Uganda Unveiled
Diverse Explorations
From forests to falls
Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa,” is a land of astonishing beauty and remarkable biodiversity. This journey takes you deep into its wild landscapes, from misty rainforests and shimmering lakes to vast savannahs teeming with wildlife. Encounter endangered mountain gorillas, track chimpanzees, cruise along the legendary Nile River, and witness the power of Murchison Falls, all while staying in some of Uganda’s finest safari lodges.
One of the most extraordinary wildlife experiences on Earth, trekking to see mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is both exhilarating and humbling. Led by expert trackers, venture into the dense, mist-cloaked rainforest, following trails where only a select few have walked before. The trek can be challenging, winding through tangled vines and steep slopes, but the moment you come face-to-face with a majestic silverback and his family, the effort fades into insignificance.
Spend an unforgettable hour in their presence, observing their tender social interactions—mothers cradling their young, juveniles tumbling playfully, and the powerful yet gentle silverback keeping watch over his troop. With nearly half the world’s remaining mountain gorillas calling Bwindi home, this is an encounter few are privileged to experience.
After your trek, retreat to Buhoma Lodge, a charming eco-lodge nestled on the forest’s edge. Here, the calls of distant primates and the rustle of leaves provide the perfect soundtrack to your evening. Indulge in a complimentary post-trek massage, sip a sundowner on the terrace, and reflect on an experience that will stay with you forever.
You will love
- Spending time with mountain gorillas
- The Majesty of Murchison Falls
- An array of wildlife
- Trekking rhinos at Ziwa
- Exquisite green and fertile landscapes
- Warm hospitality
Let us design your perfect itinerary.
9 MAGICAL DAYS
DAY 1 | ENTEBBE | 1 NIGHT
Arrive into Entebbe, where you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to a conveniently located property for an overnight stay. Settle in and enjoy the rest of your day at leisure, perhaps relaxing in the gardens or enjoying a sundowner as you prepare for the adventures ahead.
DAY 2 | BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST NATIONAL PARK | 3 NIGHTS
This morning, board a scenic light aircraft flight to Kihihi in Uganda’s southwest. On arrival, a Wild Frontiers representative will drive you through local villages and along winding mountain roads to the edge of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.
Your destination is Buhoma Lodge, perched on the forest’s edge with panoramic views and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Spend the afternoon relaxing or exploring the surrounding area before enjoying a cosy dinner by the fireplace.
DAY 3 | BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST NATIONAL PARK
Today marks one of the most unforgettable wildlife experiences on Earth—mountain gorilla tracking in Bwindi. After a briefing from park rangers, you’ll set out into the dense jungle in a small guided group. The trek can take a few hours, but encountering a family of gorillas in their natural habitat is profoundly moving. Spend a magical hour in their presence before returning to camp for a well-earned rest and an evening of fireside stories.
Trekking can be challenging, with durations ranging from 45 minutes to eight hours, often at high altitudes and in humid conditions. We recommend hiring a local porter for assistance. While sightings are never guaranteed, success rates exceed 95%. Once you locate your gorilla family, spend an unforgettable hour in their presence, watching their interactions unfold just a few metres away—a moment to savour beyond the camera lens.
Our scheduled departures typically secure permits for Buhoma and Ruhija, with some requiring a scenic road transfer. After your trek, unwind with a complimentary massage at Buhoma Lodge or explore the vibrant Bwindi community.
DAY 4 | BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST NATIONAL PARK
Today, choose between another unforgettable gorilla trek or a more leisurely exploration of Bwindi’s enchanting surroundings. If you wish to trek again, venture deep into the misty rainforest with expert trackers for another extraordinary encounter with Mountain Gorillas—a privilege that never ceases to amaze.
Alternatively, immerse yourself in Bwindi’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Take a guided village walk to meet the Batwa people, one of the region’s oldest indigenous communities, or enjoy a serene forest walk, where the calls of exotic birds echo through the ancient trees. Bwindi is home to over 345 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.
