Gorilla and game safari in Uganda

The programme Classic Uganda is designed for all those who are interested in seeing the key places of southern-western Uganda. It includes Wildlife, Birds, Gorillas and Wild Chimpanzees trekking in Uganda. It can also be combined and extended with additional trips, which makes it attractive for those who would like to see as much as possible of Uganda's beauty. 

African Camping Safaris are simply a different safari experience! They bring you close to African nature. With an exclusive style of camping, our camping safaris are not only designed for the younger generation but for all those who enjoy camping and are open to nature. Mobile camping is a flexible way of travelling: like the "good old days" we are moving from one site to another carrying with us all our equipment and our competent staff will take care of all camp duties!

We only use first class equipment for your camping comfort and for the pure pleasure of your safari experience. We offer an exclusive style of camping, a class apart from what most people have experienced in other regions of the world. The best hygiene with hot showers, portable toilets, good sleeping comfort in large tents with bed sheets and an excellent cuisine with international and African dishes.

Uganda with an area of 236.580 square kilometres has roughly the size of Great Britain. It is situated on the equator and lies on the elevated plateau which rises between the eastern and western branches of The Great Rift Valley. Most of the country is over 1.000 m in altitude.

When it comes to the more conventional game-viewing, Uganda may be not the safari destination to bear comparison with Tanzania or Kenya. However Uganda's beauty, wildlife diversity, and friendly people justify its reputation as "The Pearl of Africa". The habitats are immensely varied and it can be stated without exaggeration that Uganda is one of the most biologically diverse nations on the continent: primeval forest, rain forest, snow-capped mountains, savannah, crater lakes and volcanoes.

Uganda is home to the source of the Nile. It is also home to more than 1,000 species of birds, and there are more species of primates than you will see anywhere else in the world. It is in Uganda that the greatest percentage of Mountain Gorilla (gorilla gorilla beringei) and chimpanzees remain, with many other mammal species representative in both East and Central Africa. Uganda gives you more than an ordinary safari! As an off-the-beaten path destination, Uganda will offer you an exceptional nature experience! Gorilla and chimpanzee viewing will bring new dimension to your safari, an experience of a life time that no other East-African country can offer! You will find abundant game, often in extraordinary circumstances.

Description day by day Classic Uganda

day 1 Arrival at Entebbe International Airport
Meet and greet at the Airport by your Magic Safaris Guide. You will be transferred to Kisubi, Magic Safaris Camping site on the shores of Lake Victoria. Dinner and overnight at the camp are included.

day 2 Kisubi - Kibale National Park
Early wake up in a beautiful environment. The sun rises at 7 a.m. and your breakfast will be served by our staff.  Full breakfast will be ready: tea, coffee, fruits, bread, eggs, etc. You will meet the other participants and your tour leader will brief you, giving you some general guidelines for your safari.   
After breakfast we drive to Fort Portal via Mubende. Departure is foreseen at 9 a.m. This is a long trip to Western Uganda with a break for a pic nic after Mubende. A stop is also foreseen at  Fort Portal before heading to Kibale Forest NP.
After some shopping we will drive another hour to reach Kibale Forest and we will camp at Bigodi near Kibale Forest NP. Your Tour Leader will brief you about the next day activities with some guidlines for your chimp tracking. (B-L-D)

Dag 3 Kibale NP – Mweya (Queen Elisabeth NP)
After breakfast you leave for Kibale Forest renowned for the greatest variety and the highest concentration of primates in East-Africa. The visitors centre of Kanyanchu is only 5 minutes away from our camp in Bigodi. At the visitors centre the rangers are ready to escort different groups of maximum 6 persons. They will brief you about your guided nature walk in the tropical forest in search of the wild chimpanzees. This is one of the great moments of your safari!
The rangers are very knowledgeable and will answer all your questions about the forest and the chimps. Jan Goodall Institute has been assisting Uganda Wildlife Authority with the training of the rangers.
While having your guided nature walk the logistic team will clear the camp. A pic-nic lunch is foreseen at Kanyanchu before heading to Mweya via Fort Portal, the northern sector of Queen Elizabeth. After leaving Fort Portal you will pass by the Rwenzori Mountains. It's during the wet season that you will have the best chances to have a clear view of the Rwezories Mountains. On our way to Mweya you will pass Kasese town and stop at the equator for a traditional picture. 
You will entrer Queen Elizabeth NP at the Kabatoro gate and have a short game drive on our way to Mweya camp. Mweya lies on a peninsula and your tent will be ready on your arrival. (B-L-D) .

