14-Day Uganda Safari: Gorillas, Chimpanzees, Big Five and Shoebill Storks
Safari Overview
The 14-Day Uganda Gorillas, Chimpanzees, Big Five and Shoebill Safari is an unforgettable journey through Uganda’s rainforests, savannah plains, wetlands and scenic highland landscapes. Designed for travellers who want to experience the country’s extraordinary wildlife diversity, this two-week adventure combines mountain gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, classic game drives, boat safaris and birdwatching.
Uganda is one of Africa’s most diverse safari destinations, offering much more than traditional savannah wildlife viewing. During this journey, you will search for mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, track chimpanzees in Kibale Forest, explore Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth national parks, and look for the rare shoebill stork in Uganda’s wetlands.
The safari also includes a visit to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where you can track rhinos on foot, and opportunities to see elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, antelopes and hippos. Scenic stops at Lake Bunyonyi and Lake Mburo add relaxing experiences between the wildlife activities.
From the thunderous waters of Murchison Falls to the misty forests of Bwindi and the bird-rich channels of Mabamba Swamp, this itinerary showcases Uganda’s remarkable natural heritage in one comprehensive adventure.
Safari Highlights
- Mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
- Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest National Park.
- Guided rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
- Game drives in Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth and Lake Mburo national parks.
- A boat safari on the Victoria Nile to the base of Murchison Falls.
- Wildlife viewing along the Kazinga Channel.
- A chance to search for tree-climbing lions in Ishasha.
- Shoebill tracking in Mabamba Swamp, with an additional wetland excursion subject to confirmed arrangements.
- A guided nature walk in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary.
- Scenic relaxation at Lake Bunyonyi.
- A walking safari in Lake Mburo National Park.
- An equator stop and views of Uganda’s diverse countryside.
Detailed 14-Day Uganda Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Welcome to Uganda
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, your safari guide will welcome you and transfer you to your hotel in Entebbe or Kampala.
Depending on your arrival time, you can relax at the hotel or enjoy a short exploration of Entebbe. Your guide will introduce you to the safari arrangements and provide an overview of the journey ahead.
Use the evening to rest after your international flight and prepare for the wildlife adventures to come.
Accommodation: Hotel in Entebbe or Kampala, according to your package.
Meals: Depending on your arrival time and confirmed inclusions.
Day 2: Entebbe – Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – Murchison Falls National Park
After breakfast, depart for northern Uganda and Murchison Falls National Park, the country’s largest national park.
Along the way, stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for a guided rhino-tracking experience. Accompanied by an authorised guide, walk through the sanctuary in search of southern white rhinos and learn about conservation efforts to protect and restore Uganda’s rhino population.
After the experience, continue towards Murchison Falls National Park. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy views of the surrounding countryside before checking in at your lodge.
Murchison Falls is known for its open savannah, riverine woodland, abundant wildlife and the spectacular Victoria Nile, which forces its way through a narrow rocky gorge.
Accommodation: Lodge in or near Murchison Falls National Park.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner, according to your package.
Day 3: Murchison Falls – Morning Game Drive and Nile Boat Safari
Rise early for a morning game drive in Murchison Falls National Park. The cooler hours of the morning offer opportunities to search for wildlife across the savannah and woodland.
Look for African elephants, African buffaloes, Rothschild’s giraffes, Uganda kobs, hartebeests and other antelopes. Lions may be seen resting or hunting, while leopards are more elusive and never guaranteed.
Return to your lodge for lunch or a short rest before heading to the Victoria Nile for an afternoon boat safari.
Cruise towards the base of Murchison Falls, watching for hippos, Nile crocodiles, elephants and buffaloes along the riverbanks. The river is also excellent for birdwatching, with opportunities to spot fish eagles, kingfishers, herons and other water-associated species.
The boat trip offers a different perspective on the park’s wildlife and leads you towards one of Uganda’s most dramatic natural landmarks.
Accommodation: Lodge in or near Murchison Falls National Park.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner, according to your package.
Day 4: Murchison Falls – Shoebill Excursion – Transfer to Kibale Forest
After breakfast, depart Murchison Falls and travel towards western Uganda and Kibale Forest National Park.
If a suitable shoebill excursion has been arranged in advance at an accessible wetland along the route, you may stop to search for this remarkable bird. The shoebill is one of Uganda’s most sought-after bird species, recognisable by its large, distinctive bill and prehistoric appearance.
Shoebill sightings depend on location, habitat conditions and the bird’s movements. A dedicated excursion may require additional travel time, so the final route and timing should be confirmed before booking.
Continue towards Kibale Forest, passing through changing landscapes, rural settlements and agricultural areas. Arrive at your lodge later in the day and relax before your chimpanzee trekking adventure.
Accommodation: Lodge near Kibale Forest National Park.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner, according to your package.
Planning note: The shoebill excursion should be confirmed as practical for this travel day. If it requires a substantial detour, we recommend arranging it for a separate day or prioritising the dedicated Mabamba Swamp excursion later in the itinerary.
Day 5: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest National Park
Today, explore one of Uganda’s most important primate destinations: Kibale Forest National Park.
After breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing on chimpanzee tracking rules and forest safety. Accompanied by experienced park guides and trackers, enter the rainforest in search of a habituated chimpanzee community.
As you walk through the forest, listen for calls echoing through the canopy and watch for movement among the trees. Once the chimpanzees are located, you will have the opportunity to observe their behaviour in accordance with park regulations.
Kibale is also home to other primates, including red colobus monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys and L’Hoest’s monkeys. You may also encounter forest birds, butterflies and other rainforest wildlife.
After the trek, return to your lodge to relax and enjoy the remainder of the day.
Accommodation: Lodge near Kibale Forest National Park.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner, according to your package.
Day 6: Bigodi Wetland Nature Walk – Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After breakfast, visit Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for a guided nature walk through one of the region’s notable community conservation areas.
The wetland supports diverse birdlife, butterflies, vegetation and several primate species. With a knowledgeable local guide, explore the trails and learn about the wetland’s ecology and the role of surrounding communities in protecting this habitat.
Birdwatchers should keep an eye out for species associated with wetlands and forest edges. Sightings vary according to season and local conditions.
After the walk, continue towards Queen Elizabeth National Park, travelling through western Uganda’s scenic countryside. On clear days, you may enjoy views of the Rwenzori Mountains.
Arrive at your lodge, settle in and prepare for the next day’s wildlife activities.
Accommodation: Lodge in or near Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner, according to your package.
Day 7: Queen Elizabeth National Park – Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Cruise
Begin the day with a morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Explore the savannah and woodland in search of elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, waterbucks, warthogs and other wildlife. Lions may be encountered, while leopards are possible but less frequently seen.
After lunch, head to the Kazinga Channel for a boat cruise. This natural waterway connects Lake George and Lake Edward and is renowned for its concentrations of hippos, Nile crocodiles and water-associated wildlife.
Watch for elephants and buffaloes gathering near the water, as well as a wide variety of birds along the shoreline. The cruise is one of the park’s most rewarding activities for wildlife photography and birdwatching.
Return to your lodge after the cruise and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Accommodation: Lodge in or near Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner, according to your package.
Day 8: Ishasha Sector – Search for Tree-Climbing Lions – Transfer to Bwindi
After breakfast, drive towards the Ishasha sector in the southern part of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Enjoy a game drive through this quieter region, which is famous for occasional sightings of lions resting in large fig trees. Ishasha’s tree-climbing lions are one of Uganda’s best-known wildlife attractions, although sightings cannot be guaranteed.
Other animals you may encounter include elephants, buffaloes, topis and various antelope species.
After the game drive, continue towards Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Your final destination and driving time will depend on the gorilla trekking sector assigned to your permit.
Bwindi protects a significant population of endangered mountain gorillas and is one of the world’s leading destinations for responsible gorilla trekking.
Accommodation: Lodge near your assigned gorilla trekking sector in Bwindi.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner, according to your package.
Day 9: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Today is one of the major highlights of your Uganda safari: mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
After an early breakfast, transfer to the relevant park headquarters for registration and a briefing by the park authorities. You will receive guidance on trekking procedures, safety and responsible gorilla viewing before entering the forest with authorised guides and trackers.
The trek can take several hours, depending on the location of your assigned gorilla family, the terrain and weather conditions. Trails can be steep, muddy and physically demanding, but the experience of seeing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is unforgettable.
Once the gorillas are located, you will generally be allowed to spend up to one hour observing them, in accordance with current park regulations. Watch as they feed, rest, groom one another and interact within the family group.
After the trek, return to the starting point and transfer to your lodge to relax.
Accommodation: Lodge near your gorilla trekking sector in Bwindi.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner, according to your package.
Important: Gorilla trekking requires a valid permit. The trekking sector and accommodation should be coordinated with confirmed permit availability.
Day 10: Bwindi – Lake Bunyonyi Relaxation and Scenic Experience
After breakfast, depart Bwindi and travel towards Lake Bunyonyi in southwestern Uganda.
Known for its terraced hills, peaceful waters and numerous islands, Lake Bunyonyi provides a relaxing contrast to the forest trekking and savannah game drives earlier in the safari.
Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and enjoy the beautiful lake views. Depending on your interests, you may arrange an optional boat excursion to explore some of the islands and learn about the area’s local communities and history.
Alternatively, spend the afternoon relaxing at the lodge, taking photographs or enjoying the scenery.
Accommodation: Lodge near Lake Bunyonyi.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner, according to your package.
Day 11: Lake Bunyonyi – Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park
After breakfast, leave Lake Bunyonyi and travel towards Lake Mburo National Park.
Enjoy the changing scenery as you pass through the highlands and countryside of southwestern Uganda before reaching the park.
Depending on your arrival time, embark on an afternoon game drive across the park’s rolling savannah, woodland and open grassland. Lake Mburo is known for its zebras, impalas, elands, buffaloes, topis, warthogs and waterbucks.
The park also supports a variety of birds, making it a rewarding destination for travellers interested in both wildlife and birdwatching.
Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and relaxation.
Accommodation: Lodge in or near Lake Mburo National Park.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner, according to your package.
