Experience the Uganda mammal watching tour in a luxury style
Mammal Watching Experience
Experiencing a luxurious 22-day adventure through Uganda’s diverse landscapes and discover a world of extraordinary wildlife. From the majestic mountain gorillas and playful chimpanzees to the renowned Big Five, this exclusive safari offers unforgettable encounters in the heart of Africa. Journey through the pristine savannas of Kidepo Valley, the lush rainforests of Bwindi, and the mighty Nile at Murchison Falls. With bespoke game drives, serene boat cruises, and expertly guided walks, H & W Signature Journeys invites discerning travelers to explore Uganda’s untamed beauty in comfort and style
HW Signature Journeys offers you a great itinerary for a mammal tour of Uganda! Uganda is home to many different kinds of mammals, such as mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and other primates, as well as large mammals like elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, bats, rats, dogs, hyenas, etc.
On this tour, you will have the opportunity to see a variety of different mammal species in a number of different habitats, from the savannas of Pian UPe Wildlife Reserve and Kidepo National Park to the rainforests of Bwindi National Park and Semliki Forest, the River Nile at Murchison Falls National Park, and the wetlands of Lake Mburo National Park. We will get a chance to see the habituated rare mountain gorillas and chimpanzees, man's closest cousins. Look out for the Big Five: lions, elephants, buffaloes, hippopotamus, and leopards.
In addition to the activities listed in this itinerary, other activities include boat cruises on the rivers and lakes, game drives in the national parks, or guided walks day and night through the forests to see various mammal species up close.
Overall, this tour provides a great opportunity to see a wide variety of mammal species in Uganda and experience the country's diverse landscapes and habitats.
Day 1: Welcome to Uganda
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you’ll be warmly greeted by your expert guide and seamlessly transferred to your luxurious hotel to relax and prepare for your unforgettable safari adventure.
Day 2: Discover Entebbe’s Botanical Gardens
Explore the historic Entebbe Botanical Gardens, established in 1901, and one of Africa’s oldest botanical treasures. Initially created by the British colonial government as an experimental garden, these lush grounds were renamed the Uganda National Botanic Gardens in 1972. Today, they serve as a serene haven for both tourists and locals.
You will wander through an impressive collection of flora, from indigenous African species to exotic plants from distant regions. Admire the diverse array of palms, the captivating orchid house, and a unique selection of medicinal plants. Keep an eye out for playful black-and-white colobus monkeys and vervet monkeys as you soak in the beauty of these tranquil gardens by the shores of Lake Victoria.
Day 3: Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve
After an early breakfast, we will set off for Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve, with breaks for stretching, lunch, and coffee arriving in the afternoon. This reserve is home to an array of wildlife, including majestic mammals like roan antelopes, cheetahs, buffaloes, elephants, giraffes, and lions. The reserve also hosts various antelope species such as bushbucks, Defassa waterbucks, and Uganda kobs.
Pian Upe is renowned for its rare and endangered species, including the fringe-eared oryx and the greater kudu. Additionally, there are chances to encounter a diverse range of smaller mammals like bats, rodents, and shrews.
After checking into your Lodge, enjoy an evening game drive to explore the reserve and witness its incredible wildlife up close.
Day 4: Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve
Today offers another opportunity to explore the captivating wildlife of Pian UpeWildlife Reserve. Renowned for its remarkable biodiversity, the reserve is home to a variety of large mammals, including, lions, leopards, and cheetahs, as well as smaller species such as warthogs, bushbucks, and impalas. Additionally, the reserve is a prime destination for birdwatching enthusiasts, with its rich diversity of bird species.
Established to protect the region’s wildlife from overhunting and other pressures, the reserve has a significant historical context. Traditionally, the area was inhabited by nomadic pastoralist tribes such as the Karamojong and the Pokot, who depended on wildlife for sustenance and resources. The creation of the reserve brought changes to these communities, displacing some and altering their traditional way of life.
Today, tribes like the Karamojong and the Pian continue to reside within the reserve, maintaining their cultural heritage and living in harmony with ongoing conservation efforts. Government initiatives and non-governmental organizations have played a crucial role in empowering these communities, focusing on providing education, healthcare, and sustainable livelihood opportunities such as beekeeping and ecotourism. These efforts aim to foster a balance between preserving traditional culture and ensuring sustainable conservation.
