9-Day Uganda Adventure Safari: Nile Rafting & Big 5 Experience

Your adventure begins the moment you land at Entebbe International Airport, where a friendly Elior Safaris guide greets you with a warm Ugandan welcome - a handshake, a smile, and a heartfelt "You've arrived in the Pearl of Africa!"

After the excitement of arrival, we transfer you to your hotel for check-in and refreshing. Stretch your legs, settle in, and let the energy of Uganda begin to soak in.

Depending on your arrival time, we craft a gentle and relaxing introduction to the country:

Snack & Ugandan Coffee: Sip on freshly brewed local coffee or enjoy a light snack, embracing the rich aroma of Uganda's famous beans.

Lunch / Dinner - Local Cuisine: Savor your first taste of authentic Ugandan flavors - from matoke and groundnut sauce to grilled fish by Lake Victoria.

Optional Lakeside Exploration: If your arrival is early, stroll along Lake Victoria beaches, feel the breeze, watch the fishermen at work, and immerse yourself in the serenity of the largest lake in Africa.

This first day is about healing from the long flight, adjusting to the local rhythm, and preparing your senses for the adventure ahead.

Vibe: Gentle, welcoming, and immersive. First taste of Uganda's beauty, nature, and culture. Calm yet exciting - the perfect prelude to your safari journey. By evening, you're refreshed, nourished, and ready to Arise and Shine - excited for the wildlife and cultural experiences that await on the first full day of your safari.

After your arrival day of relaxation, your adventure officially begins! Today you'll experience the vibrant heart of Uganda - from serene lakeside landscapes to bustling city streets.

Morning – Entebbe Exploration & Lake Victoria:

Start the day with a fresh breakfast at the hotel.

Explore Entebbe's famous beaches along Lake Victoria, feeling the gentle breeze and watching fishermen at work.

Enjoy freshly grilled lake fish, a delicious introduction to Ugandan cuisine.

Take a boat cruise across the calm waters to spot the elusive Shoebill stork, one of Africa's most unique birds. Capture stunning photographs and experience the serenity of the lake's islands and wetlands.

Afternoon – Kampala City Tour:

Drive to Kampala, Uganda's bustling capital, and prepare for a cultural and historical immersion.

Visit the Gaddafi Mosque and climb to its rooftop to enjoy panoramic views of Kampala city - a perfect spot for photographs.

Explore the Kasubi Tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the burial ground of Buganda kings, learning about Uganda's rich cultural heritage and royal history.

Stop by the Uganda Museum to delve deeper into the country's fascinating history, traditional artifacts, and wildlife exhibits.

Evening – Street Food & Local Flavors:

Experience Kampala's vibrant street food culture. Try a rolex - a Ugandan rolled chapati with eggs and vegetables - or sample local snacks from bustling street stalls.

Return to your hotel to relax and reflect on the day's discoveries.

Vibe: A perfect mix of nature, culture, and city life. Sightseeing, culinary delights, and wildlife all in one day. Gentle introduction to Uganda's rhythm before venturing into the wild.

Wake up early to the first golden rays of sunrise, enjoy a hearty breakfast at the hotel, and prepare for the thrill of Uganda's wildlife adventure. Today marks the beginning of your safari journey, starting with a scenic drive that winds through rolling hills, green farmlands, and picturesque villages.

Morning – Departure & Scenic Drive:

Depart from Kampala in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle, with panoramic windows perfect for photography.

Enjoy Uganda's countryside views, dotted with lush plantations, crater lakes, and roadside markets.

Stop along the way for photos and short refreshment breaks, capturing the essence of local life and landscapes.

Midday – Arrival at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary:

After an early morning drive from Entebbe/Kampala, arrive at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary around midday.

Stretch your legs and get ready for a guided walking safari through the sanctuary's lush grasslands.

Meet the rare white rhinos up close, along with other wildlife like antelopes, monkeys, and a variety of birds.

Your guide shares fascinating insights about rhino conservation efforts, Uganda's wildlife, and the sanctuary's history.

Capture once-in-a-lifetime photographs of these magnificent creatures.

Embark on a guided walking safari through the sanctuary's lush grasslands.

Spot the rare white rhinos up close, along with antelopes, monkeys, and a variety of birds.

Learn about conservation efforts and the history of rhino reintroduction in Uganda.

Capture incredible photographs - a bucket-list experience.

Afternoon – Lunch & Journey to Murchison Falls:

After the walking safari, board your 4×4 vehicle and begin the scenic drive toward Murchison Falls National Park.

Stop along the way for lunch at a local restaurant or roadside café, enjoying freshly prepared Ugandan cuisine.

Continue the drive through rolling hills, rivers, and vibrant rural villages, soaking in the landscapes of northern Uganda.

Evening – Arrival & Sunset Safari in Murchison:

Arrive at your lodge in the late afternoon and check in, soaking in the breathtaking landscapes that surround the park.

