How difficult is the Mgahinga hiking safari?

The hikes range from moderate to challenging. Mount Sabinyo involves ladders and rocky terrain, Mount Gahinga is easier through bamboo forest, and Mount Muhavura is steep with camping at high altitude. A good fitness level is recommended.

Can I add gorilla trekking to this safari?

Yes! Gorilla trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park can be added to this itinerary for an extra fee, depending on permit availability. Let us know early to secure your permit.

What’s the best time for hiking in Mgahinga?

The best months are June to September and December to February—during Uganda’s dry seasons. Trails are less slippery and views are clearer.

Is camping gear provided for Mount Muhavura?

Yes, we provide basic camping gear including tents, sleeping bags, and mats for the Muhavura overnight. You are welcome to bring your own gear if preferred.

Can this trip start or end in Kigali, Rwanda?

Absolutely. We can arrange pickup or drop-off in Kigali at no extra cost. This option is great for travelers flying into Rwanda.

Are golden monkeys included in this safari?

Golden monkey trekking is optional and can be added upon request. It’s a unique experience only available in the Virunga region.

5 Days Murchison Falls and Bwindi Gorilla Tracking Safari

Experience the thrill of wildlife safaris and the wonder of gorilla trekking in this 5-day Murchison Falls and Bwindi safari, exploring Uganda’s top two natural icons.

Overview

Itinerary

Includes/Excludes

Map

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Includes/Excludes

Map

FAQs

Overview

This immersive 5-day safari blends two of Uganda’s most iconic wilderness experiences: the thundering Murchison Falls and the mystical Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to the endangered mountain gorillas.

Begin your journey with classic game drives through the savannah plains of Murchison Falls National Park, where elephants, lions, giraffes, and hippos roam beneath dramatic skies.

From the Nile’s explosive waterfalls, travel through the scenic Albertine Rift to the ancient rainforest of Bwindi.

There, you’ll venture deep into the jungle for a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla tracking experience.

This itinerary is perfect for adventurous travelers seeking a balance of big game encounters and deeply personal wildlife moments—all while enjoying Uganda’s raw beauty and warm hospitality.

Tour Highlights

Day 1: Scenic drive to Murchison Falls and visit to the top of the falls
Day 2: Game drive and Nile boat safari in Murchison Falls National Park
Day 3: Road trip through the Albertine Rift to Bwindi
Day 4: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Day 5: Return to Kampala

Day 1 :

Depart Kampala for Murchison Falls National Park

After breakfast, set off from Kampala via Bombo Road toward Uganda’s largest national park.

The drive takes approximately five hours through the lush countryside and rural heartlands. Upon arrival, proceed straight to the Top of Murchison Falls—a dramatic site where the Nile funnels through a 7-meter gorge and crashes into the river below.

The roaring spectacle is the perfect introduction to Uganda’s wild landscapes. Afterward, continue to your lodge for check-in and dinner.

Destination: Murchison Falls National Park

Accommodation Options:

Silver: Heritage Safari Lodge, Red Chilli Safari Lodge, Parkside Safari Lodge
Gold: Murchison River Lodge, Pakuba Safari Lodge
Platinum: Paraa Safari Lodge, Chobe Safari Lodge

Day 2 :

Game Drive and Nile Boat Safari

Rise early for a game drive across the northern banks of the Nile Delta. Expect to spot lions, buffaloes, giraffes, Jackson’s hartebeest, oribi, and possibly leopards stalking the golden grasslands.

Return for breakfast, then later board a boat for a two-hour cruise along the Nile toward the base of the falls. Along the riverbanks, watch for schools of hippos, basking crocodiles, and birdlife including the rare shoebill stork.

From the foot of the falls, marvel at the thunderous drop as mist fills the air—a picture-perfect memory. Return to your lodge for lunch, relaxation, and a peaceful evening.

Day 3 :

Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

After breakfast, begin your journey south through the Albertine Rift toward Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

This long, scenic drive offers breathtaking views of Lake Albert, the Rwenzori Mountains, Kibale Forest, and the crater lakes of western Uganda.

You’ll also pass through vibrant rural communities and rolling tea plantations. Arrive at Bwindi in time to relax at your lodge and prepare for tomorrow’s trek.

Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Accommodation Options:

Silver: Broadbill Camp, Trekkers Tavern Cottages, Rushaga Haven Lodge
Gold: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge, Gorilla Mist Camp, Buhoma Haven Lodge
Platinum: Chameleon Hill Lodge, Ruhija Gorilla Safari Lodge, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge, Bwindi Lodge

Day 4 :

Mountain Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi

An early breakfast sets the tone for one of Africa’s most profound wildlife experiences.

After a briefing at park headquarters at 8:00 a.m., you’ll be assigned a gorilla family and begin your trek through the dense, mist-covered rainforest.

The hike can take between 2 to 6 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location. Once found, you’ll spend an awe-inspiring hour observing these gentle giants—watching young ones play, silverbacks keep guard, and families go about their day.

After the trek, you may opt for a guided nature walk or a cultural visit to the Batwa pygmy community before returning to your lodge.

Day 5 :

Return to Kampala

After a hearty breakfast, begin the drive back to Kampala through Uganda’s scenic heartland.

Expect to arrive in the evening, marking the end of an unforgettable Ugandan safari filled with wild beauty, cultural encounters, and up-close moments with nature’s most majestic creatures.

End of Safari