This adventure safari offers you the opportunity to climb the Rwenzori mountains and to visit the beautiful national parks, including

• Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Bwindi National Park and Gorilla trekking
• Ishasha Wilderness Park with its famous tree-climbing lions and many other wild animals
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
• Lake Mburo National Park
• Ssese Islands
• Jinja and the source of the Nile

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport you will be met by our safari guide. We drive to the hotel and you will enjoy a welcome drink. Overnight stay in Rita Beach Hotel, Windsor Lake Victoria Hotel at the Victoria lake

Day 2: Entebbe, shopping, drive to Kasese

We drive go to Kampala for shopping and money. Then drive to Kasese in the western Rift Valley, which is dominated by the Ruwenzori Mountains. Short shopping the rest of the trekking utensils. Overnight at Hotel Margherita.

Day 3: Kasese-Nyakalengija (1615 m), Nyabitaba hut (2651 m)

After breakfast, final preparations and departure to the Rwenzori trekking. The path leads through fields and over the Mubuku Mahoma River. The destination today is Nyabitaba hut (2651 m).

Day 4: Nyabitaba (2651 m), Mubuku River (2600 m), John Matte Hut (3505m).

This part of the hike is long and demanding and involves climbing and hiking in muddy and slippery terrain to the bamboo forest. Due to the altitude you walk through an unusual vegetation with very exciting plants. Overnight stay at the John Matte hut (3505 m).

Day 5: John Matte (3505 m), Bujuku (3962 m)

Bujuku river crossing, passing the lower Bigo Bog. In case of good weather you can enjoy a magnificent view of Mt. Stanley. After dinner we continue to Bujuku hut (3962 m).

Day 6: Bujuku (3962 m), Scott Elliot Pass (4372 m), Kitandara (4023 m)

From Bajuku it goes to Elena Hut (4430) to climb the Margherita peak on Mt Stanely (5109 m). For this climb you need ice axes, boots, crampons and ropes. Overnight stay in a hut on Kitandara Lake.

Day 7: Lake Kitandara (4023 m), Fresh-Field Pass (4282 m), Guy Yeomen (3505 m)

You walk along a flat surface with colorful moss landscapes and then follow the way to Nyakalengija. Then it goes to Guy Yeomen near the Mubuku river. There is a beautiful view to Mt Baker in the north.

Day 8: Guy Yeomen (3505 m), Nyabitaba (2651 m)

5 hours hike to Nyabitaba. If we start early in the morning we possibly hike to Nyakalengija.

Day 9: Nyabitaba (2651 m), Nyakalengija (1615 m), Queen Elizabeth National Park

From Nyabitaba to Nyakalengija it will take 2-3 hours. Then follows a short drive along the western Rift Valley to Mweya at Queen-Elizabeth-Nationalpark. Overnight stay at Mweya Safari Lodge or Jacana Lodge

Day 10: Wildlife observation, boating

Today you can enjoy a game drive to watch lions, elephants, buffalo, Uganda kob and other wild animals. In the afternoon enjoy a boat trip on the Kazinga channel. Overnight stay at Mweya Safari Lodge or Jacana Lodge.

Day 11: Mweya, Ishasha

Drive to Ishasha, the southern area of the Queen-Elizabeth-National-Park. This part is well known for its rich wildlife, especially the tree-climbing lions. Here you can experience Africa at its best: a perfect mix of spectacular scenery and wildlife. Your tour guide will explain a lot about animal behavior, and because of his experience you will visit the best sites for your safari experience. Overnight stay in Ishasha-Banda, in Ishasha Wilderness Camp or the Savannah Resort

Day 12: Game drive in the morning, Kisoro

Early in the morning one more trip to the National-Park for game drive. Then we travel to Kisoro to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Overnight stay in Travelers Rest Hotel

Day 13: Gorilla trekking

This day is reserved for the mountain gorillas. The hike to the gorillas can take several hours and we walk through dense jungle. Overnight stay in Travelers Rest Hotel.

Day 14: Visiting Pygmies, Lake Mburo

After breakfast we visit a Pygmy community in the vicinity of the Ichuya forest. Later, drive to Lake-Mburo-National-Park. Overnight stay at Mantana Luxury Camp or Camp Rwonyo

Day 15: Nature walk, boat trip

You will enjoy the day in Lake-Mburo-National Park and hike with a ranger. In the afternoon enjoy a boat trip on Lake Mburo. Overnight stay at Mantana Luxury Camp or Camp Rwonyo

Day 16: Lake Mburo, Ssese Islands, Bugalla.

This day is reserved for the journey from Lake Mburo to Ssese Islands at Lake Victoria, the largest freshwater lake in Africa. We reach Bugala Iceland. Overnight stay in Ssese Beach Hotel

Day 17: Ssese Islands:

Today you will relax all day on Bugala Islands. Enjoy a walk through nature. Overnight stay in Ssese Beach Hotel

Day 18: Visit a coffee factory, coffee farmers on the trip to Jinja

On this day we travel to Jinja. On a stop we will visit a coffee factory and coffee farmers in a rural area. In the afternoon visit the shores of Lake Victoria and the sources of the Nile in Jinja. Overnight stay at Jinja Nile Resort Hotel, or Hotel Triangle.

Day 19: Jinja

We will spend another day in Jinja. Possible activities include white water rafting, bungee jumping, horse riding, safaris, Quad Safaris, or a visit of the central market. Overnight stay at Jinja Nile Resort Hotel, or hotel Triangle

Day 20: Jinja, Entebbe Airport

You morning will be at leisure. In the afternoon we drive to the airport and you will start your journey back home.

