8 Days Group Joining Uganda Safari – Murchison Falls, Kibale, Queen Elizabeth & Bwindi Gorillas
Safari Overview of the 8 Days Group Joining Uganda Safari
The 8 Days Group Joining Uganda Safari is a remarkable wildlife adventure that takes you across Uganda’s most iconic destinations, combining spectacular landscapes, incredible wildlife encounters and unforgettable primate experiences. This carefully designed group safari explores Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale Forest National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, offering travellers the opportunity to experience the best of Uganda’s wilderness in one complete journey.
Starting from Kampala or Entebbe, this safari takes you northwards to the mighty Murchison Falls, where the Nile River forces its way through a narrow gorge before plunging dramatically downstream. You will enjoy rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, a hike to the top of the falls, thrilling game drives and a boat cruise along the Victoria Nile where hippos, crocodiles, elephants and other wildlife can be seen.
The adventure continues to Kibale Forest National Park, home to one of Africa’s highest concentrations of primates and famous for chimpanzee trekking. Walking through the ancient rainforest provides an opportunity to encounter chimpanzees in their natural habitat while also discovering Uganda’s incredible biodiversity.
From Kibale, the safari proceeds to Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most diverse wildlife destinations. Here you will enjoy game drives across the savannah plains, an unforgettable boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel and opportunities to see elephants, buffaloes, lions, Uganda kobs, hippos and numerous bird species.
The final highlight is Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, where you will undertake an unforgettable mountain gorilla trekking experience. Deep inside the misty rainforest, you will search for a habituated gorilla family and spend a magical hour observing these gentle giants in their natural environment. The journey is completed with a cultural interaction with the Batwa people, one of Uganda’s indigenous forest communities.
The 8 Days Group Joining Uganda Safari is ideal for solo travellers, couples and small groups who want to share an authentic African adventure while enjoying the expertise of professional guides, comfortable accommodation and carefully planned logistics.
Brief Itinerary of 8 Days Group Joining Uganda Safari
Day 1: Kampala/Entebbe – Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – Murchison Falls National Park
- Rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
- Transfer to Murchison Falls
- Hiking to the Top of the Falls
- Evening game drive
Day 2: Murchison Falls National Park
- Morning game drive
- Afternoon Nile boat cruise to the bottom of the falls
Day 3: Murchison Falls – Kibale Forest National Park
- Scenic drive through Uganda’s countryside
- Transfer to Kibale Forest
Day 4: Kibale Forest National Park
- Chimpanzee trekking
- Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary walk
Day 5: Kibale – Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Transfer to Queen Elizabeth
- Morning game drive
- Kazinga Channel boat cruise
- Evening game drive
Day 6: Queen Elizabeth – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Transfer through Ishasha Sector
- Search for tree-climbing lions
- Continue to Bwindi
Day 7: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Mountain gorilla trekking
- Batwa cultural experience
Day 8: Bwindi – Kampala/Entebbe
- Transfer back to Kampala or Entebbe International Airport
Detailed 8 Days Group Joining Uganda Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Kampala/Entebbe – Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – Murchison Falls National Park – Top of the Falls & Evening Game Drive
Your 8 Days Group Joining Uganda Safari begins with an early morning departure from Kampala or Entebbe. You will meet your professional safari guide and join fellow travellers before starting the journey towards northern Uganda.
The drive takes you through Uganda’s beautiful countryside, passing local communities, farms and scenic landscapes. Your first stop will be at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Uganda’s only destination where visitors can track southern white rhinos on foot.
During the rhino tracking experience, you will walk through the sanctuary accompanied by trained guides who explain rhino behaviour, conservation efforts and the importance of protecting Uganda’s wildlife. The sanctuary is also home to several bird species and other wildlife.
After lunch, continue towards Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest protected area. Upon arrival, you will visit the famous Top of the Falls viewpoint, where you can witness the powerful Nile River squeezing through a narrow rocky gorge before cascading below.
The evening ends with a short game drive as you enter the park. You may encounter elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, antelopes, warthogs and other wildlife as they become active during the cooler evening hours.
Day 2: Morning Game Drive and Afternoon Nile Boat Cruise
Wake up early for your first full wildlife experience in Murchison Falls National Park.
