Experience a great adventure safari in Uganda, from gorilla trekking in Bwindi to white-water rafting on the Nile. Discover wildlife, culture, and thrilling activities.
Uganda offers some of Africa’s most diverse wildlife experiences, making it a top destination for safari lovers. From great adventure safari gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to tracking chimps in Kibale and spotting the Big Five in Queen Elizabeth National Park, there’s something for every explorer. Whether you're seeking adrenaline with great adventure safari white-water rafting on the Nile or relaxation on the Ssese Islands, Uganda delivers unforgettable moments. With breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and thrilling wildlife encounters, this country is perfect for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers looking for a new safari experience.
Best tour packages for great adventure safari
2 Days Gorilla Trekking Safari to Bwindi National Park
3 Day Uganda Tour White Water Rafting Adventure on River Nile
3-Day Uganda Safari to Queen Elizabeth National Park
4 Days Golden monkeys And Gorilla Trekking Safari
3 Day Uganda Safari Gorilla Tracking and Lake Bunyonyi Experience
6 Days Rwenzori Climbing (Central Circuit Only)
7 Day Uganda Tour with Big 5, Gorillas and Chimpanzee Safari
8 Days Uganda Vacation with Gorillas and All Wildlife Safari
Here are the epic things to do on great adventure safari in Uganda
1. Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
A great adventure safari in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest brings you face-to-face with endangered mountain gorillas. Trekking through the dense jungle, guided by expert rangers, offers a chance to witness these remarkable primates in their natural habitat. With over half of the world’s gorilla population found here, encounters are nearly guaranteed. Great adventure safari permits are limited and must be booked in advance to secure a spot. The trek varies in difficulty, requiring sturdy boots and a reasonable fitness level to navigate the rugged terrain.
2. Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest
Kibale National Park is Uganda’s primate capital, offering one of the most exciting great adventure safari experiences chimpanzee tracking. Guided treks lead visitors through the lush forest, where noisy, playful chimps swing through the canopy. The Chimpanzee Habituation Experience allows for a full day of observation, perfect for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts. Great adventure safari seekers should wear long-sleeved clothing and sturdy hiking shoes, as treks can be muddy and involve long walks.
3. White-Water Rafting on the Nile in Jinja
The best experience that you can’t find anywhere in Uganda, A great adventure safari on the Nile means navigating Grade 5 rapids on one of the world's longest rivers. The adrenaline-pumping experience is unmatched, with expert guides ensuring safety through turbulent waters. Jinja also offers gentler activities, such as kayaking and sunset boat cruises for a relaxed alternative. Great adventure safari enthusiasts looking for a thrill can try bungee jumping over the river or quad biking through scenic countryside trails.
4. Big Five Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park
A great adventure safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park provides the chance to see the legendary Big Five lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos. Game drives across Kasenyi Plains reveal large herds, while the Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise offers sightings of hippos and crocodiles. Great adventure safari travelers should start early for the best wildlife activity, as morning safaris increase chances of spotting predators in action.
5. Tree-Climbing Lions of Ishasha
Its only great adventure safari in Ishasha that unlocks the rare sight of tree-climbing lions a behavior observed in only a few places in Africa. These lions perch in fig trees, resting from the heat while scanning the plains for prey. Spotting them requires patience and a keen eye, making this an unforgettable wildlife experience. Great adventure safari photographers benefit from early morning and late afternoon drives for the best sightings.
6. Golden Monkey Trekking in Mgahinga
Mgahinga National Park is home to Uganda’s golden monkeys, providing a unique great adventure safari experience in the Virunga volcanic range. These vibrant primates are incredibly active, often seen leaping through bamboo forests. Unlike gorillas, golden monkeys are smaller and highly energetic, making their tracking adventure exciting. Great adventure safari visitors should bring binoculars for better viewing and wear layers, as high-altitude trekking can be chilly.
7. Hike the Rwenzori Mountains (Mountains of the Moon)
A great adventure safari in the Rwenzori Mountains offers surreal landscapes, alpine valleys, and glacier views. This trek is for serious hikers, requiring endurance to navigate steep ridges and rugged trails. The snow-capped peaks contrast sharply with Uganda’s tropical climate, making the journey uniquely rewarding. Great adventure safari alternatives include shorter hikes or exploring Mount Elgon’s waterfalls and caves.
8. Rhino Tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
The only place to see the rhinos in Uganda, A great adventure safari at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary allows visitors to walk alongside Uganda’s only wild rhinos. The sanctuary is home to southern white rhinos, offering a rare chance to observe them on foot with experienced rangers. Unlike traditional game drives, this close-up tracking experience makes wildlife safari more immersive. Great adventure safari lovers should wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring binoculars for better viewing of these massive creatures.
9. Batwa Cultural Experience in Bwindi or Mgahinga
A great adventure safari in Bwindi and Mgahinga includes meeting the Batwa, the indigenous forest dwellers with deep knowledge of traditional survival skills. Visitors can learn about their ancient hunting techniques, medicinal plant uses, and cultural dances. This experience provides insight into conservation challenges and the Batwa’s history of coexisting with wildlife. Great adventure safari travelers who appreciate cultural heritage will find this encounter both educational and inspiring.
