Uganda Wildlife Discovery

• Return international full-service flights (economy class), departure city surcharges may apply

• 10 nights of accommodation in quality hotels and lodges

• Enjoy 19 meals including daily breakfast

• Gorilla and chimpanzee permits (worth $750USD)
• All game reserve entrance fees
• Drinking water whilst on safari
• English-speaking guides
• Safari field rangers and trackers
• Airline taxes and surcharges

• Transportation by air-conditioned vehicles & open air 4x4 vehicles

• Return airport transfers

• Arrive Early: Arrive up to 30 days before your tour starts (does not include hotel accommodation, meals or transfers)
• Stay Behind: Return up to 30 days after your tour concludes (does not include hotel accommodation, meals or transfers)
• Stopover Packages: Break up the long-haul flight with a stopover at a fantastic location (see checkout for details)
• Flight Upgrades: Upgrade to Business Class (see checkout for details)
• Guaranteed Airline: Fly with a guaranteed airline (see checkout for details)

Today depart for Entebbe, Uganda!

Please note: Some customers may depart on Day 0.

Meals included: In-Flight

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, a representative will meet, greet and transfer you to the hotel.

Overnight: Admas Grand Hotel, Entebbe

Meals included: None

This morning drive south past big tea plantations and arrive in Fort Portal in time for lunch (not included). The fort may be gone, but the town offers sublime scenery, abundant nature and genuine adventure. Fort Portal is the heartland of a verdant tea-growing area and an important commercial centre. After lunch visit the Toro King’s palace to learn about the culture of the Batooro and also visit the burial grounds of their kings to understand more on the traditional leadership in Uganda. This afternoon drive onwards to Kibale National Park and check into the lodge accommodation. Today’s travel time is approximately 6 hours.

Overnight: Chimpanzee Forest Guest House or Nyaika Hotel, Kibale National Park

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

After breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing and then begin your amazing chimpanzee trekking. Chimpanzee tracking is normally not too demanding but does involve 3-4 hours of trekking. Chimps stay in groups of 10 – 100 members and can babysit each other’s young, kiss, groom one another and even hold hands. After the morning searching for these beautiful primates, head back to the lodge for lunch and some time at leisure.

This evening you'll visit Amabere Ga Nyina Mwiru Cave, an amazing result of the formation of stalagmites and stalactites. There is also a beautiful waterfall which forms below the scenic caves. Afterwards transfer back to the hotel for dinner.

Overnight: Chimpanzee Forest Guest House or Nyaika Hotel, Kibale National Park

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

This morning after breakfast, head to the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary where you will enjoy a nature walk. The walk is about 3-4 hours guided through 4-5 kms of trail, however customers can always choose a shorter trail if preferred. The Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary is located in Magombe Swamp. This area is recognized for an extensive array of biodiversity among which are several primates species like the Red Colobus Monkey, Baboon, Black & White Colobus Monkey, Blue Monkey Grey Cheeked, Mangabey, Vervet Monkey, Red Tailed Monkey and the L’Hoest Monkey. The swamp supports about 200 bird species and among the major bird species one can spot is the grand Blue Turaco.

Afterwards, travel to the nearby crater lakes. There are over 30 lakes which are believed to be the densest concentration of crater lakes in the world over a short stretch of 10kms. Walk along the “Top of the World” trail where you can view most of the lakes whilst passing through local villages and tea plantations. On a clear day you can also view the Rwenzori Mountain Ranges, Africa’s tallest mountain range, in the distance.

In the afternoon, drive onwards to Queen Elizabeth National Park and check into the lodge for the night. Today’s travel time is approximately 3 hours.

Overnight: Buffalo Safari Lodge, Queen Elizabeth National Park

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

Today, enjoy a relaxed morning at the lodge before travelling to Katwe Salt Lake. The lake is salty due to the many inlets from streams that bring in the water. Salt mining is a major activity here in the dry months. At the lake enjoy the beautiful scenery and learn about the salt mining process.

