6 Days in Murchison Falls and Budongo Chimpanzees

The adventure begins in Kampala, Uganda’s vibrant capital city. After an early breakfast, travelers embark on a scenic 5-6 hour drive northwest towards Wildlife and Chimpanzee Adventure, the largest protected area in Uganda. The journey itself is an experience, passing through lush countryside, traditional villages, and the famous Luweero Triangle. A stop at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is highly recommended. This sanctuary is the only place in Uganda where visitors can see wild rhinos up close, as they were reintroduced after being poached to extinction in the 1980s. A guided trek offers a chance to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. After the rhino encounter, the journey continues to Murchison Falls National Park, arriving in the late afternoon. Upon entering the Wildlife and Chimpanzee Adventure, visitors are greeted by vast savannahs, riverine forests, and the mighty Nile River. The evening is spent relaxing at a lodge, with options ranging from luxury accommodations like Paraa Safari Lodge to mid-range options such as Pakuba Safari Lodge.

An early morning game drive is the perfect way to start the day. The park is home to an abundance of wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, leopards, and various antelope species. The Buligi Game Track is one of the best spots for sightings, with open grasslands allowing for excellent visibility. After the game drive, a boat safari along the Nile offers a different perspective of the park’s wildlife. The cruise takes visitors to the base of Murchison Falls, where the Nile River squeezes through a narrow gorge and plunges 43 meters down, creating a thunderous spectacle. Along the way, travelers can spot hippos, crocodiles, waterbucks, and numerous bird species, including the rare shoe-billed stork. The afternoon is spent at leisure, with options for relaxation or a visit to a nearby community project to learn about local culture and conservation efforts.

After breakfast, a short hike to the top of Murchison Falls provides breathtaking views of the Nile’s dramatic descent. The roaring waters and mist create a mesmerizing sight, making it one of Uganda’s most iconic landmarks. Later, travelers depart for Budongo Forest Reserve, located in the southern part of Murchison Falls National Park. Budongo is one of Uganda’s oldest and most biodiverse forests, famous for its chimpanzee population. The drive takes about 2-3 hours, passing through scenic landscapes. Upon arrival at Budongo Eco Lodge or Kaniyo Pabidi Camp, guests settle in and prepare for the next day’s chimpanzee trekking adventure. An evening nature walk or birdwatching excursion can be arranged to explore the forest’s rich biodiversity.

Budongo Forest is home to over 800 chimpanzees, making it one of the best places in Uganda to track these intelligent primates. After an early morning briefing, visitors set off with experienced guides into the dense forest. The trek can last 2-4 hours, depending on the chimpanzees’ location. Once found, travelers spend one magical hour observing the chimps as they feed, play, and interact with each other. The experience is both exhilarating and humbling, offering deep insight into their social structures and behaviors. The afternoon is free for relaxation or optional activities such as birdwatching (Budongo hosts over 360 bird species) or a guided nature walk to learn about the forest’s flora and fauna.

After breakfast, travelers return to Murchison Falls National Park for further exploration. A second game drive offers another chance to spot wildlife that may have been missed earlier, including hyenas, Uganda kobs, and perhaps even a leopard. Alternatively, visitors can opt for a sunset boat cruise along the Nile, enjoying the tranquil beauty of the river as the sun dips below the horizon. This is also a great opportunity for photography, with elephants and other animals often seen drinking at the water’s edge.

The final day begins with a leisurely breakfast before embarking on the journey back to Kampala. En route, a stop at Masindi town for lunch provides a chance to reflect on the incredible experiences of the past six days. For those with extra time, a visit to Kaniyo Pabidi’s Mahogany and Ironwood trees or a cultural encounter with the Bunyoro Kingdom can add a final enriching touch to the trip. A six-day safari in Murchison Falls National Park and Budongo Forest is a perfect blend of wildlife adventure, scenic beauty, and primate encounters. From the thunderous Murchison Falls to the intimate chimpanzee trekking experience in Budongo, every moment is filled with wonder. Uganda’s commitment to conservation ensures that these natural treasures remain pristine for future generations. For travelers seeking an authentic African safari with diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable primate encounters, this itinerary is an ideal choice. Whether it’s the roar of the falls, the call of the chimps, or the vast savannahs teeming with life, this journey through Uganda’s wild heart will leave lasting memories and a deep appreciation for nature’s wonders.