Ultimate 7-Day Uganda Safari & Gorillas Itinerary & Costs

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to come face-to-face with a majestic mountain gorilla in the depths of the African jungle?

Uganda is the only place in the world where you can experience some of Africa’s rarest and most thrilling sights in such close proximity to each other.

One day, you’re in the midst of a family of gorillas in their natural habitat, the misty forests in the heart of Africa.

And the very next day, you’re in the wild savannah, spotting rare tree-climbing lions stretched out in ancient fig trees. It’s the ultimate adventure in Africa’s untouched wilderness! 

With 12 official wildlife reserves in the country, each boasting unique landscapes and wildlife, you’ll want to plan your itinerary carefully. If you don’t make sure you’re in the right place at the right time, you risk missing out on the best sightings.

Choosing the right area for gorilla tracking is also crucial. It can spare you from excessively long drives or unnecessarily struggling through dense vegetation on foot. Getting it right means more time with the gorillas and chimps.

No need to worry – I’m here to share all the essential tips for planning your Ugandan safari. My knowledge comes from my own experiences exploring this incredible country, along with plenty of insights from local experts.

In this guide, I’m going to dive into the ultimate 7-day Uganda itinerary. My goal is to provide you with everything you need to know, including cost, how to find the perfect tour operator and more, so that you can plan the safari of a lifetime!

From my personal experience, I recommend a minimum of 7 days in Uganda to visit the key reserves across the whole country. Even though the reserves are quite spaced out, a carefully planned itinerary can provide excellent sightings in this time. 

If you have time for a slightly longer 10-Day Uganda Itinerary, you’ll enjoy a more relaxed pace and have time to really soak in each destination

You can fit gorilla and chimpanzee tracking into a 5-day itinerary and if time is really tight and you just want to focus on gorilla tracking, this can be done in a 3 day itinerary.

Uganda 7-Day Safari Itinerary Map

Why Go on Safari in Uganda?

Uganda is one of just three places in Africa where you can encounter critically endangered mountain gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural habitat. On top of that, you have a great chance of spotting most of the Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo – roaming freely in the wild. 

In addition, Uganda’s National Parks such as Murchison Falls National Park are some of the most beautiful in the world.

Let’s dive into the unique features that make Uganda stand out.

Abundance of Parks and Reserves 

This relatively small country has 10 national parks, 12 wildlife reserves, and 14 wildlife sanctuaries, spread out all over its lush terrain. The Parks are managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority.

Uganda has some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, from the dramatic Murchison Falls and Nile River, to the vast expanse of Lake Victoria and the peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains.

Unlike many safari destinations in Africa, Uganda is abundantly green, with rainforests, rolling hills, and fertile plains creating a vibrant, jungle-like backdrop for your safari adventure.

Below is map I made of Uganda showing the country’s safari highlights.

Mountain Gorilla Tracking (aka Trekking)

Uganda is one of just three countries where you can see critically endangered mountain gorillas in their natural environment (the other two countries are Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo).

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda is home to around 459 mountain gorillas – nearly half of the world’s remaining wild population. With a global population of just over 1,000 mountain gorillas, this concentration in Bwindi highlights the importance of conservation efforts here.

Below is a map I made showing the Gorilla Tracking sectors in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest & Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Uganda’s gorilla tracking is competitively priced, with permits starting at $800 per person for foreign visitors. This is considerably less than Rwanda’s permits, which cost in the region of $1,500 per person.

The Democratic Republic of Congo is even cheaper at $450. However, Virunga National Park, the gorilla-tracking area in DRC, is currently closed to visitors due to instability in the area.

You can see a table below showing gorilla tracking permits by destination.

Easy Access to Both Uganda’s Gorilla Tracking Locations

It’s easy to access Uganda’s two gorilla tracking destinations as both Bwindi and Mgahinga are situated near main roads and air strips.

There are two airstrips that serve the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Kihihi Airstrip to the north and Kisoro Airport to the south. You can easily reach these by taking a scheduled light aircraft flight. If you prefer, you can also travel to the parks by road.

