9 Days Uganda Group Joining Safari
Introduction
The 9 Days Uganda Group Joining Safari is an exciting shared adventure combining Uganda’s primates, big-game wildlife, spectacular landscapes and famous national parks in one itinerary. Designed for solo travellers, couples and small groups, the safari allows travellers to share transport and selected safari costs while exploring some of Uganda’s leading wildlife destinations.
This journey combines Murchison Falls National Park, Kibale National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, the Ishasha sector, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Lake Mburo National Park. These are all protected areas managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).
Highlights include a Murchison Falls game drive and Nile boat safari, chimpanzee trekking in Kibale, a Kazinga Channel boat safari, searching for Ishasha’s tree-climbing lions, mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi and wildlife viewing in Lake Mburo. UWA specifically highlights Bwindi’s mountain gorillas, Murchison Falls and Ishasha’s tree-climbing lions among Uganda’s notable wildlife attractions.
With nine days available, the itinerary offers a broader Uganda experience than the shorter group joining safaris while maintaining a logical route from northern to western and southwestern Uganda.
9 Days Uganda Group Joining Safari Short Itinerary
- Day 1: Kampala/Entebbe – Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
- Day 2: Murchison Falls Morning Game Drive – Nile Boat Safari
- Day 3: Murchison Falls – Transfer to Kibale National Park
- Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale – Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Day 5: Queen Elizabeth Game Drive – Kazinga Channel Boat Safari
- Day 6: Queen Elizabeth – Ishasha Tree-Climbing Lions – Transfer to Bwindi
- Day 7: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Day 8: Bwindi – Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park
- Day 9: Lake Mburo Wildlife Experience – Return to Kampala/Entebbe
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Kampala/Entebbe – Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
Your 9 Days Uganda Group Joining Safari begins with an early morning meeting in Kampala or Entebbe. Meet your professional safari driver-guide and the other travellers joining the trip before starting the journey north towards Murchison Falls National Park.
Travel through Uganda’s countryside, passing towns, villages and agricultural landscapes as you make your way towards the country’s largest national park.
Depending on the confirmed programme, there will be stops for lunch and refreshments along the journey.
Continue to Murchison Falls National Park and check into your accommodation. Depending on arrival time, relax at the lodge and prepare for the following day’s wildlife activities.
Murchison Falls is one of Uganda’s major protected areas and is especially known for the dramatic waterfall where the Nile passes through the park.
Main destination: Murchison Falls National Park
Main activity: Scenic transfer
Overnight: Murchison Falls National Park area
Day 2: Murchison Falls Game Drive & Nile Boat Safari
Wake up early, have breakfast and head out for a morning game drive across the savannah of Murchison Falls National Park.
With your safari guide, search for elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, Uganda kob, warthogs and other wildlife. Lions and leopards also occur in the ecosystem, although wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed.
After the morning game drive, stop for lunch and prepare for an afternoon boat safari on the Nile.
Cruise along the river while looking for hippos, crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes and water birds along the banks. The boat journey also provides opportunities to appreciate the landscapes surrounding the Nile.
Return to your accommodation after the excursion for dinner and overnight.
Main activities: Morning game drive and Nile boat safari
Overnight: Murchison Falls National Park area
Day 3: Murchison Falls – Transfer to Kibale National Park
After breakfast, leave Murchison Falls and begin the journey south towards the Kibale region.
This is one of the longer driving days of the safari, but it provides an opportunity to experience Uganda beyond the national parks as you pass rural communities, farms, towns and changing landscapes.
Continue towards the Fort Portal and Kibale region, characterised by beautiful green countryside, forests and tea-growing areas.
Arrive at your accommodation near Kibale National Park later in the day and settle in for the evening.
Prepare your trekking clothes, hiking shoes and other equipment for the following morning’s chimpanzee experience.
Main activity: Scenic transfer
Overnight: Kibale National Park area
Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale – Queen Elizabeth National Park
After an early breakfast, transfer to the chimpanzee trekking briefing point.
Meet the ranger guides and receive instructions about trekking procedures and appropriate behaviour around the chimpanzees before entering the forest.
Walk through the tropical forest in search of a habituated chimpanzee community. Listen for chimpanzee calls and watch for movement through the trees as your ranger guides track the primates.
Once located, observe the chimpanzees according to the applicable trekking regulations and ranger instructions.
Kibale is one of the national parks managed by UWA, which also handles chimpanzee trekking permits and activity bookings.
After the trek, have lunch and continue towards Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Arrive at your accommodation and relax after an exciting day of primate trekking.