This afternoon, travel to the Kasoga community. The Kasoga community experience offers first hand encounters about the life and culture of native communities on this landing site. Here you will enjoy a walk through the community and learn about the fishing practices of the local community, see the fish preservation stoves, witness traditional canoe making demonstrations and see the crafts being made. Walk through the historical swamps in the community and the vacation palace of the former king of Tooro. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for the abundant birdlife, up to 26 different species, and a magnificent opportunity to spot hippos.

Return to the lodge and enjoy an evening at leisure.

Overnight: Buffalo Safari Lodge, Queen Elizabeth National Park

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

This morning after breakfast you will enjoy a morning game drive in the park. This afternoon you will be rewarded with a river cruise on the Kazinga Channel; a 32km long natural channel connecting Lakes George and Edward. The shores of this channel draw a large number of wild animals, birds and reptiles all through the year, with one of the largest population of hippos in the whole world as well as plentiful Nile crocodiles. While returning to the lodge, enjoy a short game drive.

Overnight: Buffalo Safari Lodge, Queen Elizabeth National Park

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

Today after breakfast, transfer to the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park and enjoy a game drive, where you may have a chance to see the famous tree climbing lions, this area is known for! Whilst driving through the savannah plains, hopefully you will get chance to spot other wildlife such as elephants and a good number of species of birds. Afterwards travel onwards to Lake Bunyonyi.

Lake Bunyonyi is in south-western Uganda between Kisoro and Kabale, and close to the border with Rwanda. It’s known as the second deepest lake in Africa after Lake Tanganyika.

Overnight: Birdnest Resort, Lake Bunyonyi

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

This morning after breakfast, enjoy a boat cruise to the Pygmy Village on the other side of the lake. The Batwa/Pygmy are unusually short and are an indigenous tribe in Uganda. Their forest culture is worth exploring to learn about their lifestyle and how they are used to surviving without modern day amenities. Here you will enjoy traditional music and dance. Continue on the boat cruise, enjoying the scenic views of the Kigezi terraces (2,200m – 2,400m) tilled by the Bakiga tribe, the second tribe that lives by the lake. You will also enjoy beautiful views of birds, with over 200 species at Lake Bunyonyi among which are weaver birds and herons.

This afternoon, return to shore and transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. "Bwindi" is derived from the Runyakitara language and means "impenetrable". This name comes from the extensive stands of bamboo interspersed amongst the larger forest hardwoods. The bamboo and thick ground cover of ferns, vines, and other plant growth severely hinder direct access on foot. Relax and enjoy the evening at leisure after an approximately 250km day.

Overnight: Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

Today, tick off gorilla tracking from your bucket list! With gorilla permits included in your package, set off to the thick forest in search of gorillas. The terrain can be difficult, with steep slopes covered in dense vegetation that gives the park its name. In addition, the altitude of up to 1600m means participants do need to be reasonably fit. The time taken to track the gorillas will vary enormously, from as little as half an hour to as much as 8-9 hours before one returns to camp but coming face to face with these amazing primates is extremely rewarding! For those not wishing to participate, you are welcome to relax at the lodge and enjoy the day at leisure.

Please note:
• If you do not wish to carry your pack during this trek, personal porterage is available for approximately $20USD extra per person payable on tour.

Overnight: Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch

Today drive to Lake Mburo National Park, check in and enjoy time at leisure before an afternoon/evening game drive. The network of game tracks in the east of the park passes a variety of landscape features; acacia woodland, wetlands, grassy hillsides, rock outcrops and seasonally flooded valley floors. The park has a variety of animals such as zebra, hippopotamus, impala, warthog, common eland, African buffalo, jackal, African leopard and over 300 bird species. You won't want to forget your camera! Enjoy an evening of rest after an approximately 270km day.

Overnight: Rwakobo Rock Lodge or Igongo Cultural Hotel, Lake Mburo National Park

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

Depart the lodge early this morning for Entebbe International Airport (approximately 260km) for your international flight back to Australia (or New Zealand).

Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight

Please note: Some customers may arrive +1 day.