Uganda is One of the More Politically Stable Countries to go Gorilla Tracking

I personally always felt completely safe in Uganda  which has a dedicated Tourism Police unit deployed at major tourist sites, including hotels and lodges, to enhance visitor safety and deter crime.

Uganda is considered a safer and more politically stable option for tourists compared to the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Currently, Virunga National Park in the DRC, which is the only place in the DRC where you can see mountain gorillas, is unsafe for visitors due to regional instability.

Rwanda is considered even more politically stable but the gorilla tracking permit fees are much higher.

Chimpanzee Tracking (aka Trekking)

Uganda offers exceptional opportunities for chimpanzee tracking, particularly in Kibale Forest National Park. This area is home to around 1,500 chimpanzees.

You can also see chimpanzees in Budongo Forest, Kyambura Gorge and Kalinzu Forest.

Chimp tracking costs less than gorilla tracking, with permits priced at $250 in Kibale National Park and from as little as $50 for other parks.

Below is a map I made showing the Kibale National Park, the prime Chimpanzee tracking location.

Seeing The Big Five

In Uganda you’ll have excellent opportunities to see most of Africa’s Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalos.

Rhinos are currently not found in the wild due to poaching and habitat loss. However, they can be seen at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, which is home to the country’s only wild white southern rhinos.

Boating Safaris

Water-based safaris offer a different vantage point for viewing wildlife, and a completely unique sensory encounter with the bush. In both of Uganda’s savannah parks, Murchison Falls National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park it’s possible to embark on a boating safari. 

Being on the water is also great for birding enthusiasts. There are over 1000 bird species in Uganda, and it is one of the only places in the world to see the rare shoebill, a stork-like bird that’s fondly known as the “king of the marshes”.

My Verdict on Self-Drive Safaris: 

My Verdict on Local Tour Operators

Option 3: Hotel-Provided Safaris

Many upmarket hotels and lodges in Uganda offer in-house safaris for their guests, and this option can work for people with a large budget. 

These kinds of safari experiences are suited to travellers who prefer to stay in the same place for their entire trip, or for those who want to fly from one lodge to another. Lodges can also assist with booking gorilla tracking permits, which can simplify your travel admin.

My Verdict on Hotel Safaris:

In my opinion, hotel-arranged safaris can work for people who are planning not to move around too much, and have deep pockets. Just remember that you’ll likely be sharing your game drives with other guests if you rely on your lodge to arrange them.

If budget is not a concern and you’re after the convenience of somebody arranging your entire trip, including your international flights, then booking your safari via an overseas travel agent may be a good option to consider.

However, there are some major drawbacks of booking this way, the most obvious of which is that you will typically pay 25% – 40% more for your safari than if you booked through a local tour operator. This is because they will usually outsource the actual safari activities to local tour operators, and then add a markup onto their services in order to make a profit.

My Verdict on International Travel Agents:

Apart from arrangements for international flights, there aren’t many benefits to booking your safari through an international travel agent. At best you’ll have a similar experience to what a local operator can provide, but at a significantly higher cost. 

From my personal experience, booking through a local tour operator gives you the best combination of value and experience.

Private vs Group Uganda Safaris

The next thing you’ll have to decide is whether to book a private or a group safari. It’s an important decision that will have a big impact on the cost and quality of your overall safari experience. 

I almost always recommend a private safari, rather than joining a group tour. Let’s run through some of the pros and cons of both of these options.

Private Uganda Safaris

Private safaris are the best option for most travellers, as the entire safari experience is custom-made to your individual needs. 

Group Shared Safaris

Group shared safaris tend to be more popular with those on a tight budget, or for solo travellers who are interested in meeting fellow travellers on their game drives.

How Much Does a Uganda Safari Cost?

For a typical private Uganda safari which includes gorilla and chimpanzee tracking, you can expect to spend from $450 per person per day (for 2 adults sharing). 

This amount includes budget accommodation, park fees, meals, transfers and all safari activities but excludes tips and international flights.

Your costs will go up if you choose mid-range or luxury accommodation, but I find that lodges in Uganda generally offer good value for money. If you choose mid-range lodge accommodation, you should budget from around $650 per person per day, and with luxury accommodation, $800 per day or more.

