Uganda–Off The Beaten-Path Expedition

15 Days 14 Nights
Starting from $8,170 /pp

Overview

Embark on a 15-day Ugandan adventure brimming with breathtaking landscapes, wildlife encounters, and cultural discoveries! Explore the ancient Nyero Rock Paintings and hike to the majestic Sipi Falls, then conquer the challenging Sasa Trail on Mount Elgon, traversing bamboo forests, Afromontane greenery, and panoramic highland vistas. Dive into the wild at Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve, spotting zebras, antelopes, and raptors across untamed savannahs, followed by Murchison Falls National Park’s Nile boat cruise, roaring falls, and Budongo Forest eco-walks. Traverse the lush Kyambura Gorge, cruise the Kazinga Channel, and venture into Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for a heart-pounding walking safari from Buhoma to Nkuringo plus mountain gorilla tracking. Conquer the jagged peaks of Mount Sabyinyo, where Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo meet, encountering forest duikers, and elephants amid awe-inspiring volcanic scenery. From highland trails to riverine wildlife, this journey offers an unparalleled immersion into Uganda’s raw beauty and vibrant ecosystems.

Highlights

  • Nyero Rock Paintings
  • Sipi Three-Falls Hike
  • Mount Elgon trek (Wagagai peak)
  • Mount Moroto Scenic Hike
  • Budongo Forest Walk
  • Explore Murchison Falls
  • Kibale “Top of the World” Hike
  • Explore Kyambura Gorge
  • Wilderness Safari in Ishasha
  • Buhoma–Nkuringo Walking Safari
  • Summit Mount Sabyinyo
  • Stunning views

Entebbe – Kampala – Sipi Falls – Mount Elgon National Park – Mount Moroto – Murchison Falls National Park via Kibale – Queen Elizabeth National Park – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – Mount Sabyinyo (Mgahinga) – Exit Entebbe

Journey time: Approx. 1 Hour

Upon arrival at Entebbe Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our safari guide and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, take the rest of the day to relax and unwind, allowing yourself to recuperate and prepare for the adventures that lie ahead.”

Overnight: Midrange: Fairway Boutique Hotel – or similar
Luxury: Lake Victoria Serena Golf Resort & Spa – or similar
Meal Plan: Bed and Breakfast

Journey Time: Approx. 5 Hours to Nyero                      

Pickup Time: 05:30AM. Enjoy an early breakfast at the hotel and depart Kampala for Kapchorwa via Kumi, home of the ancient Nyero Rock Paintings |Lunch at a restaurant.

Planned activities: Discover Nyero Rock Paintings: Step back in time as you explore the ancient Nyero Rock Paintings, uncovering the stories and cultural significance embedded in these remarkable artworks. Sipi Falls Adventure Exploration: Embark on a scenic hike to discover the three majestic waterfalls of Sipi. Wander along trails that weave through lush coffee plantations, vibrant local communities, and banana groves, all framed by breathtaking panoramic views. Conclude the day with a coffee experience.

Overnight: Midrange/Luxury: Sipi Heritage Lodge – or similar
Meal Plan: Half Board (Dinner and Breakfast)

Pickup Time: 07:00AM. Early breakfast at the lodge, followed by check-out and transfer to the trailhead for your 3-day hike.

Mount Elgon 3-Day Sasa Trail Expedition: Day 3. Begin your trek at the basecamp with a briefing from your mountain guides. Hike through local communities and plantations from 1,720m to 2,240m at the park entrance, then continue to Sasa River Camp (2,860m) for lunch and refreshments. The trail leads through Afromontane Forest into the bamboo zone, arriving at Mude Cave Camp (3,472m) for your first overnight stay. Includes guides, one porter, meals, and camping accommodations.

Overnight: Mude Cave Camp (Tent camping with a small foam mattress)
Meal plan: Lunch and Dinner

Begin the day with an early breakfast before trekking to the summit, passing Jackson’s Pool and Masaba Summit, rich with the history and culture of the Bamasaba and Gisu tribes. From the peak, take in breathtaking views of the world’s largest volcanic caldera (40 sq. km). Afterward, descend via Mude Camp to Sasa River Camp for your overnight.

Overnight: Sasa River Camp (Tent camping with a small foam mattress)

Meal plan: Breakfast,Lunch and Dinner

Journey time: Approx. 1 Hour

Enjoy breakfast before descending to the basecamp (1,720m) along the same trail, with lunch arranged En-route to the basecamp. Arrive at the basecamp around midday for a debriefing, then reunite with your driver-guide for the transfer back to your lodge. Check in and spend the rest of the day at leisure, concluding with dinner at your lodge.

Overnight: Midrange/Luxury: Sipi Heritage Lodge – or similar
Meal Plan: Half Board (Dinner and Breakfast)

Pickup Time: 06:00AM. Kick off your day with an early breakfast and receive a packed lunch to savor amidst the wild during your safari. Then, journey to Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve, where you will embark on a full-day adventure across vast savannahs, spotting zebras, antelopes, and other native wildlife.