Embark on your first evening game drive, spotting elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, and more as the golden African sunset paints the savannah.

Return to your lodge for dinner and relax under the starry sky, preparing for tomorrow's full-day safari adventure.

Night – Lodge Relaxation & Early Preparation:

Unwind under the starry African sky, enjoying the sounds of the wilderness.

Prepare for an early morning safari tomorrow, when Murchison Falls' diverse wildlife awaits.

Vibe: Midday wildlife excitement at Ziwa. Scenic countryside drive with photography opportunities. Golden savannah sunset, first impressions of Murchison's wilderness.

Early Morning – Sunrise Safari Adventure:

Rise with the first light of dawn and enjoy a hearty breakfast at your lodge.

Embark on a morning game drive, when wildlife is most active.

Spot lions, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and antelopes roaming the savannah, and capture amazing photographs in the soft morning light.

Your guide shares insights about animal behavior, conservation, and the park's fascinating ecosystems.

Midday – Scenic Lunch Break:

Return to the lodge or stop at a scenic picnic point for lunch, overlooking the savannah or Nile River.

Take a moment to relax, reflect on your wildlife encounters, and soak in the natural beauty of Murchison Falls National Park.

Afternoon – Nile River Cruise to the Base of the Falls:

Board a comfortable boat for a Nile River cruise.

Cruise along the river, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and countless bird species along the riverbanks.

Approach the base of Murchison Falls, where the Nile thunders through a narrow gorge - an awe-inspiring sight and perfect photo opportunity.

Experience the power and majesty of one of the world's greatest waterfalls, feeling the mist and hearing the roar of the river.

Evening – Hike to the Top of Murchison Falls:

After the cruise, embark on an exciting hike to the top of Murchison Falls.

Follow the trail up to the gorge where the Nile squeezes through the rocks, feeling the power and roar of the river beneath you.

Enjoy the spectacular panoramic views of the river and surrounding savannah, a truly unforgettable experience at sunset.

Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight, reliving the day's thrilling adventures.

Vibe: Immersive wildlife adventure - from savannah game drives to majestic river sights. Perfect balance of adrenaline, nature, and tranquility. Photography opportunities at every turn, with memories that last a lifetime.

Early Morning – Sunrise & Departure:

Rise very early to catch the golden sunrise over the Murchison savannah, with wildlife waking in the soft morning light.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the lodge, sipping coffee or tea while the first rays of the sun illuminate the landscape.

Board your comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle for a scenic road trip to Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda's most famous wildlife destinations.

Morning & Afternoon – Scenic Drive & Lunch:

Travel through rolling hills, lush farmlands, and picturesque villages - a joy-filled journey with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.

Stop for snacks and refreshments to stretch your legs.

Enjoy a delicious lunch en route, savoring local cuisine while soaking in Uganda's countryside vistas.

Afternoon – Arrival & Lodge Check-In:

Arrive at your Queen Elizabeth lodge in the afternoon and check in.

Relax for a while, enjoy the lodge views, and prepare for an afternoon of gentle nature exploration.

Evening – Nature Walk & Wildlife Observation:

Take a leisurely nature walk around the lodge or nearby trails.

Spot birds, monkeys, and other small wildlife, and enjoy the tranquility of the African evening.

Return to the lodge for dinner, unwind, and reflect on the day's journey.

Vibe: Sunrise over savannahs - serene and magical. Scenic road trip with wildlife and landscapes on every turn. Gentle evening immersion into Queen Elizabeth's natural environment, preparing you for full safari adventures tomorrow.

Early Morning – Sunrise Game Drive:

Rise before dawn for breakfast at the lodge, then set off on a morning game drive, when wildlife is most active.

Traverse the savannah plains and crater lakes, spotting the famous tree climbing lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and countless antelopes.

Capture stunning wildlife photography with the soft morning light illuminating Uganda's diverse landscapes.

Learn about the park's ecosystems and wildlife behaviors from your experienced guide.

Midday – Lunch & Rest:

Return to the lodge for a relaxing lunch or enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature.

Take a short rest or explore the lodge grounds before the afternoon adventure.

Afternoon – Kazinga Channel Cruise:

Board a boat for a scenic cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway linking Lake Edward and Lake George.

Observe hippos lounging in the water, crocodiles basking on the banks, and a variety of birds, including African fish eagles and herons.

Spot elephants and buffalo drinking at the water's edge, a photographer's paradise.

The cruise is a perfect combination of wildlife spotting and relaxing river scenery, allowing you to see the park from a new perspective.

Evening – Sunset & Lodge Relaxation:

Return to the lodge for dinner, sharing stories of the day's amazing wildlife encounters.

Optional short walk around the lodge to enjoy the peaceful sounds of the African night, spotting nocturnal wildlife or simply stargazing.