These estimates are based on a trip length of 7-10 days, during which you’ll dedicate 1 day each to gorilla and chimp tracking. You’ll spend the other days on safari in national parks, which brings down the average park fees per day.

By contrast, for a 3-day safari in which you spend 2 out of the 3 days gorilla and chimp tracking, you should budget at least $700 per person per day (for 2 adults sharing). This is because the cost of chimp and gorilla tracking permits is higher than regular park fees, which bring down the average cost over a longer period of time.

To summarise, days spent gorilla and chimp tracking are expensive, so if you include other days on traditional safari, this brings down your average cost per day.

Shared group safaris cost slightly less, starting from around $350 per person per day. Your savings are limited though, as there is no getting around the $800 per person gorilla tracking fee. Group safaris will usually provide you with basic camping accommodation and are more suited for those who don’t mind roughing it a bit or solo travellers on a right budget.

Below you can view a chart of typical safari costs based on the luxury level.

Uganda Safari Costs Breakdown

Let’s break down where your daily spend goes during a safari trip in Uganda:

Park fees and permits represent the largest portion of your costs, primarily due to the substantial costs of gorilla and chimpanzee tracking permits ($800 and $250 respectively). On longer safaris, the more affordable park fees in other reserves, which are around $45 per day, help balance these higher permit costs, reducing your average daily spend.

The second biggest cost is your vehicle and driver guide. These account for about 26% of your total budget. This investment provides you with expert local knowledge and reliable transport throughout your journey – both essential components of a successful safari experience.

Accommodation and meals make up around 18% of your daily expenses, based on comfortable mid-range lodge accommodation. If you choose luxury accommodation, this percentage will increase.

Bank charges and fuel each constitute around 4% of your budget, and your tour operator’s insurance and overhead expenses come to approximately 11%. 

Finally, your local tour operator’s net profit represents just over 4% of your total expenditure.

It’s worth noting that booking through an international travel agent would significantly increase the profit margin portion of your costs, making direct booking with local operators far more economical.

Below I’ve included a chart which breaks down where the money goes for a safari of two people.

Factors Affecting Uganda Safari Costs

The biggest factor affecting the cost of your Uganda safari is the type of accommodation you choose, with luxury options being more expensive than budget ones.

The way you book your safari also makes a difference – booking through an international travel agent, for example, typically costs more than using a local tour operator. 

Another important factor specific to Uganda is the number of days you spend on gorilla tracking, since the permits for this activity are much higher than standard national park entrance fees.

Let’s take a closer look at each of the key factors which will affect your safari cost below.

Booking your safari via overseas travel agents or international safari companies is generally the priciest option. These companies tack on their profit margins to the prices set by local operators, who typically conduct the safaris anyway. 

Booking directly with a local safari company often offers the best value, cutting out the middleman and leading to more competitive pricing.

Hotel-provided safaris can be expensive as well, as they take advantage of having you right there. If you haven’t booked with a local provider beforehand, you might end up using the hotel’s services, which often come at a higher price.

Self-drive safaris are a somewhat cheaper option, but without a guide, you could miss out on numerous wildlife sightings. 

Shared group safaris are another budget-friendly choice, though they come with trade-offs like less flexibility and limited accommodation options.

Below you can view a chart of typical safari costs based on the booking method.

My Preference: Nowadays, I choose to book all my safaris through local tour operators. Even when I occasionally opt for fly-in safaris, I still rely on local tour operators for these bookings, as well as for game drives and other arrangements, as they handle everything, including airport transfers.

Accommodation Comfort Level

The level of comfort you choose for your accommodation will significantly affect the overall cost of your safari.

In Uganda, lodges and tented camps are the most popular and are considered quite affordable compared to other safari destinations. 

If you’re on a very tight budget, basic camping at private campsites is the most economical choice, ranging from $10 to $20 per person per night. Keep in mind that in certain areas of Uganda, like Murchison Falls, it can get very hot, even at night, and tents won’t have air conditioning!