Dag 4 Mweya (Queen Elizabeth NP)
The best time for game-viewing is early in the morning! You will take the channel track which runs parallel with the Kazinga channel and we drive slowly towards the Katunguru gate. The channel track is particulrly rewarding with warthog, bushbuck, waterbuck and elephants. There are some chances in the morning hours to see the spotted hyena and leopard. We will cross the Mbarara-Kassese-Fort Portal road and drive to Kasenyi an area near to Lake George which is an interesting gameviewing area. The wetlands surrounding the lake are of international importance protected by the Ramsar Convention.
We continue our game drive and we take the Kasenyi track when returning to Mweya camp for lunch. In the afternoon you will take the launch trip on the Kazinga channel which many consider as a highlight of the safari. The launch trip takes 2 hours.
After the launch trip we visit Mweya Safari Lodge and enjoy the splendid views of the channel. A drink at the bar lodge is an option before we return to the camp for an African dinner with Congolees and Ugandan dishes. After diner we sit arround the campfire and we identify the nature sounds coming from the channel. You can hear the hippo, hyena and sometimes lions when they visit the peninsula area. (B-L-D).

Day 5 Kyambura – Ishasha
Early wake up because we need to drive to Kyambura WR, a one hour drive from Mweya. For the last time you will take the Channel track trying the last chance to see leopard. Kyambura lies in the southern sector of the park and we take the main road to Mbarara and cross the Kazinga channel at Katunguru.
The Kyambura River, about 16 km long, flows into the Kazinga channel. On arrival, the rangers will lead us and we drive to the nearest point, where they(rangers) usually know the chimpanzees are approximately located. The rangers will give you a briefing before descending into the depths of the gorge. The nature walk takes a few hours and lunch will be served at Kyambura fig tree campsite before heading to Ishasha.
While having your nature walk, the logistic team will clear the Mweya camp and drive to Ishasha. Ishasha is about 3 hours away from Kyambura and you will have a short game drive on your way to the camp.
We camp on the banks of the Ishasha river in company of the hippos! The first night at Ishasha is always the most impressive one for visitors. At night we usually have a concert of black-and-white colobus monkeys, baboons, hyena, hippos and the roaring lions! The Ishasha River supports a narrow strip of riverine gallery forest on either side plenty of rustling wildlife. (B-L-D)

Day 6  Ishasha
You will explore Ishasha, the southern sector of Queen Elizabeth considered by some experts as one of the most aluring game viewing area of East Africa. It's an off-the-beaten-track destination that you will surely enjoy.
We wake up early, of course, since this is the best time for observing nature.  You start from the southern circuit in search of the elephants and we will drive over the plains of Ishasha in the open savannah. The southern circuit has usually large herds of buffalo, Uganda kob and topi. Near to the swamps of the southern circuit you might see even leopard. We continue and drive to the northern circuit which is the area near the main road known for its tree climbing lions. We look particularly at the many fig trees where lions like to stay. But we also visit the Uganda kob mating ground which is their prefered hunting area. 
After an initial scouting expedition, we return to the camp for a lunch, we relax, observe the hippos and we take time for a shower or siesta in the shadow of the woods.
In the afternoon you will have another game drive and during the dry season we will drive you to the Edward's flats to see elephants, large herds of buffalo and different waterbids. Occasionaly we might find in this area the shoebill stork and by surprise some  hunting lions.
We return late in the afternoon to enjoy the last moments of the day on the Ishasha river. After diner we sit around the campfire and enjoy the nature sounds of the woods. (B-L-D) 

