Description
8-Day Birding, Rhino Tracking, and Wildlife Safari in Kidepo Valley and Murchison Falls Parks
8-Day Exclusive Luxury Wildlife Expedition – Kidepo Valley & Murchison Falls Parks”
“Luxe 8-Day Wildlife Journey – Kidepo Valley to Murchison Falls Parks”
8-Day Luxurious Kidepo Valley & Murchison Falls Safari Adventure
Kidepo Valley, acclaimed by CNN in 2016 as Uganda’s “hidden gem” and previously recognized as one of Africa’s top parks, teams up with Murchison Falls Park to offer the finest of East Africa. Embark on a remarkable journey to the less-trodden Kidepo Valley and the iconic Murchison Falls National Park, cut through by the majestic River Nile.
Experience the unspoiled African wilderness in Kidepo Valley Park and behold the world’s most formidable waterfall at Murchison Falls National Park. Enjoy a boat safari along the Nile, observing the diverse fauna along its banks, culminating at the foot of the roaring falls. This unique safari offers an immersive off-the-beaten-path experience in Uganda’s pristine landscapes.
This 8-day luxurious odyssey in the heart of Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa”, can be tailored to fit budget or mid-range preferences.
Day 1 – Journey to Kitgum:
Reservations Rise and shine! We depart Kampala at 6:30 am, setting our sights on Kitgum. It’s a full day’s ride, but the captivating landscapes make it worthwhile. We’ve got your lunch sorted – choose between two sodas or a beer. And don’t worry, bottled water is always available in our vehicle for your hydration needs.
Need a photo break or just to stretch? We’ll have pit stops along the way! This lengthy journey is a testament to the untouched allure of Kidepo Valley Park. By evening, we reach Fugley’s Guest House, a beloved spot among expats. With its clean facilities, delicious food, and refreshing swimming pool, it’s the perfect spot to recharge. Though the rooms are simple, the hospitality, mouth-watering meals, and chilled drinks more than compensate. Dive into a delightful dinner at Fugly’s. If you’re curious about alternatives, The Bomah Hotel, though older, offers a pool and an option for Indian-style dinner dishes.
Lodging: Fugly’s Hotel (moderate) or Bomah Hotel (budget) Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2 – Delve into Kidepo Valley Park:
Kickstart your day with an early breakfast before venturing deeper into the mesmerizing Kidepo Valley Park, aiming to reach by lunchtime. Today’s route showcases the distinctive rugged terrains unique to Uganda.
Settle into Apoka Safari Lodge, an exclusive luxury haven nestled right in the heart of the park. With its sophisticated tented cottages, complete with indulgent outdoor stone soaking tubs, it promises a luxurious retreat. Bask in the lodge’s premium amenities, from the refreshing pool to uninterrupted vistas of the untamed landscapes. The serenity, occasionally punctuated by nature’s symphonies, reinforces Apoka’s reputation as a tranquil oasis amidst Uganda’s wild expanse.
Refuel with a hearty lunch before embarking on a late afternoon game drive through the Narus Valley. Here, expect thrilling encounters with buffalo herds, majestic elephants, graceful giraffes, zebras, and if luck is on your side, a glimpse of lions, leopards, or even the elusive cheetah. Don’t forget the myriad of bird species adorning your path. This leisurely drive offers ample opportunities for photography, capturing the park’s rich biodiversity.
As dusk descends, return to the lodge, with the enchanting ambiance of Kidepo Valley as your backdrop, and enjoy a delightful dinner.
Lodging: Apoka Safari Lodge – luxury Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner
Day 3 – Unveiling Kidepo Valley Park’s Mysteries:
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast, sipping your coffee or tea as you marvel at the pristine landscapes and wildlife from Uganda’s secluded gem. It’s an African dream come true.
Post breakfast, embark on a riveting game drive, meandering through savannahs, hills, forests, and dried riverbeds, with majestic mountain rings guarding the horizon. The unique flora and fauna of this semi-arid region will captivate you.
Today’s highlight is the journey to Karankorog Hot Springs, guaranteed to be abundant with wildlife sightings. Remember, no two game drives are identical; each journey unveils new wonders. Keep your camera at the ready for those perfect shots.
After a fulfilling lunch at the lodge, immerse yourself in an enlightening afternoon, experiencing the rich culture of the Karamojong tribe. This visit to a traditional Manyata village unveils the traditions of the Karamojong, nomadic cattle herders resistant to change. Their profound connection with cattle rivals that of the Maasai tribe. Witness their daily rituals, dances, culinary practices, and grasp the essence of their bond with cattle.
As evening falls, head back to the lodge for a sumptuous dinner. Relish a tranquil night amidst the wild, serenaded by Africa’s nocturnal symphony in Kidepo Park.
Lodging: Apoka Safari Lodge – luxury Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner
Day 4 – Kidepo’s Enchanting Call:
Awaken to an orchestra of unfamiliar bird songs. Relish the lavish breakfast spread, delighting both in taste and presentation.