Budget lodge accommodations offer more comfort, priced between $40 and $100 per night, while mid-range lodges provide better amenities and locations for $100 to $250 per person per night.

At the higher end, there’s a wide range of prices. Generally, you can expect top-notch service, great settings and superior comfort in the $250 to $700-plus range. Luxury lodges and tented camps often offer spectacular views, amenities such as swimming pools and gourmet dining that justify their premium pricing.

The location of your accommodation can also impact the price, especially in the case of accommodation inside national parks or near prime wildlife areas. Properties close to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Kibale Forest, or Queen Elizabeth National Park tend to charge higher rates due to their excellent locations.

Time of Year

Choosing when to visit Uganda can have a big impact on the cost of your safari. During the peak periods of June to September and December to February, accommodation prices rise due to high tourism demand. Due to the weather, these periods offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities, but come with steeper costs.

Some of these costs, like gorilla and chimpanzee tracking permits, stay constant year-round at $800 and $250 per day, but for those looking to save, visiting during the off-season can be a good strategy.

In the rainy seasons of March – May, regular rainfall can lead to discounts of up to 30-40% at high-end lodges, though some of them may shut down for these months.

The entrance fees for Uganda’s national parks such as Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls remain steady at $40 to $45 per person daily, compared to places like Kenya where these fees can vary depending on the season.

Although the long rainy season, from March to May, is the cheapest time to visit, I don’t advise it because the heavy rain can make activities like gorilla and chimp tracking tougher.

My Preference: I like to visit Uganda in the shoulder season. I find this is the perfect balance between slightly lower accommodation pricing and the advantages of good weather and wildlife sightings – plus the parks aren’t too busy. October, November and June are my favourite times to visit.

How Many Days you Spend Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking

Around 32% of your budget will be taken up by park and permit fees, due to the high cost of gorilla and chimpanzee tracking permits. These cost $800 and $250 respectively, per person per day. If you plan to spend more than one day each tracking chimps and gorillas, your budget should expand to reflect this. 

In the other Ugandan reserves though, the park fees are comparatively low, and stay consistent year-round. These fees are  around $45 per person per day. On a trip of 7-10 days or longer, these lower costs offset the high primate tracking costs, bringing down the average cost per day. 

Mode of Transport Between Parks

Opting to fly between parks can significantly affect your overall safari costs. If you travel by road, the cost is integrated into your game drive vehicle fees, since the vehicle needs to move between destinations regardless.

Flying cuts down travel time considerably and means you avoid long and sometimes bumpy road trips. This option is especially handy when visiting several parks that are far away from each other, allowing you to spend more time viewing wildlife.

In Uganda, you have two air travel options, scheduled or chartered flights. Scheduled flights are a more budget-friendly choice, usually costing between $230−$350 per person per flight. A number of airlines operate from Entebbe International Airport to most of the national parks, with fixed schedules to key airstrips like Kihihi (Bwindi Impenetrable Forest), Kasese (Queen Elizabeth National Park), and Pakuba (Murchison Falls National Park).

Chartered flights give you the ultimate flexibility, as you can create your own itineraries and fly to more remote airstrips. But they are fairly expensive, costing between $1,500 – $3,000 per flight, depending on the distance travelled (this cost is split between passengers).

Mode of Transport for Game Drives

In Uganda, you have a wider variety of vehicle options compared to other popular safari destinations like Kenya and Tanzania. 

The standard minivan is the most budget-friendly choice, costing about $250 – $350 per day, including a driver-guide. Toyota Land Cruisers, which offer better off-road performance and comfort, come at an extra $100 per day.

Typically, Land Cruisers with professional driver-guides cost between $350 and $450 per day, and this cost is shared among all passengers in your group. In Uganda, you can choose between short-wheelbase and long-wheelbase versions, whereas other countries generally offer only long-wheelbase models. 

Long-wheelbase models are more spacious, with 7 seats. Short-wheelbase vehicles are smaller, with only 5 seats, and for that reason slightly cheaper to hire.  

For avid photographers, photographic Land Cruisers enhance the game drive experience with larger windows that fully open, to maximise your viewing angles. Many also come with beanbags to stabilise your camera.

