Combining a Uganda Family Safari with a Zanzibar Beach and Safari Holidays is a fantastic way to experience both African Big 5 wildlife and ocean life. This combo offers incredible wildlife encounters, including gorilla trekking, with Zanzibar providing a serene beach escape. This combination is perfect for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts alike. Here’s a detailed plan for such a trip, including costs, the best times to visit, and what to expect.
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How to Plan a 12-Day Uganda Family Safari and Zanzibar Beach and Safari Holidays
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel. Entebbe, located on the shores of Lake Victoria, offers a serene start to your adventure. Spend the day relaxing and acclimatising to the new environment. You can stroll around the hotel grounds or visit the nearby Entebbe beaches. This day is all about unwinding and preparing for the exciting journey ahead.
Main Destination: Entebbe, Uganda
Accommodation: Hotel in Entebbe
Meal Plan: All meals, depending on your time of arrival
Day 2: Transfer to Murchison Falls via Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
After a hearty breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Murchison Falls National Park. Stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for a thrilling rhino walking safari. This sanctuary is home to the only wild rhinos in Uganda, and the experience of tracking these majestic creatures on foot is unforgettable. After the safari, enjoy a lunch break before continuing your journey to Murchison Falls. Upon arrival, check into the Lodge, where you will spend the night.
Main Destination: Murchison Falls National Park
Accommodation: Lodge in Murchison Falls National Park
Meal Plan: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 3: Morning Game drive in Murchison Falls National Park
Begin your day with an early morning game drive in Murchison Falls National Park. The Park is teeming with wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, hyenas, warthogs, and buffaloes. The morning hours are ideal for spotting these animals as they are most active. After the game drive, return to the lodge for lunch and some relaxation. In the afternoon, embark on a boat cruise along the Nile River to the base of Murchison Falls. The sight of the powerful falls and the diverse wildlife along the riverbanks is truly mesmerizing. Return to the Lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Main Destination: Murchison Falls National Park
Accommodation: Lodge in Murchison Falls National Park
Meal Plan: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 4: Transfer to Kibale National Park
After breakfast, set off for Kibale National Park, known for its rich primate population. The journey offers picturesque views of Uganda’s countryside. Upon arrival, check into Primate Lodge Kibale. In the afternoon, visit the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary or engage in a community visit. The Bigodi Wetland is a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts, while the community visit provides insights into the local culture and way of life. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Main Destination: Kibale National Park
Accommodation: Lodge around Kibale National Park
Meal Plan: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Rise early for an exhilarating chimpanzee trekking adventure in Kibale National Park. Trekking through the lush forest to observe these intelligent primates in their natural habitat is a highlight of the trip. Note that participants must be at least 15 years old for this activity. After the trek, enjoy lunch before transferring to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Upon arrival, check into the Lodge, where you will have dinner and spend the night. Meals for the day include breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Main Destination: Kibale National Park
Accommodation: Lodge in Kibale National Park
Meal Plan: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 6: Morning Game Drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Start the day with a morning game drive in the Kasenyi Plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park. This area is known for its large herds of elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes, as well as predators like lions and leopards. After the game drive, return to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, take a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, which is famous for its high concentration of hippos and diverse birdlife. The cruise offers excellent opportunities for wildlife photography. Return to the Lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Main Destination: Queen Elizabeth National Park
Accommodation: Lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Meal Plan: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 7: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas. Upon arrival, check into Buhoma Lodge. In the afternoon, participate in a Batwa cultural experience. The Batwa people, also known as pygmies, are the original inhabitants of the forest, and this experience provides a unique insight into their traditional way of life. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Main Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Accommodation: Lodge in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Meal Plan: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 8: Gorilla Trekking and Transfer to Zanzibar
Rise early for the unforgettable experience of gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Trekking through the dense forest to spend time with these gentle giants is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Note that participants must be at least 12 years old for this activity. After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch before transferring to Kihihi for your flight to Zanzibar. Upon arrival in Zanzibar, check into a Zanzibar Hotel and relax.