Your morning adventure: a guided nature walk. This intimate experience places you amidst Kidepo’s wilderness, allowing for up-close encounters with its inhabitants.
Post a delectable lunch, set out for another afternoon of exploration. This game drive offers an unparalleled experience, witnessing wildlife from close quarters.
Today’s optional highlight: a trek up Mount Morungole, home to the Ik Tribe or the ‘Mountain People of Uganda’. Navigating trails, this 6-hour round trip provides insights into the life of these mountain-dwelling people. Should you wish to embark on this journey, notify us during your booking.
Lodging: Apoka Safari Lodge – luxury Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner
Day 5 – Journey to Murchison Falls Park:
Kickstart the day with a hearty breakfast before setting off for Murchison Falls National Park. En route, savor a delightful lunch in Gulu. Your destination: the luxurious Chobe Safari Lodge, where nearly every room offers an unhindered view of the iconic River Nile.
Lunch at Chobe is an affair to remember! Choose an alfresco table by the pool overlooking the Nile, indulging in a gastronomic delight characterized by exquisite taste and presentation. Post-lunch, take a rejuvenating dip in the expansive pool or retreat to the solace of your room. Every accommodation, be it a room, standard tent, deluxe tent, or cottage, comes with a deck or balcony—a cozy spot to engross yourself in a good read.
Evening beckons with a dinner set amidst nature’s tranquility. Later, bask in the serenity of the African night from your room’s deck. Choose from diverse accommodations, including the exclusive Presidential Lodge.
Lodging: Chobe Safari Lodge – luxury Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner
Day 6 – Exploring Deeper into Murchison Falls Park:
Start with a sumptuous breakfast at Chobe before embarking on a picturesque drive to Paraa Lodge. Treating this 3-hour drive as an extended game drive ensures you don’t miss out on the park’s bounties. With the vehicle’s pop-up roof, embrace a 360-degree view of the wilderness.
Paraa Lodge, akin to Chobe in luxury, offers an array of accommodation choices. Be it standard rooms, air-conditioned rooms, suites, or the opulent Queen’s Cottage, each promises unparalleled comfort. What sets Paraa Lodge apart is its prime location, ensuring easy access to the park’s key attractions.
Lunch at Paraa offers both a visual and gastronomic treat—relish your meal with the pool in the foreground and the River Nile shimmering in the distance.
Your afternoon is adorned with a game drive, accompanied by a Uganda Wildlife Authority Ranger. Their expert knowledge amplifies your experience, ensuring you spot and learn about the myriad of species in the park, from the majestic elephants and giraffes to the elusive lions and leopards.
Cap the day with a delectable dinner at Paraa Lodge.
Lodging Options: Paraa Safari Lodge – luxury; Fort Murchison – moderate/budget; Heritage Safari Lodge – moderate/budget Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner
Day 7 – Murchison Falls Park:
Opt for an early breakfast or embark on a sunrise game drive in the breathtaking African wilderness of Murchison Falls Park. Beginning at dawn around 6:30 am, witness the sunrise over the Borassus Palm Tree-laden Savannah and spot predators returning from their night’s hunt. Lunch awaits at Paraa Lodge – take the afternoon to unwind by the pool, dive into a compelling read like the “Abyssinian Chronicles” on your balcony, or rest on the veranda. As the day wanes, set out on another game drive, each one unique, offering different glimpses into the park’s vast biodiversity. Conclude your day with a delectable dinner at Paraa Lodge. Lodging: Paraa Safari Lodge – upmarket Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch -Dinner
Day 8: Return to Entebbe
Begin with breakfast and set sail on a morning boat cruise up the River Nile, witnessing a myriad of hippos, crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, monitor lizards, and myriad water birds. The highlight awaits as you approach Murchison Falls. Disembarking at the base, undertake a guided ascent beside the cascading falls, refreshed by the enveloping mist. Your driver-guide awaits at the summit, ready to transport you to Budongo Forest. Savor a hearty lunch at the Budongo Eco-Lodge before embarking on a trek to track our closest cousins – the chimpanzees. Accompanied by experienced guides and trackers, this three-hour journey introduces you not only to chimpanzees but also other primates and a plethora of birds. Conclude your safari with a drive back to Kampala, arriving post 8 pm at your designated lodging or further to Entebbe Airport if required. Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch
Immerse yourself in eight unforgettable days, encompassing two of East Africa’s premier National Parks – Kidepo Valley and Murchison Falls. Revel in unparalleled wildlife sightings, making memories that last a lifetime.
Should the allure of the 8-day Luxury Kidepo Valley – Murchison Falls Park Wildlife Safari beckon, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
If you have any questions or want to book our Safari tour, contact us anytime. Whether it’s safari itineraries, pricing, or general information, we’re just a phone call or email away. Shoot us an email today and we’ll be happy to help.
