10 Days Western Lakes & Parks Circuit Safari Itinerary

Embark on a thrilling journey through Uganda’s breathtaking western circuit, home to scenic lakes, wildlife parks, and authentic cultural encounters. This safari blends adventure with relaxation, showcasing the best of Uganda’s western wonders.

Safari Overview

This 10-day Western Lakes & Parks Circuit safari takes you through Uganda’s most iconic wilderness areas and tranquil lakeshores. From boat safaris on Lake Mburo and Kazinga Channel, game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, to gorilla trekking in Bwindi and cultural walks near Lake Bunyonyi, this journey is packed with memorable experiences.

Safari Highlights

• Scenic boat rides on Lake Mburo & Kazinga Channel

• Classic game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park

• Chimpanzee tracking in Kalinzu or Kibale Forest

• Breathtaking gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

• Relaxation and canoe rides on Lake Bunyonyi

• Stunning crater lakes exploration near Fort Portal

• Cultural encounters with local communities

Brief Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Transfer to Kampala

• Day 2: Kampala – Lake Mburo National Park (boat cruise & evening game drive)

• Day 3: Lake Mburo – Queen Elizabeth National Park

• Day 4: Game drives & boat safari on Kazinga Channel

• Day 5: Chimpanzee tracking in Kalinzu / Kibale – Drive to Kasese

• Day 6: Queen Elizabeth (Ishasha) – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

• Day 7: Gorilla trekking adventure

• Day 8: Bwindi – Lake Bunyonyi (canoe & relaxation)

• Day 9: Lake Bunyonyi – Fort Portal crater lakes exploration

• Day 10: Fort Portal – Kampala / Entebbe – Departure

Detailed Itinerary

Day. 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Kampala

On arrival at Entebbe International Airport, meet your safari guide and transfer to your hotel in Kampala. Depending on arrival time, enjoy a city tour.

• Accommodation: Cassia Lodge / Latitude 0° Kampala

• Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast

Day 2: Kampala – Lake Mburo National Park

After breakfast, drive southwest to Lake Mburo National Park. Arrive in time for a boat cruise on Lake Mburo followed by an evening game drive.

• Accommodation: Mihingo Lodge / Rwakobo Rock Lodge

• Meal Plan: Full Board

Day. 3: Lake Mburo – Queen Elizabeth National Park

Morning game drive, then proceed to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Enjoy en-route sightings of savannah landscapes and crater lakes.

• Accommodation: Mweya Safari Lodge / Enganzi Lodge

• Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 4: Game Drives & Boat Safari on Kazinga Channel

Start with a sunrise game drive in Kasenyi plains. Later, enjoy a boat safari on the Kazinga Channel, famous for hippos, elephants, and birdlife.

• Accommodation: Mweya Safari Lodge / Enganzi Lodge

• Meal Plan: Full Board

Day. 5: Chimpanzee Tracking – Kasese

Head to Kalinzu or Kibale Forest for chimpanzee tracking. Enjoy a guided walk through the forest before driving back to Kasese.

• Accommodation: Elephant Plains Lodge / Kibale Forest Lodge

• Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 6: Queen Elizabeth (Ishasha) – Bwindi

Drive through the Ishasha sector, known for tree-climbing lions. Continue to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

• Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge / Gorilla Mist Camp

• Meal Plan: Full Board

Day. 7: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

After briefing, venture into the dense forest for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience. The trek may take 2–6 hours.

• Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge / Gorilla Mist Camp

• Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 8: Bwindi – Lake Bunyonyi

A scenic drive takes you to Lake Bunyonyi, “the place of little birds.” Enjoy canoe rides and optional community walks.

• Accommodation: BirdNest Resort / Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort

• Meal Plan: Full Board

Day. 9: Lake Bunyonyi – Fort Portal Crater Lakes

Head north to Fort Portal. Spend the afternoon exploring the stunning crater lakes and surrounding tea plantations.

• Accommodation: Ndali Lodge / Crater Safari Lodge

• Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 10: Fort Portal – Kampala / Entebbe

After breakfast, return to Kampala or Entebbe for your departure flight. En route, stop at the Equator for photos and souvenirs.

• Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch

Package Inclusive

• Accommodation as specified in the itinerary.

• All meals as indicated (breakfast, lunch, dinner).

• Private 4×4 safari vehicle with professional English-speaking guide.

• Park entrance fees, conservation levies, and game drives.

• Bottled drinking water during safari activities.

• Scheduled activities listed in the itinerary

Package Exclusive

• International and domestic flights (unless stated).

• Travel insurance and Tanzania visa.

• Personal expenses, tips, laundry, and souvenirs.

• Alcoholic beverages and drinks not included in meals.

• Optional activities not listed in the itinerary.

Travel Advisory / Important Notes

1. Health & Safety

   • Ensure you have relevant vaccinations (yellow fever certificate may be required).

   • Carry personal medications and first aid essentials.

   • Drink bottled water provided; avoid untreated tap water.

2. Clothing & Gear

   • Lightweight, breathable, neutral-colored clothing for game drives.

   • Comfortable hiking shoes and sandals for walking safaris or forest treks.

   • Warm layers for early mornings and evenings.

   • Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

   • Camera, binoculars, and extra batteries/memory cards.

3. Weather & Terrain

   • Tanzania has wet and dry seasons; terrain may be muddy or dusty depending on the time of year.

   • Be prepared for long drives between parks.

4. Cultural Etiquette

   • Respect local customs and communities.

   • Ask permission before photographing people in villages.

5. Safari Conduct

   • Follow your guide’s instructions during game drives and forest walks.

   • Maintain a safe distance from wildlife; do not feed animals.

   • Keep noise levels low to avoid disturbing wildlife.

6. Connectivity

   • Mobile signal may be limited in remote parks.

   • Wi-Fi is often only available at lodges or main camps.