The morning game drive takes place across the northern sector of the park, one of the best areas for wildlife viewing. With your guide, you will search for elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, hartebeests, lions and other species that inhabit the savannah.
Murchison Falls is known for its diverse wildlife population and beautiful landscapes, making it one of Uganda’s most rewarding safari destinations.
After lunch, enjoy a boat cruise along the Victoria Nile towards the base of Murchison Falls. This relaxing journey provides excellent opportunities to observe wildlife along the riverbanks.
You may see large pods of hippos cooling in the water, Nile crocodiles resting on the shores, elephants drinking near the river and many colourful bird species.
The boat approaches the bottom of the falls, where you can appreciate the incredible force of the Nile River before returning to your lodge.
Day 3: Drive from Murchison Falls to Kibale Forest National Park
After breakfast, depart Murchison Falls and begin the journey towards western Uganda and Kibale Forest National Park.
This is a scenic travel day offering views of Uganda’s countryside, villages, farmlands and beautiful landscapes. The journey introduces you to Uganda’s changing ecosystems as you move from the northern savannah towards the tropical rainforest region.
Kibale Forest is one of Africa’s most important primate destinations and is famous for its large chimpanzee population. The forest also protects many monkey species, forest elephants, birds and butterflies.
Upon arrival, check into your lodge and relax while preparing for the chimpanzee trekking adventure the following day.
Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking and Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary Walk
After breakfast, head to Kibale Forest headquarters for a chimpanzee trekking briefing.
Your forest adventure begins as you enter the ancient rainforest searching for habituated chimpanzee communities. Guided by experienced trackers, you will follow signs of chimpanzee movements while enjoying the incredible biodiversity of Kibale.
Once you locate the chimpanzees, you will spend time watching them feed, communicate, play and move through the forest canopy.
After the trek, enjoy lunch before visiting the nearby Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary. This community conservation project offers a guided nature walk where you can discover birds, monkeys, butterflies and learn about local culture.
Day 5: Kibale Forest – Queen Elizabeth National Park – Game Drives and Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
After breakfast, drive towards Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Upon arrival, enjoy a wildlife experience combining game viewing and a boat safari. Queen Elizabeth National Park is famous for its incredible biodiversity, including savannah plains, wetlands, forests and lakes.
You will enjoy a game drive searching for elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, Uganda kobs and predators such as lions.
In the afternoon, take a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel. The channel attracts one of the highest concentrations of hippos in Africa and provides excellent opportunities to see elephants, buffaloes, crocodiles and birds.
Later in the evening, enjoy another game drive as animals become active again during sunset.
Day 6: Queen Elizabeth – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park via Ishasha Sector
After breakfast, continue your journey towards Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
The route passes through the famous Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, known for its unique population of tree-climbing lions.
During the drive, your guide will search the fig trees and surrounding plains for these famous predators. Although sightings are not guaranteed, Ishasha provides a beautiful wildlife experience with elephants, buffaloes, antelopes and stunning landscapes.
Continue through Uganda’s scenic highlands towards Bwindi, home of the endangered mountain gorillas.
Day 7: Gorilla Trekking and Batwa Cultural Experience
Today is the most anticipated day of your Uganda safari.
After breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters for a gorilla trekking briefing. Rangers will explain trekking guidelines before you begin your rainforest adventure.
The trek takes you through Bwindi’s ancient forest, searching for a habituated mountain gorilla family. The duration depends on where the gorillas are located, as they move freely through the forest.
Once you find the gorillas, you will spend one magical hour observing their behaviour, watching them feed, interact and care for their young.
After the trek, you may visit the Batwa community to learn about the traditions of one of Uganda’s indigenous forest peoples.
Day 8: Bwindi – Kampala/Entebbe International Airport
After breakfast, begin your return journey to Kampala or Entebbe International Airport.
The drive offers beautiful views of Uganda’s countryside. Depending on your flight schedule, you may stop at the Equator crossing for photographs and souvenirs.
Your guide will transfer you to your final destination, marking the end of your unforgettable 8 Days Group Joining Uganda Safari.
Inclusions – 8 Days Group Joining Uganda Safari
Your 8 Days Group Joining Uganda Safari package is carefully designed to provide a complete wildlife and primate experience while ensuring a comfortable and well-organised journey. The following services are included:
Transportation Throughout the Safari
- Transportation in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for excellent wildlife viewing and photography.
