Pearl of Africa: Classic Big Five Safari (8 days-7 nights)

Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights

Destinations: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Murchison Falls NP, & Queen Elizabeth NP

Experience Level: Authentic Wildlife / Professional Safari

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Tour Overview

Embark on the quintessential Ugandan safari designed to check off the legendary “Big Five.” This journey takes you from the only home of wild rhinos in Uganda to the dramatic landscapes of Murchison Falls, concluding in the predator-rich plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Expect a masterclass in biodiversity, featuring powerful waterfalls, tree-climbing lions, and massive herds of elephants across the savannah.

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Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Entebbe to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Your Ngaro Wild guide will pick you up from Entebbe/Kampala to begin the journey north. The first highlight is the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in Uganda to see rhinos in the wild. Enjoy a guided trek on foot to get up close to these magnificent creatures before an overnight stay nearby.

Day 2: Murchison Falls – The World’s Most Powerful Waterfall

Drive into Murchison Falls National Park. We head straight to the Top of the Falls, where the entire Nile River is forced through a tiny 7-meter gap. The sound and power are unforgettable. Spend the afternoon on an introductory game drive as you settle into your lodge.

Day 3: Savannah Game Drive & Nile Boat Cruise

An early start for a game drive across the northern tracks to spot lions, leopards, giraffes, and elephants. After lunch, board a private boat cruise to the base of the falls. You’ll see hippos, massive Nile crocodiles, and countless water birds lining the banks.

Day 4: Travel to the Mountains of the Moon

Enjoy a scenic full-day drive south toward Fort Portal. This journey offers stunning views of the Rwenzori Mountains and lush tea plantations. It’s a perfect “travel day” to see the Ugandan countryside and local village life before arriving at the gateway to Queen Elizabeth NP.

Day 5: Queen Elizabeth NP & Kazinga Channel

Enter Uganda’s most popular park. After an morning game drive on the Kasenyi plains, spend the afternoon on the Kazinga Channel boat safari. This natural channel has one of the world’s highest concentrations of hippos and offers incredible “water-level” views of elephants bathing.

Day 6: Tree-Climbing Lions of Ishasha

We drive to the southern Ishasha Sector, famous globally for its unique population of tree-climbing lions. Keep your eyes on the ancient fig trees, where these predators lounge during the heat of the day. It is one of the rarest sights in all of Africa.

Day 7: Return Journey to Entebbe

After a final sunrise breakfast, begin the drive back to Entebbe/Kampala. Cross the Equator for a classic photo opportunity and some souvenir shopping before your guide drops you at the airport or your preferred location.

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What’s Included

• Rhino Tracking Permits at Ziwa

• All Park Entrance Fees (Murchison Falls & Queen Elizabeth)

• Two Private Boat Cruises (Nile River & Kazinga Channel)

• Private 4×4 Safari Land Cruiser with Pop-up Roof

• Professional Ngaro Wild English-speaking Guide

• Full-board accommodation and bottled water throughout