Main activities: Chimpanzee trekking and transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Overnight: Queen Elizabeth National Park area
Day 5: Queen Elizabeth Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Safari
Start the morning with breakfast followed by a game drive through Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Explore the open savannah in search of elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kob, warthogs, waterbucks and other wildlife. Predators such as lions and leopards are also present, although their movements determine whether they are encountered.
After the morning wildlife drive, have lunch and prepare for an afternoon boat safari on the Kazinga Channel.
Cruise along the channel while observing hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes, elephants and numerous water birds around the shoreline.
The boat safari offers a different perspective from the game drive and provides excellent wildlife photography opportunities.
Return to your accommodation for dinner and overnight.
Main activities: Game drive and Kazinga Channel boat safari
Overnight: Queen Elizabeth National Park area
Day 6: Queen Elizabeth – Ishasha – Transfer to Bwindi
After breakfast, leave your accommodation and travel towards the southern Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Explore Ishasha while searching for its famous tree-climbing lions. UWA specifically identifies Ishasha with this unusual lion behaviour.
The area also provides opportunities to encounter Uganda kob, topi, buffaloes, elephants and other wildlife.
After the Ishasha wildlife experience, continue through the scenic landscapes of southwestern Uganda towards Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Arrive at your accommodation near Bwindi, have dinner and prepare for the following morning’s gorilla trekking adventure.
Main activities: Ishasha wildlife drive and transfer to Bwindi
Overnight: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park area
Day 7: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Today is one of the major highlights of your 9 Days Uganda Group Joining Safari.
Wake up early, have breakfast and transfer to your designated gorilla trekking briefing point.
After meeting the ranger guides and receiving your briefing, enter Bwindi’s rainforest in search of your allocated habituated mountain gorilla family.
The trekking time varies according to the location and movements of the gorillas. The terrain can be steep, muddy and uneven, so sturdy hiking shoes, long trousers, drinking water and rain protection are recommended.
Once you reach the gorillas, enjoy the permitted viewing period while following your ranger’s instructions.
Bwindi is internationally associated with mountain gorilla trekking and is one of Uganda’s protected national parks managed by Uganda Wildlife Authority.
After trekking, return to your accommodation and enjoy a well-earned rest.
Main activity: Mountain gorilla trekking
Overnight: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park area
Day 8: Bwindi – Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park
Enjoy breakfast surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of southwestern Uganda before beginning the journey towards Lake Mburo National Park.
Travel through rolling hills, villages, agricultural areas and open countryside as the landscape gradually changes from the mountainous southwest towards the savannah ecosystem of Lake Mburo.
Arrive at your accommodation in the Lake Mburo area later in the day.
Depending on your arrival time and confirmed programme, you may relax at the lodge or participate in a pre-arranged evening activity.
Main activity: Scenic transfer to Lake Mburo
Overnight: Lake Mburo National Park area
Day 9: Lake Mburo Wildlife Experience – Kampala/Entebbe
Begin the final morning of your safari with breakfast followed by wildlife viewing in Lake Mburo National Park.
Look for zebras, impalas, elands, buffaloes, warthogs, waterbucks and other animals as you explore the park.
After your wildlife experience, begin the return journey towards Kampala or Entebbe.
Depending on time, you may stop around the Equator for photographs, refreshments, lunch or souvenir shopping.
Continue to Kampala or Entebbe, bringing your 9 Days Uganda Group Joining Safari to an end.
Guests departing Uganda on the same day should book a sufficiently late flight to allow for road conditions and possible delays.
Main activity: Lake Mburo wildlife viewing
Destination: Kampala/Entebbe
Why Choose Our 9 Days Uganda Group Joining Safari?
Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking
Experience two of Uganda’s signature primate adventures—mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi and chimpanzee trekking in Kibale.
Murchison Falls National Park
Adding Murchison Falls gives this nine-day itinerary a broader wildlife experience, combining the Nile, savannah game viewing and one of Uganda’s best-known natural landmarks.
Two Boat Safari Experiences
Enjoy a Nile boat safari at Murchison Falls and another wildlife-viewing cruise along the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Queen Elizabeth National Park Wildlife
Explore one of Uganda’s famous savannah parks with opportunities to encounter elephants, buffaloes, antelopes and predators.
Ishasha Tree-Climbing Lions
Travel through the Ishasha sector and search for the tree-climbing lions for which this part of Queen Elizabeth National Park is renowned.
Lake Mburo National Park
Finish the safari in a contrasting savannah landscape where zebras, impalas and other wildlife may be encountered.
Suitable for Solo Travellers
A group joining departure allows solo travellers to experience a multi-day Uganda safari without needing to organise an entire private vehicle themselves.
Shared Safari Costs
Sharing the vehicle and some operational expenses with other travellers can make a group joining safari more affordable than an equivalent private departure.