 
After purchase, you will receive a receipt and a Purchase Confirmation, directing you to an online Passenger Information Form. You must complete the Passenger Information Form within 72 hours of purchase. Any special requests, preferences and optional extras MUST be clearly stated in your Passenger Information Form. Any change requested after submitting your Passenger Information Form cannot be guaranteed, is strictly subject to availability and will incur surcharges as outlined in the Schedule of Fees below.
 
On purchasing this Travel Offer, you are bound by the General Terms and Conditions and the specific terms and conditions outlined in this Important Information. 
 
Please note: All countries and territories have different entry requirements in relation to vaccinations, quarantine/isolation periods and travel restrictions. Due to the evolving nature, we would ask all of our customers to monitor, meet and adhere to the specific requirements of their intended destination(s) in the lead-up to and immediately before travel, as well as any requirements post-travel upon their return.
 
CANCELLATION POLICY 
Covid-19 Booking Policy  
TripADeal Tour packages are non-refundable. If your Tour package is affected by Covid-19-related travel restrictions and you are unable to travel, you will receive either a free date change (credit that is specific to your original package and purchase value) or an open credit less any non-recoverable supplier fees to the value of your original purchase for use on any other package available via the TripADeal website. 
 
Please note: Date change credits are subject to availability and not guaranteed until confirmed by TripADeal, not the tour operator you are due to stay with. The standard cancellation policy will apply if you cannot travel because you have tested positive for Covid-19. 
 
Please note: All additional charges are payable direct to your Travel Consultant in AUD (unless otherwise stated). 
 

 
This travel offer is valid for travel on selected dates until the 07 October 2025.
 
This travel offer is priced per person based on a twin share. 
 
Single Traveller Supplement  
For solo travellers, a mandatory single supplement of $1,200 applies. 
 
Departure Dates 
2024 
August: *20
September: 17
October: 22 
 
2025
March: 11
April: 15
May: 20
June: *17
July: **08
August: ^19
September: **16
October: 07 
Please note: See checkout for live dates and availability. 
 
Surcharges 
Please note:
• Dates/months with a * incur a high season surcharge of $300 per person. 
• Dates/months with a ** incur a high season surcharge of $450 per person.
• Dates/months with a ^ incur a high season surcharge of $600 per person. 
 
Departure Cities  
*Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth or *Auckland. 
 
Departure City Surcharges 
• Auckland: $300 per person.
• Sydney: $100 per person. 
 

Full-Service Airline(s) Used  

• Cabin Class: Economy Class.

• Airlines: Ethiopian Airways, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Etihad Airways, Malaysia Airlines, Oman Air, Kenya Airways, China Southern, Kenya Airways, Turkish Airlines, Qantas, Singapore Airlines, Precision Air, South African Airways and partners (subject to availability). 

 
Preferred Airline Surcharge  
• Cabin Class: Economy Class.
• Qatar: $600 per person.
• Emirates: $400 per person.
Please note: 
• Preferred airlines are subject to availability. If we are unable to fulfil your request, the above extra cost will be refunded.
• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed, subject to aircraft configuration. 
 
Arrive Early in Entebbe, Uganda  
Non high season dates: $300 per person, subject to availability.
High season dates range up to $800 per person, subject to availability.
Please note:
• This fee does not include extra nights' accommodation, meals or airport transfers.
• You may book a date to arrive early via our website but only a date that is within 30 days of the tour departure date. If you wish to arrive earlier than 30 days before your tour departure date, please call our friendly staff for availability and pricing. Additional costs may apply.
• No flight booking changes or cancellations are permitted after air tickets have been issued.
• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.
• High season arrive early can be purchased for up to $800.
• High season surcharges apply to flights departing between the below date ranges (only available for purchase over the phone):
01/12/2023 - 09/02/2024
18/03/2024 - 30/04/2024
01/06/2024 - 14/08/2024
23/09/2024 - 20/10/2024 
 