Planned Safari Excursion: Embark on a full-day, wilderness adventure through Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve, one of Uganda’s most remote and untouched landscapes! Traverse vast golden savannahs, dotted with acacia trees and rolling hills, where herds of zebras, oribis, impalas, and reedbucks roam freely. Keep a keen eye out for elusive predators such as lions, hyenas, and jackals, while bird enthusiasts can delight in sightings of ostriches, vultures, and a variety of raptors. Along the way, your expert guide will share fascinating insights into the reserve’s ecology, wildlife behaviour, and conservation efforts. Pause for a scenic wilderness picnic in a tranquil spot, absorbing the raw beauty, sounds, and serenity of this unspoiled habitat.

After your safari, return to the lodge to freshen up before dinner and overnight stay.

Overnight: Midrange/Luxury: Sipi Heritage Lodge – or similar
Meal Plan: Full Board (Lunch, Dinner, and Breakfast)

Journey time: Approx. 5 Hours

Pickup Time: 06:00AM. Enjoy an early breakfast at the lodge before checking out and embarking on a scenic drive via Soroti Town to Murchison Falls National Park. Arrive in time for lunch at the lodge, followed by an afternoon boat cruise along the Nile.

Planned Activity: Afternoon waterfall cruise on the NileEmbark on an exhilarating boat adventure upstream along the Nile, navigating its shimmering waters toward the roaring base of the falls. Encounter hippos as they surface, watch crocodiles laze on the riverbanks, and marvel at a dazzling array of birdlife, all while feeling the raw, untamed energy of one of Africa’s most iconic river landscapes. 

Afterward, return to the lodge and unwind, enjoying a relaxing evening at your own pace.

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

Pickup Time: 06:30AM. Begin with an early breakfast and packed lunch, then enjoy guided forest walks and scenic hikes amidst the tranquil natural surroundings.

Planned activities: Budongo Eco Forest Walk – Embark on an adventurous forest walk through the hidden trails of Budongo, where the relatively flat terrain makes it perfect for exploring while uncovering the forest’s hidden wonders. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and rhythms of nature as you encounter diverse flora and fauna on this unforgettable journey. Afterward, continue to the top of Murchison Falls, where a scenic picnic awaits amid breathtaking views of the cascading waters.

Guided return hike to Murchison Falls and Uhuru Falls Viewpoints – Following a picnic lunch, set out on a thrilling round-trip guided hike to the top of Murchison Falls, tracing rugged trails through lush landscapes. Marvel at the roaring Murchison Falls from above, then descend toward the base to feel the sheer power of the cascading waters up close, surrounded by the untamed beauty and energy of the Nile, including views of Uhuru Falls.

Return to the lodge by late evening to unwind, refresh, and enjoy a relaxing dinner.

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

Journey Time: Approx. 06 Hours

Pickup Time: 06:00AM. Early breakfast at the lodge and begin with a guided game drive at sunrise before continuing to Kibale Forest. 

Planned Activity: Embark on a guided morning game drive in Murchison Falls National Park at first light, when wildlife is most active. Explore diverse landscapes—from open savannahs to riverine forests—spotting elephants, lions, giraffes, buffaloes, and hippos. Your ranger will share insights on animal behaviour, ecology, and conservation. Pause at scenic viewpoints to photograph the stunning vistas and observe wildlife in their natural habitat for a truly immersive safari experience. After an exhilarating morning safari, depart to Kibale Forest (Lunch at a restaurant), arriving in the evening to check in at your lodge.

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

Pickup Time: 06:00AM. Enjoy an early breakfast before checking out, then transfer to Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park to embark on your guided hike.

Today’s major expedition: Guided Nature Walk in Kyambura Gorge – Today’s highlight is an immersive guided nature walk through Kyambura Gorge, often called the “Valley of Apes.” Descend into the lush gorge, tracing winding trails flanked by dense rainforest, dramatic cliffs, and the sparkling Kyambura River. Accompanied by an experienced guide, observe the gorge’s diverse wildlife, including chimpanzees, monkeys, and a variety of bird species, while learning about the rich flora, geology, and cultural history of the area. Every step offers the chance to witness wildlife in its natural habitat and experience the tranquil yet exhilarating energy of this hidden ecological treasure.

Enjoy lunch at the lodge, followed by a later sundowner overlooking the Crater Lakes.

Overnight: Midrange: Mweya Safari Lodge – or similar
Luxury: The River Station – or similar
Meal Plan: Half Board (Dinner and Breakfast)

Journey Time: Approx. 4 Hours   

Pickup Time: 06:00AM. Enjoy an early breakfast, then set out for a morning game drive and mid-morning boat cruise before headingto Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Planned Activities: Morning Game Drive – Set out at dawn for a safari across the park’s vast savannahs, where the golden light illuminates elephants grazing, lions hunting, and antelopes moving gracefully through the grasslands—offering thrilling encounters and unmatched photographic opportunities as the wilderness awakens. Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise (11:00AM) –After the game drive, enjoy a scenic boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, where you’ll encounter hippos, crocodiles, and an abundance of birdlife. This experience provides a unique perspective of one of the park’s most vibrant ecosystems, combining tranquillity with close-up wildlife encounters.