Professional Safari Driver-Guide
Travel with a professional driver-guide who manages the road journey and assists with wildlife viewing and safari logistics.
Safari Inclusions
The following are typically included in the 9 Days Uganda Group Joining Safari, subject to the final quotation:
- Safari vehicle and transportation throughout the itinerary
- Professional English-speaking safari driver-guide
- Fuel throughout the safari
- Eight nights’ accommodation
- Meals according to the confirmed itinerary
- Park entrance fees specified in the confirmed package
- Gorilla trekking permit when stated in the confirmed quotation
- Chimpanzee trekking permit when stated in the confirmed quotation
- Ranger-guided gorilla trekking
- Ranger-guided chimpanzee trekking
- Murchison Falls game drive
- Murchison Falls Nile boat safari
- Queen Elizabeth National Park game drive
- Kazinga Channel boat safari
- Ishasha wildlife drive
- Lake Mburo wildlife viewing
- Bottled drinking water in the safari vehicle
- Kampala or Entebbe pick-up and drop-off according to the confirmed itinerary
Uganda’s Ministry of Tourism states that Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) issues gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits, park-entry fees and activity bookings.
Safari Exclusions
Unless specifically stated in your confirmed quotation, the safari price does not include:
- International flights
- Uganda entry visa
- Travel insurance
- Personal medical expenses
- Alcoholic beverages and premium drinks
- Laundry services
- Gorilla trekking porter fees
- Tips and gratuities
- Souvenirs and personal shopping
- Optional activities
- Activities not specified in the confirmed itinerary
- Accommodation before or after the safari
- Personal expenses
- Expenses arising from circumstances outside the safari operator’s control
Best Time for a 9 Days Uganda Group Joining Safari
The 9 Days Uganda Group Joining Safari can be organised throughout the year, subject to scheduled departure availability, accommodation and gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits.
The relatively drier periods of June to August and December to February are popular for Uganda safaris because trekking trails and some roads can be easier to navigate. However, gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking and wildlife safaris can also be rewarding during other months.
Rain can occur at any time, particularly around Uganda’s tropical forests, so travellers should always pack suitable rain protection.
If gorilla and chimpanzee trekking are priorities, booking well in advance is advisable because permits are controlled and availability is limited.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 9 Days Uganda Group Joining Safari
What is a 9 Days Uganda Group Joining Safari?
It is a nine-day shared Uganda safari where travellers join other guests and follow a scheduled itinerary using shared safari transportation.
How many nights are included?
The safari includes 8 nights.
Where does the safari start and end?
The itinerary normally starts and ends in Kampala or Entebbe according to the confirmed departure arrangements.
Which national parks does the safari visit?
The itinerary visits Murchison Falls, Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi Impenetrable and Lake Mburo national parks.
Is gorilla trekking included?
Gorilla trekking is part of the itinerary. Your quotation should clearly state whether the gorilla permit is included in the quoted price.
Is chimpanzee trekking included?
Yes, chimpanzee trekking in Kibale forms part of the itinerary. Permit inclusion should be clearly stated in your final quotation.
Where does gorilla trekking take place?
Gorilla trekking takes place in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park on this itinerary.
Where does chimpanzee trekking take place?
The chimpanzee trekking experience takes place in Kibale National Park.
How difficult is gorilla trekking?
Difficulty varies according to the location of the gorilla family, terrain and weather. Treks can involve steep, muddy and uneven forest trails.
How long does gorilla trekking take?
There is no fixed trekking duration because the gorillas move freely through their natural habitat.
Can I hire a porter for gorilla trekking?
Yes. Porters may be available to assist with bags and difficult sections of the trek. Porter fees are normally separate unless stated otherwise.
What should I wear for gorilla trekking?
Wear sturdy hiking shoes, long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt and comfortable outdoor clothing. Carry rain protection.
What should I take for chimpanzee trekking?
Comfortable walking shoes, long trousers, drinking water, insect repellent, rain protection and a camera are useful.
Are gorilla sightings guaranteed?
Gorillas are wild animals, so wildlife encounters cannot be absolutely guaranteed. Trekking is conducted with trained ranger guides who track habituated gorilla families.
Are chimpanzee sightings guaranteed?
No wildlife sighting can be absolutely guaranteed. Ranger guides search for habituated chimpanzee communities within their natural habitat.
What animals can we see at Murchison Falls?
Possible sightings include elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, Uganda kob, warthogs, hippos, crocodiles and numerous bird species. Predators are also present.
Is there a boat safari at Murchison Falls?
Yes. The itinerary includes a Nile boat safari, subject to the confirmed package.