- Fuel costs and all transportation expenses throughout the safari.
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure days.
- Services of a professional English-speaking safari driver-guide with extensive knowledge of Uganda’s wildlife, culture and destinations.
Accommodation During the Safari
- Accommodation for 7 nights in carefully selected safari lodges and hotels.
- Rooms based on the agreed sharing arrangement.
- Accommodation includes breakfast, lunch and dinner as specified in the itinerary.
Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) Gorilla & Chimpanzee Permits
- Mountain gorilla trekking permit in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park issued by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).
- Chimpanzee trekking permits in Kibale Forest National Park are issued by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).
These permits allow you to participate in the guided chimpanzee trekking experience in Kibale Forest and the mountain gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi. Uganda Wildlife Authority manages gorilla and chimpanzee trekking activities in Uganda’s protected areas, including permit issuance and conservation management.
National Park Activities & Experiences
The safari includes:
- Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary tracking experience.
- Hiking experience to the Top of Murchison Falls.
- Morning and evening game drives in Murchison Falls National Park.
- Nile River boat cruise to the bottom of Murchison Falls.
- Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest National Park.
- Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary nature walk.
- Game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
- Kazinga Channel boat cruise.
- Ishasha Sector wildlife viewing.
- Mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
- Batwa cultural experience.
Meals
- Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner during the safari.
- Bottled drinking water provided during game drives and transfers.
Park Fees & Conservation Contributions
- All applicable national park entrance fees.
- Conservation fees for protected areas visited during the safari.
- Ranger guide fees where required.
Group Safari Services
- Professional safari planning and coordination.
- Assistance with gorilla and chimpanzee trekking arrangements.
- Daily safari briefing and itinerary guidance.
- Opportunity to share the adventure with other travellers from different parts of the world.
Exclusions – 8 Days Group Joining Uganda Safari
The following are not included in the safari package:
International Travel Costs
- International flights to and from Uganda.
- Airport taxes and airline charges.
- Travel insurance.
Visa & Personal Documentation
- Uganda entry visa fees.
- Passport expenses.
- Personal travel documents.
Personal Expenses
- Laundry services.
- Telephone calls and internet charges.
- Souvenirs and personal shopping.
- Alcoholic beverages and additional drinks.
- Tips and gratuities for guides, lodge staff and trackers.
Optional Activities
Any activities not specifically mentioned in the itinerary, including:
- Additional cultural experiences.
- Extra nature walks.
- Additional wildlife activities.
- Private activities outside the planned group itinerary.
Medical & Personal Requirements
- Personal medication.
- Vaccinations and health requirements.
- Emergency evacuation costs unless covered by personal insurance.
Why Choose the 8 Days Group Joining Uganda Safari?
Experience Uganda’s Most Famous Wildlife Destinations
This safari combines four of Uganda’s most iconic destinations:
- Murchison Falls National Park
- Kibale Forest National Park
- Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
You experience waterfalls, forests, savannah landscapes and mountain ecosystems in one journey.
Incredible Gorilla and Chimpanzee Encounters
The safari offers two of Uganda’s most famous primate experiences:
- Tracking chimpanzees through the ancient Kibale rainforest.
- Meeting mountain gorillas in Bwindi’s mist-covered forest.
These experiences provide rare opportunities to observe Africa’s great apes in their natural habitats.
Perfect for Solo Travellers and Small Groups
A group joining safari is an excellent option for travellers who want to:
- Meet other adventure enthusiasts.
- Share safari experiences.
- Enjoy professional guiding.
- Reduce the cost of a private safari.
Complete Uganda Wildlife Experience
Unlike shorter Uganda trips, this itinerary combines:
- Rhino tracking
- Big game viewing
- Boat safaris
- Forest adventures
- Gorilla trekking
- Cultural encounters
It provides a balanced introduction to Uganda.
Expert Safari Guidance
Your experienced safari guide provides valuable knowledge about:
- Wildlife behaviour
- Conservation
- Local communities
- Uganda’s landscapes
- Photography opportunities
Best Time for an 8 Days Group Joining Uganda Safari
Uganda can be visited throughout the year, but some months provide particularly favourable conditions for wildlife viewing and trekking.
June to September – Peak Safari Season
This is one of the most popular periods for an 8 Days Group Joining Uganda Safari.