Included in your package

• all trips through Uganda
• Fees for the National Parks
• all accommodations and meals
• climbing to the Margherita peak
• rescue insurance
• gas and coal
• travel guide
• 2 porters, each for 12,5 kg of baggage
• municipal fee
• franchise fee
• a cook
• all meals while climbing
• boat trip on Kazinga channel
• gorilla trekking
• Golden Monkey trekking
• visit of the Pygmies

Excludes

Climbing equipment, hiking boots, rubber boots, climbing ropes, ice axes, harness, sleeping mats, sleeping bags, walking sticks, tips, alcoholic beverages, airport tax

Hotel facilities

Expensive: Stay in Uganda‘s most beautiful hotels and lodges such as the Windsor Lake Victoria in Entebbe, Margherita Hotel in Kasese, Jacana Lodge, Mweya Lodge, Ishasha Wilderness Camp in Ishasha, Rest Travelers Hotel in Kisoro, Mantana Luxury Camp at Lake Mburo, Jinja Nile Resort in Jinja.

Middle Class: A mix of fine hotels, campgrounds and rustic facilities, including changes Rita Beach Hotel in Entebbe, Margherita Hotel in Kasese, hostel in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Savannah Resort in Ishasha, Travelers Rest in Kisoro, Rwonyo camp in Lake Mburo, Ssese Beach Hotel on the Ssese Islands, Hotel Triangle in Jinja.

Budget: camping and bandas, standard class hotels and guesthouses, but always clean and comfortable. Meals cooked on the campsite or camping canteens.

We offer to our customers to visit the Parc des Volcans in Rwanda, who became famous by Diane Fossey‘s research on mountain gorillas. You will visit

• Mgahinga-Gorilla-National Park with the Golden Monkeys
• Lake Bunyonyi
• Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Kibale Forest
• Murchison Falls National Park
• Sources of the Nile

You will enjoy chimpanzees and Uganda‘s incredible wildlife, including tree-climbing lions, topi, elephant, buffalo, birds, crocodiles, hippos and Shoebill.

Day 1: Arrival at Kigali airport

Upon arrival at Kigali airport you will be picked up and we drive to the famous Mille Collines Hotel, known for winning an Oscar film "Hotel Rwanda".

Day 2: Genocide Memorial, Parc des Volcanoes.

Breakfast at hotel, then visit the genocide memorial. Later, visiting some craft shops before we drive to Ruhangeri. Overnight stay at Gorilla Nest Lodge or Guest House Kinigi

Day 3: Gorilla trekking.

Your "Gorillas in the Mist" tour begins at the offices in Kinigi for registration and a briefing by the safari guides. The tour takes several hours until you reach the group of mountain gorillas. After spending an hour with the gorillas it goes back to the lodge. Overnight stay at Gorilla Nest Lodge or Guest House Kinigi

Day 4: Visit of Diane Fossey grave, Karisoke Research Station

After breakfast we visit the Karisoke Research Center, founded by Dian Fossey. The film "Gorillas in the Mist" was shot here. Diane Fossey‘s grave and the old housing and research area will be visited. Then we return to the camp. Overnight stay at Gorilla Nest or Guesthouse Kinigi

Day 5: Drive to Kisoro.

Between breakfast and lunch, you have the day for leisure. Then we start to Kisoro. We place a stop at a Travelers Rest Hotel, built by Walter Baumgartel, the initiator of the gorilla tourism. The hotel was used by many primate researchers, among them Diane Fossey. It is a very comfortable hotel and a witness of a bygone era. Overnight stay in Travelers Rest Hotel

Day 6: Golden Monkey trekking.

After breakfast we visit the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Target are the rare Golden Monkeys who share this part of the Virunga Conservation Area with the mountain gorillas. Hotels in Travelers Rest Hotel

Day 7: Drive from Mgahinga to Ishasha

After breakfast we go in the direction of Ishasha, the southern sector of Queen-Elizabeth-National Park. This part of the park is known for its rich wildlife, especially the tree-climbing lions. Overnight stay in the Ishasha Banda, the Ishasha Wilderness Camp or the Savannah Resort

Day 8: Ishasha wildlife observation

The whole day wildlife viewing in Ishasha is planned. Overnight stay in the Ishasha Banda, the Ishasha Wilderness Camp or the Savannah Resort

Day 9: Drive from Ishasha to Mweya.

This morning we drive north towards Mweya. On the program there is a boat trip on the Kazinga channel in Queen-Elizabeth-National Park. Overnight stay at Mweya Safari Lodge, Jacana Lodge or the Institute Hostel

Day 10: Chimpanzee Trekking

Early in the morning we will drive to Kyambura Gorge and make a chimpanzee trekking. In the afternoon we enjoy another game drive in the park. Overnight stay in the Mweya Safari Lodge, Jacana Lodge or the Institute Hostel

Day 11: Drive from Queen Elizabeth National Park to Kibale Forest

We travel on that day to Kibale-National Park, known for its richness in chimpanzees and an extraordinary variety of birds. Overnight stay at the Lodge or Primate Chimps Nest

Day 12: Chimpanzee trekking, drive to Hoima

Early in the morning we do a chimpanzee trekking with a local safari guide again, and travel later to Hoima. Overnight stay at Kolping House

Day 13: Hoima, trip to the Murchison Falls

After breakfast we will drive to Murchison-Falls-National Park through a picturesque landscape. We cross the Butiaba-Escarpment and the western part of the Rift Valley. On good weather conditions you will see Lake Albert and the Blue Mountains in the Congo. We then visit the Murchison Falls. Here the Nile falls through an only 9 meter wide crevice in the depths - certainly one of the most spectacular places in Uganda. Overnight stay at Nile Safari Camp or Red Chili Camp