10. Ssese Islands Relaxation on Lake Victoria
The Ssese Islands offer a tranquil escape. Located on Lake Victoria, this tropical haven features sandy beaches, boat excursions, and nature walks. Whether enjoying fresh fish by the lakeside or exploring the islands on a bike, it’s a perfect way to unwind. Great adventure safari visitors can choose between budget-friendly lodges or luxury retreats for a peaceful lakeside stay.
11. Night Game Drive in Murchison Falls National Park
A great adventure safari at night in Murchison Falls National Park reveals a different side of Uganda’s wildlife. Nocturnal species like hyenas, bush babies, and leopards become active, providing unique sightings not seen during the day. The park’s vast landscapes make night drives, especially when spotting predators on the hunt. Great adventure safari guests should bring warm clothing and a flashlight to enhance visibility during the drive.
12. Hot Air Balloon Safari in Kidepo or Queen Elizabeth park
A great adventure safari from above offers breathtaking views of Uganda’s national parks. A hot air balloon safari in Queen Elizabeth or Kidepo Valley National Park allows travelers to witness wildlife and landscapes from a new perspective. Floating over savannas at sunrise provides stunning photographic opportunities and peaceful moments in the wild. Great adventure safari experiences like these add a unique touch to any Uganda safari itinerary.
13. Visit the Equator at Kayabwe
A big opportunity to step in the equator, great adventure safari isn’t complete without stopping at the Equator in Kayabwe. Here, visitors can stand in both hemispheres and witness water experiments demonstrating the Coriolis Effect. The area features craft shops and cafes, making it a great spot for a break during road trips. Great adventure safari travelers often take photos with the famous Equator signs, marking their unique visit.
14. Adventure in Kidepo Valley National Park
A great adventure safari in Kidepo offers some of Uganda’s most untouched landscapes. This remote park features lions, cheetahs, and expansive savannas with stunning mountain backdrops. The isolation enhances the sense of wilderness, making game drives feel more exclusive and authentic. Great adventure safari travelers looking for solitude and raw nature should prioritize visiting Kidepo for a truly immersive safari.
15. Birding in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary
A great adventure safari in Bigodi Wetland is ideal for bird lovers, with over 200 species recorded in the sanctuary. Located near Kibale National Park, it’s famous for sightings of the Great Blue Turaco, an exotic bird with vibrant plumage. The guided walk through the wetland is a peaceful contrast to primate tracking, offering tranquil nature experiences. Great adventure safari birders should bring a camera and binoculars to capture the rich diversity of species
How to get there to great adventure safari in Uganda
Getting to Uganda for a great adventure safari is easy, with Entebbe International Airport (EBB) serving as the main gateway. From Entebbe, visitors can take domestic flights or scenic road trips to major national parks. Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth, and Murchison Falls are accessible by road in 5–9 hours, while Kidepo requires a longer journey. Charter flights from Entebbe offer faster access, ensuring smooth travel for an unforgettable great adventure safari experience
Best time to go for great adventure safari
The best time for a great adventure safari in Uganda depends on the experience you’re looking for. The dry seasons from June to September and December to February offer excellent trekking conditions with less mud and easier trails, making them ideal for gorilla trekking, chimp tracking, and game drives. Wildlife is more concentrated around water sources, improving viewing opportunities. While March to May and October to November bring heavier rains, they offer lush landscapes and fewer crowds. A great adventure safari during the wet season may require extra preparation but can provide a quieter and more immersive experience in nature.
What to bring for great adventure safari
Packing the right essentials ensures a smooth great adventure safari in Uganda. Comfortable, long-sleeved shirts and hiking pants protect against scratches, while waterproof boots provide grip on muddy trails. A light rain jacket is necessary for unpredictable weather, and gaiters help keep dirt and insects out. Gloves assist with gripping branches during treks. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat protect against the elements. A camera and binoculars enhance wildlife viewing, while a reusable water bottle keeps you hydrated. Packing lightweight layers ensures flexibility during changing temperatures for the best great adventure safari experience.
Where to stay in great adventure safari
Uganda offers diverse accommodation options for a great adventure safari, ranging from budget lodges to luxury retreats. Near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, travelers can stay at Budget: Buhoma Community Lodge, Mid-range: Gorilla Mist Camp, or Luxury: Clouds Mountain Lodge. In Queen Elizabeth National Park, great choices include Bush Lodge for budget travelers, Elephant Plains Lodge for mid-range comfort and Mweya Safari Lodge for a high-end experience. Murchison Falls National Park offers Red Chilli Rest Camp for budget-friendly stays and Nile Safari Lodge for a luxurious option. Planning ahead ensures a comfortable and rewarding great adventure safari experience.
Booking a great adventure safari with Dav safaris
Booking a great adventure safari with Dav Safaris ensures a seamless and well-organized experience from start to finish. The team arranges gorilla trekking permits, accommodations, transport, and guided excursions, making your trip hassle-free. Whether you're exploring Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth, Kibale, or Murchison Falls, Dav Safaris offers customized itineraries to fit your schedule and budget. Expert guides provide valuable insights, enhancing wildlife encounters. With a focus on responsible tourism and conservation, a great adventure safari with Dav Safaris guarantees an unforgettable trip through Uganda’s stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity. Reach out early to secure permits and plan your perfect safari