7 Days Chimpanzee Tracking and Wildlife Encounter , Kibale and Murchison Falls
Chimpanzee Tracking and Wildlife Encounter. Embark on an unforgettable 7-day safari through Uganda, exploring the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of Kibale National Park and Murchison Falls National Park. This immersive journey offers the chance to track wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat, witness the breathtaking Murchison Falls, and experience the vibrant wildlife that makes Uganda a premier safari destination. This itinerary combines adventure, wildlife encounters, and the chance to connect with local cultures, ensuring a memorable experience for every traveler.
Day 1: Arrival in Uganda
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be welcomed by your guide who will assist you with your luggage and transfer you to your hotel in Entebbe or Kampala for overnight accommodation. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to explore the vibrant city of Kampala, visit local markets, or relax at your hotel as you prepare for the adventure ahead.
Day 2: Transfer to Kibale National Park
After breakfast, you will depart for Kibale National Park, a journey of approximately 5-6 hours. Enjoy the scenic drive through lush green landscapes, charming villages, and tea plantations. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, you will visit the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, where you can spot various bird species and other wildlife while taking a guided nature walk. This area is known for its rich biodiversity, making it a great introduction to the region’s flora and fauna. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 3: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale National Park
Today is dedicated to chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park, home to one of the largest populations of chimpanzees in East Africa. After an early breakfast, you will head to Kanyanchu Visitor Center, the park headquarters for a briefing before embarking on your tracking adventure. Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, you will trek through the dense rainforest in search of these fascinating primates.
Once you find a community of chimpanzees, spend an hour observing their behavior and taking in the experience. Kibale National Park is also home to other primates, including red-tailed monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and black-and-white colobus monkeys, which you may encounter during your trek. After the tracking experience, return to your lodge for lunch and relaxation.
In the afternoon, consider a visit to the nearby Crater Lakes for stunning views and a chance to hike around the lakes. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 4: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
After breakfast, check out and begin your journey to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest national park. The drive takes approximately 7-8 hours, offering views of the picturesque countryside, including rural settlements and agricultural lands.
Arrive at Murchison Falls in the afternoon, where you will check in at your lodge. Enjoy lunch and take some time to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. In the evening, embark on a short game drive to spot wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and various antelope species. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 5: Wildlife Safari and Boat Cruise on the Nile
Today, you will enjoy a full day of adventure in Murchison Falls National Park. After breakfast, set out on a morning game drive through the park’s vast savanna, where you can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and hippos. Your knowledgeable guide will share insights into the park’s ecosystems and wildlife behavior, ensuring a memorable experience.
After the morning safari, return to your lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise along the Nile River to the base of the magnificent Murchison Falls. This scenic cruise offers opportunities to spot wildlife along the riverbanks, including hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species, such as kingfishers and the iconic African fish eagle. Witness the breathtaking sight of the Nile River squeezing through a narrow gorge before plunging into a tumultuous waterfall. After the cruise, return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 6: Optional Activities and Nature Walks
On your final day in Murchison Falls National Park, you can choose from a range of optional activities, such as a hot air balloon ride over the savanna at sunrise, which provides a unique perspective of the park’s stunning landscapes and wildlife. Alternatively, you can take a guided nature walk along the Nile, where you may encounter smaller wildlife, including various bird species and smaller mammals.
After your chosen activity, return to your lodge for breakfast and relaxation. Spend the afternoon at leisure, enjoying the amenities of your lodge or exploring the surrounding areas.
In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at your lodge, reflecting on the incredible experiences of the past week.
Day 7: Departure
After breakfast, check out of your lodge and begin your journey back to Entebbe International Airport. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Kampala. Your guide will ensure you arrive at the airport in good time for your departure, bringing your unforgettable safari experience to a close.