Advantages:
- Dry conditions make forest trekking easier.
- Wildlife gathers around water sources.
- Roads are generally easier to navigate.
- Excellent conditions for gorilla trekking and game drives.
December to February – Excellent Wildlife Period
The dry months at the beginning of the year are also ideal.
Benefits include:
- Good visibility during game drives.
- Comfortable trekking conditions.
- Excellent photography opportunities.
- Popular travel period for international visitors.
March to May – Green Season
The rainy season transforms Uganda into a beautiful green paradise.
Advantages:
- Beautiful landscapes.
- Fewer travellers.
- Excellent birdwatching.
- Lush forests for photography.
Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking continue during this period, although trails may be wetter.
October to November – Shoulder Season
This period offers:
- Green scenery.
- Lower visitor numbers.
- Good wildlife experiences.
- Attractive travel opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions – 8 Days Group Joining Uganda Safari
What is included in the 8 Days Group Joining Uganda Safari?
The safari includes transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle, services of an experienced English-speaking driver-guide, accommodation, meals as stated in the itinerary, national park fees, game drives, boat cruises, chimpanzee trekking permit, mountain gorilla trekking permit issued by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary experience and all activities mentioned in the itinerary.
What destinations are visited during the 8 Days Group Joining Uganda Safari?
This safari visits four of Uganda’s most famous wildlife destinations:
- Murchison Falls National Park
- Kibale Forest National Park
- Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
The itinerary also includes Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Does the safari include the gorilla trekking permit?
Yes. The mountain gorilla trekking permit issued by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) is included in the safari package. The permit allows you to trek through Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and spend time observing a habituated gorilla family in their natural habitat.
Is the chimpanzee trekking permit included?
Yes. The chimpanzee trekking permit issued by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) for Kibale Forest National Park is included. This allows you to participate in a guided chimpanzee trekking experience with park rangers and trackers.
What is a group joining safari?
A group joining safari is a shared safari experience where individual travellers or small groups join together for the same itinerary. Guests share the safari vehicle, guide services and planned activities while meeting other travellers from around the world.
Is the 8 Days Group Joining Uganda Safari suitable for solo travellers?
Yes. This safari is an excellent option for solo travellers who want to explore Uganda while sharing the experience with other adventure seekers. It provides the opportunity to meet fellow travellers while enjoying professional safari arrangements.
How many people join the group safari?
The group size depends on availability and departure dates. Small groups are usually preferred to provide a more comfortable experience, better wildlife viewing and easier movement during activities.
What type of vehicle is used during the safari?
The safari is operated using a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle, usually a Land Cruiser with a pop-up roof. The vehicle provides excellent views during game drives and comfortable transportation between destinations.
Where does the 8 Days Group Joining Uganda Safari start?
The safari normally starts from Kampala or Entebbe. Pick-up can be arranged from Entebbe International Airport, hotels in Kampala or other agreed locations.
Where does the safari end?
The safari ends in Kampala or Entebbe. Guests with international flights can be transferred to Entebbe International Airport depending on their departure time.
What wildlife can I see during this Uganda safari?
During the safari, you may encounter:
- Mountain gorillas
- Chimpanzees
- Lions
- Elephants
- Buffaloes
- Hippos
- Giraffes
- Uganda kobs
- Warthogs
- Antelopes
- Crocodiles
- Numerous bird species
Wildlife sightings depend on natural conditions and animal movements.
How difficult is gorilla trekking in Bwindi?
Gorilla trekking difficulty varies depending on the location of the gorilla family assigned to you. Some treks are shorter and easier, while others require hiking through steep forest terrain. A moderate level of fitness is recommended.
How long does gorilla trekking take?
Gorilla trekking can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day depending on where the gorilla family is located. Once you find the gorillas, you are allowed to spend one hour observing them.
How long does chimpanzee trekking in Kibale take?
Chimpanzee trekking usually takes several hours depending on the location of the chimpanzees. The activity includes forest hiking, searching for chimpanzee communities and observing them once found.
Can children join the 8 Days Uganda Safari?
Children can participate in some safari activities, but gorilla and chimpanzee trekking have minimum age restrictions. Gorilla trekking in Uganda requires visitors to be at least 15 years old.
Families travelling with children should discuss their plans with the safari operator before booking.
