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Pearl of Africa · Uganda
7-Days: Rhinos & Nature's Power Unleashed
What Does This Journey Cost?
Select your group size below. The more you travel together, the more value every traveler gains. All pricing reflects upper mid-range estimates, per person, in USD.
2 PAX
$2,925
per person
4 PAX
$2,395
per person
6 PAX
$2,125
per person
8 PAX
$1,985
per person
10 PAX
$1,820
per person
12 PAX
$1,710
per person
Traveling as a pair gives you the most exclusive, personalised experience this journey has to offer.
All prices are upper mid-range estimates in USD and subject to change based on travel dates, availability, and seasonal demand. A confirmed quote will be provided upon booking inquiry.
All pricing is based on double occupancy, two travelers sharing one room whether single or twin beds. Solo travelers are warmly welcome; a single supplement applies and typically ranges from $500 to $700 depending on tour dates. Back to the Source Tours organizes groups of up to 12 travelers for maximum impact, and larger groups can also be accommodated.
Echoes of the Wild: From Rhino Trails to the Roar of the Nile
Day 1 – Arrival in Entebbe, Uganda | Welcome to the Pearl of Africa
Your Uganda safari adventure begins the moment you land at Entebbe International Airport, beautifully situated on the shores of Lake Victoria. A dedicated Back to the Source Tours representative will be there to welcome you, assist with arrival formalities, and transfer you privately to your lodge. Once settled in, you will receive a personal briefing covering your full itinerary, key highlights, and everything you need to know before the journey begins. Enjoy a relaxed dinner nearby, rest well, and let the anticipation build. Tomorrow you walk with rhinos.
Day 2-3 – Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch | Walk with the Last Giants
After breakfast, set off northward on a scenic three-hour drive to Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch, the only place in Uganda where wild southern white rhinos roam freely and can be tracked entirely on foot. Check into your luxury chalet set directly on the open ranch grounds, where rhinos may already be grazing just beyond your veranda. The property itself is a destination, featuring a swimming pool, elevated sun decks, a game room, cigar lounge, and a remarkable two-level restaurant with wood-fired pizzas and sweeping panoramic views over the savannah, offering both indoor and outdoor dining that makes every meal a genuine experience.
The centerpiece of your stay is a guided rhino trek with expert armed rangers, moving through open grassland at a respectful but genuinely close distance as these powerful, prehistoric giants go about their day. Your ranger will share the remarkable story of Uganda’s rhino reintroduction and conservation program that has rebuilt the population from zero to over 40 animals, making every sighting feel both thrilling and meaningful. Spend your evenings relaxing at the lodge, enjoying sundowners by the pool, or simply watching the ranch wildlife move undisturbed through the golden afternoon light. The ranch’s peaceful atmosphere and extraordinary setting make it one of the most unique overnight experiences in all of Uganda wildlife travel.
Day 4 – Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park and Top of the Falls
After breakfast, continue north to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s oldest and largest protected area covering over 3,840 square kilometres of savannah, woodland, and riverine forest. The drive itself is rewarding, with giraffes, baboons, and roadside birdlife often visible as the terrain opens into classic African savannah.
On arrival, check into your lodge and head straight to the Top of the Falls, one of the most dramatic natural sights on the entire African continent. Here, the full force of the River Nile is squeezed through a rocky gorge barely seven metres wide before plunging 43 metres in a thundering, spray-drenched cascade that sends mist rising into the air and a permanent rainbow dancing over the gorge below. Standing at the edge of this spectacle is a genuinely jaw-dropping moment that no photograph can fully prepare you for. Light snacks and refreshments are served as you take in the views from multiple vantage points along the trail. Return to your lodge for a fine dinner with the sounds of the wild all around you.
Day 5 – Morning Game Drive and Nile River Boat Cruise | Murchison Falls National Park
Rise early for a morning game drive across Murchison’s northern savannah, the park’s most wildlife-rich corridor, when the animals are at their most active and the soft golden light makes every sighting feel like a painting. Elephants move in great herds across the open plains, Rothschild’s giraffes browse the acacia tops, lions rest in the grass after a night’s hunting, buffaloes and hartebeest fill the grassland, and with a sharp eye and a good guide, a leopard resting in the branches or a hyena slipping through the undergrowth is always possible.
