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    • 18-Day Cross-Country Uganda Safari

    18-Day Cross-Country Uganda Safari

    Cross-country: The Best of Uganda Safari Circuit.

    From
    $7,990 USD
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    cross country uganda safari
    Kidepo Valley National Park wildlife Safari – Uganda
    chimpanzee trekking in Kibale
    gorilla trekking bwindi - uganda safari

    Lake Bunyonyi

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    18-Day Cross-Country Safari Through Uganda's Wildest Landscapes and Cultures

    This immersive 18-day journey with Activentures Africa Safaris offers an unparalleled exploration of Uganda's ecological diversity, cultural richness, and thrilling adventure landscapes. From the remote savannahs of Kidepo Valley to the emerald rainforests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, this safari blends authentic local encounters with world-class wildlife viewing and comfortable accommodations.

    Each day is thoughtfully curated to balance activity, rest, and cultural depth, ensuring a meaningful and memorable experience from start to finish. Meals, transport, accommodation, and permits are all included in the quote.

    cross country uganda safari map

    Start:
    Entebbe, Uganda

    End:
    Entebbe, Uganda

    Destinations
    Uganda

    Meals
    Full board meals as indicated in itinerary

    Transport
    4WD Private Safari Vehicle

    Accommodation
    Accommodation in eco-lodges and camping sites.

    Age
    15+

    Theme
    Active Adventure

    Physical rating
    4 out of 5

    Itinerary

    cross country uganda safari map

    DAY 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Welcome to the Pearl of Africa.

    Upon landing at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly received by your personal Activentures Africa Safaris driver-guide. As your first impression of Uganda—the Pearl of Africa—you'll be transferred to a tranquil lakeside lodge overlooking Lake Victoria. This first evening is about relaxation, acclimatizing, and enjoying the comforts of your tastefully appointed room. Unwind with views over Africa's largest lake, enjoy a fresh meal, and prepare for the journey ahead.

    Meals: Dinner
    Accommodation: Papyrus Guesthouse Entebbe (mid-range)

    DAY 2: Drive to Jinja – Adventure at the Source of the Nile

    Your adventure begins in earnest as you travel east toward Jinja, the adrenaline capital of East Africa. Along the way, pass through the lush Mabira Forest and expansive sugar plantations of Lugazi. Upon arrival in Jinja, settle in and then take part in optional activities such as white-water rafting, kayaking, or a calm boat cruise. This historic town at the source of the Nile blends colonial charm with modern-day adventure. Explore local markets, take in the sunset, and enjoy the laid-back riverside vibe.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
    Accommodation: NIle Bridge Hotel (midrange)

    DAY 3: Sipi Falls – A Highland Retreat

    Leave Jinja and journey northeast to the Sipi Falls region, nestled on the slopes of Mount Elgon at 1,800 meters above sea level. The area is known for its cool climate, fertile coffee-growing hills, and dramatic waterfalls cascading from high cliffs. In the afternoon, take a guided hike through scenic trails that pass local farms and offer panoramic views of the Elgon Hills. Learn about Arabica coffee farming and relax in a cozy lodge overlooking the cascading falls.

    Meals: Breakfast & Lunch, Dinner
    Accommodation: Sipi Valley Resort

    DAY 4: Karamoja Experience – Culture & Camping.

    After breakfast, travel further north into the heart of Karamoja, a region few tourists reach. Arrive in Moroto and begin your immersive cultural experience. Hike into the Tepeth Mountains and camp overnight with a local community. In the evening, visit a traditional Karamojong kraal—a manyatta of thatched huts protected by wooden fences. Learn about their nomadic lifestyle, oral traditions, and strong cultural identity. This is a chance to connect with one of Uganda's most resilient and least-assimilated tribes.

    Meals: Breakfast & Lunch, Dinner
    Accommodation: Kara-tunga Safari Camp

    DAY 5: Into the Wild – Transfer to Kidepo Valley National Park.

    Wake up to the sounds of nature and enjoy breakfast in the village before setting off to Kidepo Valley National Park, one of Africa’s last true wildernesses. Located near the borders of Kenya and South Sudan, this remote park is rarely visited, making wildlife encounters feel truly exclusive. After arriving and checking in to your lodge or tented camp, venture out on an afternoon game drive through the Narus Valley, where you may spot buffalo herds, elephants, zebras, and lions lounging on rocky outcrops.

    Meals: Breakfast & Lunch, Dinner
    Accommodation:Kidepo Savannah Lodge

    DAY 6: Walking Safari & Evening Game Drive in Kidepo

    Today, you’ll experience one of Uganda’s rarest offerings—a walking safari. Accompanied by a professional ranger, track wildlife on foot and learn about animal behavior, medicinal plants, and traditional survival techniques. This immersive experience allows you to feel deeply connected to the landscape. In the evening, head out for another game drive, exploring further into Kidepo's breathtaking terrain. With over 80 mammal species and 475 bird species, your chances of spotting rare wildlife like cheetahs and ostriches are high.

