After an early breakfast, drive to Mabamba Swamp for a guided canoe excursion in search of the elusive shoebill stork. The swamp is also home to many wetland bird species, offering excellent photography opportunities. Later, continue north to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary where you will track rhinos on foot with expert rangers. This conservation area plays a vital role in Uganda’s rhino reintroduction program. Overnight: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Guesthouse or similar

Begin the day with another guided shoebill trek within Ziwa, increasing your chances of close sightings. Afterward, drive to Murchison Falls National Park with a stop at the dramatic Top of the Falls. Here, the Nile squeezes through a narrow gorge before plunging downstream, creating one of Africa’s most powerful natural spectacles. Continue to your lodge for evening relaxation. Overnight: Gipir and Labongo Safari Lodge or similar

Enjoy a morning game drive on the northern savannah plains of Murchison Falls National Park. Look out for elephants, giraffes, lions, buffaloes, and various antelope species. In the afternoon, embark on a boat cruise along the Nile toward the base of the falls, offering close views of hippos, crocodiles, and water birds while enjoying scenic riverine landscapes.
Overnight: Gipir and Labongo Safari Lodge

Start the day with an early boat cruise to the Nile Delta, one of the best locations in Uganda to search for the shoebill and other rare birds. After the cruise, drive southwest toward Fort Portal, passing scenic countryside, tea plantations, and crater lakes as the landscape transitions into the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains. Overnight: Dutchess Hotel or similar

After breakfast, transfer to Semliki National Park for a guided nature walk to the Sempaya Hot Springs. The walk introduces you to lowland forest species and the unique geothermal features of the Albertine Rift. Later, continue to Kibale Forest National Park with a stop at Amabere Ga’Nyina Mwiru caves, rich in geology, culture, and scenic viewpoints. Overnight: Kibale Forest Lodge or similar

Spend the entire day participating in the chimpanzee habituation experience in Kibale Forest. Accompanied by researchers and guides, you will follow chimpanzees from early morning as they feed, socialize, and move through the forest. This extended experience provides deeper insight into primate behavior and conservation research compared to standard trekking. Overnight: Kibale Forest Lodge or similar

Transfer to Rwenzori Mountains National Park after breakfast. Upon arrival, meet your trekking team for a detailed briefing and gear check. The afternoon is reserved for preparation, rest, and acclimatization ahead of the multi-day hike into one of Africa’s most dramatic and biologically rich mountain ranges. Overnight: Trekkers Hostel or similar

Begin your Rwenzori ascent through Afro-montane forest rich with moss-covered trees and diverse primate life including colobus and blue monkeys. The trail winds through bamboo zones and river crossings before reaching Sine Camp near Enock’s Falls. The camp provides a peaceful forest setting and marks your first night in the mountains. Overnight: Sine Camp

Continue climbing through bamboo and heather zones as the vegetation becomes more alpine. Pass waterfalls and open ridges offering views into deep valleys. Arrival at Mutinda Camp is followed by an optional acclimatization hike to Mutinda Lookout, providing panoramic views of surrounding peaks and valleys. Overnight: Mutinda Camp

Cross the Mutinda Valley on boardwalks and tussock grass before entering the vast Namusangi Valley. Giant lobelias and groundsels dominate the landscape, creating a surreal alpine environment. Reach Bugata Camp positioned high on the pass with sweeping views of surrounding glacial valleys. Overnight: Bugata Camp

Start early to summit Weismanns Peak, navigating rocky terrain with breathtaking views of Mount Stanley, Speke, and Baker. After the summit, descend into the lush Nyamwamba Valley characterized by waterfalls, alpine vegetation, and wildlife-rich clearings. Overnight: Kiharo Camp

Descend through scenic valleys, moss-covered forests, and river crossings alive with birdlife and primates. Stop at Riverside Rock Shelter for lunch before completing the trek at basecamp. Celebrate your achievement with a debrief and certificate ceremony at Trekkers Hostel. Overnight: Trekkers Hostel

Drive to Lake Mburo National Park and enjoy a guided walking safari, allowing close encounters with zebras, impalas, elands, and birdlife. After settling into your lodge, embark on a night game drive in search of nocturnal species such as hyenas, bushbabies, and genets. Overnight: Rwakobo Rock or similar

Begin with a morning shoebill search in nearby wetlands before driving south through rolling highlands toward Bwindi/Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. The journey offers scenic photography and cultural encounters en route to the gorilla trekking region. Overnight: Travelers Rest Hotel or similar

After an early briefing, trek into the forest with experienced guides to track a habituated gorilla family. The experience offers a rare and powerful wildlife encounter as you observe gorillas in their natural habitat while learning about conservation efforts. Overnight: Travelers Rest Hotel or similar

Track golden monkeys in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park before crossing into Rwanda. Continue to Volcanoes National Park and settle into your lodge surrounded by volcanic scenery and lush countryside. Overnight: Isange Paradise Resort or similar

Choose between an optional gorilla trekking experience in Rwanda or a hike up Mount Bisoke, featuring alpine vegetation and a stunning crater lake at the summit. The afternoon is free for relaxation. Overnight: Isange Paradise Resort or similar

Visit the Gorilla Guardians Village for cultural performances and conservation insights, followed by the Gorilla Museum. Transfer to Kigali for a visit to the Genocide Memorial before proceeding to the airport for departure, marking the end of your journey.