Return to the lodge for breakfast and time to rest before the afternoon’s main event. Board a boat for the celebrated Nile River boat cruise, gliding upstream past pods of hippos wallowing in the shallows, Nile crocodiles basking on the sandy banks, and elephants and buffaloes coming to drink at the water’s edge. The skies fill with African fish eagles, pied kingfishers, herons, and a remarkable variety of waterbirds as the river carries you toward the base of the falls. Light snacks and drinks are served on board as the afternoon light turns the Nile gold. This combination of land and water safari in a single day delivers the full breadth of Murchison’s spectacular wildlife.
Day 6 – Scenic Return to Entebbe and Shoebill Stork Trek through Mabamba Swamp
After a leisurely breakfast, begin the scenic overland journey back to Entebbe, approximately six hours through the heart of Uganda with stops at local craft markets along the way, where talented artisans sell handwoven baskets, wood carvings, and vibrant fabrics that make for meaningful and authentic souvenirs.
On arrival in Entebbe, your final included activity awaits: a Shoebill Stork canoe excursion through Mabamba Swamp on the shores of Lake Victoria. Paddling quietly through dense papyrus channels, your guide navigates the wetland with expert precision in search of the Shoebill Stork, one of the most sought-after and extraordinary birds in all of Africa, a prehistoric-looking giant that stands motionless for hours watching the water below. Spotting one in its natural habitat is a genuinely thrilling moment that brings a perfect close to an extraordinary journey. After the trek, enjoy a freshly grilled fish lunch by the shores of Lake Victoria before settling in for a final relaxed evening at your hotel.
Day 7 – Departure Day and Optional Final Activities in Entebbe
Your final morning in Uganda is yours to enjoy at your own pace based on your international departure time. For travelers with a later flight, a wonderful range of optional activities is available including a visit to the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, a 45-minute boat ride across Lake Victoria where over 52 rescued chimpanzees are cared for in a protected forest habitat, a guided city tour of Kampala featuring royal cultural sites, vibrant artisan markets, and the living pulse of Uganda’s capital, or simply a relaxed morning browsing local artisan shops and enjoying a lakeside coffee before departure.
OPTIONAL ADD-ONS
Your Back to the Source Tours guide will ensure you are transferred to Entebbe International Airport with plenty of time to spare.
You leave carrying memories of rhinos tracked on foot at sunrise, the thundering power of Murchison Falls, and a river cruise on the Nile that will stay with you long after you return home.
More info about this tour
- Accommodation
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1 night in Entebbe on arrival (Day 1)
-
2 nights at luxury chalets at Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch (Days 2 and 3)
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2 nights at an upper mid-range lodge in Murchison Falls National Park (Days 4 and 5)
-
1 night in Entebbe on return (Day 6)
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- All meals full board at Ziwa and Murchison Falls NP; Bed & Breakfast arrival day, half-board departure day
- Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife trekking
- Shoebill Mabamba Swamp Trekking in Enebbe
- Game drives and Top of the Fall visit
- Afternoon boat cruise with snack and drinks
- Bush lunch or breakfast
- All park entrance fees
- All transportation as per the itinerary in a private open-roof 4×4 safari vehicle
- Experienced English-speaking driver-guide unless otherwise requested a bilingual guide
- All government taxes, concession fees, parks entrance fees and levies
- All meet and greet services
- All arrival and departure transfers to the airport
- Drinking water in the vehicle while on safari
- Personal customer service (24/7)
- International flights
- Visa fees: Any visa requirements for entry into Uganda
- Travel insurance: Not included but highly recommended
- Personal expenses: Costs for souvenirs, snacks, and drinks outside of provided meals
- Optional activities not mentioned in the “Included Section”
- Tips and gratuities: For guides and lodge staff
- Medical expenses: Any incurred medical costs
We offer a range of accommodation options to suit your preferences and budget. Our safari packages always includes a comfortable and well-equipped upper mid-range camps that provide a truly great African safari experience. Some of these partners offer free massages, full board with an all-inclusive selection of soft drinks, beers and wines.