Day 7 Ishasha – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
This is your last game drive in Queen Elizabeth. If you have missed the lions the previous days it will be the last opportunity to try again. You will start again with the northern circuit and finish your game drive with the southern part.
When returning from the morning game drive the camp will already be cleared and a pic nic is served at the camp before we drive to Bwindi a journey that can take a max. of 2hour. We shall have a stop over at Kihihi for refueling and some shopping at the local stores. The Muzungu (the whithe visitors) are an attraction for the children of the village!
Bwindi is not far away and you will arrive at Buhoma in the afternoon. Time to have a cool drink, you are guests of the local community! Magic Safaris supports the local community at Bwindi by using their services and camp site. (B-L-D)

Day 8 Gorilla Trekking – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi Impenetrable NP is a natural world heritage site. Hikers will love it, with the gorilla excursion as a high point of your safari!
Gorilla trekking is unpredictable. It's difficult to foresee how many hours you will hike. The gorilla excursion can take from 2 up to 8 hours. Expect to walk along distance in steep and muddy conditions, sometimes with rain overhead, before you encounter any gorillas. A good physical condition is recommended. For conservation purposes, time spent with the gorillas is limited to one hour. A ranger will brief you on how to behave with the gorillas.
Once you are back from trekking before 5 pm, you can be intertained by  orphans of the Buhoma village, with their traditional Bakiga dances. For particpants who want to contribute to the orphans, we advise them to bring some used clothes or school pensils/pens. (B-L-D)
The Bwindi orphans group was created in 1998 with the main objective of taking care of the orphans dwelling on the streets of Buhoma. The high aim of the organization is to provide education, teaching agriculture and handcraft skills. teaching basic hygiene and the imprtance of sanitation. Today there are more than 160 children from all ages.

Day 9 Bwindi – Lake Bunyonyi
After breakfast while our logistic staff are clearing the camp, you can take a village walk and have a look at handcraft & blacksmith neraby. Thereafter, we depart for Lake Bunyonyi, meandering driving along the Kigezi mountains. Kigezi mountains is another unique scenary for you to view during your trip. On the way you will have a pic nic at an altitude above 2200m in the montain tops. Arrival is foreseen in the afternoon. A relaxing moments on the shores of this wonderful lake will be welcome for most participants. Lake Bunyonyi is bilarzia free hence an ideal water for swimming and water sports. (B-L-D).

Day 10 Lake Bunyonyi – Kisubi
Lake Bunyonyi means place of little birds, it is a very idyllic spot that you will likely regret to leave. We drive to Kabale and join the highway to Kampala via Mbarara and Masaka. The journey to Kisubi shall take about 6 hours. We stop on the way for a pic nic! Your tent will be ready by the time you reach the campsite! (B-L-D)

Day 11 Departure
A calm day with a flexible programme. A guided trip of Kampala city through the Owino market, Kasubi tombs, and doing some shopping as wel. After lunch you will return to Kisubi. In the afternoon you can visit the Wildlife Education Centre (option) or have some relaxing moments on the shores of Lake Victoria. (B-L-D)

Dates & Prices

Price 2010 (price per person) : 
Uganda Classic Safari * 11 days / 10 nights camping : 
€ 1.895 trip + € 150 Chimpansee Permit + € 415 Gorilla Permit

De Classic Uganda can be extended with Rwanda, Murchison  Falls, Lake Victoria 

Uganda Classic Safari + Rwanda (Gorilla Express) * 12 days / 11 nights camping :
€ 2.379 trip + € 150 Chimpansee Permit + € 885 Gorilla Permit 

Uganda Classic Safari + Rwanda (Virunga Primates) * 12 days / 11 nights camping : 
€ 2.575 trip + € 150 Chimpansee Permit + € 885 Gorilla Permit

Uganda Classic Safari + Murchison Falls * 14 days / 13 nights camping : 
€ 2.795 trip + € 150 Chimpansee Permit + € 415 Gorilla Permit 

Uganda Classic Safari + Rwanda + Murchison Falls * 16 days / 15 nights camping :
€ 3.195 trip + € 150 Chimpansee Permit + € 885 Gorilla Permit 

Extra night in Kisubi (luxueus tented camp) : € 30

Possible excursions from Kisubi:
Mabamba Wetland / Lake Victoria (1/2 dag) : € 91 
Bron op de Nijl (Jinja & Bujagali) ( 1 dag) : € 120 
Ngamba Island (1/2 dag) : € 82
Rafting Jinja (1 dag) : € 154
Kampala Stadsbezoek (1/2 dag) : € 91 

You can also book an extra night at arrival or departure at a guesthouse : € 63

Please note :
Gorilla and Chimpanzee Permit are optional from the tour price. All permits are subject to availability at the time of booking.