Lunch will be served at Mweya Safari Lodge, after which you will continue your journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, passing through the scenic Ishasha Sector.

Overnight: Midrange: Mahogany Springs – or similar
Luxury: Gorilla Forest Lodge – or similar
Meal Plan: Full Board (Dinner, Breakfast and Lunchbox)

Walk Duration: Approx. 7 Hours to Nkuringo

Pick-up Time: 07:30AM. Early breakfast and be offered lunchboxes plus mineral water to put in your backpack. Your guide will drop you off at the park office for briefing.

The day’s major expedition: Buhoma to Nkuringo Walking Safari –Embark on a full-day, off-the-beaten-path trek across the heart of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, moving from the lush Buhoma Sector (north) to the enchanting Nkuringo Sector (south). Follow the winding Ivy or Kashasha trails, immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents of this ancient rainforest. Expect up to 7 hours of adventure at a brisk pace, encountering diverse flora, elusive wildlife, and breathtaking forest vistas along the way.

Arrive in Nkuringo, meet up with your driver-guide, and transfer to your lodge for dinner and overnight after a thrilling day exploring the jungle.

Overnight: Midrange: Four Gorillas Lodge – or similar
Luxury: Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge – or similar
Meal Plan:
Full Board (Dinner, Breakfast and Lunchbox)

Pickup Time: 06:30AM. After an early breakfast, receive a packed lunch and bottled water to carry in your backpack before proceeding to the park office.

Planned Activities: Bwindi Gorilla Tracking Experience – Venture deep into the heart of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for an unforgettable encounter with the endangered mountain gorillas. Accompanied by an experienced ranger and skilled trackers, you will navigate lush, mist-shrouded trails, surrounded by the sounds and scents of the jungle, as anticipation builds with every step. Upon finding the gorillas, spend 1 to 2 magical hours observing and photographing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. This is more than a trek—it is an intimate, once-in-a-lifetime adventure into one of the world’s most extraordinary ecosystems! During the trek, your guide will select a serene spot for a picnic lunch before you continue or return to the lodge (subject to change). For your comfort and safety, wear sturdy hiking shoes, trousers, long-sleeved shirts, gloves, a face mask plus insect repellent and drinking water.

Overnight: Midrange: Four Gorillas Lodge – or similar
Luxury: Nkuringo Gorilla Lodge – or similar
Meal Plan: Full Board (Dinner, Breakfast and Lunchbox)

Pickup Time: 07:00AM. Enjoy breakfast at the lodge, receive a packed lunch and mineral water, then proceed to the park for a detailed briefing.

Planned Activity: Mount Sabyinyo Adventure Trek – Embark on a thrilling trek to the tripoint where Uganda, Rwanda, and DR Congo meet! Known as “Sabyinyo” for its jagged peaks that resemble an old man’s teeth, this trek is steeper and more challenging than other hikes in Mgahinga, but the panoramic views are simply breathtaking. Along the way, traverse dense forests, bamboo zones, and rugged terrain, keeping an eye out for playful golden monkeys, shy duikers, elusive mountain elephants, buffaloes, and a kaleidoscope of birds. Every step of this high-altitude adventure immerses you in the raw beauty and vibrant wildlife of this iconic volcanic landscape. Prepare with sturdy hiking boots, gaiters, trousers, a raincoat, water, packed lunch, and insect repellent. Porters are available if needed.

Descend and head to the lodge in the evening for dinner and overnight stay.

Overnight: Midrange: Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge – or similar
Luxury: Mount Gahinga Lodge – or similar
Meal Plan: Full Board (Dinner, Breakfast and Lunchbox)

Flight Duration: Approx. 2 Hours  

Pickup Time: 06:30AM. Farewell from Kisoro: Begin your day with an early breakfast, then check out, receiving a packed lunch to enjoy later at the airport. Transfer to Kisoro Airstrip and board your domestic flight to Entebbe, enjoying aerial views of Uganda’s lush landscapes one last time. Upon arrival, proceed to check-in for your onward flight, carrying memories of an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Uganda.

Meal Plan: Breakfast at the lodge

Includes
  • 01 Gorilla tracking permit per person
  • Fuel for the entire safari until departure
  • Transport included based on the above vehicle options
  • Return airport transfers per itinerary schedule
  • Meals as described in the itinerary
  • 14 Nights’ accommodation (mountain camping incl.)
  • An English-speaking driver-guide.
  • Mountain guide per mountain in the itinerary
  • Planned activities mentioned in the itinerary.
  • 02L daily mineral water per person
  • AMREF Medical evacuation
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 8,170 pp. 15,750 pp.
Uganda–Off The Beaten-Path Expedition

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