Embark on a journey that transcends mere sightseeing and delves deep into the heart and soul of Uganda. A culture and safari tour in this captivating East African nation promises not just adventure, but a profound immersion into the rich tapestry of traditions, landscapes, and wildlife that define this extraordinary land.
From the vibrant streets of Kampala to the remote villages of Karamoja, Uganda pulsates with the rhythms of tradition. As you traverse the country, immerse yourself in the diverse cultures and customs of its people. Dance to the beat of drums under starlit skies, listen to captivating tales passed down through generations, and witness age-old rituals that continue to shape the fabric of Ugandan society
In Uganda, nature is not just a backdrop – it’s a sanctuary for the soul. Find serenity amidst the towering trees of the rainforest, the cascading waters of majestic waterfalls, and the endless horizons of the savannah. Whether you’re meditating by the shores of Lake Victoria or watching the sunset over the Rwenzori Mountains, each moment invites you to pause, breathe, and connect with the natural world around you.
Witness the circle of life unfold before your eyes as you observe predators on the prowl, herds of herbivores grazing on the plains, and birds of every color taking flight in the skies above.
Detailed itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Uganda – Entebbe to Sipi Falls
On arrival, you will be welcomed by your guide into the pearl of Africa Uganda and set off to eastern Uganda to the famous Sipi falls that account for 10–20% of all tourist visits to Uganda every year.
Sipi Falls is a series of three waterfalls located on the north-western slopes of the eponymous extinct volcano, Mount Elgon, in Uganda with views over the Karamoja plains. The falls are situated to the northeast of Sironko and Mbale, adjacent to Mount Elgon National Park, which is located 1.7 kilometers (1 mile) away from the Kenyan border.
On arrival, you will check in for lunch and later enjoy a community visit around the villages for a cultural experience.
Community Interaction:
Throughout your cultural experience, you have the opportunity to interact with the people of Sipi Falls and learn about their way of life, customs, and traditions. Engage in conversations with local villagers, listen to their stories, and gain insights into their daily routines, challenges, and aspirations.
Coffee Experience
Sipi Falls is renowned for its coffee production, and a cultural experience in the area wouldn’t be complete without learning about the local coffee culture. Visit coffee plantations and learn about the process of growing, harvesting, and roasting coffee beans. Participate in coffee tasting sessions and discover the unique flavors and aromas of Ugandan coffee.
Dinner and an overnight stay at the lodge
Day 2: Explore Sipi falls
Hiking the Sipi falls
As you set out on the trail, you’re immediately greeted by breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The hiking trails wind their way through lush greenery, passing terraced hillsides, banana plantations, and traditional homesteads. Along the way, your guide shares stories and insights about the local culture, history, and ecology of the area.
After a scenic walk through the countryside, you catch your first glimpse of Sipi Falls in the distance. The sight of the cascading water plunging down the cliffs is truly awe-inspiring, and you feel a surge of excitement as you draw closer to the falls.
As you approach Sipi Falls, the sound of rushing water grows louder, signaling your arrival at this natural wonder. You follow a series of well-maintained trails that lead you to different vantage points, offering spectacular views of the falls from various angles. Take your time to soak in the sights and sounds of the cascading water, snap photos of the stunning scenery, and feel the cool mist on your skin.
Swimming under the Sipi Falls
After admiring the falls from above, you have the option to descend to the base of Sipi Falls for a closer look. Here, you can take a refreshing swim in the plunge pool at the foot of the waterfall, surrounded by the lush greenery of the forest.
Abseiling in Sipi Falls
Abseiling in Sipi Falls offers a thrilling and adrenaline-pumping adventure unlike any other.
With your heart pounding and adrenaline coursing through your veins, you step off the edge of the cliff and begin your descent down the sheer rock face. As you lower yourself down the ropes, you’re surrounded by the roar of the waterfall and the mist of the cascading water, adding to the excitement of the experience
Day 3: Transfer to Moroto via Pian Upe game reserve
After your breakfast, we will proceed further northeast of the country getting deeper in the Karamoja land.
On your way, you will have a brief safari in Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve which is home to a diverse array of wildlife species, including elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species. During your safari, you have the opportunity to encounter these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Later, you will proceed to Moroto through the remote villages of the Karamojong people.
Moroto is situated at an elevation of 4,500 feet (1,370 metres) The town is made up essentially of a line of small dukas (shops) and is dominated by nearby Mount Moroto (10,007 feet [3,050 metres]). Cattle are grazed on the surrounding scrub grassland, and food crops such as corn (maize), cassava (manioc), and soybeans are grown nearby.
