The Uganda Big Five Safari is a short but thrilling adventure designed for wildlife enthusiasts seeking to experience the legendary Big Five species—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros—in their natural habitat. This 4-day safari focuses on Uganda’s most renowned national parks, combining game drives, boat cruises, and breathtaking landscapes for a compact but unforgettable wildlife experience. Perfect for travelers with limited time, this safari provides a mix of savannah, woodland, and wetland habitats.
Safari Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions
- Accommodation as per itinerary (lodges & hotels)
- Meals as indicated in the tour plan
- All ground transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle with English-speaking guide
- All park entrance fees and conservation fees (Murchison Falls & Queen Elizabeth NP)
- Game drives as indicated in the itinerary
- Boat cruises on Kazinga Channel and Nile River at Murchison Falls
- Nature walks and optional guided activities included in the itinerary
- Airport transfers (Arrival & Departure)
- Bottled drinking water while on safari
Exclusions
- International flights
- Uganda visa fees
- Travel & medical insurance
- Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, souvenirs)
- Alcoholic drinks & beverages not included in the itinerary
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Tips & gratuities for guides, drivers, and lodge staff
- Costs of photography permits where applicable
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be welcomed by your safari guide and driven to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest park. The journey passes through scenic countryside and local villages. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Overnight near Murchison Falls.
Day 2: Game Drive and Nile Boat Cruise
Begin the day with an early morning game drive on the northern bank of the Nile, where you may encounter elephants, giraffes, lions, buffaloes, and various antelope species. In the afternoon, take a boat cruise along the Nile River to the base of Murchison Falls, where you can spot hippos, crocodiles, and an array of birdlife. Later, hike to the top of the falls for panoramic views.
Overnight near Murchison Falls.
Day 3: Murchison Falls – Queen Elizabeth National Park
After breakfast, transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park, passing through the scenic Fort Portal and the beautiful crater lakes region. Upon arrival in Queen Elizabeth NP, enjoy an evening game drive in the Kasenyi Plains, where you may spot lions, buffaloes, elephants, and Uganda kob.
Overnight in Queen Elizabeth NP.
Day 4: Morning Game Drive, Kazinga Channel Cruise – Return to Entebbe
Start with an early morning game drive in the park’s savannah, focusing on spotting remaining Big Five species. Later, enjoy a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, famous for its high concentration of hippos, crocodiles, and bird species. After the cruise, begin the drive back to Entebbe for your departure flight.