Stay Behind in Entebbe, Uganda  
Non high season dates: $300 per person, subject to availability.
High season dates: up to $800 per person, subject to availability.
Please note:
• This fee does not include extra nights' accommodation, meals or airport transfers.
• A stay behind can only be booked up to one month after your package end date upon check-out. Should you wish to stay later, please contact us to request availability. Additional costs may apply.
• No flight booking changes or cancellations are permitted after air tickets have been issued.
• Flight changes are subject to availability at the time of booking.
• High season stay behind can be purchased for up to $800 per person, subject to availability.
• High season surcharges apply to flights departing between the below date ranges (only available for purchase over the phone):
01/12/2023 - 09/02/2024
18/03/2024 - 30/04/2024
01/06/2024 - 14/08/2024
23/09/2024 - 20/10/2024 
 
Stopover Packages  
* Dubai
Twin share: $1,000 per person/one way.
Solo Traveller: $1,500 one way.
* Doha
Twin share: $1000 per person/one way.
Solo Traveller: $1,500 one way.
Includes:
• 2 nights in 4-star accommodation.
• Daily breakfast.
• Return airport transfers.
Please note:
• When a pre and post-tour stopover is chosen, the same stopover location must be chosen each way, due to the airline used.
• When selecting an Arrive Early or Stay Behind in conjunction with a Stopover Package, the stopover will take place after the departure date you select for your Arrive Early or Stay Behind.
• Stopover packages are subject to availability.
• Stopover not available during the following 2024 dates:
Singapore Grand Prix: 18 - 24 September 2024
Doha Grand Prix: 28 November to 2nd December 2024
Doha MotoGP: November 2024 (TBC for dates)
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (for Dubai): 04 December to 10 December 2024 
 
Flight Class Upgrades  
Business Class: For pricing, please refer to the payment cart at checkout. 
Please note: 
• Flight upgrades are subject to availability (if we cannot fulfil your request, the upgrade cost will be refunded).
• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed; subject to aircraft configuration. 
 

Accommodation Used 

• Entebbe: Admas Grand Hotel.

• Lake Bunyonyi: Birdnest Resort.

• Kibale National Park: Chimpanzee Forest Guest House.

• Queen Elizabeth National Park: Buffalo Safari Lodge.

• Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: Lake Mulehe Gorilla Lodge.

• Lake Mburo: Rwakobo Rock Lodge. 

Please note: Accommodation/rooms offered are based on a lead-in room type and are subject to availability based on seasonality. In the instance a property is not available, a similar standard of accommodation will be provided. Properties will be confirmed and included in your travel pack, which you will receive 4-6 weeks before travel. 

 
Extra Nights  
Not available. 
 
Maximum Room Capacity  
2 people. 
 
Child Policy  
• No child discounts. The full price applies to all children travelling with their parents.
• Valid for Children 12 years old and over. 
Please note: Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult 18 years old and over to travel. No unaccompanied minors are allowed. 
 
Triple Share  
Not available. 
 
Bedding Configuration  
Double or Twin (subject to availability). 
 

 
Minimum group size 4, maximum group size 12 per vehicle. 
 

 
• Visa fees and requirements.
• Meals/beverages not stated in the deal offer.
• Recommended gratuities/tipping.
• Optional activities/tours.
• Personal expenses.
• Travel insurance.
• Optional porter assistance during Gorilla Trekking - Approximately $30 USD per person/porter. 
 

Recommended ‘What to Bring’ Trekking  

1. A small, lightweight, frameless, waterproof back/day pack.

2. Light, waterproof hiking or walking boots or shoes with treaded soles.

3. Thick socks.

4. High-speed film 400 ASA minimum, 800 ASA recommended (no flash photography allowed on the track), fast film, binoculars.

5. Long pants (jeans/khakis) and a long-sleeved shirt.

6. Leather or heavy canvas (gardening-style) gloves to grip vegetation (gardening gloves may be advised).

7. Waterproof rain pants, a rain suit or a poncho with a hood.

8. Moisture-wicking undergarments, lightweight wool socks, long-sleeved shirt.

9. Sturdy trousers and sunglasses.

10. Sunscreen, a sun hat, a breathable lightweight rain poncho or a parka with a rain hat.

11. Thick sweaters are not necessary on the track, as it gets very hot during tracking. Best to have layers of clothing as temperatures tend to change.

