5-Days Murchison Kibale Safari
5-Days Murchison Kibale Safari
Ultimate Guide to a 5-Day Murchison Falls & Kibale Safari Adventure in Uganda
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Uganda’s pristine wilderness with this expertly crafted 5-day safari itinerary. This immersive experience combines the thunderous beauty of Murchison Falls National Park with the enchanting primate encounters in Kibale Forest National Park. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time explorer, this guide will walk you through every detail of the adventure, ensuring a seamless.
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe & Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
Your journey begins with a warm welcome at Entebbe International Airport. A professional guide from Turkana Wildlife Safaris will greet you and brief you on the safari ahead.
Highlights of the Day:
- Scenic drive through Uganda’s lush countryside
- Stopover at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for a guided rhino tracking experience
- Arrival at Murchison Falls National Park in the late afternoon
- Sunset game drive en route to your lodge
Accommodation Options:
- Paraa Safari Lodge
- Pakuba Safari Lodge
- Murchison River Lodge
🦏 Don’t miss the chance to walk alongside rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
🌊 Day 2: Game Drive & Boat Safari to the Base of Murchison Falls
Wake up to the sounds of the wild and prepare for a thrilling day of wildlife encounters and river exploration.
Morning Game Drive:
Explore the northern sector of the park, teeming with diverse wildlife such as:
- African elephants
- Lions and leopards
- Rothschild’s giraffes
- Cape buffaloes
- Jackson’s hartebeest
Afternoon Boat Safari:
Cruise along the Nile River to the base of the majestic Murchison Falls, where the Nile squeezes through a 7-meter gorge and plunges 43 meters below.
Key Experiences:
- Spotting hippos, crocodiles, and aquatic birds
- Photography opportunities at the falls
- Optional hike to the top of the falls for panoramic views
📸 Capture the raw power of nature at Murchison Falls.
🌿 Day 3: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
After breakfast, depart for the primate capital of the world—Kibale Forest National Park.
En Route Highlights:
- Drive through the Albertine Rift Valley
- Stopovers for cultural interactions and local cuisine
- Scenic views of tea plantations and crater lakes
Arrival in Kibale:
Check into your forest lodge and enjoy a relaxed evening surrounded by the sounds of the jungle.
Recommended Lodges:
- Primate Lodge Kibale
- Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse
- Crater Safari Lodge
🌳 Discover more about Kibale Forest, home to over 13 primate species.
🐒 Day 4: Chimpanzee Tracking & Bigodi Wetland Walk
Today is the highlight of your safari—an intimate encounter with our closest relatives in the wild.
Morning Activity: Chimpanzee Tracking
Join experienced rangers for a guided trek in search of habituated chimpanzee families.
What to Expect:
- Close-up views of chimpanzees in their natural habitat
- Observing social behaviors, grooming, and feeding
- Spotting other primates like red colobus, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and mangabeys
Afternoon: Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary
Explore this community-run eco-tourism project known for:
- Rich birdlife (Great Blue Turaco, Papyrus Gonolek)
- Unique flora and fauna
- Cultural interactions with local villagers
🐵 Book your chimpanzee tracking adventure with Turkana Wildlife Safaris.
🚐 Day 5: Return to Entebbe & Departure
After a leisurely breakfast, begin your journey back to Entebbe. Depending on your flight schedule, optional activities can be arranged:
- Visit to the Ndere Cultural Centre
- Souvenir shopping at the African Craft Village
- Lunch at a lakeside restaurant on Lake Victoria
🌍 Explore more Uganda safari packages to extend your adventure.
🧭 Why Choose Turkana Wildlife Safaris?
Turkana Wildlife Safaris is a trusted name in East African travel, offering:
- Expert local guides with deep knowledge of Uganda’s ecosystems
- Customizable itineraries tailored to your interests
- Commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism
- Comfortable lodges and reliable transportation
Additional Services:
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi
- Birdwatching tours
- Cultural safaris
- Photography expeditions
📌 Travel Tips for Your Safari
What to Pack:
- Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing
- Insect repellent and sunscreen
- Binoculars and camera
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Travel insurance documents
Health & Safety:
- Yellow fever vaccination required
- Malaria prophylaxis recommended
- Follow your guide’s instructions at all times
Best Time to Visit:
- Dry seasons: December–February & June–September
- Ideal for wildlife viewing and chimpanzee tracking
🧠 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the best time to visit Murchison Falls and Kibale Forest?
The best time to visit is during the dry seasons—June to September and December to February. These months offer better wildlife visibility and easier trekking conditions.
2. Are chimpanzee permits included in the safari package?
Yes, all chimpanzee tracking permits are included in the cost of the safari when booked through Turkana Wildlife Safaris.
3. How physically demanding is chimpanzee tracking?
Chimpanzee tracking can be moderately strenuous, involving 2–4 hours of hiking through dense forest. Good physical fitness is recommended.
4. Can I customize this 5-day safari itinerary?
Absolutely! Turkana Wildlife Safaris offers fully customizable itineraries to match your travel preferences and budget.
5. What wildlife can I expect to see in Murchison Falls?
Expect to see a wide range of wildlife including elephants, lions, giraffes, buffaloes, and numerous bird species.
🌍 Extend Your Adventure
If five days aren’t enough, consider adding:
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
- Queen Elizabeth National Park for tree-climbing lions
- Lake Bunyonyi for relaxation and canoeing
📞 Ready to Book?
Plan your dream safari today with Turkana Wildlife Safaris. Their team of experts will help you create a personalized itinerary that captures the essence of Uganda’s wild beauty.
📧 Contact: info@turkanawildlifesafaris.com
✨ Conclusion
A 5-day Murchison Falls and Kibale safari is more than a vacation—it’s a transformative journey into the heart of Africa. From the thunderous roar of the falls to the playful chatter of chimpanzees, every moment is a brushstroke in the masterpiece that is Uganda. With Turkana Wildlife Safaris, you’re not just a tourist—you’re an explorer, a storyteller, and a guardian of the wild.
🦓 Explore. Discover. Protect. Travel with Turkana Wildlife Safaris today.