5-Day Uganda Safari

Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch & Murchison Falls National Park

Embark on a thrilling 5-day journey through Uganda, the Pearl of Africa. From close-up rhino tracking and rare bird encounters at Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch, to the powerful beauty of Murchison Falls and wildlife-rich savannah plains, this safari offers a truly unforgettable experience.

  • Rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch
  • Bird watching, including the iconic Shoebill Stork
  • Visit the Top of Murchison Falls
  • Scenic game drives in Murchison Falls National Park
  • Boat cruise along the River Nile

Day 1: Entebbe to Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch- Rhino Tracking

Upon your arrival, your professional guide will warmly welcome you and pick you up from your preferred location in Kampala. Your adventure begins with a scenic drive through the lush countryside as you head north toward the Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch.

On arrival, check in to your lodge and enjoy a refreshing lunch. In the afternoon, set out on an exciting guided rhino tracking experience within the ranch. This rare opportunity allows you to get remarkably close to the endangered southern white rhinos while learning about the conservation efforts that protect them.

As you walk across the open plains accompanied by trained rangers, you can expect to encounter other wildlife species and a variety of birdlife.

Later, return to the lodge and spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing and enjoying the peaceful surroundings of the ranch. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner in a serene bush setting before retiring for the night.

Ziwa Rhino & Wildlife Ranch

Rhino Tracking

Full Board

Day 2: Shoebill Trekking Expedition

After an early breakfast, set out for an exciting Shoebill Trekking experience—one of the most sought-after birds encounters in Africa. Ziwa is one of the few places in Uganda where the majestic Shoebill Stork can reliably be seen in its natural wetland habitat.

Your trek begins with a guided walk through the ranch’s lush vegetation and into the swampy areas where the Shoebill is commonly found. Depending on water levels, the experience may include a short canoe excursion deeper into the marsh, increasing your chances of spotting this prehistoric-looking bird.

The Shoebill, known for its towering height, powerful bill, and slow, graceful movements, is a rare and unforgettable sight. As you explore the wetlands, keep an eye out for other spectacular water birds, including herons, egrets, African jacanas, and swamp-dwellers that thrive in this ecosystem.

After your Shoebill Trek, you’ll return to the lodge for lunch and will then spend the afternoon relaxing around the swimming pool or enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Ziwa Rhino & Wildlife Ranch

Shoebill Trekking (Wetland walk + canoe exploration depending on the season)

Full Board

Day 3: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park – Visit Top of the Falls

After breakfast, check out and depart for the magnificent Murchison Falls National Park, the largest protected area in Uganda. Your journey will take you through beautiful rural landscapes, open plains, and local communities.

Upon arrival, head straight to the Top of the Falls, where the mighty River Nile squeezes through a narrow 7-meter gorge before crashing 40 meters below with incredible force. The sight and sound of the water crashing through the rocks is truly awe-inspiring.

After your visit, continue to your lodge and enjoy lunch. Spend the afternoon relaxing, perhaps by the swimming pool, while taking in panoramic views of the Nile.

Visit to the Top of Murchison Falls

Fort Murchison Lodge

Full Board

Day 4: Sunrise Game Drive & River Nile Boat Cruise

Begin your day with an early breakfast before heading out for a thrilling sunrise game drive across the northern sector of the park—an area renowned for dense concentrations of wildlife.

Keep an eye out for elephants, Rothschild’s giraffes, buffaloes, lions, hartebeests, warthogs, waterbucks, and Uganda kobs.

After the game drive, enjoy lunch at Red Chilli Restaurant. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic boat cruise along the River Nile. This relaxing 2–3 hour experience offers excellent opportunities to see hippos, crocodiles basking along the riverbanks, a wide variety of bird species, and dramatic scenery — all leading up to the base of the powerful Murchison Falls.

After the cruise, enjoy an evening game drive on your way back to the lodge, where you will settle in for the night.

Game Drive & Boat Cruise

Fort Murchison Lodge

Half Board and Lunch at Red Chilli Restaurant

Day 5: Return to Entebbe

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before checking out and beginning your journey back to Kampala/Entebbe.

Travel through picturesque landscapes, small trading towns, and rolling countryside. Stop for lunch en route before continuing your journey.

Upon arrival, you will be dropped off at your preferred location, marking the end of your safari.

Murchison Falls in Uganda with a powerful waterfall gushing through a narrow passage in the rocks.

Prices from

$1,690pp

(Based on 2 people sharing)
(Cost in USD)

Inclusions

  • Full board accommodation (as per itinerary)
  • Park entry fees
  • English-speaking professional driver/guide
  • Bottled drinking water during the trip
  • All activities mentioned in the itinerary

Exclusions

  • Visa fees
  • International & domestic flights
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Laundry services
  • Kampala hotel accommodation (if needed before/after safari)
  • Alcoholic beverages & soft drinks
  • Personal expenses or items not mentioned in the inclusions

5 Day Uganda Safari

If this sounds like your perfect safari adventure, then let us know and we’ll make it happen…

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Looking for something Different?

We offer several other safari tours, depending on how long you have to stay in Uganda. Or, if you prefer, you can just spend a few days here at Ziwa. We have plenty of adventures, including rhino trekking, birding tours and our poplular shoebill trek.