The Tour Package includes:

• Airport transfers,
• Camping accommodation,
• All meals,
• Plenty of mineral water,
• All camping equipment,
• The services of a Tour Leader with his logistic team,
• All park and entry fees,
• All activities as per programme: chimp trekking at Kibale, game drives at Mweya, boat trip on the Kazinga, visit of Kasenyi fishing village and salt works, nature walk in Maramagambo forest (bats cave), nature walk in Kyambura in search of the chimps, game drives in Ishasha, gorilla trekking in Bwindi, Kampala visit.

It excludes:

• Airline ticket,
• Beverages,
• Tips,
• Visas and personal expenses.
• Booking fee: 20 EUR per person. Late booking: + 25 EUR (less than 30 days before departure)
• If you pay by credit card 2% costs will be charged

Practical information about the Uganda trip

• Gorilla permits in Bwindi are guaranteed!  For Gorillas the min. age is 15 years.
• To allow a better nature observation on safari the number of participants is limited to max. 10 participants.
• Departure is guaranteed from min. 4 participants.
• All camping equipment is provided, you need only personal belongings!
• Luggage limit at 15kg per person. Avoid hard suitcases but use soft bags instead.
• For your adventure, we have opted for a customized safari vehicle. The passengers have luxury seats and extra large sliding windows to enjoy the scenery.
• A logistic vehicle and a safari trailer is travelling with us to ensure a full service safari. Our safari trailer is designed with particular options and fully equipped with: 200 lt water tank, 70t and 40lt Freezers, Complete field kitchen, 3 x 1.8m tables and chairs for everybody.
• Sleeping comfort in large tents. Large inflatable canvas tents 3m x 3m x 1.95m (2 persons per tent), stretchers, mattresses and bedding. You will sleep in bed sheets with a pillow and your tent is Mosquito protected.
• Hygiene: Portable toilets and a hot water shower system are available on safari!
• Your professional Tour Leader will escort you on safari. He is assisted with one or more driver-guides and all of them are well experienced field guides with an extensive knowledge of the country, wildlife and birds.
• A Logistic Team will travel with you in a separate vehicle and trailer and shall take care of all camp duties. They will set up and clear the camp, clean the tents, wash the dishes, take care of your laundry, etc. All of them are camping experts and glad to be at you service!
• Your Cook will prepare meals of international flavour, including soups, salads, cold meats, pasta dishes, meat and fish dishes and bread. Our menus have been studied and established well in advance by our catering expert. He has also included typical African dishes as part of your safari experience. Bottled mineral water is included in the all-inclusive daily rate. Local beer, wine and spirits are at your own expense and can be ordered at any time. We take care of your dietary needs, let us know in advance!
• Small group safaris have the advantage of getting travellers together from various parts of the world. They are also interesting for single travellers because they can easily join a group. To allow better nature observation the safaris are limited from 7 up to max. 10 participants. Depending on the size of the group, the land  arrangement will be organized with one or more safari vehicles. Designed for mainly fun-loving and informal adventure travellers!
• Our driver-guides are experienced persons and we employ them full time. They are trained in defensive driving and attended a 4WD course in low range, high range and self recovery. They are also your field guides with an extensive knowledge of the country, wildlife and birds. They will share their passion with you and explain the cultures of their country. We select, train and work with local driver-guides because we have experienced that most of our clients prefer them to western guides. Each of them have special skills that we use to match the needs of our clients. Some of them are Tour Leaders conducting our small group safaris. Others are specialized bird watchers. We consider that our driver-guides are the most important asset of your safari!