12. Light raincoat.

13. A waterproof, squashable hat.

14. Drinking water.

15. You may ask for a walking stick if needed.

 

ACCOMMODATION TERMINOLOGY USE  
Standard  
A standard property offers clean and basic accommodation. In-house facilities such as restaurants, luggage handling, and fitness and recreation facilities are limited or unavailable. Guest rooms include a private bathroom and minimal additional amenities. The location may vary from central areas to properties that may require public transport, taxi or rideshare to the centre at your own expense. 
 
Lodge  
Unique properties include tented camps, heritage properties, rural or village homestays, floating hotels, or tree-top accommodations. Generally independent properties with a selection of amenities and individual character and charm.
 
TOUR GUIDE VS. TOUR LEADER 
Tour Guide 
Often locals with intimate knowledge of an area, its culture, and history. Their role entails providing commentary, routing the tour, and seeing that people have a good time. They are a licensed, qualified expert who supplies specific information on the history, art, architecture and culture of the city/village/attraction where they are guiding the tour. The guide meets the group at the required place and leaves it at the end of the tour; they do not travel with the group. 
 
Tour Leader 
An experienced person tasked with ensuring the smooth operation of tours, as well as providing practical support to passengers throughout the whole trip. Their role primarily includes assisting with accommodation, transportation between locations, and communication with tour guides at each stop. A tour leader may provide general guidance around a city or village and offer information on the place visited on the bus. However, they are not required to have specific art, architecture, or historical knowledge. They are not allowed to provide a guided tour or commentary of a city/village/attraction once there and, if caught doing so, can be fined. 
Please note: Tour leaders/guides are not a standard inclusion in all travel offers. Tour leaders/guides will only be made available when required to enhance the experience of the destination featured.
 
CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES 
Uganda  
Uganda is near the Equator. As a result, the climate does not change much and the country can be visited throughout the year. The rainy seasons tend to be from February to April and October to December, but this varies in different areas and it can rain any time of the year, especially in the forest and mountainous areas. Travel can be slower in the rainy season but the views are often better. Gorilla tracking can be muddier but it can certainly be done. In the mountainous areas it is much colder than on the plains and the rainfall is greater. The temperatures on the plains tend to be between 21°C and 30°C and in the mountainous areas they can go down to 10°C in certain months, especially November.
 
FLIGHTS 
Seat Selection & Frequent Flyer Points 
At TripADeal, we do not arrange seat selection. It is essential to highlight that some airlines do not allow pre-selected seats. We strongly suggest you contact the airline directly with seating allocation requirements and/or arrive at the airport earlier to arrange your seating. While we do not add frequent flyer member details to bookings, you can do this directly with the airline once you have your flight information. 
 
Passport Validity 
Customers must provide valid passport details either at the time of purchase or no later than 45 days before the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of the booking. Customers will be responsible for any costs and fees incurred in this instance.
 
COACH TOUR 
Meals 
19 meals in total are included in the package. For meals not included, the tour leader (when available) will offer assistance with reservations, suggestions and directions to local restaurants. It is your responsibility to notify TripADeal of any dietary requests/requirements. Please note: We will do our best to meet your requests/requirements; however, we cannot guarantee that we will always be able to. 
 
Luggage 
You will be responsible for all your personal belongings whilst on tour. You must carry your own luggage from the vehicle to the hotel room and back to the vehicle. The driver will assist with the uploading and offloading of bags from the vehicle.
 
OTHER 
Mobility 
If you would love to travel with TripADeal and require wheelchair access please contact our friendly sales and service team to inquire on your behalf. 
 
