Ben Kahrl and Connie Mao
Sample Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Entebbe
Upon your arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you'll be greeted by our representative, who will assist you with immigration and lead you outside to meet your guide for the short drive to Hotel Number 5.
Overnight Hotel Number 5
Day 2
Flight to Murchison Falls National Park
Start your day with a restful morning at Hotel Number 5, hidden amongst the leafy suburbs of Entebbe. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance of its tropical gardens or unwind by the pool before your scheduled transfer to the airport. From there, embark on your flight to Murchison Falls National Park, where the real adventure begins.
Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed by the lodge’s driver, who will accompany you on the scenic drive to your accommodation. After checking in to Papa's Camp and settling into your luxury ensuite tent, take a moment to relax and take in the incredible surroundings.
Set out for a guided evening game drive through the park if time permits. The cooler hours of dawn and dusk are ideal for spotting wildlife. Wrap up your day with a refreshing sundowner as you watch your first sunset over the African savannah.
Tucked away within Murchison Falls National Park, Papa’s Camp is set amidst a grove of shady fig trees along the southern banks of the Nile River. This intimate safari retreat draws inspiration from Ernest Hemingway, who famously survived two plane crashes near this location. The camp’s design captures the charm of classic safaris, offering guests a unique blend of adventure and tranquility in the wilderness. Papa’s Camp features five luxurious tents, each thoughtfully positioned along the riverbank. These tents have modern comforts while maintaining a traditional bush camp ambiance that complements the surrounding natural beauty. The camp’s remote location ensures an exclusive wildlife experience, and a short drive away lies Murchison Falls, where you can witness one of nature’s most powerful spectacles.
Overnight Papa's Camp
Day 3
Game Drive in Murchison Falls National Park
Begin your day with an early morning game drive when wildlife is most active on the savannah. This is the perfect time to spot lions, elephants, giraffes, and buffaloes roaming freely across the grasslands.
Later this morning, set out on a half-day fishing excursion along the Nile. As well as the chance to reel in a prized catch, you may be able to spot the river's inhabitants, including crocodiles, hippos, and a vibrant array of birdlife.
Return to the lodge for lunch before an afternoon nature walk to see the park on foot. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through the terrain of Murchison Falls National Park while sharing insights into the fascinating flora, fauna, and ecosystems that thrive here.
As the day draws to a close, reflect on your day with a sundowner and snacks.
Overnight Papa's Camp
Day 4
Waterfall Boat Trip and Hike
Today, set out on an adventure in Murchison Falls National Park, beginning with a private boat trip to the bottom of the falls.
After reaching the base of Murchison Falls, disembark the boat and hike to the top for stunning views. Take a break to enjoy a picnic lunch before returning to the lodge for a well-deserved rest. Spend the afternoon enjoying the lodge's amenities or participate in other activities at Papa’s Camp.
Overnight Papa's Camp
Day 5
Flight to Queen Elizabeth
Spend the morning as you like, taking in the picturesque surroundings of the lodge. After lunch, you'll be brought to the airstrip for a scenic flight to Kasese Airstrip. Upon arrival, a lodge representative from The River Station will accompany you for the one-hour journey through the beautiful countryside. Once at the lodge, check-in and take the afternoon to relax in these peaceful surroundings.
Perched on a bluff overlooking the Kazinga Channel, The River Station offers an unparalleled safari experience in the heart of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Even from the comfort of your breakfast table, you can witness elephants roaming by. Yet, the true magic lies in the Kyambura Game Reserve, where expert guides will lead you through the reserve's seven crater lakes, on chimpanzee treks, or in search of hyena dens and lion cubs. Each luxury tent includes a private plunge pool, safari-style outdoor showers, and an ensuite bathroom. The safari spa is set above a watering hole for unique views, making this camp a game-changer on the western Uganda circuit.
Overnight The River Station
Day 6
Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge
Today, you’ll go to Kyambura Gorge for a morning of chimpanzee tracking. Kyambura Gorge is an underground tropical forest within Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Stretching about half a mile (1 km) long and plunging 320 feet (100m) deep creates a unique ecosystem. Often referred to as the “Valley of Apes,” the gorge is home to a small community of chimpanzees and other smaller primates. The chimpanzee population here is habituated, making this the only spot in Queen Elizabeth National Park where tourists can track these fascinating creatures.
Return to the lodge for lunch, then enjoy a 2-hour boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, followed by an evening sundowner with snacks and drinks.
Overnight The River Station
Day 7
Activities Along the Kazinga Channel
Today, you have the freedom to spend your day as you wish, either relaxing at the lodge or participating in activities offered by The River Station. Consider a game drive, a guided nature walk, or a boat ride along the Kazinga Channel.
Overnight The River Station
Day 8
Walking Safari in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the northern part of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Upon arrival, meet your walking safari guide for a 3–4 hour trek through the forest to its southern side. This walk will give you a chance to spot a variety of bird species and monkeys.
As you emerge from the forest, you will be greeted by a Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge representative. They will drive you the remainder of the way to the lodge, where you can check in and spend your evening enjoying the amenities.
At over 6,560 feet (2,000m) above sea level, Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge is the highest lodge in Uganda. Each cottage is crafted from local volcanic stone and has a spacious sitting room with a fireplace, comfortable armchairs, and beautifully hand-woven carpets.
Overnight Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
Day 9
Gorilla Trekking Experience
Set out on a full-day journey tracking gorillas in the Nkuringo area. Guided by experienced trackers, you'll hike through the bush, navigating through dense undergrowth to find the gorillas. Depending on their location, the trek can range from half an hour to several hours, so a reasonable fitness level and a sturdy pair of walking shoes are essential.
After the unforgettable experience of observing mountain gorillas, begin the descent back to your accommodation for a well-deserved afternoon of relaxation. This experience offers a unique chance to connect with one of the world's most endangered species in the breathtakingly beautiful and remote Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Overnight Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
Day 10
Gorilla Habituation Experience
Today, you’ll have the opportunity to follow along with the team currently working with a gorilla community undergoing habituation. This gorilla experience takes place among a rugged landscape of dense jungle, cascading waterfalls, sparkling mountain streams, deep valleys, and steep ridges.
Wake up early for a hearty breakfast to give you the energy for the exciting day ahead. This trek can take anywhere from 30 minutes to six hours, and a reasonable degree of fitness and a sturdy pair of walking shoes are required. Gloves to protect your hands and long pants are also essential.
Because the group under habituation is always monitored, the habituation team will know where the gorillas are at all times. Due to that ability, this experience will be no more strenuous than the normal tracking activity, and you can stop to rest at any time.
Porters can help carry luggage, snacks, cameras, and any other heavy gear you wish to bring along, allowing you to focus on the trail without worrying about your things. Additionally, they can provide physical support to maintain balance and prevent fatigue during your trek.
After this incredible and intimate experience among the gorillas, return to your accommodation for a restful evening and share the day’s stories.
Overnight Clouds Mountain Gorilla Lodge
Day 11
Departure Day
After breakfast, you’ll be collected by a lodge representative for your transfer to the Kisoro Airstrip to connect with your flight to Entebbe.
Upon arrival, meet again with your driver from Entebbe, who will transfer you back to Hotel Number 5 for a day room to rest before your international flight. Later, transfer to the airport for your outbound flight.