Main Destination: Zanzibar
Accommodation: Hotel in Zanzibar
Meal Plan: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 9: Zanzibar Beach Holiday
Wake up to the sound of the ocean and enjoy a leisurely breakfast. Spend the day relaxing on the pristine beaches of Zanzibar, swimming in the turquoise waters, or indulging in water sports like snorkelling and diving. The island’s serene environment is perfect for unwinding after an adventurous safari. Accommodation will be at a Zanzibar Hotel, offering luxurious amenities and stunning ocean views. Meals for the day include breakfast and dinner.
Main Destination: Zanzibar
Accommodation: Hotel in Zanzibar
Meal Plan: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 10: Explore Zanzibar
After breakfast, explore the rich cultural heritage of Zanzibar. Visit Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and wander through its narrow streets filled with historical buildings, bustling markets, and vibrant culture. You can also visit the former slave market, the House of Wonders, and the Sultan’s Palace. In the afternoon, take a spice tour to learn about the island’s famous spices and their uses. Return to Zanzibar Hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
Main Destination: Zanzibar
Accommodation: Hotel in Zanzibar
Meal Plan: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 11: More Zanzibar Adventures
Enjoy another day of relaxation or adventure in Zanzibar. You can take a dhow cruise to explore the surrounding islands, visit Jozani Forest to see the rare red colobus monkeys, or simply relax on the beach. The island offers a variety of activities to suit all interests. Return to your Hotel for dinner and overnight stay. Meals for the day include breakfast and dinner.
Main Destination: Zanzibar
Accommodation: Hotel in Zanzibar
Meal Plan: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 12: Departure
On your final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast and some free time to relax or do some last-minute shopping. Later, transfer to Zanzibar International Airport for your flight back home, bringing an end to your unforgettable Uganda Family Safari and Zanzibar Beach Holiday.
Main Destination: Zanzibar
Accommodation: No Accommodation
Meal Plan: Breakfast.
Cost of a Uganda Family Safari and Zanzibar Beach and Safari Holidays
The cost of such a trip can vary widely depending on the level of accommodation, activities chosen, and the time of year. It’s best to consult with a Uganda Tour Operator to get a detailed quote based on your preferences.
This combination of a Uganda Family Safari and Zanzibar Beach and Safari Holidays offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, making it an ideal holiday for families and nature enthusiasts.
In case you have a limited budget but wish to do a Uganda Family safari with Zanzibar beach and safari holidays, the low season may be the chance to test your luck as sometimes the service providers discount their costs to break even.
Ideal Times for a Uganda Family Safari and Zanzibar Beach and Safari Holidays
For an unforgettable experience in Uganda, the optimal time to visit is during the dry season, which spans from June to October. This period aligns with wildlife encounters, offering unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities as millions of animals traverse the plains. The dry season ensures lower grass levels, making it easier to spot predators and other wildlife.
When planning a trip to Zanzibar Island, the best times to visit are from June to October and from December to February. During these months, the weather is warm and dry, creating perfect conditions for beach activities such as swimming, snorkelling, and sunbathing. The pleasant climate also makes it an ideal time to explore the island’s rich cultural heritage and vibrant markets.
Can I See the Big Five in Murchison Falls National Park?
No, Murchison Falls National Park is one of the best places in Africa to see the wildlife: lions, leopards, elephants, and buffaloes. However, rhinos can only be seen when you combine Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary with Murchison Falls National Park with a enroute but seeing them is not a guarantee. The park’s vast plains and diverse ecosystems provide a habitat for these iconic animals, making it a prime destination for a Uganda Family safari.
Can I See Whales While on Holiday at Zanzibar Island?
Yes, you can see whales while on holiday at Zanzibar Island. Seeing whales may not be guaranteed because they are seasonal. The best time for whale watching is from July to October when humpback whales migrate through the waters around Zanzibar. This adds an exciting marine dimension to your beach holiday.
Is It Safe to Do a Uganda Family Safari and Holiday in Zanzibar?