If you’re seeking a more luxurious experience, we offer upgraded options for the same itinerary at a slightly higher cost. These luxurious camps/resorts/lodges provide additional amenities, such as private plunge pools, more spacious accommodation and usually your own dedicated concierge rep.
All our hotel partners are excellent and operate a very sustainble business and we love that. You will love them too. There are also some good mid-range options that can reduce the cost.
We can organize this very itinerary with utter luxury options all within the same distance.
In Entebbe and nearby cities:
- Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary:
- $110+ per person half day visit
- A list of Entebbe-based activities
- A nearby Kampala-based city tour
- A list of nearby Jinja-based activities
Murchison Falls National Park:
Group travel offers exceptional value on this 7-day Uganda safari. All prices are upper+mid-range estimates in USD per person.
- Group of 2 travelers: $2,925 USD per person
- Group of 4 travelers: $2,395 USD per person (save 18%)
- Group of 6 travelers: $2,125 USD per person (save 27%)
- Group of 8 travelers: $1,985 USD per person (save 32%)
- Group of 10 travelers: $1,820 USD per person (save 38%)
- Group of 12 travelers: $1,710 USD per person (save 42%)
Final pricing confirmed at booking and may vary based on travel dates, availability, and seasonal demand. Contact Back to the Source Tours for a personalized quote.
To secure your booking, a 40% deposit is required.
We also offer flexible payment options based on how far in advance your travel dates are scheduled. Your initial payment allows Back to the Source Tours to confirm key services and submit the required deposits to our itinerary partners in order to securely hold your accommodations and tour arrangements.
Our preferred payment method is bank wire transfers.
We also accept credit card payments through Pesapal, though applicable processing fees will apply. You may make a card payment here: Pesapal Payment Link. If you have any questions regarding payment timelines, methods, or booking requirements, our team is available to assist you. Check out our Booking Policy for more details.
This 7-day Uganda safari can be done year-round, but the dry seasons offer the most comfortable conditions for game drives, rhino tracking, and the Nile boat cruise.
June to September (long dry season): The best overall time. Vegetation is lower, making wildlife easier to spot across Murchison Falls National Park’s northern savannah. The Nile River boat cruise is particularly rewarding with animals congregating at the water’s edge. Rhino tracking at Ziwa is excellent year-round as rhinos remain on the open ranch regardless of season.
December to February (short dry season): Excellent alternative with dry trails and strong wildlife sightings. A good option for travelers who cannot travel during the June to September peak.
March to May (long rainy season): The park is lush and green. Game drives are still rewarding but some tracks can become muddy. Fewer visitors mean a more private experience. The Ziwa rhino tracking and Shoebill Stork trek are largely unaffected by rain.
October to November (short rainy season): Similar to the long rains. Good value and quieter. The Murchison Falls gorge is particularly dramatic with higher water levels during the rains.
Contact Back to the Source Tours to confirm availability and conditions for your preferred travel dates.
How much does this 7-day Uganda safari cost?
This 7-day Uganda safari starts from $1,710 USD per person for a group of 12, up to $2,925 USD per person for 2 travelers. A 40% deposit is required to confirm your booking. Contact Back to the Source Tours for a personalized quote based on your travel dates and group size.
What is Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch?
Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch is the only place in Uganda where wild southern white rhinos can be tracked entirely on foot. The ranch runs Uganda’s national rhino reintroduction and conservation program and has grown the population from zero to over 40 animals. Accommodation is in luxury chalets set directly on the open ranch grounds.
Can I get close to the rhinos at Ziwa?