    Meals: Breakfast & Lunch, Dinner
    Accommodation: Kidepo Savannah Lodge

    DAY 7: Scenic Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park

    Bid farewell to the wilds of Kidepo as you travel southwest toward Murchison Falls National Park. The drive, though long, is rich in scenery and cultural encounters. Stop in Kitgum and Gulu for lunch and rest before continuing to Uganda’s largest and oldest national park. Upon arrival, enjoy a scenic drive through the northern sector of the park en route to your camp near the delta. This area is known for its wildlife density and beautiful views of the Nile.

    Meals: Breakfast & Lunch, Dinner
    Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge

    DAY 8: Game Drive & Nile Boat Safari to Murchison Falls

    Rise early for a sunrise game drive in the park's northern savannah. Here, elephants, giraffes, lions, leopards, and various antelope species roam freely. After lunch, embark on a boat safari up the Victoria Nile. Cruise past crocodiles, bathing hippos, and riverbank birds before reaching the base of the powerful Murchison Falls. Marvel as the river crashes through a 7-meter-wide gorge—a thunderous display of raw natural force.

    Meals: Breakfast & Lunch, Dinner
    Accommodation:Pakuba Safari Lodge

    DAY 9: Transfer to Kibale Forest – Through the Mountains of the Moon

    Travel southwest through scenic countryside and rolling tea plantations to Fort Portal, with views of the Rwenzori Mountains en route. After lunch in town, proceed to Kibale Forest, one of Africa’s best destinations for primate encounters. In the evening, stretch your legs on a guided walk through Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-run reserve home to monkeys, butterflies, and vibrant birdlife.

    Meals: Breakfast & Lunch, Dinner
    Accommodation: Isunga Lodge

    DAY 10: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest

    Head deep into Kibale Forest to track our closest relatives—the chimpanzees. Guided by experts, you’ll trek along forest trails to find a habituated troop. Spend an hour observing their complex social interactions, feeding habits, and playful behaviors. The park also hosts 12 other primate species, and you may spot red colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, or mangabeys. Return to Bigodi for lunch and relaxation.

    Meals: Breakfast & Lunch, Dinner
    Accommodation:Isunga Lodge

    DAY 11: Queen Elizabeth National Park – Safari Across the Equator

    After breakfast, depart for Queen Elizabeth National Park. The drive passes crater lakes and offers more views of the Rwenzori range. Enter the park’s northern sector and enjoy your first game drive. This diverse park features open savannahs, forests, wetlands, and volcanic plains. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, Uganda kob, and elusive predators like leopards.

    Meals: Breakfast & Lunch, Dinner
    Accommodation: Mweya Safari Lodge

    DAY 12: Sunrise Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Safari

    Start with a dawn game drive to catch predators returning from a night hunt. The soft morning light provides ideal conditions for photography. After lunch, board a boat for a safari on the Kazinga Channel—a natural waterway teeming with hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and hundreds of bird species. This two-hour cruise offers fantastic wildlife viewing from a different perspective.

    Meals: Breakfast & Lunch, Dinner
    Accommodation: Mweya Safari Lodge

    DAY 13: Kyambura Gorge & Tree-Climbing Lions in Ishasha

    Venture into Kyambura Gorge, a lush underground forest known as the "Valley of Apes." Track chimpanzees and explore this unique ecosystem. Then, head south to the Ishasha Sector, famous for its population of tree-climbing lions. Spot these unusual big cats resting in fig trees, a rare behavior seen in few places worldwide. Continue onward to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

    Meals: Breakfast & Lunch, Dinner
    Accommodation: Buhoma Community Haven Lodge

    DAY 14: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi & Batwa Experience

    The highlight of your safari—gorilla trekking. After a briefing, enter the misty forests of Bwindi in search of one of the park’s habituated gorilla families. Trekking can be strenuous, but the reward is profound: an hour spent face-to-face with these gentle giants. In the afternoon, meet the Batwa, the original forest dwellers, and learn about their traditions, songs, and ancient survival skills.

    Meals: Breakfast & Lunch, Dinner
    Accommodation: Buhoma Community Haven Lodge

    DAY 15: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi – The Switzerland of Africa

    After breakfast, drive to Lake Bunyonyi, a serene, crater lake surrounded by terraced hills. Its name means "Place of Little Birds," and it offers the perfect retreat after gorilla trekking. Take a boat ride among the lake’s 29 islands, enjoy a swim in its bilharzia-free waters, or simply relax at your eco-lodge with views of the highlands.

    Meals: Breakfast & Lunch, Dinner
    Accommodation: Bunyonyi Bird's Nest

    DAY 16: Lake Mburo National Park – Wildlife & Walking

    Depart Bunyonyi for Lake Mburo, one of Uganda’s smallest but most charming national parks. After checking in, head out for a walking safari, a rare opportunity to see zebras, impalas, giraffes, and elands on foot. Explore savannah trails that bring you close to the animals while learning about the ecosystem from your guide. Visit the Igongo Cultural Center for local history and a traditional meal.