Yes, it is safe to holiday in both Uganda Family Safari with Zanzibar Beach and Safari Holidays. Both destinations are well-established tourist spots with good infrastructure and security measures in place. However, it’s always wise to follow travel advisories and take standard precautions all tourists are advised to pay attention to the rules of game drives in National Parks like no walking in the national park, driving not above the recommended speed limit, not getting out of your lodge in the night, and others.
While at Zanzibar Island, do not swim in the deep side of the ocean in case you are not a swimmer. Keep all your belongings safe and do not count large sums of money in public or you may attract the wrong company.
Accommodation Tips for Families on a Ugandan Safari
Child-Friendly Lodges
When travelling with kids for an Uganda Safari, choosing the right accommodation is crucial. Here are some tips:
Family Rooms: opt for lodges that offer spacious family rooms or interconnecting rooms to keep everyone together during your Uganda Safari.
Child-Friendly Amenities: Look for accommodations that provide amenities such as swimming pools, play areas, and child-friendly menus. This enhances the kid’s experience during the Uganda Safari.
Proximity to Wildlife: Staying in lodges close to wildlife viewing areas minimize travel time and maximizes your chances of seeing animals during the Uganda Safari.
Guided Activities on a Uganda Safari: Select lodges that offer guided activities specifically designed for children, such as nature walks and wildlife talks.
What Are the Rules of Safaris in Uganda National Park?
- Honour the speed limit while on a game drive in the Uganda National game parks to prevent accidents on both the animals and the tourists. Driving off track is not accepted unless with permission from the Uganda Wildlife Authority.
- Never disturb the wild animals by hooting at them as you may cause them to run away yet other tourists would like to have some moment with them just like you have. When you find them crossing stop and wait for them? Some of them may charge at you when you sound the dangerous vehicle horn.
- Don’t come with dogs or other pets into the park as chances of getting an infection from the wild animals or the pet may happen which is quite dangerous to conservation.
- Keep all your litter in your car like plastic wraps as these alter the nature of the environment where these animals thrive.
- Carrying ammunition in the park is not acceptable because you may be triggered to use it and kill the wild animals or anyone in your company.
- Never pick flowers or trample on the vegetation in the parks as you destroy the environment where animals thrive. Do not pack anything from the park but just take pictures while on safari and leave only vehicle tire prints.
- Retain all official receipts for verification at exit so that you are not inconvenienced
- All the park gates are open from 0800 hrs. to 1800 hours.
What To Bring for a Uganda Family Safari with Zanzibar Beach and Safari Holidays?
- Packing for a holiday that combines a safari in Uganda and a beach holiday in Zanzibar Island requires a mix of items:
- Camera to take photos and keep memories of this holiday experience.
- Safari hat with a large foldable brim to protect your head from buzzing insects.
- Sunglasses to protect your eyes from the strong sunrays.
- Sunscreen to cover your body from Ultra Violet rays
- Backpack or rack sack to keep your belongings
- Some hard cash for on-ground purchases
- A torch for lighting while at night
- Flip flops to change into after a long day
- Extra clothes to change into after a long day of activities
- Warm wear because it gets so sold very early morning and afternoon
- Beach wear to use for swimming in the ocean
- Pair of stockings
- Safari shoes like canvas
- A pair of binoculars to capture closer visibility of far-ranging features.
- Some snacks to munch as breakfast is taken too early to last the entire day
- Extra batteries are fully charged in case one runs low on power.
- Charger and travel adapter in case you need to recharge
- Raincoat in case it falls
- First aid kit for any emergency while on this African safari
Whether you opt for a 3 days Tanzania Safari in Serengeti National Park or a longer itinerary, you need to book the Serengeti Safari and gorilla trekking safari in advance because of the high demand for gorilla permits and easy planning.
Contact Us for more information to help you organize your entire Uganda Family safari and Zanzibar Beach and Safari Holidays, depending on your budget. Check out our reviews on TripAdvisor to make the right decision.