Day 12: Lake Mburo Walking Safari – Transfer to Entebbe
Start the day with a guided nature walk or walking safari in Lake Mburo National Park, subject to park arrangements and availability.
Unlike a vehicle-based game drive, walking allows you to appreciate the smaller details of the ecosystem, including animal tracks, plants, insects and birds. Accompanied by an authorised guide, you may also encounter wildlife at a suitable distance.
After the activity, return for breakfast and depart for Entebbe.
Depending on the route and timing, stop at the Equator crossing for photographs and a short visit to the local craft shops. Continue to Entebbe and check in at your hotel.
Accommodation: Hotel in Entebbe.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner, according to your package.
Day 13: Mabamba Swamp – Shoebill Tracking by Boat
Today, explore Mabamba Swamp, a wetland on the northern shore of Lake Victoria and one of Uganda’s best-known destinations for shoebill sightings.
Travel to the wetland and board a local boat to navigate the papyrus channels with a knowledgeable bird guide. The shoebill is the main target of the excursion, and its unusual appearance makes it a favourite among birdwatchers and wildlife photographers.
The wetland also supports a variety of other birds, including kingfishers, herons, egrets and African fish eagles. Sightings depend on local conditions and the movements of the birds, so the shoebill cannot be guaranteed.
After the excursion, return to Entebbe and spend the remainder of the day relaxing or exploring the town, depending on your interests.
Accommodation: Hotel in Entebbe.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner, according to your package.
Day 14: Departure from Entebbe
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before transferring to Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight.
If your flight is scheduled for later in the day, and time allows, you may arrange a short optional activity or visit a local craft shop. Any additional excursion should be planned around your check-in time and transfer requirements.
Your 14-day Uganda safari concludes with memorable experiences of mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, savannah wildlife, wetlands, shoebills and the country’s diverse landscapes.
Meals: Breakfast, according to your package.
End of safari.
Important Information Before Booking
Gorilla and Chimpanzee Permits
Mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi and chimpanzee tracking in Kibale require the appropriate permits. Availability is limited and should be confirmed before your itinerary is finalised. We recommend booking early, especially if your travel dates are fixed.
Shoebill Tracking
Shoebills are wild birds, and sightings are never guaranteed. The Mabamba Swamp excursion is planned as a dedicated birdwatching experience, while the additional shoebill activity on Day 4 depends on a practical route and confirmed local arrangements.
Wildlife Sightings
Uganda’s national parks support a remarkable range of wildlife, but no particular sighting can be guaranteed. Lions, leopards, shoebills and tree-climbing lions may be elusive. Your guide will help you make the most of each wildlife-viewing opportunity.
Accommodation and Safari Category
Accommodation depends on your preferred budget, travel dates and availability. Epic Uganda Vacations can discuss budget, mid-range and luxury options and confirm the selected properties in your quotation.
Driving Times and Itinerary Adjustments
This safari covers several regions of Uganda and includes some long road transfers. Actual journey times depend on road conditions, traffic, weather and the duration of activities. The itinerary may be adjusted where necessary to maintain a safe and practical travel schedule.
What to Pack
For this safari, we recommend:
- Comfortable walking or hiking boots.
- Long trousers and long-sleeved clothing for forest trekking.
- A lightweight waterproof jacket.
- Insect repellent and sunscreen.
- A daypack and reusable water bottle.
- Binoculars for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
- A camera with suitable protection against rain and dust.
- Neutral-coloured clothing for nature activities.
For gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, a reasonable level of fitness is recommended because trails may be steep, muddy or uneven.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I see gorillas, chimpanzees and the Big Five on one Uganda safari?
This 14-day itinerary combines mountain gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking and game drives in several national parks. It includes rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, which provides an opportunity to see one of the Big Five species. Elephants, buffaloes and lions may be seen during game drives, while leopards are more elusive. Seeing all five species is not guaranteed.
Where can I see shoebill storks in Uganda?
Mabamba Swamp is one of Uganda’s best-known places to search for shoebills. Sightings depend on conditions and the bird’s movements, so a sighting cannot be guaranteed.
Is gorilla trekking included in this itinerary?
Yes, the itinerary includes a gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The permit fee and its inclusion in the final safari price must be confirmed in your personalised quotation.
How difficult is chimpanzee and gorilla trekking?
Both activities involve walking through natural forest terrain. The difficulty varies depending on the location of the primates, weather and trail conditions. Gorilla trekking can be particularly challenging on steep or muddy slopes. Travellers should be prepared for several hours of walking.
Can this 14-day Uganda safari be customised?
Yes. Epic Uganda Vacations can tailor the itinerary to your interests, travel dates and accommodation preferences. Changes may include additional birdwatching, different lodge categories, extra relaxation time or adjustments to the route, subject to permits and availability.
Book Your 14-Day Uganda Wildlife Safari
Discover Uganda’s extraordinary diversity on a safari combining mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, savannah wildlife, rhino tracking and shoebill birdwatching.
Contact Epic Uganda Vacations to request a personalised itinerary and quotation for your 14-day Uganda gorilla, chimpanzee, Big Five and shoebill safari.