Day 14: Wildlife observation, navigation

Today we spend the whole day in the park, which is well known for its extraordinary biological diversity. A game drive in the northern area of the park will after lunch be followed by a boat trip on the Nile to Murchison Falls. Overnight stay at Nile Safari Camp or Red Chili Camp

Day 15: Chimpanzee trekking, drive to Kampala

In the morning we tackle the short distance to Kaniyo-Pabidi, part of the Budongo Forest, where we experience one more chimpanzee trekking with a local guide. After lunch in Masindi, we drive to Ugandas capital Kampala. Overnight stay at Hotel Africana or the Metropole Hotel

Day 16: Mabamba-Bay, Shoebill, trip to Jinja

After breakfast drive to Mabamba-Bay on the shores of Lake Victoria. This section is particularly rich in Papyrus and bird species. Also, it is the best place in East Africa to get the rare shoebill to face. Later we drive back to Kampala for dinner and then we continue to Jinja. Overnight stay at Jinja Nile Resort or Hotel Triangle

Day 17: Jinja

We will spend the whole day in Jinja. Possible activities include rafting on the Nile, riding, safaris, quad bike safaris, bungee jumping, a visit of the sources of the Nile, and the Speke Monument. Overnight stay at Jinja Nile Resort Hotel, or Hotel Triangle

Day 18: In the evening fly back home.

The morning is at your leisure. Later in the afternoon we drive to the airport in Entebbe and your return flight to Europe is imminent.

Overview

Uganda is a true African birding destination. Uganda has more bird species per square kilometer than any other country in Africa and has a national list of over 1000 bird species recorded.

Uganda is the richest country for birds in Africa. It has almost half the species known on the African continent and is the most accessible place to see the legendary Shoebill; one of the worlds most bizarre birds.

Furthermore Uganda has over 10% of the birds recorded throughout the entire world. It attracts migrants from the North and South.

Key to Uganda‘s diversity is its variety of habitats; rich savannahs, arid-sem deserts, snow capped mountains, volcanoes, and an afro-alpine zone.

The country spans an altitude from 650-5000meters above sea level. One particular region is the Albertine Rift Endemic area (ARE), which has 38 species of birds confined to Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi and the Congo. Of these ARE‘s Uganda has 25, mostly confined to the forests of Mgahinga and Bwindi National Parks in the southwest.

On this safari, we shall focus on the top birding and primate region targeting the richest and most unique area and do it thoroughly. Areas to be visited include; Mabamba swamp, Mabira forest, Budongo forest, Murchison Falls, Kibale forest, Bwindi Impenetrable forest National park, Echuya Bamboo forest, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Lake Mburo.

Special birds include the Shoebill, Nahans Francolin, Puvels illadopsis, Green breasted Pitta, Grauers rush warbler African Green Broadbill, Papyrus Gonolek, African Fin-foot and a host of Albertine endemics. You will also have an opportunity of viewing wildlife, primates and a chance to see mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and Golden Monkeys in their natural habitat.

Itinerary

Day 1: ARRIVAL ENTEBBE

On arrival you will be met by a representative of Advantage Safaris and transferred to your hotel for a welcome drink and safari briefing. Depending on the time of arrival, early arrivals may head to the nearby botanical gardens on the shores of Lake Victoria for bird watching. Overnight: Lake Victoria Hotel Entebbe.

Day 2: MABAMBA SWAMP-MABIRA FOREST

After breakfast we travel to Mabamba swamp a wetland area famous for wetland birds and has become arguably the best place to see the legendary Shoebill in its natural habitat. Birding is by conoes,passing through shallow waters and the chances of finding the shoe bill are high. Other special birds in this area include Lesser Jacana,Black-shouldered Nightjar, Blue-breasted Bee-eater, Papyrus Gonolek, White-winged Warbler. Later we continue to Mabira forest 65km east of Kampala where we shall spend the rest of the day birding. Specialities here include ; Toro Olive Greenbul, Green-tailed Bristlebill, Fire-crested Alethe, Forest Robin, Nahan‘s Francolin, Superb Sunbird, Green Crombec. Overnight: Hotel Triangle.

Day 3: BIRDING MABIRA FOREST-TRAVEL TO MASINDI

This morning we shall have another opportunity of birding in Mabira forest, in the afternoon we travel to Masindi near Budongo forest. Overnight: Court View Hotel.

Day 4: BIRDWATCHING KANIYO PABIDI- TRAVEL TO MURCHISON FALLS

After an early breakfast we travel to Kniyo Pabidi: part of Budongo forest an area which has increasingly become very important for most sought after birds but our target this morning will be the near mythical Purvell‘s illadopsis. This species is very common in this area and we have a big chance of seeing it. This area also hosts some habituated groups of chimpanzees. Later we continue to Murchison Falls National Park Uganda‘s largest faunal reserve which protects a chunk of untamed African savannah that is bisected by the mighty River Nile. It is named for the dramatic Murchison Falls, where the world‘s longest river explodes violently through a narrow cleft in the Rift Valley escarpment to plunge into a frothing pool 43m below. In terms of ranking, this park is the best for wildlife tours of Uganda and number 9 of Africa‘s Birding Hot spots. The Nile itself hosts one of Africa‘s densest hippo and crocodile populations, and a dazzling variety of water birds including the world‘s most accessible wild population of the rare Shoebill. Overnight: Paara lodge.