After lunch, you will enjoy a community walk with the karamajong in the Moroto
Dinner and an overnight overstay at the camp
Day 4: Transfer to Kotido- Nakapelimoru village cultural experience
Checkout and set off to explore Kotido with the Karamojongs for a unique and immersive cultural experience that provides insights into the traditional way of life and rich heritage of this fascinating ethnic group.
Visit Nakapelimoru village, a Karamojong village is also known as “Manyatta” or “Ere” meaning an enclosed residential area, surrounded by sharp thorns and with small entry points for people and a larger entry point for cattle. One Manyatta has multiple families and a communal space for cattle.
The Karamojong reside in the largely permanent Manyattas during the wet /rainy season. As soon as the weather conditions are suitable for agriculture and livestock herding. Men stay mainly in the Kraal during dry season as they migrate closer to water sources, woman and children remain in the Manyattas to prepare for Agriculture production and others look for income generating activities ‘Elejilej’.
A day in the karamajong village offers one of the most authentic and immerse cultural experience.
Day 5: Transfer to Kidepo valley Kidepo Valley National Park
After your breakfast, you will set off to Kidepo valley national park.
On arrival in the afternoon, you will have lunch and spend the evening at leisure overlooking the breathtaking savannah plains and beautiful hills and mountains in the backdrop.
Enjoy your dinner and a camp fire
Day 6: Full day in Kidepo Valley National Park
A full day spent in Kidepo Valley National Park is a thrilling immersion into one of Africa’s most remote and untouched wilderness areas.
The day will start with a morning safari where you have the opportunity to encounter a wide variety of wildlife species, including lions, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and more. Keep your eyes peeled for sightings of elusive predators such as leopards and cheetahs, as well as rare antelope species like the white eared Kob and the rare secretary bird.
After your lunch, adventure will continue with an evening game drive.
A sunset game drive in Kidepo Valley National Park is a mesmerizing experience that offers a unique perspective on the park’s wildlife and landscapes. As the golden sun dips towards the horizon, casting a warm glow over the savannah, the atmosphere becomes infused with a sense of magic and tranquility.
Cruising through the plains, you’re treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the vast savannah plains stretching out to the horizon. The changing light casts dramatic shadows over the landscape, highlighting the contours of the mountains and valleys in shades of gold and amber.
As you continue your journey, keep a keen eye out for signs of wildlife stirring in the late afternoon light. Elephants may be seen lumbering towards watering holes for a refreshing drink, while giraffes gracefully browse the treetops against the backdrop of the setting sun. Lions may emerge from their daytime slumber, ready to begin their nocturnal hunt, while herds of antelopes and zebras gather in the open plains
Later, you will say farewell to the park and drive back to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 7: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
After your breakfast, you will set off to Murchison falls national park in the north west of the country.
A stopover for Lunch in Gulu city which is the biggest city in the north of the country.
Later, you will proceed to Murchison falls national park arriving in the evening. Check in for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 8: Full day in Murchison Falls National Park
A day spent in Murchison Falls National Park is a thrilling adventure filled with unforgettable wildlife encounters and breathtaking natural scenery.
As the sun rises over the savannah, you sip a cup of coffee and jump into your jeep to embark on an early morning game drive through Murchison Falls National Park. With your knowledgeable guide at the wheel, you set out in search of the park’s diverse array of wildlife.
As you traverse the vast plains and winding trails, keep your eyes peeled for sightings of majestic lions lounging in the grass, graceful giraffes grazing on acacia trees, and herds of elephants lumbering across the landscape.
Listen to the sounds of the bush as you watch herds of buffaloes grazing peacefully, marvel at the agility of antelopes darting through the undergrowth, and snap photos of colorful birds flitting between the trees.
After lunch, it’s time to embark on a boat ride along the Victoria Nile River to the base of Murchison Falls. Board a comfortable boat and set off on a leisurely cruise downstream, soaking in the stunning views of the riverbanks teeming with wildlife.
As you glide along the water, keep your camera ready to capture close-up views of hippos wallowing in the shallows, crocodiles basking on the riverbanks, and colorful birds swooping overhead. Your guide provides insightful commentary about the park’s ecosystem and points out interesting sights along the way.
As you approach Murchison Falls, the roar of rushing water grows louder, signaling your arrival at one of Uganda’s most iconic natural landmarks. Marvel at the sheer power and beauty of the falls as the Victoria Nile River plunges over a precipice, creating a majestic cascade of water that reverberates throughout the surrounding landscape.
Later in the evening, you will return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 9: Murchison Falls National Park to Entebbe -Departure
After breakfast, depart Murchison Falls National Park and drive back to Entebbe.
Along the way, stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for a guided walking safari to track endangered white rhinos in their natural habitat.
Continue your journey to Entebbe and transfer to Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight.
End of the tour.