Please note that additional trekking permits must be pre-purchased, so do let us know at the time of booking if you’d like to experience this once-in-a-lifetime adventure again.
DAY 5 | ENTEBBE | 1 NIGHT
After breakfast, transfer to Kihihi airstrip for your scenic flight back to Entebbe, soaring over Uganda’s lush landscapes to begin the next chapter of your journey. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and take some time to unwind.
In the afternoon, set off on a boat excursion to the Mabamba Swamps, a vast wetland on the shores of Lake Victoria. This biodiverse haven is one of the best places in Africa to spot the elusive Shoebill, a prehistoric-looking bird that stands motionless in the reeds before striking with lightning speed. As you glide through the tranquil waterways, keep an eye out for a wealth of other bird species, from malachite kingfishers to African jacanas. The peaceful rhythm of the swamp and the thrill of the search make for an unforgettable experience.
DAY 6 | MURCHISON FALLS NATIONAL PARK | 3 NIGHTS
After breakfast, meet your safari guide and set off towards Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, home to Uganda’s only wild rhinos. Accompanied by an expert ranger, venture on foot into the reserve for an intimate rhino tracking experience, observing these majestic creatures up close in their natural habitat.
Continue north to the breathtaking Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area. On arrival, take a guided walk to the Top of the Falls, where the mighty Nile River is forced through a narrow seven-metre gorge before crashing 43 metres into the Devil’s Cauldron below—a mesmerizing display of raw power and beauty. Feel the spray on your skin and listen to the thunderous roar of the falls before retiring to your lodge.
Settle in at Paraa Safari Lodge, a timeless retreat overlooking the Nile, where you can unwind and soak in the sights and sounds of the African wilderness.
DAY 7 | MURCHISON FALLS NATIONAL PARK
Begin the day with an early morning game drive across the sweeping savannahs of Murchison Falls National Park. As the golden light bathes the landscape, search for elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, and antelopes roaming freely in their natural habitat. With luck, you may even spot a prowling lion or the elusive leopard, blending into the bush.
In the afternoon, set out on a Nile boat cruise to the base of the mighty Murchison Falls. Glide past pods of hippos, watch crocodiles basking on the riverbanks, and marvel at the sheer variety of birdlife, from African fish eagles to elegant kingfishers. As you approach the falls, witness the dramatic spectacle of the Nile surging through a narrow gorge, crashing down in a thunderous display of power. This unforgettable journey offers a front-row seat to one of Uganda’s most breathtaking natural wonders.
DAY 8 | MURCHISON FALLS NATIONAL PARK
Rise early for an enchanting chimpanzee trek in the heart of Budongo Forest, a pristine rainforest within Murchison Falls National Park. Led by expert trackers, venture into the dense foliage, where the morning air is alive with the calls of birds and primates. Follow the rustling leaves and distant hoots until you come face-to-face with a troop of wild chimpanzees, observing their playful interactions and fascinating social bonds—a truly humbling experience.
In the afternoon, set out on a scenic game drive, traversing golden savannahs where elephants, giraffes, and Uganda kobs roam freely. Keep an eye out for predators lurking in the tall grass and hippos retreating to the river as the day cools. As the sun dips below the horizon, return to your lodge, the sounds of the wilderness settling into a peaceful night.
DAY 9 | RETURN TO ENTEBBE
Depart after an early breakfast for the drive back to Entebbe, arriving late afternoon.
If your flight leaves prior to 7pm, it may be necessary to factor in an additional night in Entebbe.
Note
This itinerary is a suggestion only and can be amended in terms of length, destination and properties to be included.
THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
From USD $5,694
Departure Dates – 2025*
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September 6th – September 15th
Departure Dates – 2026*
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February 15th – February 24th
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September 18th – September 27th
Inclusions
- Meet & greet VIP service at Entebbe airport
- Airport transfers
- One-way flight from Entebbe to Kihihi
- Transfers to & from Buhoma from Kihihi
- Guide and driver services
- Park entry fees
- Game drives in Murchison Falls National Park
- Boat cruise on to the foot of the falls
- Chimpanzee trekking in Budongo
- Mabamba Swamps excursion
- Ziwa rhino trekking
- 2 nights’ accommodation in Entebbe
- 3 nights’ accommodation at Buhoma Lodge
- 3 nights’ accommodation at Paraa Safari Lodge
*Please note: Total weight limit for transfer flight from Entebbe to Kihihi is 15kg in soft bags. XL seats available for those with additional luggage/ needing more space.
Exclusions
- International flights
- Gorilla & chimp trekking permits
- Gratuities for gorilla trekking porters
- Optional excursions, including forest walks & cultural visits
- Extra activities, visas, insurance, items of a personal nature
*Should permits be purchased for Ruhija gorilla families, there will be an additional amount of USD 83 per person for the extra transfer/s.
FLIGHTS & INSURANCE ON REQUEST
An absolutely fantastic travel company - every one of the many trips they have organised for us over 22 years have been faultless and fabulous.
Judith & Roger Williams
Would do it all again and not change a moment. Best holiday ever!
The McGowan Tribe
It certainly was the best trip we have EVER had. The experiences were mind blowing. We want everyone we know to experience Africa - the animals, the people - magical.
Jo-anne & Dean Mifsud
The Classic Safari Company is the best I have dealt with. Extremely knowledgeable & professional, friendly, patient & understanding of first timers to Africa.
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Classic Safari Company were brilliant - 10/10
Di & Kingsley Yates
Classic Safari is the place to go to for "top end" adventure travel.
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If you want the most sensational experience in Africa let Julia and the staff at Classic Safari Co plan it for you! Their knowledge, expertise and enthusiasm for their job means your every wish will be fulfilled.
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Their experience and knowledge of Africa is evident and we couldn't have been happier with the total package. This has given us a taste for Africa - now we are ready for more.
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Simon & Jackie Adams
The trip of a lifetime, couldn't have dreamt of a better adventure if I tried.
Emma Jeffcoat
You can't improve on perfection. I had my best birthday and holiday with my family celebrating my 80th birthday in Africa. Everything that Julia organised was perfect and the whole trip was a highlight!
Buckingham Family
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Tim Bradley
Very knowledgeable and patient. Our trip was all that we hoped for. Wonderful!
Jane & Robert Happell
Thank you for making our trip to Africa so spectacular. The attention to detail really made it special. It really was the trip of a lifetime.
Paul Cozzi
An amazing experience - the best family holiday we have ever had. We were extremely impressed by the meticulous attention to our itinerary. I can't speak highly enough of all the elements of this exciting journey!
Sheryl & Robert Taylor
We loved it all. Our son wants to go back tomorrow. We would ALL go back again!
Laurence & Remi Cunningham
Classic Safari are the people who genuinely know other culture and offer incredible insight to perfectly meet your expectations.
Melanie McMillan & Iain Jones
The trip exceeded my expectations and was the best family holiday I have ever had. Our children simply loved it and now I know more about African wildlife than they do about our own farm animals.
Rowntree family
We are so happy we put our trust in CSC, we had an amazing adventure and would recommend them to anyone.
Kim & Brad Balance
Julia you did a fantastic job - everything was first class. Well organised, efficient and stress free. We all agreed it was the best holiday we've ever had. Cant wait to travel with CSC again.
Milford family
We wanted the opportunity to see as many wildlife parks as possible and the Classic Safari Company provided an action-packed itinerary that included six, with 11 tiger sightings and nine leopard. This was overlaid with an introduction to Jaisalmer, Jaipur and the 'real' India. Pench and Panna were the hidden gems of a really great trip, very well organised, seamless and enjoyable. As a solo traveller I felt incredibly safe at all times. I want to go back!
Mark Taylor
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Elizabeth Mackintosh
Thank you for putting together the ancestral adventure of a lifetime. I cannot speak highly enough of the trip.
Jenny Kidd