Day 5: BIRDWATCHING-LAUNCH TRIP ON VICTORIA NILE, GAME DRIVES

This whole day will be spent in this vast savannah park looking for birds and animals. We shall also enjoy a launch trip on the Victoria Nile. Birds the park include Shoebill, Secretary Bird, Abyssinian Roller and Ground Hornbill, Little Bittern, Osprey, Red-necked Falcon, Buff-bellied Warbler, Red-throated Bee-eater, Silverbird, Black-headed Gonolek, Speckle-fronted Weaver, Golden-backed Weaver and White-rumped Seedeater, Rock Prantincoles. Besides birding, the area is also wonderful for wildlife safaris. Mammals here include large concentrations of Elephants, Buffalos, Rothschild‘s Giraffes, Waterbucks, Warthogs, Lions, Leopards and the ever alert Oribis and Kobs. Overnight: Paara lodge.

Day 6: MURCHISON FALLS-BUDONGO FOREST

Today we start early, birding to Budongo forest through the escarpment. This stretch is one of the best of Uganda Birding spots. Recorded birds here include Fox‘s Cisticola, White-headed Barbet, Northern Crombec, Singing Cisticola, Grey-headed Bush Shrike, Black-billed Barbet, Grey-headed Olive back, Black-bellied Firefinch, Madagascar Heron, Lesser-masked Weaver, Painted Snipe, and Woolly-necked Stock. Afternoon Birding at Budongo maybe very productive. This forest is one of the largest and most beautiful forests in Uganda. It is home to the most sought after birds of Uganda. These include: African Dwarf Kingfisher, African Crowned Eagle, Nahans Francolin, Black-shouldered Nightjar. In addition to birding, this forest is home to Chimpanzees and Uganda‘s most beautiful butterflies. Overnight: Court View Hotel.

Day 7: BIRDING IN THE ROYAL MILE

Today will be dedicated to birding in the "Royal Mile" sector of Budongo forest. Many ornithologists agree that it is the best ornithological site in Uganda. Key species include: Chestnut-crowned Eremomera, White-spotted Flufftail, Yellow and Grey Longbills, Olive-bellied Crombec, Cabanis Bunting, Brown-backed Scrub-Robin, Narina Trogon, Golden-crowned Woodpecker, Rufous Flycatcher-Thrush, Chestnut-capped Flycatcher, Black-headed Paradise Flycatcher, Little Green Sunbird, African Emerald Cuckoo, Red-tailed Ant-Thrush, Forest Robin, Scaly-breasted Illadopsis, Plain Greenbul, Spotted and Toro Olive Greenbul. Overnight: Court View Hotel.

Day 8: BUDONGO-KIBALE FOREST

You start early for Kibale Forest National Park. This park is one of the most accessible of Uganda‘s major rainforests. Kibale ranks the best in primates of Uganda with a remarkable 13 primate species, including the very localised Red Colobus and L‘Hoest‘s Monkey, Galagos, Blue monkey, Red-tailed and Vervet Monkey. Kibale‘s major attraction, however, is the opportunity to track habituated Chimpanzees. These delightful apes are more closely related to humans than to any other living creature, and they are tremendously entertaining to watch as they squabble and play in fruiting trees. Birders are in for a treat with over 335 species recorded. Kibale Forest has the highest number of records of the Green-breasted Pitta, which is another sought after bird of Uganda. Other birds include: African Pitta, Grey-winged Robin, Red-winged Francolin, Joyful Greenbul, White-napped Pigeon, Uganda Woodland Warbler, Leaf-love. Kibale Forest is also home to Elephants, Buffalo, Giant Forest Hog and antelope species. Overnight: Chimps Nest.

Day 9: CHIMPANZEE TRACKING

You assemble for briefing as you prepare for chimp tracking. The movement of the chimps depends upon the availability of food and hopefully they won‘t be too far away! If our morning is successful in locating these entertaining primates, then we‘ll spend the afternoon birding along the Kamwengye to Fort Portal Road. Birds recorded here include: White-tailed Ant-Thrushes, Purple-headed Glossy-Starling, Brown Illadopsis, Green-breasted Pitta, Masked Apalis, Toro Olive-Greenbul, Black-billed Turaco. Overnight: Chimps Nest.

Day 10: BIRDING IN KIBALE FOREST AND BIGODI WETLAND

The morning will be spent birding in the Kibale Forest. Key species include Green-breasted Pitta, Cabanis Greenbul, Yellow-crested Woodpecker, White-naped Pigeon, Yellow-spotted Barbet. After lunch we‘ll head to the Bigodi Wetland, a papyrus and swamp forest. We hope to find such papyrus endemics as White-winged Warbler, White-collared Oliveback and Papyrus Gonolek. Amongst other species we may encounter along the 4 km trail are African Marsh Harrier, African Harrier-Hawk, Grey Parrot, Black-billed Turaco, Yellow-billed Barbet, White-breasted Negrofinch. Overnight: Chimps Nest.

Day 11: BIRDWATCH AT SEBITOLE TRAVEL TO QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK

You start early morning after breakfast. Drive to Sebitole section of the Kibale National Park. The habitat here consists of a swamp surrounded by low, scrubby secondary forest and cultivation. The list includes Green-backed Twinspot, Scaly Illadopsis, Olive Camaroptera and others. In the afternoon travel to Queen Elizabeth National park with a stopover at the equator for memorable photo opportunities. This park is the second largest national park in Uganda. It is named after the Queen of England who visited it in 1954. In terms of bird diversity, this park ranks the best in Uganda, with over 600 species recorded, and a one day record of 296 species. Special birds include Harlequin Quail, Blue Quail, Small (Common) Buttonquail, African Crake,, Greater and Lesser Flamingo, Shoebil, Secretary Bird. Mammals include African Elephant, Spotted Hyena, Leopard, Lion, Ugandan Kobs, Side-striped Jackal, Baboons, Chimpanzees, Bush Bucks, Water Bucks, Warthogs, Giant Forest Hog to mention but a few. Overnight: Mweya Safari lodge/Bush Lodge.

