Wonders of the North Safari – 12 Days
9 Days Uganda Gorilla Watching & Chimpanzee Tracking
March 3, 2026
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March 3, 2026
Wonders of the North Safari – 12 Days
Wonders of the North Safari – 12 Days. Uganda’s northern and eastern regions remain among the most untouched and authentic safari destinations in Africa. While many travelers focus on the southwest for gorilla trekking, Wild Planet Safaris invites you to explore a different side of the country—raw wilderness, dramatic waterfalls, powerful cultural traditions, and remote national parks teeming with wildlife.
The Wonders of the North Safari – 12 Days blends breathtaking landscapes, rich community experiences, and exceptional wildlife viewing. This journey takes you from the roaring Sipi Falls in eastern Uganda to the vast savannahs of Kidepo Valley National Park, the mighty Nile at Murchison Falls, and the peaceful banks of the River Nile in Jinja.
Wild Planet Safaris carefully designs this itinerary to combine adventure, comfort, and meaningful cultural encounters while staying in some of Uganda’s finest lodges.
Safari Highlights
During this 12-day expedition with Wild Planet Safaris, you will:
- Explore the spectacular Sipi Falls and interact with the Sabiny community
- Experience the remote wilderness of Kidepo Valley National Park
- Visit and learn from the traditional Karamojong pastoralists
- Enjoy exceptional wildlife viewing in Murchison Falls National Park
- Track chimpanzees in Budongo Forest Reserve
- Track rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
- Relax at the Source of the Nile in Jinja
- Stay in carefully selected lodges that enhance your safari experience
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, a professional Wild Planet Safaris driver-guide welcomes you and transfers you to your accommodation in Entebbe.
You relax after your journey and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Accommodation: The Boma Hotel (Bed & Breakfast)
Day 2: Transfer to Sipi Falls
After breakfast, Wild Planet Safaris drives you eastward through vibrant countryside toward Mbale, located at the foothills of Mount Elgon.
You pass through Jinja and rural trading centers before ascending into the cooler highlands near Sipi. The landscape transforms into rolling hills, coffee plantations, and cascading waterfalls.
Upon arrival, you check into your lodge and enjoy lunch while admiring panoramic views of the valley.
Accommodation: Lacam Lodge
Day 3: Guided Walk to Sipi Falls & Coffee Experience
Wild Planet Safaris begins the day with a guided hike to Sipi Falls.
You descend to the base of the waterfall, feel the cool mist, and then climb toward nearby caves and scenic viewpoints. Along the trail, you pass local homesteads, banana plantations, and maize fields while interacting with friendly residents.
After lunch and relaxation at the lodge, you visit a local coffee project. The Sipi region produces some of Uganda’s finest Arabica coffee. You:
- Visit coffee plantations
- Learn traditional harvesting methods
- Participate in roasting and grinding
- Taste freshly brewed local coffee
As the sun sets over Mount Elgon, you reflect on an enriching cultural experience.
Optional Activity: Abseiling down the waterfall (available upon request).
Accommodation: Lacam Lodge
Day 4: Transfer to Kitgum
After breakfast, Wild Planet Safaris begins the scenic journey north toward Kitgum. This long drive reveals Uganda’s lesser-visited regions, where tourism remains minimal and landscapes stretch endlessly.
You pass rural villages and witness how communities continue rebuilding and developing. The region is now peaceful and safe, offering travelers authentic cultural encounters.
You arrive in Kitgum in the late afternoon.
Accommodation: Fugly’s Guesthouse
Day 5: Transfer to Kidepo Valley National Park
Before leaving Kitgum, you may visit a local primary school to interact with students and teachers. Wild Planet Safaris believes in meaningful community engagement.
You then proceed toward Kidepo Valley National Park near the South Sudan border.
Kidepo ranks among Africa’s most remote and spectacular parks. Vast savannah plains stretch toward rugged mountains, creating dramatic scenery rarely seen elsewhere in Uganda.