After the day’s exploration, return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Or Drive to Moroto Town for overnight stay.
Day 5: Drive to Kidepo Valley National Park
After breakfast, you will depart for the captivating Kidepo Valley National Park. Covering an impressive area of 1,442 square kilometers, Kidepo is celebrated for its diverse range of wildlife, including several species unique to the region, making it a truly distinctive travel experience.
The origins of Kidepo Valley National Park date back to the early 1920s when the British colonial government established it as a game reserve. In 1962, it was officially designated as a national park. In its early days, the local Karamojong and Ik communities were allowed to graze their livestock and hunt within the park. However, with the growing recognition of the park's conservation value, stricter regulations were enforced, resulting in the displacement of many community members who faced challenges adjusting to the new restrictions.
During the 1970s and 1980s, Kidepo National Park endured numerous difficulties, including poaching, civil unrest, and insufficient funding for conservation efforts. In recent years, increased conservation measures have led to a revival of the park's wildlife populations and improvements in infrastructure. Today, Kidepo is renowned as one of Uganda’s premier tourist destinations, offering breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and exceptional wildlife, including the Lions, Cheetah, Lepoard, Zebra, Giraffe, Caracal,Jackal, Large herds of Buffalos, Elphants, Gazelles, and Rock Hyrax.
Sustainable development initiatives focused on education, healthcare, and alternative livelihoods such as ecotourism have gained traction among the local communities. This collaborative approach has strengthened support for conservation efforts, making poaching more difficult and effectively safeguarding the park’s biodiversity.
Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing lunch. In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling game drive to spot the park’s iconic mammals and unique bird species. Conclude the day with dinner at the lodge and a peaceful night’s rest.
Day 6-7: Full 2 Days Adventure at Kidepo Valley National Park
In these two days, you will be involved in the natural beauty of Uganda with a full day of exploration in Kidepo Valley National Park, one of the country’s premier wildlife destinations. Known for its breathtaking landscapes and rich diversity of wildlife, Kidepo offers an authentic safari experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
The Apoka Loop: Journey through the heart of the park, where you can spot herds of elephants, buffaloes, and zebras roaming freely across the savannah.
The Narus Valley: Explore the scenic Narus Valley with its sweeping views of the Narus River and surrounding grasslands. This trail is ideal for observing Jackson’s hartebeest and the striking ostrich.
The Kidepo Valley: Venture into the picturesque Kidepo Valley, a prime location to encounter the majestic lion, elusive leopards, and the mighty buffalo in their natural habitat.
Day 8: Drive to Murchison Falls National Park
Murchison Falls National Park, also known as Murchison Falls Conservation Area, is Uganda’s largest and oldest national park, spanning an impressive 3,840 square kilometers in the northwest of the country. Established in the early 1900s as a game reserve by the British colonial government, the park's conservation significance gradually led to the enforcement of stricter regulations to protect its natural resources. While this resulted in the displacement of some local communities, the long-term efforts have significantly bolstered conservation initiatives.
During the 1970s and 1980s, the park faced numerous challenges, including rampant poaching, civil unrest, and a lack of funding for conservation. In recent years, however, renewed conservation efforts have brought about a resurgence in wildlife populations and major improvements to the park’s infrastructure. Today, Murchison Falls National Park stands as one of Uganda’s most sought-after tourist destinations, celebrated for its dramatic landscapes, rich cultural history, and remarkable wildlife.
The park is home to a diverse array of large mammals, including elephants, lions, buffaloes, and giraffes, Hartbeest, kobs, Orib, and many others. . Bird enthusiasts are also drawn to Murchison Falls for its abundant birdlife, highlighted by the rare and magnificent shoebill stork.
Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take the rest of the day to relax and unwind at your leisure.
Day 9 -10: Murchison Falls National Park – A Journey into the Wild
Awaken to the symphony of nature as we begin our adventure with an early morning game drive through the enchanting Murchison Falls National Park. Here, the wilderness unfolds before your eyes—majestic elephants, lions, buffaloes, and elegant giraffes roam freely, while the Nile River teems with life, offering glimpses of crocodiles and playful hippos.