Day 12: GAME DRIVE AND BOAT TRIP ON KAZINGA CHANNEL

We start early for a game drive and birding the vast grassland area the whole morning. Later in the afternoon we have an exciting boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel. This is a narrow neck of water that connects Lakes George and Edward, with excellent photographic opportunities for waterside birds and abundant Hippopotamus. Amongst the birds you are likely to encounter include African Skimmer, African Spoonbill, Water Thick-knee, Three-banded Plover, Marsh, Green, Wood and Common Sandpiper, Gray-headed Gull, Plain Martin. Overnight: Mweya Safari lodge/Bush lodge.

Day 13: BIRDWATCHING IN MARAMAGAMBO FOREST

After breakfast and check out, go for a morning birding in the Maramagambo Forest. Specialties here include: Yellow-bellied Wattle-eye, Jameson‘s Wattle-eye, Black Bee-eater, White-tailed Ant-Thrush. The trail through the forest leads past a bat cave, which is rather impressive, and if we are lucky we may come across a Python that lives in the cave and feasts on the bats. Later we shall travel to Kabale with several stop overs for birding. Overnight: Bird Nest Resort Bunyonyi.

Day 14: BIRD ECHUYA SWAMP KISORO MGAHINGA

This morning we travel to Kisoro through a scenic countryside. We shall stop at Echuya forest and birdwatch in Muchuya swamp a high altitude swamp and rich in albertine endemic species and is the best place to see the Grauers rush warbler. Overnight: Travelers Rest Hotel.

Day 15: BIRDWATCHING MGAHINGA GORILLA NATIONAL PARK

After breakfast we shall bird watch in this scenic park looking for regional specialities and albertine endemic species: Ruwenzori Turaco, Kivu Ground Thrush, Montane Night Jar, Alpine Chat, Handsome Francoline, Mountain Yellow Warbler, White Naped Raven, Scarlet-tufted Malachite Sunbird among others. Overnight: Travelers Rest Hotel.

Day 16: TRAVEL TO BWINDI RUHIJA AREA

After breakfast we travel to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, birding along the way. Birding around the forest margins is productive. Bwindi is generally at a higher altitude and therefore is cooler. Temperatures range between 10 and 18 degrees centigrade. Forest birding at Bwindi ranks the best in Uganda. It is home to over 23 highly localized Albertine Rift endemics. Special birds include Black-faced Rufous Warbler, Grauer‘s Warbler, Mountain Masked Apalis, Red-throated Alethe, Rwenzori Batis, Mountain Illadopsis, Montane Oriole, African Green Broadbill, Rwenzori Nightjar, Scarce Swift, Black Bee-eater, African Broadbill, Olive Thrush, White-tailed Ant-thrush, Grauer‘s Rush-warbler. In addition to this excellent birding spot in Africa, Bwindi is home to the most sought-after cousins of human beings, the Mountain Gorillas. Other mammals include Rwenzori Duiker, Yellow-backed Duiker and L‘Hoest Monkey. Overnight: Ruhija Guest House.

Day 17: BIRDING MUBWINDI SWAMP

After breakfast we head for a whole day birding to the Mubwindi Swamp. The 4km trail to Mubwindi Swamp drops from 2350m to 2050m and is the best place for some of the most difficult to find of all rift endemics including Grauer‘s (African Green) Broadbill, the beautiful Regal Sunbird, and Archer‘s Robin Chat. Mubwindi Swamp is home to DwarfHoneyguide, Stripe-breasted Tit, Rwenzori Apalis and African Hill Babbler (sometimes treated as a separate species), Rwenzori Hill Babbler, the rare and localized Grauer‘s Scrub-warbler and Carruthers‘ Cisticola, very difficult to see species include Fraser‘s Eagle-Owl, African Green Broadbill, Grauer‘s Rush Warbler, Purple-breasted Sunbird, Blue-headed Sunbird, Regal Sunbird, Grauer‘s Broadbill, and Montane Nightjar. Overnight: Ruhija Guest House.

Day 18:TRAVEL TO THE NECK FOR BIRDS

Whole day birding on the road to Buhoma through the "Neck". Key species include: Mountain wagtail, Red-tailed and Shelley‘s Greenbul,Cassin‘s Flycatcher, Black Duck, Banded Prinia, Grey-throated Barbet, Tree Pipit, ee-eater and Cinnamon-chested Bee-eater, Bronze-naped Pigeon, Bush-shrike, Ayres‘s Hawk-eagle, Bronze-naped Pigeon, Narina Trogon, Honeyguide Greenbul, Red-throated Alethe; and in areas of dry fern vegetation, we expect to watch the Dusky Twinspot. Overnight: Gorilla Resort/Community Banda‘s.

Day 19: GORILLA TRACKING.

Today we have an exciting day as our group will be allowed to track mountain gorillas in their natural habitat with experienced guides some of who have been involved in the habituation process of these gentle giants we will set out on our gorilla trek. A great deal will depend upon where the Mountain Gorillas are, as to how far one has to trek, but one should expect to be in the forest most of the day. You will be allowed an hour with the gorillas, and it is sure to be a very rewarding experience. Overnight: Gorilla Resort.

Day 20: FULL DAY BIRDING AROUND BUHOMA IN BWINDI FOREST

The whole day will be spent birding Buhoma (1550 m / 5085 ft). Interesting species here include: Rufous-chested Flufftail, (Western) Bronze-naped Pigeon, Red-chested Owlet, Red-throated Alethe, Grauer‘s Warbler, Neumann‘s (Short-tailed) Warbler, Chapin‘s Flycatcher, Equatorial Akalat, White-bellied Robin-Chat, Mountain and Pale-breasted Illadopsis,, Rwenzori Batis, White-bellied Crested-flycatcher, Black-billed Weaver, Brown-capped Weaver, Thick-billed Seedeater, Grauer‘s Warbler, Neumann‘s Warbler, Black-tailed Oriole, Kivu ground thrush and African Broadbill. Overnight: Gorilla Resort.