Yes. The guided rhino trek with expert armed rangers takes you on foot through open grassland at a respectful but genuinely close distance. Your ranger will manage the approach to ensure both your safety and the rhinos’ comfort. The experience is one of the most unique wildlife encounters available anywhere in East Africa.
What wildlife can I expect to see in Murchison Falls National Park?
On the morning game drive across the northern savannah: elephants, Rothschild’s giraffes, lions, buffaloes, hartebeest, leopards, and hyenas. On the Nile River boat cruise: hippos, Nile crocodiles, elephants, and buffaloes at the water’s edge, plus African fish eagles, pied kingfishers, herons, and over 450 bird species. The Top of the Falls visit offers views of the most powerful waterfall cascade on the River Nile.
What is the Shoebill Stork trek?
The Shoebill Stork canoe excursion through Mabamba Swamp on the shores of Lake Victoria near Entebbe is one of Uganda’s most celebrated birdwatching experiences. Paddling quietly through papyrus channels, your guide navigates in search of the Shoebill Stork, a prehistoric-looking giant that is one of Africa’s most sought-after birds. It is included in the tour price on Day 6.
Is the Shoebill trek included or optional?
The Shoebill Stork canoe trek through Mabamba Swamp is included in your tour price and takes place on Day 6 on your return to Entebbe. The Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary and Kampala city tour on Day 7 are optional at additional cost.
How physically demanding is this tour?
The rhino tracking at Ziwa involves walking through open grassland and is moderate in difficulty, suitable for most fitness levels. The game drives in Murchison are vehicle-based with no walking required. The Shoebill canoe trek involves sitting in a canoe paddled by your guide. The Top of the Falls trail is a short walk on relatively flat ground.
Do I need a Uganda visa?
Yes. Most nationalities require a Uganda tourist visa applied for online before travel at immigration.go.ug. Back to the Source Tours advises on visa requirements for your specific nationality.
Can I extend this tour with other Uganda destinations?
Yes. Back to the Source Tours can extend this 7-day tour with chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest, a Queen Elizabeth National Park game drive and Kazinga Channel boat cruise, or a gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Contact us with your available dates and we will build the right combination.
Pair This Tour with More of East Africa
This 7-day Uganda safari covers two of Uganda’s most dramatic destinations. For travelers who want to go further, Back to the Source Tours can add gorilla trekking in Bwindi, chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest, a Queen Elizabeth National Park circuit, a Maasai Mara Kenya safari, or a Zanzibar or Diani Beach finish. We handle all logistics: flights, transfers, accommodation, permits, and ground transport. Tell us how much time you have and we will build the perfect itinerary. Fill in our travel form and we respond within 24 hours.
Add gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (3 to 6 days): The ultimate Uganda primate combination. Add a 3-day gorilla trekking fly-in safari to Bwindi giving you both northern Uganda wildlife and southwestern Uganda primates in one trip.
Add chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest (2 to 3 days): Kibale Forest National Park is Uganda’s primate capital and home to the highest concentration of chimpanzees in Africa. It connects naturally between Entebbe and Murchison Falls.
Add Queen Elizabeth National Park (2 to 3 days): Famous for its tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector, the Kazinga Channel boat safari with hippos, elephants, and exceptional birdlife, and chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge. Pairs beautifully with this northern Uganda circuit.
Add a Kenya safari (5 to 7 days): Combine this Uganda wildlife safari with the Maasai Mara for lions, cheetahs, and the Great Migration. Back to the Source Tours coordinates all flights between Uganda and Kenya.
Add a Kenya safari (5 to 7 days): Combine this Uganda wildlife safari with the Maasai Mara for lions, cheetahs, and the Great Migration. Back to the Source Tours coordinates all flights between Uganda and Kenya.
Add a beach extension at Zanzibar or Diani Beach (3 to 5 days): The perfect finish after northern Uganda wildlife. The Indian Ocean coast offers a complete contrast: white sand, warm water, and total relaxation.
Contact Back to the Source Tours with your travel dates and we will build the right itinerary. Fill in our travel form and we respond within 24 hours with a personalized quote.
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