Fitness Level Required 
An active level of fitness will be required. Expect medium-level hikes on uneven surfaces/trails. The gorilla trekking on day 10 can be particularly difficult and exhausting depending on the location of the gorillas within the national park. However, the gorilla trekking is not a compulsory activity. 
Please note: If you have any concerns please consult your healthcare provider prior to purchase/travel. 
 
Yellow Fever 
A valid international certificate of vaccination against Yellow Fever is required in many countries. You may need to present this on arrival at the airport or border crossing. Some countries will refuse entry if you are unable to present your certificate. It's also common for your home country to request a Yellow Fever certificate upon arrival. You must check with your doctor well before leaving home about the Yellow Fever requirements for the countries you'll be visiting. 
 
Gratuities/Tipping 
Land 
Gratuities (tips) are not included for the services of the tour leader (when available) and driver throughout the tour. The recommended tip is $5 USD per person per day. This covers the guide/leader and the driver and will be collected on tour. 
Please note: tipping for services provided is always a matter of personal discretion; however, please be aware that many locals consider tipping part of their normal remuneration, and they may approach you for payment; there's no need to be intimidated by the request. 
 
Sightseeing 
Please note: If the entrance to a site is affected by changes in operating hours or public holiday closures, your itinerary, where possible, may be adjusted, or a similar activity will be offered in its place (subject to availability). 
 
Shopping 
Shopping overseas can be a daunting and confusing experience, especially when there is a language barrier. Please be very cautious when foreign currencies and prices are involved. If paying by credit card, please pay close attention to the amount you are being charged and keep all your receipts. Do not make any purchases you are not comfortable with or feel pressured into. If you are uncertain or need assistance with the language barrier, please seek assistance from your Tour Guide/Leader. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions regarding shopping for further information. 
 

 
A single-entry tourist visa is a strict requirement when travelling to Uganda on an Australian passport. This cost is approximately $50 USD (subject to change) and can be arranged online directly through the Uganda Directorate of Citizenship and Immigration. Please start arranging your visa at least three weeks before departure to account for any delays due to consulate operating hours. 
Important: 
• Visa rules may have changed since Covid-19. Some countries and airlines may require you to obtain an additional visa before arrival. Please check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 
Please note: 
• Passengers who are not Australian citizens must also check with the respective consulate or visa agency to determine what their visa requirements are and what personal identification is required.
• It is also important to note that some areas of employment, such as journalism, government authorities and charity organisations, may have additional restrictions in applying for Visas. This may, in turn, affect the type of application required. 
 

 
Embarking on your next trip is exciting, and while you hope the unexpected does not happen, it is best to be prepared. We strongly recommend you take out travel insurance when making your booking. Whether it’s a potential medical emergency, a flight cancellation, a delayed suitcase, or an unforeseen event, it's important to ensure you're adequately protected. For more information or advice visit https://www.tripadeal.com.au/travel-insurance 
 

Voluntary Changes  

Includes booking changes requested by you, including but not limited to those changes requiring an airline ticket or a Purchase Confirmation reissue.

• Changes - $100.00 per booking + additional charges from the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers. 

 
Name Changes Due To Passenger Error  
• If the incorrect name has been advised to TripADeal, charges of $100.00 per booking + any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers. 
 
Supplier Fees  
In the event the Travel Offer you have purchased is unable to proceed, and/or a travel Supplier is unable to fulfil the Travel Offer due to external circumstances (Limitation of Liability e.g. a Force Majeure event), there may be a fee or amount of money that is withheld by our Suppliers and is unrecoverable. This may be due to non-refundable airline tickets, cancellation penalties with cruise cabins or unrecoverable payments with our land/accommodation partners. TripADeal has committed to these costs as your Agent and will endeavour to recover all funds committed and/or paid for your Travel Offer, but this may not be possible in all circumstances. If refunds are unavailable from Suppliers, we will endeavour to obtain a travel credit on the best terms available and communicate these outcomes to you. If TripADeal cannot obtain a refund or travel service credit, or part thereof, this cost is passed on to the customer as a Supplier Fee. This fee is not revenue-raising and is paid to or withheld by our suppliers when recovering payments.