Day 21: TRAVEL TO LAKE MBURO

After breakfast travel to Lake Mburo birding along the way. Birds in the park include: Red-faced Barbet, African Finfoot, Tabora Cisticola, Green-backed Woodpecker, Coqui Francolin. Papyrus Canary, Rufous-bellied Heron, Saddle-billed Stork, Spur-winged Goose, Grey-crowned Crane and Papyrus Gonolek. This is also home for the Impala, Zebras, Topi and Eland. Overnight: Mihingo Lodge.

Day 22: NATURE WALKS WITH A RANGER GUIDE-TRAVEL TO KAMPALA

Start early after breakfast and go for a nature walk with a ranger guide bird watching and watching game. Have lunch at the lodge. Later in the afternoon transfer to Kampala with a stop-over at the Equator for memorable photo opportunities. Overnight: Cassia Lodge.

Day 23: Today you will be transferred to the airport for departure flight

Quotation for above birding safari

• 2 clients per person sharing: U.S.D 5.350
• 4 clients per person sharing: U.S.D 4.870
• 6 Clients per person sharing: U.S.D 3.890
• Single room supplement:U.S.D 490

Accommodation

Mainly luxury plus a few mid-range hotels and lodges.

Meal Plan

Full board i.e Breakfast,Lunch & Dinner except lunch on last day of the safari.

Inclusions

• All transport in a 4WD Vehicle with an open roof for excellent birding/game viewing
• An English speaking drive guide.
• An English speaking birding specialist guide.
• One Gorilla tracking permit per person
• Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale forest.
• All meals except lunch on last day.
• Entrance fees to all national parks indicated on the itinerary.
• All accommodation as indicated on the itinerary.
• Boat trips on;Victoria Nile,Kazinga channel&lake Mburo.
• Birding in all places indicated with a specialist bird guide.
• Bottled water in the vehicle.

Exclusions

• Entry visa to Uganda
• Lunch on last day.
• International air fare.
• Personal medical/travel insurance.
• All items of a personal nature like drinks,laundry,tips etc

Advantage Safaris is offering a 14 day private journey into the heart of Africa-Uganda; the "pearl of Africa" Gifted by nature. On this private journey,you will have an opportunity of visiting some of the most biologically diverse wildlife and primate areas of Africa including:

• Ziwa Rhino sanctuary
• Murchison Falls national park
• Kibale forest for chimpanzees
• Queen Elizabeth with abundant wildlife including tree climbing lions
• Bwindi a habitat for half of the remaining population of mountain gorillas
• Lake Bunyonyi with its beauty
• Lake Mburo national park
• A visit to the source of river Nile
• On this safari you will cross the equator line twice
• view wildlife both by boat, game drives and nature walks with plenty of opportunities to meet local people.

DAY 1: Arrive at Entebbe Uganda. Upon arrival, you will be met and welcomed by our experienced guide and transferred to your hotel for a welcome drink and safari briefing. Overnight:CENTRAL INN HOTEL.

DAY 2: After breakfast we travel to Ziwa Rhino sanctuary, track the Rhinos and later we continue to Murchison Falls. This evening we visit the top of the falls where you will see river Nile compressed into hard rocks only 6 meters wide dropping to the depth of 43 meters below. We take photos,relax then continue to our camp. Overnight: RED CHILLI CAMP

DAY 3: This morning we shall enjoy a game drive in the northern sector of the park. Animals include herds of buffaloes, elephants, oribi, heartbeast giraffe, lions and leopards. In the afternoon, we shall enjoy a boat trip on the Victoria Nile to the bottom of the falls. Here you will see wildlife up-close as you see animals at the base of the river coming to drink water. This boat trip provides endless photo opportunities. Later, we retire to our camp. Overnight: RED CHILLI CAMP

DAY 4: After breakfast we shall travel south through Hoima and our destination today is the famous kibale forest with 13 species of primates including habituated groups of chimpanzees. This evening, we enjoy an educational session focusing on the ecology of kibale forest focusing on chimpanzees. Overnight: CHIMPANZEE GUEST HOUSE

DAY 5: This morning we shall assemble for briefing by ranger guides about chimpanzee tracking. After the briefing we shall enter the forest with trackers and guides some of whom have been involved in the habituation process of these fascinating primates-time taken to track them depends on where they spent the night but our chances are good. Later we return for lunch after which we travel to Queen Elizabeth national park with a stop at the equator crossing line for memorable photo opportunities. We continue to Queen Elizabeth national park where we shall spend two nights.

