. You can also expect sightings of lions, cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, wildebeest, zebras, and abundant birdlife, including pelicans and crowned cranes. In Lake Naivasha: The freshwater lake and surrounding forests are rich in birdlife, with over 350 species including fish eagles, kingfishers, and pelicans. Hippos are commonly seen in the waters, while giraffes, waterbuck, and antelope graze along the shores. Nearby Crescent Island also offers excellent walking safaris among zebras and giraffes. In the Masai Mara: The Mara delivers world-class game viewing year-round, with excellent chances of spotting the Big Four — lion, leopard, elephant, and buffalo — along with cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and a wide variety of antelopes such as impala, gazelle, topi, hartebeest, eland, and waterbuck. Birdwatchers can enjoy over 400 recorded species, from lilac-breasted rollers to eagles and vultures. While the Great Wildebeest Migration (July–October) is a seasonal highlight, the Mara remains exceptional for wildlife viewing throughout the year.

    You can get very close — often just a few meters away — in the safety of your 4x4 safari vehicle. Guides always ensure a respectful and safe distance, so you can enjoy incredible encounters without disturbing the wildlife.

    Yes, many lodges and camps are family-friendly, and private vehicles make it easier to travel at your own pace. Safaris can be magical for children, offering unforgettable wildlife moments and cultural experiences.