My Preference: I always choose a Land Cruiser and, when possible, upgrade to a photography version with open sides. I find the extra cost is well worth it.

Group Size

The size of your group can significantly impact the cost of your safari. Solo travellers usually face the highest costs because they must cover fixed expenses like the vehicle and guide entirely on their own.

Sharing these costs with others makes the trip more affordable for everyone in your group. However, keep in mind that most private safari vehicles are limited to 7 passengers, so it’s best to keep your group size under this limit.

My Preference: I always opt for a private safari experience. Since I enjoy taking photos, I usually try to keep the group to 3-4 people, including myself, in the back of the vehicle. This way, we all have the flexibility to move around for the best views during sightings.

Best Time to Visit Uganda

There are three periods when it’s best to visit Uganda. These are during the two dry seasons, from June to September and December to February, and during what I call the ‘shoulder season’, from September – November. During these times, the weather is great, and wildlife viewing and gorilla tracking conditions are excellent.  

Having said that, aside from the heavy rains from March to May, Uganda is a year-round destination with generally pleasant weather throughout the rest of the year.

My Preference: I enjoy visiting Uganda during the ‘shoulder season’ (September – November), just shy of the main tourist season. In my experience, it’s the perfect time to be there, as accommodation prices are a little lower, the weather remains pleasant, and you can see plenty of wildlife. Plus, the parks aren’t as busy as they are during peak times. My favorite months to be there are June, October, and November.

Uganda’s Unique Weather and Climate

Uganda’s weather and climate are relatively unique given its location near the equator. Most of Uganda sits over 1,000 metres (3280 ft) above sea level and this high altitude means that temperatures are milder than in other equatorial regions.

With huge lakes such as Lake Victoria and mountain ranges such as the Rwenzori Mountains, you get very localised weather patterns, with significant variation from one place to another.

Unlike other safari destinations, such as Tanzania and Kenya, Uganda is lush and green year-round, even in the dry seasons.

The Important Role of the Rains

Rainfall patterns have a huge impact on the rhythm of life in many parts of Africa, and Uganda is no different. The arrival of the rains dictates virtually everything here, from when animals or birds migrate, to when they give birth. Understandably, this impacts the tourist seasons and related things, such as busyness of parks and costs. Just as in Kenya, Tanzania and parts of Botswana, it’s important to time your safari around the rains when you plan your trip to Uganda. 

The best time to visit Uganda is during the dry seasons, which differ between the northern and southern regions. That said, there are some overlapping periods with optimal weather throughout the country.

Dry Season in South (June – August)

This is a good time to visit Uganda if you want to focus on southern reserves, like Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (also called Bwindi Impenetrable Forest) and Queen Elizabeth National Park.

You’ll want to spend some time in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for gorilla tracking, and a visit to Queen Elizabeth National Park is a must, as that’s where you’ll find tree-climbing lions. Both of these reserves are in the south of Uganda, and so June – August is a good time to visit. 

Given that it’s fairly dry during this period, the vegetation thins out which makes it easier to spot animals. The animals also gather around water sources, and hiking trails are accessible and less muddy than at other times of the year.

Even though June and July are typically the driest months, you should always be prepared for the occasional rain shower.

The dry period in the South overlaps for a few months with the wet season in the north, which runs from March – October. However, Kidepo Valley National Park in the far north always stays relatively dry thanks to its semi-arid climate.

Dry Season Throughout Uganda (December – February)

Visiting Uganda from December to February is the best time for most people as the entire country experiences a dry season. This presents great opportunities for wildlife viewing. 

If you want to experience the mighty Murchison Falls, which is an unforgettable part of a trip to Uganda, then you should consider traveling during December – February. The weather is good, with minimal rainfall, making it the perfect time to visit the northern parts of the country. 

It’s important to bear in mind that February is Uganda’s hottest month, especially in lower-altitude areas such as Murchison Falls. During my February visit there, I experienced temperatures reaching 40°C (104°F). 

I am told that this was unusually high, but it’s good to know, particularly when looking at accommodation options (air conditioning is essential). 