DAY 5 & 6: Exploring this vast Savannah park teeming with wild life. This is Africa at its best; a perfect blend of magnificent scenery and abundant wildlife. Your guide will explain the animal behavior and because of his expertise and experience, will take you to the best locations for the season to maximize your safari experience. Activities will include game drives, a boat trip on the kazinga channel and a visit to Ihasha wilderness area famous for abundant wildlife and the fascinating tree climbing lions. Overnight: BUSH NATURE LODGE

DAY 7: After breakfast we shall travel to Bwindi impenetrable forest national park famous as a habitat for half of the remaining population of mountain gorillas in the wild. Overnight: BUHOMA COMMUNITY CAMP

DAY 8: Today is the most interesting of our entire expedition; our group will be allowed to visit one of the habituated groups of mountain gorillas. This is an experience of a lifetime and one never to be forgotten. We shall be with guides and tackers who are experienced and most of them have been involved in the habituation process of these gentle giants. After locating a group of mountain gorillas, our group will be allowed to be with them for some time-later we retire to our camp for a well earned rest to recount our stories. Overnight: BUHOMA COMMUNITY CAMP

DAY 9: This morning we shall travel to lake Bunyonyi passing through some of the most magnificent scenery. We arrive in time for lunch. Lake Bunyonyi is the second deepest lake in Africa and one of the most beautiful surrounded by a scenic countryside with terraced hills. Overnight: BUNYONYI OVERLAND

DAY 10: We shall have another day at Bunyonyi and we have an option of visiting a school for pygmies near Echuya forest or visit a local community. Overnight: BUNYONYI OVERLAND

DAY 11: This morning we shall travel to lake Mburo national park famous for herds of impala, zebras, buffaloes and other plains game. The lakes within the park harbor crocodiles, hippos and sought after bird species like the shoebill and African fin foot. Overnight: RWONYO CAMP

DAY 12: This morning we enjoy a nature walk with a ranger guide and see animals upclose. This is a very interesting nature walk as we follow animals as the resident naturalist explains the ecology of the park, its habitats and animal behavior. Later in the afternoon we travel to Jinja through Masaka crossing the equator line. Jinja is the adventure capital of East Africa with activities like white water rafting, bunjee jumping, kayaking, quad bike safaris along the Nile, horse riding and visiting the the source of River Nile. Overnight: HOTEL TRIANGLE

DAY 13: Today you have an option of enjoying adventure activities listed above or just relaxing, visiting local markets or the Nile brewery factory. Overnight: HOTEL TRIANGLE

DAY 14: Morning at leisure - afternoon we travel to the airport for flight back home.

Price: On the Primate & Wildlife safari, there are two types of accomodation, budget standard and high class.

This wonderful safari offers our clients an opportunity to visit some of the most biologically diverse primate and wildlife areas in Africa. Our first test of this will be in Budongo forest where we will explore this ancient natural forest looking for Chimpanzees and rare bird species. In Kibale forest, we will be surrounded by birds as well as thirteen species of primates including chimpanzees. In Chambura gorge, we will join local guides for the chimpanzee trek in a ravine forest.

Further south west, we will spend some days in Bwindi forest, there; we will have an opportunity to experience one of the most remarkable wild life encounters on earth; "coming close to the magnificent mountain gorillas".

At the extreme south west on the border with Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo, the scenic Mgahinga Gorilla National Park has gorillas and the rare golden monkeys. A visit to Murchison falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park and Lake Mburo National Park will give us an opportunity of watching game in a savannah landscape.

Here, a combination of game drives and launch trips will provide unforgettable African wild life experiences. Our safari will end with a visit to Ngamba chimpanzee sanctuary in Lake Victoria.

DAY 1 ARRIVAL ENTEBBE

Upon arrival at Entebbe Airport, you will be welcomed by our safari guide and taken to your hotel for a welcome drink and safari briefing where you will also spend the night in Entebbe. Overnight at Lake Victoria Hotel Entebbe

DAY 2 ENTEBBE-MASINDI

After breakfast, we travel to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, track Rhinos and later continue to Budongo Forest.

After checking in at Budongo Eco-Lodge, we will head straight to spend the rest of the day in Bodongo forest. Budongo is not just any tropical forest; it is the largest Mahogany forest in East Africa and is famous for its chimpanzee population and rare bird species. Both depend on the fruits, plants insects of this ancient forest for food. Guided forest walks through this enchanting and fascinating forest following well marked trails is a worthwhile experience. Overnight: Budongo Eco-lodge.

DAY 3 CHIMP TRACKING-TOP OF MURCHISON FALLS

After breakfast, we shall travel to Kaniyo Pabidi,part of Budongo forest for Chimpanzee tracking. This area is also a good spot for rare bird species like the Purvels illadopsis. Later we continue and our destination today is the famous Murchison falls national park, one of the best known and popular game parks in Uganda. We visit the top of the falls. We shall stay at the Nile safari camp or Red chill Rest Camp both situated on Victoria Nile.

DAY 4 GAME DRIVE-BOAT TRIP

After breakfast we shall go for a game drive in the northern sector of the park. Expect to see giraffe, elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kob, bushbuck and other wildlife. Murchison falls also has prides of lions and leopards which are commonly seen on game drives. In the afternoon enjoy a boat trip on the Victoria Nile to the bottom of the falls. Along the way you will see many animals and birds as they come to drink water at the edge of the Nile. This boat trip provides endless photo opportunities. Overnight: Red Chilli Camp or Nile Safari Camp.

DAY 5 TRAVEL TO HOIMA

This morning, will be at leisure or we opt for another game drive or boat trip. Later we travel to Hoima. Overnight; Hotel. Kontik

DAY 6 HOIMA-KIBALE FOREST

After breakfast we will travel to Kibale forest heading south. This forest is regarded as one of the best places to watch birds and has rare endemic species such as papyrus Gonelek, White-napped pigeon, Nahans Francolin, and Bar-Tailed Trojan. In addition it has chimpanzee families which have been studied at a research station based in the forest for several years. Overnight. Primate Lodge or Chimps Nest.

DAY 7 CHIMPANZEE TRACKING OR CHIMPANZEE HABITUATION

On this day we have an option of either chimp tracking or chimpanzee habituation experience. Chimpanzee habitation experience. is an activity which entails following chimpanzees to get them used to human presence without letting them alter their natural behavior. While on habitation you expect to experience the chimps de-nesting (coming out of nests) between 5:30 - 6:30 am and then follow up their daily activities up to resting time around 6:30 - 7:30 pm. Apart from chimpanzees, there are other twelve primate species and endemic bird species. Overnight; Primate Lodge or Chimps Nest.