Vibe: Full immersion in Queen Elizabeth's iconic wildlife. Perfect blend of land and water safari experiences. Wildlife-rich day, from roaring lions on game drives to hippos and birds along the Kazinga Channel.

Early Morning – Goodbye Queen Elizabeth, Hello New Adventure:

Wake up with the sunrise painting the sky over Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Enjoy a fresh breakfast, pack up, and hit the road for another beautiful journey - this time to Lake Mburo National Park, the whispering savannah of zebras and acacia trees.

Morning – Scenic Road Trip:

Capture great shots of rolling hills, banana plantations, and the Ankole long-horned cattle unique to the region.

Enjoy refreshing snacks and drinks on the way.

Arrive before lunch and check in at your lodge, with views stretching across the wild savannah.

Afternoon – Horseback or Walking Safari:

After lunch and a short rest, head out for a unique safari experience…

Horseback safari: ride gently across the plains among zebras, impalas, and elands, blending with nature in a truly peaceful way.

Walking safari: step quietly into the wild accompanied by ranger guides, spotting animals up close on foot - a thrilling but safe experience.

No lions here - so it's the perfect park to explore without a vehicle!

Evening – Sunset at the Lake:

Return to the lodge before sunset, then stroll to the shores of Lake Mburo.

Watch hippos grunting lazily in the water as the sun dips behind the acacia woodlands, painting the sky gold and purple.

Enjoy dinner under the stars, listening to the calming night sounds of the wild.

Vibe: Gentle, close encounters with wildlife. A relaxing and scenic contrast to the previous days. Pure safari magic - no rush, only serenity and nature.

Early Morning – Sunrise & Breakfast:

Wake up to a beautiful sunrise over Lake Mburo - the last savannah awakening of this adventure.

Enjoy a warm breakfast at the lodge, sipping coffee as the lake glows in the morning light.

Pack up and hit the road toward Jinja - home to the legendary Source of the Nile.

Road Trip - Food, Photos & Fun Stops:

Travel through the heart of Uganda, passing scenic hills, farms, and joyful roadside towns.

Lunch Stop in Lukaya - famous for its mouthwatering Ugandan roadside barbecue (nyama choma). Taste the savory flavors as you stretch and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Continue to the Equator line, where the Northern & Southern Hemispheres meet - the ultimate Uganda photo stop!

Fun water-drain experiment

Souvenir shops

Perfect Instagram moment

Arrival in Jinja - The Nile Welcomes You:

Continue your journey until the air cools and the waters widen - you've arrived in Jinja, the adventure capital of East Africa.

Check in at the lodge overlooking the Nile and relax after the beautiful drive.

Evening – Nile Relaxation Vibes:

Spend the evening enjoying calming Nile River views, watching fish eagles soar and the water flow endlessly from Lake Victoria.

Delicious dinner at the lodge, celebrating the amazing journey you've enjoyed so far.

Vibe: The thrill of travel blending with calm, river-side relaxation. Culture, beautiful scenery, and iconic landmarks all in one day. Welcomed by the Nile - ready for adventures ahead.

Morning – Breakfast with Nile Breeze:

Wake up to the calming sounds of the riverside.

Enjoy breakfast as sunlight dances on the Nile, building excitement for the day's thrill!

White-Water Rafting - World-Class Rapids:

Gear up and join expert rafting guides for a full-day rafting adventure on the mighty Nile, one of the world's top rafting rivers.

Crash through exhilarating rapids…

Laugh

Splash

Scream in excitement

Calm stretches give you time to float, swim and soak in the scenery.

Lunch on the Riverbanks:

Enjoy a tasty shoreside lunch, recharging energy for more fun.

After rafting:

River tubing

Quad biking

Village cycling tour

Evening – Cool Down and Chill:

Return to the lodge for a relaxing evening - or enjoy a quiet stroll to see the sunset over the river.

Dinner and story-sharing with fellow adventurers under the stars.

Vibe: Pure adrenaline + the beauty of nature. A day you'll brag about forever.

Morning – Rise to Adventure:

Breakfast at the lodge - your final morning gazing upon Africa's longest river.

High-Flying Thrills:

Head to the adventure park for:

Ziplining over the Nile - glide through treetops and over sparkling waters

Bungee Jumping (optional) - dive fearlessly toward the Nile from a towering platform

Capture every moment - this is bucket-list material!

Afternoon – Road Trip & Farewell Stops:

Begin the journey back toward Kampala or Entebbe.

Stop in Mabira Forest for nature views or quick souvenirs.

Final scenic drive - reflect on the unforgettable memories created in Uganda

Evening – Drop-Off:

Drop-off in Kampala or Entebbe depending on your flight or next adventure schedule.

Farewell from your guide - until you Arise & Shine again with Elior Safaris

Trip Finale Notes:

You've experienced:

Wildlife Big 5 safaris

Gorilla Highlands (if combined)

The power of the Nile

Culture, food & adventure

Nature, beauty & unforgettable memories