While the southern regions also have less rainfall compared to other seasons, they do still receive more rain than during the June-August dry season.

Light Rainy Season Throughout Uganda (September – November)

Visiting Uganda from September to November is a good choice for travellers who want a more peaceful safari experience with fewer tourists, while still enjoying relatively good weather conditions.

From September to November light rains refresh the landscape, with the occasional heavier downpour. 

This is a great time to visit Uganda as most national parks are open and bustling with wildlife activity. In Queen Elizabeth National Park, you can hope to spot the famous tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector. Gorilla tracking experiences can be somewhat easier as the gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest move to lower elevations during this time. 

The trails may become muddy and sometimes challenging to navigate, but not overly so. Also, there are huge advantages to visiting in this period. For instance, the countryside transforms into lush greenery, and by November, the savannah explodes with a carpet of colourful wildflowers – it’s truly breathtaking!

November is also the start of the calving season across Uganda, which attracts big cats and other predators to the plains.

All these elements combine to create excellent safari conditions with the added benefit of smaller crowds.

Long Rainy Season Throughout Uganda (March – May)

Travel conditions across Uganda are challenging during the long rainy season, and for most visitors I would recommend avoiding this period. Rains can be heavy and consistent from March to May, peaking in April. 

If you don’t mind getting wet and trudging through muddy trails, the rainy season in Uganda could be a feasible option for you. There are a few really special features that you won’t find in the dry season, such as extremely lush vegetation dotted with wildflowers, and thunderingly full waterfalls. 

With rivers flowing at full capacity, waterfalls such as Murchison in the north-west, Sipi and Sezibwa (sometimes spelled Ssezibwa) in the central-east and Kisiizi in the south-west become truly spectacular. This can be an advantage if you’re a nature photography enthusiast, and with few other visitors in the park, you’re unlikely to have someone else’s vehicle crowding your shot.

Perhaps the greatest advantage to visiting Uganda during the long wet season is that it can be substantially cheaper than visiting during peak tourist season. Often high end lodges have specials on their accommodation and you can sometimes pay up to 40% less for your lodging than you would during the dry season. 

That said,several lodges and national parks actually close altogether during this period, so your potential savings might not be that much of an advantage after all. Many roads and trails become muddy and difficult to drive or walk on, or altogether impassable. 

Daytime temperatures are pleasant, and range from 16-28°C (61-82°F). However, evenings in higher-elevation areas can be quite cool, so be sure to pack warm layers for nighttime.

How Long to Spend in Uganda

I recommend spending at least 7 days in Uganda if you’d like to experience both chimpanzee and mountain gorilla tracking, as well as some more traditional game drives. 

If you have 10 days, you’ll be able to travel at a more relaxed pace and really immerse yourself in each destination.

For those mainly interested in primates, 5 days is typically enough for both gorilla and chimpanzee tracking. If seeing mountain gorillas is your main goal, it is possible to plan an unforgettable trip in as few as 3 days.

My preference: Personally, I would plan for 10 – 14 days’ travel to fully experience the best of Uganda’s national parks.

Uganda Safari Logistics

If you book your trip with a local tour operator, they will take care of most of the logistics and admin associated with your trip, but there will still be several things you will need to attend to yourself.

Here’s a breakdown of those things:

Uganda Border Crossings

If you’re flying to Uganda, you’ll arrive at Entebbe International Airport, the country’s main international gateway. The airport is located near the town of  Entebbe, about 40 km (25 miles) from Kampala, the capital.

Uganda shares borders with Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. For overland travelers, the main entry points are Malaba and Busia from Kenya, as well as Gatuna and Cyanika from Rwanda. The Mutukula border from Tanzania and Bunagana from the DRC are also often used, particularly for visits to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

While many travelers use the Bunagana crossing without issues, it’s important to bear in mind that its safety can depend on the security situation in the DRC. Also related to safety, it’s best to avoid borders with South Sudan.

Border procedures can sometimes take a long time, so make sure you have all the necessary documents ready. You’ll need your passport, a yellow fever vaccination certificate, and any required vehicle paperwork if you’re self-driving. It can also be a good idea to have some local currency with you. 

