12-Day Self-Drive Uganda Gorilla Trekking Safari Itinerary

Embark on a 12-day self-drive adventure through Uganda’s breathtaking landscapes, combining gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, and cultural encounters. This itinerary offers flexibility and excitement, with accommodation options for every budget: low-cost lodges, mid-range comfort stays, and luxury accommodations.

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport and pick up your fully equipped 4×4 vehicle. Spend the evening relaxing at your accommodation or explore the nearby botanical gardens and Lake Victoria.

  • Accommodation options:
    • Low: Entebbe Backpackers Hostel
    • Mid: 2 Friends Beach Hotel
    • Luxury: Protea Hotel by Marriott Entebbe

Day 2: Drive to Murchison Falls National Park
Begin your journey with a scenic drive to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest reserve. Along the way, stop at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to track rhinos on foot. Arrive at the park in the evening and relax before your adventure begins.

  • Accommodation options:
    • Low: Red Chilli Rest Camp
    • Mid: Fort Murchison Lodge
    • Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge

Day 3: Game Drive and Boat Cruise in Murchison Falls
Wake up early for a thrilling game drive across the park’s savannah, spotting elephants, lions, giraffes, and more. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise along the Nile River to the base of Murchison Falls, where you’ll witness the river’s powerful cascade.

  • Accommodation options:
    • Low: Red Chilli Rest Camp
    • Mid: Fort Murchison Lodge
    • Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge

Day 4: Transfer to Kibale National Park
Take a long but rewarding drive to Kibale National Park, known as the primate capital of the world. Pass through verdant tea plantations and picturesque villages before arriving in the lush rainforest.

  • Accommodation options:
    • Low: Chimpanzee Guesthouse
    • Mid: Isunga Lodge
    • Luxury: Kyaninga Lodge

Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking and Bigodi Wetland Walk
Join a guided trek to track chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Later, take a walk through Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a haven for bird species and unique wildlife like red colobus monkeys.

  • Accommodation options:
    • Low: Chimpanzee Guesthouse
    • Mid: Isunga Lodge
    • Luxury: Kyaninga Lodge

Day 6: Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park, a wildlife haven boasting diverse ecosystems. En route, cross the equator line and enjoy stunning views of the Rwenzori Mountains.

  • Accommodation options:
    • Low: Pumba Safari Cottages
    • Mid: Enganzi Lodge
    • Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge

Day 7: Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Cruise
Embark on a morning game drive in the Kasenyi Plains, where you’ll spot lions, antelopes, and buffalo. In the afternoon, take a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, teeming with hippos, crocodiles, and birds.

  • Accommodation options:
    • Low: Pumba Safari Cottages
    • Mid: Enganzi Lodge
    • Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge

Day 8: Ishasha Sector and Transfer to Bwindi
Explore the Ishasha Sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions lounging in fig trees. Afterward, continue your drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas.

  • Accommodation options:
    • Low: Ride 4 a Woman Lodge
    • Mid: Buhoma Lodge
    • Luxury: Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp

Day 9: Gorilla Trekking Experience in Bwindi
Prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime experience as you trek through dense rainforest to encounter mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Spend an unforgettable hour observing these majestic creatures before returning to your lodge.

  • Accommodation options:
    • Low: Ride 4 a Woman Lodge
    • Mid: Buhoma Lodge
    • Luxury: Sanctuary Gorilla Forest Camp

Day 10: Drive to Lake Bunyonyi
After the thrilling gorilla trek, unwind with a scenic drive to Lake Bunyonyi, Africa’s second deepest lake. Relax at this serene location, known for its stunning views and over 20 picturesque islands.

  • Accommodation options:
    • Low: Byoona Amagara
    • Mid: BirdNest @ Bunyonyi Resort
    • Luxury: Arcadia Lodge Bunyonyi

Day 11: Leisure at Lake Bunyonyi
Spend the day at your leisure, enjoying activities such as canoeing, hiking, or visiting the local communities. Alternatively, simply relax and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

  • Accommodation options:
    • Low: Byoona Amagara
    • Mid: BirdNest @ Bunyonyi Resort
    • Luxury: Arcadia Lodge Bunyonyi

Day 12: Return to Entebbe
Conclude your adventure with a scenic drive back to Entebbe. Depending on your flight schedule, visit the craft markets or enjoy a meal by the lakeside before returning your vehicle and heading to the airport for departure.

  • Accommodation options:
    • Low: Entebbe Backpackers Hostel
    • Mid: 2 Friends Beach Hotel
    • Luxury: Protea Hotel by Marriott Entebbe