What accommodation is provided during the safari?
Accommodation is provided in carefully selected safari lodges and hotels located near the national parks. Options depend on availability and the selected package category.
Are meals included during the safari?
Yes. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included according to the itinerary. Specific meal arrangements can be discussed for dietary requirements.
What happens on Day 1 of the safari?
Day one involves travelling from Kampala or Entebbe to Murchison Falls National Park. The day includes rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, visiting the Top of Murchison Falls and an evening game drive.
What is special about Murchison Falls National Park?
Murchison Falls is Uganda’s largest national park and is famous for the powerful waterfall created where the Nile River squeezes through a narrow gorge. It offers excellent wildlife viewing, including elephants, giraffes, lions and hippos.
What happens during the Murchison Falls boat cruise?
The boat cruise travels along the Victoria Nile towards the bottom of Murchison Falls. Guests can view hippos, crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes and many bird species along the riverbanks.
What makes Kibale Forest special?
Kibale Forest National Park is famous for having one of Africa’s highest concentrations of primates. It is especially known for chimpanzee trekking and its rich rainforest biodiversity.
What activities are done in Queen Elizabeth National Park?
Activities include:
- Morning game drives
- Evening game drives
- Kazinga Channel boat cruise
- Wildlife photography
- Bird watching
Will I see tree-climbing lions in Ishasha?
The Ishasha sector is famous for tree-climbing lions. Sightings are possible but cannot be guaranteed because wildlife moves freely within the park.
What is the Batwa cultural experience?
The Batwa experience introduces visitors to the traditions, history and lifestyle of the Batwa people, one of Uganda’s indigenous communities that historically lived in the forests.
What should I pack for the Uganda safari?
Recommended items include:
- Comfortable hiking shoes
- Long trousers and shirts
- Rain jacket
- Camera
- Binoculars
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Small backpack
- Personal medication
Is Uganda safe for safari travellers?
Uganda is a popular safari destination with established tourism infrastructure. Travellers should follow guidance from their safari operator, guides and local authorities throughout the journey.
Do I need a visa to visit Uganda?
Most international travellers require a visa to enter Uganda. Requirements depend on nationality, so travellers should check current entry requirements before travelling.
What is the best time for the 8 Days Group Joining Uganda Safari?
The best periods are generally the dry seasons from June to September and December to February when trekking conditions and wildlife viewing conditions are often favourable.
Can I join this safari if I am travelling alone?
Yes. Solo travellers are welcome and can join other travellers on scheduled group departures.
Can I combine this safari with Rwanda?
Yes. Many travellers combine Uganda with Rwanda, especially adding Kigali, Volcanoes National Park or additional gorilla trekking experiences.
Is bottled drinking water provided?
Yes. Drinking water is usually provided during safari activities and long-distance transfers.
How far is Murchison Falls from Kampala?
The journey from Kampala to Murchison Falls takes approximately several hours depending on road conditions and stops along the way.
What makes this safari different from shorter Uganda safaris?
The 8-day itinerary provides more time to experience multiple ecosystems, including northern savannah, tropical rainforest and southwestern mountain forests.
Can I take photos during gorilla trekking?
Yes. Photography is allowed during gorilla trekking, but visitors must follow park rules and avoid disturbing the gorillas.
Do I need a professional camera for this safari?
No. A smartphone or standard camera can capture memorable moments. However, a camera with a zoom lens is useful for wildlife photography.
What languages do safari guides speak?
Most safari guides speak English. Other languages may be available depending on request and availability.
Can dietary requirements be accommodated?
Yes. Guests should inform the safari operator before departure about allergies, vegetarian preferences or special dietary needs.
How far in advance should I book the safari?
Early booking is recommended, especially because gorilla permits are limited and demand can be high during peak travel seasons.
Why choose a group joining Uganda safari instead of a private safari?
A group joining safari allows travellers to share costs, meet other travellers and enjoy a professionally organised experience while exploring Uganda’s top destinations.
How do I book the 8 Days Group Joining Uganda Safari?
You can contact Pieland Gorilla Safaris to check availability, confirm departure dates and reserve your place on the safari. Our team will assist with safari planning, permits, accommodation arrangements and travel advice.
Would like to join this safari?
Talk to a Uganda safari specialist.