Uganda Visa

If you’re travelling on a USA, UK  or European passport, you will need a visa to enter Uganda. A single-entry tourist visa costs $50. 

If you’re planning to visit Rwanda and/or Kenya as well, the most straightforward and economical option is to apply for an East African Tourist Visa, which allows you multiple entries into all three countries for a period of 90 days from the date of issue. This visa costs $100.

You can apply online for both visas on the Uganda eVisa Portal.

If you make a last minute decision to visit Rwanda whilst you’re in Uganda, it’s possible to purchase a Rwanda visa on arrival at the border post. This visa is valid for 30 days and costs $50. It’s a good idea to have cash with you, in case of card machines not working. 

Uganda Vaccinations

You’ll need to  present a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate when entering Uganda. This is a mandatory entry requirement. Make sure that you get your Yellow Fever vaccination at least 10 days before your departure to ensure it’s fully effective by the time you arrive.

While not required, you might also want to consider vaccinations for Hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and rabies, for added protection.

You can consult NHS Fit4Travel for further information.

Uganda Medications

Malaria is common in Uganda, so talk to your healthcare provider or travel clinic about taking antimalarial medication as a precaution. Certain medications need to be taken for some days before you enter a malaria area, and then throughout your stay. To prevent mosquito bites, cover up with loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing, and use insect repellent, especially at dusk, dawn, and in the evenings.

It’s also a good idea to pack enough of any regular or chronic medications, as pharmacies may not be easily accessible during your trip.

Uganda Currency 

It’s a good idea to carry either US Dollars (USD) or Ugandan Shillings (UGX) when traveling in Uganda.

USD is widely accepted, especially for bigger purchases like tourist activities, gorilla permits, safaris, and hotel stays. Just make sure your notes are newer (post-2013) and in good condition. It’s also recommended to use USD for tips.

The only time you’re really going to need UGX rather than USD is if you’re planning to visit local markets, small shops and restaurants outside your hotel. Restaurants do typically take card payment but you might be charged a currency exchange fee.

You can get local currency from ATMs or forex bureaus. However, both ATMs and forex bureaus are usually only available in major towns and cities like Kampala, Entebbe, Jinja, Mbarara, and Kabale, and are hard to find in remote areas or near national parks.

My experience: I just took USD and a multi currency Visa Debit card (E.g. those offered by Wise, Revolut etc.) The only time I wished I had local currency was when I tried to buy some bananas at a roadside stall while waiting in traffic. Luckily my guide bought the bananas for me using his money and I reimbursed him in USD.

7-Day Uganda Safari Overview

I have crafted the perfect 7-day Uganda safari itinerary below based on both my personal experience and after conducting copious research on the topic.

I have also considered the distance between the parks and driving times in order to come up with the most enjoyable itinerary.

I’m confident that this itinerary will set you up for an incredible safari adventure in Uganda. From tracking silverback gorillas in the mountains to spotting tree-climbing lions, you’ll enjoy a truly unforgettable experience.

Your journey will start in the vibrant cities of Kampala and Entebbe, before taking you deep into breathtaking wilderness areas like the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – which is just as wild and mysterious as its name promises!

7-Day Uganda Safari Itinerary Map

Day by Day Breakdown of the Ultimate 7-Day Uganda Safari Itinerary

This is what you can expect to experience on your epic 7-day Uganda safari itinerary.

Final Thoughts

Uganda is truly a one-of-a-kind safari destination. From its lush jungles to its clear, peaceful lakes, the country’s natural beauty is simply breathtaking. But what really sets Uganda apart is the unforgettable experience of a close encounter with the great primates – our closest relatives in the animal kingdom.

There’s nothing quite like the feeling of watching a mountain gorilla mother gently cradling her baby, or seeing young chimpanzees play with each other in ways that feel so familiar and human. These moments fill you with awe and a special sense of connection.

Some of my very best safari memories come from Uganda. From watching a leopard stretching in the soft pink light of dawn atop ancient ruins, to standing just meters away from one of the world’s last mountain gorillas, Uganda has truly captured my heart. I’m sure you’ll fall in love with it too.