Nile River Expedition and Chimp Trek

8 Days 7 Nights
Starting from $4,320 /pp

Overview

This eight-day Ugandan adventure plunges you into thrilling experiences and wild landscapes. Begin with Sezibwa Falls, a trek through Mabira Forest, and a scenic Source of the Nile cruise, then tackle Grade 5 white-water rafting and optional adrenaline-packed activities. Venture through Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary En-route to Murchison Falls National Park, where game drives reveal lions, elephants, and giraffes, and the top of the falls offers a breathtaking rainbow view. Journey to Kibale National Park for an exhilarating chimpanzee tracking expedition and an immersive Bigodi cultural experience, then conclude with a scenic drive to Entebbe, exploring Amabere Caves and hiking Nyakasura Hill for panoramic crater lake vistas before departure.

Highlights

  • Sezibwa Falls
  • Mabira Forest walks
  • Source of the Nile cruise
  • Grade 5 white-water rafting
  • Ziwa Rhino trekking
  • Murchison Falls game drives
  • Top of Murchison Falls
  • Kibale chimpanzee tracking
  • Bigodi cultural experience
  • Birding on treks and hikes
  • Amabere Caves/Nyakasura Hill
  • Stunning scenic views

Kampala – Jinja – Murchison Falls National Park – Kibale National Park – Entebbe

Journey time: Approx. 1 Hour

Upon arrival at Entebbe Int. Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your dedicated guide and transferred to your hotel in Kampala or Entebbe. Take this time to relax, recharge, and immerse yourself in the anticipation of the incredible adventure that awaits.

Overnight: Midrange: Protea Hotel Entebbe – or similar
Luxury: Entebbe Forest Lodge – or similar
Meal Plan: Bed and Breakfast

Journey Time: Approx. 03 Hours

Pickup Time: 06:00AM. Enjoy an early breakfast at the hotel before checking out, then embark on a scenic journey to the vibrant city of Jinja. Stop along the way for a delightful lunch at a local restaurant before continuing your adventure.

Planned Activities: First Stop: Sezibwa Falls – Discover the spiritual and cultural significance of this Buganda heritage site, where cascading waters are intertwined with local legends and traditions. Next Stop: Mabira Eco Forest – Immerse yourself in one of Uganda’s largest surviving rainforests with a 2–3 hour guided nature walk, observing diverse flora, birdlife, and the tranquil forest ecosystem. Final Stop: Jinja – Source of the Nile Boat Cruise –Experience the majesty of the world’s longest river as you glide along its pristine waters, taking in the scenic beauty and lively riverside culture.

Overnight: Midrange: Jinja Nile Resort – or similar
Luxury: Lemala Wildwaters Lodge – or similar
Meal Plan: Bed and Breakfast

Pickup Time: 07:00AM. Following a hearty breakfast at the hotel, embark on a transfer to the basecamp. Lunch can be arranged at the basecamp.

Planned Activity: Grade 5 White-Water Rafting – Arrive at the River Nile basecamp by 08:30AM for briefing before embarking on an adrenaline-pumping 4–5–hour rafting adventure along 19 km of thrilling rapids. Begin with gentler grade-2 rapids to warm up, building anticipation for the heart-pounding grade-5 rapids that await, testing your courage and teamwork. Along the way, pause to admire the breathtaking Itanda Falls, where the river cascades in a stunning display of power and beauty. What to pack: shorts, t-shirt or long sleeves, sunscreen, a change of clothes, and a metallic water bottle to stay hydrated. Optional activities: Quad biking, Bungee jumping, Horseback riding or water cycling.

Overnight: Midrange: Jinja Nile Resort – or similar
Luxury: Lemala Wildwaters Lodge – or similar
Meal Plan: Bed and Breakfast

Journey time: Approx. 7 Hours

Pick-up Time: 06:00AM. Enjoy an early breakfast at the hotel, then embark on a journey to Murchison Falls National Park – Your lunch is arranged at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

Planned Activity: En route to Masindi 05 Hour Drive out of Jinja, take a memorable stop at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. Here, you will have the thrilling opportunity to track endangered rhinos on foot, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the sanctuary.

From the Ziwa, continue your journey to Murchison Falls National Park. Upon entering the park, drive straight to the top of Murchison Falls, where the thundering waters of the Nile create a spectacular, permanent rainbow above the gorge. Stand on a secure viewing deck and feel the power of the cascading river below—an awe-inspiring sight that perfectly captures why Murchison Falls is a must-visit destination for most travellers.

