Overview
This unique 6-day adventure combines Uganda’s premier wildlife experience with thrilling water sports. The journey takes you through the primate-rich forests of Uganda and to Jinja, the adventure capital of East Africa, located at the source of the mighty River Nile. You’ll experience both the serenity of mountain gorilla encounters and the excitement of Grade 5 whitewater rafting, all while enjoying Uganda’s beautiful landscapes and warm hospitality.
Trip Highlights
This dual-focus safari offers an exceptional mix of wildlife and adventure:
- Face-to-face encounter with mountain gorillas in their natural habitat
- Grade 5 whitewater rafting on the Nile River
- Sunset boat cruise to the source of the Nile
- Cultural experience with the Batwa community
- Optional adventure activities including tubing, quad biking, and bungee jumping
- Visit to the Uganda Equator
- Scenic drives through Uganda’s diverse landscapes
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe
Upon arrival at Entebbe Airport, meet your Driver/Guide who will transfer you to your hotel for rest.
Accommodation: Airport Link Guest Entebbe
Meals: Not included
Day 2: Transfer to Jinja and Sunset Cruise
Your adventure begins at 7:00 AM with a transfer to Jinja, the adrenaline capital of East Africa. The journey takes you past Mabira Forest and Lugazi’s sugar plantations before reaching the world’s longest river, the Nile.
Jinja, situated on Lake Victoria’s shore, offers a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. The town features colonial architecture, leafy residential streets, and a vibrant downtown area. Your day concludes with a sunset boat cruise to the source of the Nile.
Journey Time: 3 hours
Accommodation: 2 Friends Guest House
Included Meals: All meals and drinking water
Optional Activity: Brief city tour (additional cost)
Day 3: Grade 5 Whitewater Rafting
After breakfast at 8:00 AM, prepare for Uganda’s ultimate adventure experience – Grade 5 whitewater rafting on the Nile. This full-day activity offers world-class rapids and is considered the best adventure experience in Uganda. The trip combines thrilling rapids with scenic river views and professional guidance throughout.
Accommodation: 2 Friends Guest House
Included Meals: All meals and drinking water
Day 4: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Begin early for the journey to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in southwestern Uganda. The route includes a stop at the equator for information and photos, followed by lunch in Mbarara town. The afternoon drive takes you through picturesque landscapes of banana and tea plantations.
Journey Time: 7-9 hours
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge/Bakiga Lodge
Included Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, drinking water and fruits throughout
Day 5: Gorilla Tracking and Batwa Cultural Experience
Your day begins with an early breakfast before heading to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking protocols. The trek through the rainforest can take 2-8 hours depending on gorilla movement patterns. Upon finding the gorillas, you’ll have a precious hour to observe these gentle giants while maintaining the required 7-meter distance.
Important trekking notes:
- Weather can be unpredictable; rain gear and boots are essential
- Porters are available for hire
- Physical fitness is recommended
- Trek duration varies based on gorilla family location
After lunch, you have the option to visit the Batwa community for cultural performances.
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Lodge/Arcadia Lodge
Included Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, drinking water and fruits throughout
Day 6: Return to Entebbe
After breakfast, begin your return journey to Entebbe, stopping for lunch in Mbarara and visiting the Uganda Equator en route. Arrive in Kampala/Entebbe in the late afternoon for your onward journey.
Included Meals: Breakfast and lunch, drinking water
Tour Rate Includes
- Airport transfers
- 4×4 transport with English-speaking local guide/driver
- Full-board accommodation (except where noted)
- All park entrance fees
- Whitewater rafting in Jinja
- Drinking water in the vehicle
- All mentioned activities
- Gorilla permit (for non-residents)
Tour Rate Excludes
- International visas
- Accommodation in Kampala
- Personal expenses (tips and drinks)
- Accommodation before and after the tour