DAY 8 KIBALE-QUEEN ELIZABETH PARK

Today we will travel to Queen Elizabeth National park where we will spend two days exploring the vast savannah and viewing wildlife. This is Africa at its best, a perfect blend of magnificent scenery and abundant wildlife. Your guide will explain the animal behavior and because of his expertise and experience, he‘ll take you to the best locations for the season to maximize your safari experience. The park is home to over 100 species of mammals and more than 600 species of birds. Along the way we stop at the equator crossing line for memorable photo opportunities. Overnight; Mweya Safari lodge/ Ecology Hostel.

DAY 9 CHIMP TRACKING-BOAT TRIP ON KAZINGA CHANNEL

We shall have an early start and go to Chambura gorge to look for Chimpanzees. Later we will drive back to Mweya lodge for Lunch followed by a late afternoon boat trip on the Kazinga channel. Animals likely to be seen on the launch include Elephants, Buffaloes, Hippos, Waterbucks, and many bird species. Overnight Mweya Lodge/ Ecology Hostel.

DAY 10 MWEYA-ISHASHA WILDERNESS AREA

After breakfast we shall travel to Ishasha, the southern sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park famous for tree climbing lions where we will spend the rest of the day. On the game drive animals to be seen include, elephants, Uganda Kob, buffaloes, warthogs, and we have high chances of seeing a pride of tree climbing lions. Overnight; Savannah Resort.

DAY 11 ISHASHA-BWINDI IMPENETRABLE FOREST

After breakfast we shall enjoy a short game drive, and then travel to Bwindi National Park, home to more than half of the remaining population of mountain gorillas, time allowing, we shall enjoy a nature walk on the Munyaga river trail where we shall see a variety of birds and primates. This waterfall trail provides an attractive feature of the forest with as profusion of ferns, orchids and Bwindi‘s colorful butterflies. Overnight; Gorrila Resort or Community Bandas.

Chimpanzee Tracking - uganda DAY 12 GORILLA TRACKING

This day‘s activity is probably the most exciting and challenging. You will have an opportunity of visiting one of the habituated groups of mountain gorillas - a privilege enjoyed by only a few visitors. This is an experience of a lifetime and one never to be forgotten. After locating the gorillas we will be allowed to be with them for one hour after which we will return to the camp (Gorilla Resort/ Community Bandas).

DAY 13 TRAVEL TO KISORO

After breakfast we shall travel to Kisoro enjoying a scenic drive through Ichuya forest arriving in time for lunch. After lunch enjoy a nature walk in Mgahinga National Park. Mgahinga is a very scenic park and is famous for mountain gorillas and the rare golden monkeys which live in this park. We shall then spend the night at Travelers Rest an historic hotel set up by Walter Baumgartel;the father of gorilla tourism. This hotel has hosted many involved in gorilla conservation including Dianna Fossey. A cozy hotel reminiscent of a bygone era.

DAY 14 GOLDEN MONKEY TRACKING

After breakfast we will trek Mgahinga Gorrilla National Park, not only famous for mountain gorillas but the only place in Uganda where the rare golden monkeys can be found. Apart from primates, the park has rare bird species, some endemic to the Albertine rift area such as Scarlet-tufted Malachite Sunbird, Mountain Yellow Warblers, Rwenzori Batis, Rwenzori Turaco, Archers Robin Chat and many more. We shall still spend another night at Travelers Rest Hotel.

DAY 15 KISORO-LAKE MBURO

After breakfast we will travel to Lake Mburo National park in Mbarara. Lake Mburo has a markedly different fauna form other parks we‘ll have visited and is it‘s the best place in Uganda if you‘re interested in Elands, Zebras, Topis and the Impala (antelopes) and several acacia associated birds. The five lakes within the park attract Hippos, crocodiles and water birds, while the fringing swamps, hide secretive papyrus species such as Siatatunga antelopes, and Red, Black, and Yellow papyrus Gonelek. Overnight: Mihingo Lodge.

DAY 16 NATURE WALK-TRAVEL TO ENTEBBE

After breakfast we‘ll enjoy a nature walk and then travel to Entebbe. You will have lunch in Masaka and have a brief stop over at the equator crossing. Later proceed to Kampala. Overnight: Cassia Lodge

DAY 17 ENTEBBE-NGAMBA ISLAND-ENTEBBE - DEPART

This morning travel to Ngamba Chimpanzee Island by boat situated 32 km from Entebbe. You will spend the day with chimps and later we return to Entebbe for our evening flight back home.

Quote for above safari

• 2 clients per person sharing: 3.081 EUR only
• 4 clients per person sharing: 2.581 EUR only
• 6 clients per person sharing: 2.381 EUR only
• Single supplement 381 EUR only

The above rates are inclusive of

• Airport transfer to/from Entebbe
• Meet & greet service with full briefing
• All accommodation on full board basis as indicated
• All transport in a 4WD Vehicle customised for safari game viewing
• Park fees and game drives as indicated on the itinerary
• Boat trips, in Murchison Falls Kazinga channel & Lake Mburo
• One Gorilla tracking permit per person
• Chimpanzee tracking in Budongo forest, Kibale forest and Kyambura gorge
• Golden monkey tracking in Mgahinga national park
• Nature walk with a ranger guide in lake Mburo national park
• Bottled water in the vehicle
• The services of a professional trained English speaking driver guide

The rates are exclusive of

• Personal items such as: tips, visa, air tickets, laundry & alcoholic drinks
• Excursion to Ngamba
• Chimpanzee habituation experience in Kibale forest.