After lunch at your lodge, you embark on an afternoon game drive.
Accommodation Options:
- Nga’moru Wilderness Camp
- Apoka Safari Lodge (Luxury option)
Day 6: Full-Day Exploration in Kidepo Valley National Park
Wild Planet Safaris dedicates this day to exploring Kidepo’s wilderness.
In the morning, you explore the Narus River Valley, where wildlife congregates around water sources. You may spot:
- Lions
- Giraffes
- Zebras
- Elephants
- Ostriches
- Buffaloes
Kidepo hosts over 475 bird species, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.
In the afternoon, you visit a traditional Karamojong community. The Karamojong maintain a distinctive pastoral lifestyle, herding cattle and preserving rich storytelling traditions.
You learn about their customs, traditional huts (manyattas), and cultural ceremonies.
Accommodation: Nga’moru Wilderness Camp
Day 7: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
Today, Wild Planet Safaris drives south toward Murchison Falls National Park.
You enter through the northern sector and enjoy a game drive en route to the Nile. The savannah dotted with Borassus palm trees hosts:
- Uganda kobs
- Hartebeests
- Buffaloes
- Elephants
You arrive at your lodge overlooking the Nile.
Accommodation Options:
- Paraa Safari Lodge
- Chobe Safari Lodge
Day 8: Game Drive & Nile Boat Cruise
Wild Planet Safaris begins with a sunrise game drive along the northern bank of the Nile. Predators often roam during early hours.
After lunch, you embark on a boat cruise along the Nile toward the base of Murchison Falls. You observe:
- Hippos
- Crocodiles
- Elephants
- Buffaloes
- Numerous water birds
The boat cruise offers close-up photography opportunities.
Accommodation: Paraa Safari Lodge
Day 9: Top of Murchison Falls & Chimpanzee Tracking in Budongo
After breakfast, you visit the top of Murchison Falls, where the Nile forces itself through a 7-meter-wide gorge before plunging 45 meters below. The thunderous roar and mist create a dramatic spectacle.
You then proceed to Budongo Forest Reserve for chimpanzee tracking.
With a ranger guide, you hike through tropical forest trails searching for habituated chimpanzee families.
Accommodation: Budongo Eco Lodge
Day 10: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary & Transfer to Jinja
After breakfast, Wild Planet Safaris drives south and stops at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
Here, you track white rhinos on foot under ranger supervision. Ziwa remains Uganda’s only location for wild rhino tracking.
You continue to Jinja near the Source of the Nile.
Accommodation Options:
- The Haven – Honeymoon Bungalow
- Wildwaters Lodge (Luxury upgrade with spa treatment)
Day 11: Relaxation & Adventure at the River Nile
Wild Planet Safaris allows you to choose your pace today.
Relax by the Nile, swim, read, or enjoy scenic views. For adventure seekers, optional activities include:
- White-water rafting
- Horseback riding
- Quad biking
- Nile jet boat rides
- Bungee jumping
- Village walks
You end your day with sunset views over the Nile.
Accommodation: The Haven or Wildwaters Lodge
Day 12: Departure
After breakfast, Wild Planet Safaris transfers you back to Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight.
You leave Uganda with unforgettable memories of remote landscapes, powerful waterfalls, rich cultures, and incredible wildlife.
Why Choose Wild Planet Safaris?
Wild Planet Safaris offers:
- Professional safari guides
- Reliable 4×4 vehicles
- Carefully selected accommodations
- Authentic community interactions
- Sustainable tourism practices
- Personalized service
We go beyond ordinary safaris to create meaningful travel experiences that connect you with nature and culture.
Final Thoughts
The Wonders of the North Safari reveals Uganda’s hidden treasures—regions less traveled yet incredibly rewarding. From Sipi’s waterfalls to Kidepo’s vast plains, from the roaring Murchison Falls to the peaceful Nile in Jinja, this journey showcases the diversity and beauty of Uganda.