The park’s stunning landscapes—spanning savannahs, woodlands, and wetlands—set the stage for an unparalleled game-viewing experience. Take a serene boat cruise along the Nile, where you’ll be enchanted by the sight of vibrant birds like the Goliath heron and Malachite kingfisher. As the cruise takes you to the base of the powerful Murchison Falls, feel the earth tremble beneath the thunderous cascade.
Unlike the busier parks, Murchison offers an intimate safari experience, providing exclusivity and immersion in nature's embrace. This is an unforgettable chapter in your Uganda adventure—one that captures the untamed beauty of Africa.
Day 11 -12: A Luxurious Journey to Kibale National Park
After a delightful breakfast, our journey takes us to the breathtaking Kibale Forest National Park, often hailed as the "Primate Capital of the World." Here, luxury meets adventure as you enter a world brimming with life—13 primate species, including the majestic chimpanzee, Red-tailed Monkey, Uganda mangabey, Uganda Red Colobus await your arrival. This haven offers one of Africa's highest concentrations of chimpanzees, and today, you'll embark on an exclusive tracking excursion led by expert guides.
As the morning of the following day light illuminates the forest, there are chances to witness the chimpanzees as they emerge from their nests, their day beginning with foraging and socializing. This intimate encounter brings you closer to these remarkable creatures, a privileged experience that contributes to their conservation. Your expert nature guide will enrich the forest walk, sharing insights into chimpanzee behavior, along with stories of the park's vibrant wildlife and flora.
Kibale's forest teems with not only primates but also birds, butterflies, and other wonders of nature. Every step unveils new discoveries in this luxurious immersion into the wild, where adventure meets tranquility. After a day of exploration, return to your lodge for a sumptuous dinner, surrounded by the serenity of the African wilderness.
Day 13 - 14: Semuliki National Park – A Blend of Nature and Culture
Our journey continues to the enchanting Semuliki National Park, nestled in western Uganda near the Congo border. Covering 220 square kilometers, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is a treasure trove of diverse landscapes, from the meandering Semuliki River to savannah grasslands and tropical rainforests. The park's dramatic geography, shaped by the Albertine Rift, offers stunning views of steep valleys, geothermal hot springs, and geysers.
Home to a rich array of wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, crocodiles, and primates such as Semliki Red colobus monkeys,Dents Monkey, Semuliki also boasts remarkable birdlife and vibrant butterflies. Yet, it is not only the wildlife that captivates. Visitors are immersed in the ancient traditions of the Batwa people, the indigenous inhabitants of this forest, whose deep connection to the land is revealed through cultural experiences.
Guided walks to the famous hot springs and geysers, and cultural interactions provide an unforgettable blend of nature and heritage. Semuliki’s mystical beauty and cultural richness make it a must-visit destination for discerning travelers seeking both adventure and authenticity.
Day 15: Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park – A Luxurious Encounter with the Wild
Following a leisurely breakfast, we set off to the legendary Queen Elizabeth National Park, where untamed beauty meets luxury. This iconic park is home to majestic elephants, elusive leopards, lions, buffaloes, and an extraordinary array of over 600 bird species. Picture yourself in a photographer’s paradise, surrounded by the captivating savannahs, crater lakes, and the towering Rwenzori Mountains. Whether it's game drives, birdwatching, or a private night safari, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a wealth of luxurious experiences. Enjoy an exclusive evening game drive before retiring to your elegant lodge for a gourmet dinner and a peaceful night.
Day 16: Exploring the Treasures of Queen Elizabeth National Park
Immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of Kasenyi Plains, where large herds of elephants, lions, and Uganda kob roam freely. Witness some of Africa’s finest wildlife encounters, guided by experts who tailor your experience for exclusivity. In the afternoon, board a luxury boat cruise along the serene Kazinga Channel, where the waters teem with life—crocodiles bask, hippos play, and elegant herons and kingfishers grace the skies. The boat cruise offers a unique vantage point, providing a tranquil yet thrilling encounter with wildlife. End the day soaking in the sunset, as Africa’s wild landscapes unfold before you, offering a luxurious, unforgettable escape.
