Safari Overview
A compact Uganda journey combining Mabamba shoebill tracking, Bwindi mountain gorillas and a relaxed Lake Bunyonyi finish.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 – Mabamba Shoebill Excursion & Transfer South
Begin with a wetland excursion in Mabamba, using a local canoe to search papyrus channels for shoebills and other waterbirds before continuing south through Uganda’s changing countryside.
Your guide will discuss the next stage of the journey, likely driving time, suitable stops and the best way to use the day. Meals and accommodation are arranged according to the safari category you choose, and the programme remains flexible where park rules and permit times allow.
Day 2 – Continue to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Travel into the terraced highlands and forest edge of Bwindi, arriving with time to settle in and prepare for the following day’s gorilla trek.
Your guide will discuss the next stage of the journey, likely driving time, suitable stops and the best way to use the day. Meals and accommodation are arranged according to the safari category you choose, and the programme remains flexible where park rules and permit times allow.
Day 3 – Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
Join ranger guides for a trek through Bwindi to locate a habituated mountain gorilla family, spending the permitted viewing time observing their behaviour at close range.
Your guide will discuss the next stage of the journey, likely driving time, suitable stops and the best way to use the day. Meals and accommodation are arranged according to the safari category you choose, and the programme remains flexible where park rules and permit times allow.
Day 4 – Lake Bunyonyi Relaxation & Canoe Option
Drive to Lake Bunyonyi for island views, a slower afternoon and an optional canoe or boat outing among the steep cultivated hills.
Your guide will discuss the next stage of the journey, likely driving time, suitable stops and the best way to use the day. Meals and accommodation are arranged according to the safari category you choose, and the programme remains flexible where park rules and permit times allow.
Day 5 – Return to Entebbe or Kampala
Travel back to your agreed drop-off point, with comfort stops arranged around the day and onward travel plans.
Your guide will discuss the next stage of the journey, likely driving time, suitable stops and the best way to use the day. Meals and accommodation are arranged according to the safari category you choose, and the programme remains flexible where park rules and permit times allow.
Customize This Safari
This itinerary is a strong starting point rather than a fixed formula. Bush Shrike Adventures can change the accommodation level, add or remove nights, include domestic flights, adjust the arrival city, add birding time, slow the pace for photography or combine the trip with more destinations in Uganda or Rwanda.
Safari Includes
Airport transfers where required
Private 4×4 safari vehicle and fuel
Professional English-speaking safari guide
Accommodation and meals as stated in the confirmed quotation
Park entry and activities specifically listed in the confirmed itinerary
Bottled drinking water in the safari vehicle
Safari Excludes
International flights
Entry visas
Travel insurance
Optional activities not listed as included
Alcoholic and premium beverages
Tips, gratuities and personal expenses
Gorilla or chimpanzee permits unless specifically included in the quotation