    Meals: Breakfast & Lunch, Dinner
    Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock Safari Lodge

    DAY 17: Nature Walk & Boat Cruise on Lake Mburo

    Start your morning with another guided nature walk or horseback safari. Watch as hippos and hyenas return to hiding and listen to birdsong echoing across the savannah. In the afternoon, cruise Lake Mburo and enjoy sightings of hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds. This relaxing day brings your safari full circle—combining wildlife, culture, and nature.

    Meals: Breakfast & Lunch, Dinner
    Accommodation: Rwakobo Rock Safari Lodge

    DAY 18: Return to Entebbe – Equator Stop & Departure

    Enjoy a final breakfast in the bush before beginning the return journey to Entebbe. Stop at the Equator for a photo and souvenir shopping. Depending on your flight time, have a picnic lunch en route or a farewell meal at a local restaurant. Your driver will drop you at the airport for your flight home, marking the end of your unforgettable journey through Uganda.

    Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
    Accommodation: Not included (can be arranged on request)

    Inclusions and activities

    Meals
    All meals as specified in the itinerary
    Transport
    Ground transportation in 4WD safari vehicle with driver + fuel
    Accommodation
    Full board accommodation in eco-conscious lodges, as stated in the Itinerary.
    Permits & Park Fees
    Chimpanzee + gorilla permit, boat cruises + park fees
    Activities
    • Gorilla trekking in Bwindi
    • Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest
    • Game drives: morning and evening
    • Boat launches in Murchison and Kazinga channel
    • Cultural experience in Bwindi and Karamoja
    • Nature walk in Kidepo & Kibale
    Not included
    • International flights (to/from Uganda)
    • Visa fees
    • Travel insurance
    • Tips and gratuities (suggested $10 per person per day)
    • Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, souvenirs)

    18-Day Cross-Country Uganda Safari: Final price may vary depending on group size, time of year, and accommodation preferences. Permits included in price.

    From: USD $7,990 per person

    REQUEST A PRICE QUOTE

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    What our customers say

    Customer reviews

    Why Travelers Trust Us

    Our guests don’t just come for the wildlife. They come for something more—the rare combination of uncompromising comfort, authentic connection, and purpose-driven travel that defines every Activenture journey.

    If someone had told me that it was possible to go on an African Safari for the first time and it would be a completely stress-free, relaxing, safe and first-rate vacation all the way through, I wouldn’t have believed that was possible. But then I found Diana and her team. All the way through, my wife and I were very impressed with the detail of the planning and the quality of the lodging, guides and drivers. We feel very lucky that we found Diana’s team and we’re grateful for all they did to make our trip one that we will always treasure. We did the 6 days gorilla and tree-climbing lions package.


    Jim C — USA
    tripadvisor safari reviews

    Diana was very helpful in setting up my Gorilla Tracking excursion to Bwindi. She did all of the leg work so that all we had to do was enjoy the trip.
    Robert, our driver, was courteous and professional and provided invaluable assistance during the trip.
    I would highly recommend Diana and her Team to anyone considering a trip to Uganda.


    Steve — USA
    tripadvisor safari reviews

    We had an amazing family holiday in Uganda, with thanks to Diana and our guide. We visited Murchison Falls, Queen Elizabeth National Park and finally the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to see the Mountain Gorillas. The team went above and beyond to make sure we had a memorable trip and ensured our safety at all times. Would highly recommend using Diana & her team for your trip.


    Eve — Ireland
    tripadvisor safari reviews

    “What made it unforgettable? The people. The places. The purpose. You’re not just a visitor—you become part of something bigger. I came for the wildlife and left feeling connected to the continent.”


    Alex G. — Cape Town
    tripadvisor safari reviews

    “We’ve traveled extensively, but nothing felt as genuine and personal as this. Our guide had grown up near the park—we weren’t just seeing animals; we were understanding them. And the people.”


    Raj & Mira S. — London
    tripadvisor safari reviews

    “There were moments I forgot I was on a guided trip—it felt more like being hosted by a friend who knew every secret path, every story. I’ll never forget sitting under the stars in Bwindi after our gorilla trek. Life-changing.”


    Hannah L. — California
    tripadvisor safari reviews

    I joined the 20-day birding tour across Uganda and Rwanda—what a paradise. Over 500 species, expert guides, and moments of pure stillness in forests I’d only dreamed of. Spotting the shoebill in Mabamba, just wow!!!. Activentures really knows how to slow you down and tune you in.


    Ingrid Meyer — Hamburg, Germany
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    Our family safari in Rwanda felt intimate and empowering. We trekked golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park, then immersed ourselves in learning basket weaving from a local women’s cooperative. Wow! It was real, raw, and restorative. Activentures made it feel safe, seamless, and deeply human.


    Atlanta, USA — Darnell Reed
    tripadvisor safari reviews

    Climbing Mt. Kenya with Activentures was wild in the best way. Altitude, silence, the grit, the moments where I thought, ‘I can’t do this,’ and then somehow did. Our guides were incredible—serious when it mattered, but full of stories and laughter too. Summit day nearly broke me, but standing up there, above the clouds, was the most alive I’ve ever felt.


    Claire Thompson — Vancouver, Canada
    tripadvisor safari reviews

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