Day 17: Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park – A Luxurious Encounter with the Wild
Awaken your senses as we embark on a luxurious adventure to one of Uganda’s most coveted destinations—Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Known as the realm of the endangered mountain gorilla, Bwindi is home to more than half of the world’s population of these gentle giants. Imagine yourself trekking through the misty, ancient forests, where the dense greenery provides sanctuary to over 400 bird species, 120 mammal species, and an array of butterflies that dance in the sunlight. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness these majestic creatures up close in their natural habitat. Your journey is elevated with the opportunity to immerse in the traditions of the Batwa people, experiencing the rich culture that intertwines with the forest.
Day 18: A Sacred Encounter – Gorilla Trekking
Today, the ultimate adventure awaits—gorilla trekking in the untouched heart of Bwindi. You’ll rise early, filled with anticipation, and join expert guides for a briefing before setting out into the rainforest. As you trek through thick vegetation, cross flowing rivers, and conquer steep trails, the thrill of discovery builds. Then, deep in the forest, you’ll come face-to-face with a family of mountain gorillas. Their peaceful presence and intricate social interactions create an experience that transcends words. Witnessing these gentle giants in their natural environment, playing, foraging, and interacting, is a privilege that few can claim. As your trek supports vital conservation efforts, you’ll leave knowing you’ve contributed to the preservation of these magnificent animals. This intimate encounter is an awe-inspiring and humbling experience, one that will leave an indelible mark on your heart.
Day 19: Explore Bwindi’s Pristine Wilderness
Another day to explore the lush wonders of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest awaits. Beyond the gorillas, Bwindi is a sanctuary for a diverse array of primates such as chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys. Today, you’ll have the chance to trek these lesser-known primates, or perhaps opt for a serene hike along one of the park’s scenic trails. Whether it's the panoramic views from Rushura Hill, the serene walk along the Munyaga River Trail, or the adventurous Nkuringo Trail, each path reveals a new facet of this magical forest. As you explore, your connection to this ancient landscape deepens, leaving you with memories as rich as the forest itself.
After an enriching day in the wild, return to your luxury lodge for an elegant dinner, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences that Bwindi has offered. This exclusive journey is more than a safari—it’s an immersion into the wild soul of Africa, where nature and culture unite in extraordinary harmony.
Day 20: Drive to Lake Mburo National Park – A Serene Wildlife Escape
Today, we journey to the tranquil Lake Mburo National Park, a gem in western Uganda known for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. With an array of zebras, impalas, and buffaloes grazing across its savannahs, this 370-square-kilometer sanctuary offers an intimate and serene safari experience. Once a royal hunting ground, today the park is a conservation success story, home to over 315 bird species and rich biodiversity. Depending on your energy levels, you will have an opportunity to enjoy an evening game drive, where you’ll have the chance to spot the park’s majestic wildlife in their natural habitat and these include Zebras, Topi, Giraffe, Warthog, Uganda Kob, Bushbabies, Hippopotamus, all framed by the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding hills and plains.
Day 21: Today you will explore Lake Mburo National Park – A Day of Adventure and Tranquility
Today is dedicated to fully immersing yourself in the natural wonders of Lake Mburo National Park. You’ll explore its diverse trails, each offering a unique perspective on the park’s wildlife. From the Rwonyo Trail’s sweeping savannah views with chances of finding a leopards along the Nshara Trail, the day promises exhilarating encounters. In the afternoon, there is an opportunity to take a boat ride across Lake Mburo itself, where hippos and crocodiles glide through the waters and the skies are graced by the African fish eagle, pelicans, and the stately Goliath heron. This luxury safari ensures that every moment is filled with awe-inspiring experiences, creating memories of Uganda’s wildlife and scenic beauty that will last a lifetime.
Day 22: Return to Kampala/Entebbe – A Graceful Farewell
After an unforgettable journey through Uganda’s wilderness, today we bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes of Lake Mburo National Park. Enjoy a leisurely drive back to Kampala or Entebbe, where you’ll have time to relax and reflect on the awe-inspiring encounters from your safari. For those looking to take a piece of Uganda home, we’ll make a stop for some final souvenir shopping, offering a chance to collect local treasures that will remind you of your adventure. Finally, you'll be transferred to Entebbe International Airport, where your luxurious safari draws to a close as you prepare for your onward journey, taking with youmemories of a lifetime.