Overnight: Midrange: Entikko Safari Lodge – or similar
Luxury: Nile Safari Lodge – or similar
Meal Plan: Half-Board (Dinner and Breakfast)

Pickup Time: 06:30AM. Start your day with an early breakfast, then embark on a thrilling sunrise game drive as the savannah comes alive with elephants, antelopes, and predators, offering unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Planned Activities: Morning Guided Game Drive at Sunrise – Begin the day as the savannah stirs to life when predators return from the night’s hunt and grazers emerge to feed. This golden hour offers prime opportunities to encounter lions, elephants, giraffes, and other iconic species against the dramatic backdrop of a waking wilderness. Afternoon Boat Cruise – Journey along the Nile to the base of the falls, where the river’s calm waters reveal pods of hippos, basking crocodiles, and a dazzling array of birdlife. The cruise not only offers close encounters with aquatic life but also unveils the raw power and beauty of Murchison Falls as the river forces its way through a narrow gorge. Optional Evening Game Drive – As the sun dips low, witness the park bathed in amber light. This time of day reveals a different rhythm of the bush—elephants on the move, antelopes gathering, and predators stirring once more. Dinner at your lodge.

Overnight: Midrange: Entikko Safari Lodge – or similar
Luxury: Nile Safari Lodge – or similar
Meal Plan: Full Board (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Journey Time: Approx. 07 Hours

Pickup Time: 06:30AM. Begin your day with an early breakfast at the lodge before embarking on you journey to Kibale National Park – Pause for a delicious lunch at a local restaurant in Hoima City. Arrive at your lodge in the late afternoon, where you can relax and soak in the tranquil surroundings – no scheduled activities.  

Overnight: Midrange: Tabebuia Spa & Safari Resort – or similar
Luxury: Papaya Lake Lodge – or similar
Meal Plan: Half Board (Dinner and Breakfast)

Pickup Time: 07:00AM. Enjoy an early breakfast at the lodge before heading to the park for a briefing. Later, savor a traditional lunch at Tinka’s Homestead, experiencing authentic local flavours and hospitality.

Planned Activities: Chimpanzee Tracking experience –Rise early and prepare for a heart-pounding journey into the dense, mist-shrouded rainforest of Kibale. After an 08:00AM briefing, set off by 08:30AM, trekking through winding trails, moss-covered trees, and vibrant undergrowth. Listen for the thrilling calls of chimpanzees echoing through the canopy and catch sight of these fascinating primates as they swing, forage, and play in their natural habitat. Every step offers the chance for unexpected wildlife encounters and a deeper connection with one of Africa’s most remarkable ecosystems. Don’t forget your hiking boots, long trousers, face mask, insect repellent, gloves, and mineral water for this unforgettable adventure.  In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the vibrant life of Bigodi village: Stroll through villages, meet local artisans, and witness age-old customs.

Overnight: Midrange: Tabebuia Spa & Safari Resort – or similar
Luxury: Papaya Lake Lodge – or similar
Meal Plan: Half Board (Dinner and Breakfast)

Journey time: Approx. 06 Hours

Pickup Time: 06:30AM. Have breakfast at the lodge, check out, and enjoy a scenic drive from Kibale through Fort Portal to Entebbe Airport, stopping for lunch En-route.

Perfect for Late-Night Flights: En route to Entebbe Airport, make a stop at Amabere Caves in Fort Portal. Explore the caves’ stalagmites and stalactites while uncovering the rich local legends tied to this site. Continue with a guided hike up Nyakasura Hill to soak in panoramic views of the three stunning crater lakes and glimpse the ancient footprints said to belong to the ancient Batembuzi. After this memorable cultural and scenic experience, proceed to Entebbe Airport for check-in and your onward flight.

Meal Plan: Breakfast | Lunch at a restaurant

Includes
  • 01 Chimpanzee permit per person
  • 07 nights’ accommodation with meals as per itinerary
  • Enclosed 4WD Land Cruiser with pop-up roof
  • Fuel for the entire trip
  • Return airport transfers
  • English-speaking driver-guide
  • Park entrance fees and planned activities
  • 02L mineral water per person per day
  • AMREF medical evacuation cover
Excludes
  • All optional activities and services not mentioned above.

  • Journey times in the itinerary are estimates and may vary depending on traffic and road conditions.
  • Accommodation options listed are subject to availability at the time of booking; if unavailable, comparable properties will be provided.
  • Allocation within the five sectors of Bwindi will depend on availability at the time of booking and cannot be predetermined.
  • Rates are subject to change due to factors beyond our control. Any adjustments or top-ups will be communicated and reflected in your final invoice.

Pricing
Book Your Slot Early
No. of Pax Midrange
Option
Luxury
Option
02 4,320 pp. 7,925 pp.
Nile River Expedition and Chimp Trek

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