Do we visit the actual Murchison Falls?
The itinerary can include a visit or viewpoint experience depending on the confirmed route and package. This should be specified in your final booking details.
What animals can we see in Queen Elizabeth National Park?
Possible sightings include elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kob, waterbucks, warthogs, hippos and various predators and bird species.
What is the Kazinga Channel?
The Kazinga Channel is a natural waterway connecting Lake George and Lake Edward and is well known for boat-based wildlife viewing.
Will we see tree-climbing lions?
You will travel through Ishasha, which is known for tree-climbing lions, but sightings depend on the lions’ location and behaviour on the day.
What wildlife can we see in Lake Mburo?
Possible sightings include zebras, impalas, elands, buffaloes, warthogs and waterbucks.
Can I do a walking safari in Lake Mburo?
Guided activities may be available depending on your confirmed itinerary, current park arrangements and additional costs.
Can I add horseback riding in Lake Mburo?
Horseback riding may be added as an optional activity depending on availability, timing and additional cost.
What type of accommodation is used?
Group joining safaris generally use selected budget or mid-range accommodation according to the package booked.
Can solo travellers join?
Yes. This itinerary is particularly suitable for solo travellers wanting to share a safari departure with other visitors.
Can couples join?
Yes. Couples can join and request double accommodation, subject to availability.
Can families join?
Yes, but families travelling with children must confirm the age requirements applying to gorilla and chimpanzee trekking.
Can I request a single room?
Yes. Single accommodation can normally be arranged, although a single supplement may apply.
Are meals included?
Meals are provided according to the meal plan stated in your confirmed safari quotation.
Is drinking water included?
Bottled drinking water is normally provided in the safari vehicle.
What type of vehicle is used?
Vehicle type depends on group size and operational requirements. The final arrangements should be confirmed before departure.
Will everyone have a window seat?
This depends on vehicle configuration and the number of travellers. Ask about seating arrangements before confirming if a window seat is important to you.
How much driving is involved?
This is an overland safari covering several regions of Uganda, so some days involve substantial driving between national parks.
Is Day 3 a long driving day?
Yes. Murchison Falls to the Kibale region is one of the longer road transfers in this itinerary.
Can the itinerary be operated privately?
Yes. The same route can be adapted into a private Uganda safari instead of a group joining departure.
Is this safari suitable for photographers?
Yes. The itinerary provides opportunities to photograph primates, savannah wildlife, birds, forests, rivers and landscapes.
Can I bring professional camera equipment?
Yes, but travellers should follow ranger instructions and applicable rules when photographing primates and other wildlife.
Can I use flash photography around gorillas?
Flash photography should not be used around gorillas. Follow your ranger’s instructions throughout the encounter.
Do I need travel insurance?
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended, including appropriate medical and emergency coverage.
Do I need a Uganda visa?
Visa and entry requirements depend on nationality and individual circumstances. Check the current official requirements before travelling.
What is the best time to book?
Book as early as possible when gorilla and chimpanzee trekking are priorities because permit availability can affect the entire itinerary.
Can I book at the last minute?
It may be possible, but availability will depend on permits, accommodation, vehicles and available places on the group departure.
Does the safari operate year-round?
It can operate throughout the year, subject to scheduled group departures, permits and accommodation availability.
What are the best months for the safari?
June to August and December to February are popular drier periods, although Uganda offers wildlife and primate experiences throughout the year.
What happens if it rains during trekking?
Normal rainfall does not necessarily stop trekking. Bring waterproof clothing and protect cameras, phones and valuables from moisture.
Is this safari suitable for first-time visitors to Uganda?
Yes. It combines primate trekking, savannah wildlife, river experiences and several of Uganda’s best-known national parks.
Can I extend the safari?
Yes. Additional days can be arranged for destinations such as Lake Bunyonyi, Jinja, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park or other parts of Uganda.
Can airport transfers be arranged?
Yes. Transfers can be organised according to your international flight schedule and confirmed package.
How do I book the 9 Days Uganda Group Joining Safari?
Send your preferred travel dates, number of travellers, room requirements and any optional activities you would like to add. Availability can then be checked for the group departure, gorilla and chimpanzee permits and accommodation before the safari is confirmed.
Book Your 9 Days Uganda Group Joining Safari
Experience Murchison Falls, chimpanzee trekking in Kibale, Queen Elizabeth National Park, the Kazinga Channel, Ishasha’s tree-climbing lions, mountain gorillas in Bwindi and the wildlife of Lake Mburo on one comprehensive shared Uganda adventure.
Send your preferred travel date and number of travellers to check availability for the next 9 Days Uganda Group Joining Safari departure.