15-Day Uganda's Popular Self Drive Safari

Route: Entebbe – Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary – Murchison Falls – Kibale – Queen Elizabeth – Bwindi – Lake Mburo – Entebbe

Duration: 15 days (driving-focused)

Overview

This self-drive safari offers an immersive Uganda experience for independent travelers seeking flexibility, adventure, and wildlife encounters. Starting from Entebbe, you’ll drive north to track rhinos at Zziwa, explore the savannas of Murchison Falls, then wind south into the lush forests and rolling highlands of western Uganda. Highlights include chimpanzee trekking in Kibale, game drives and boat safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park, gorilla trekking in Bwindi, and a relaxing finish at Lake Mburo.

Reversing the traditional route gradually builds excitement—from open savanna landscapes to the misty, dense forests of Bwindi, Uganda’s gorilla sanctuary.

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe

Arrive at Entebbe International Airport, pick up your Safari Drive Uganda vehicle, and get a safety and navigation briefing. Explore Lake Victoria shores, visit the Entebbe Botanical Gardens, or shop at craft markets. Overnight in Entebbe.

Day 2: Entebbe → Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Distance: 130 km | Drive Time: ~3 hours

Drive north to Zziwa. Afternoon guided walking safari to track rhinos. Optional: birdwatching around the sanctuary. Overnight at Amuka Lodge or similar.

Day 3: Zziwa → Murchison Falls National Park

Distance: 220 km | Drive Time: ~5–6 hours

Drive north into Murchison Falls NP. Stop at the top of the falls. Evening game drive around your lodge. Overnight at Paraa Safari Lodge, Pakuba Safari Lodge, or Murchison River Lodge.

Day 4: Murchison Falls National Park

Full day of safari activities: sunrise game drive on the northern delta plains, boat cruise to the base of the falls, optional hike to the top of the falls, and late-afternoon sundowner drive. Overnight at the same lodge.

Day 5: Murchison Falls → Kabalega Falls / Optional Day Safari

Distance: 80–100 km | Drive Time: 2–3 hours

Take a scenic drive west for a quieter, off-the-beaten-path safari experience at Kabalega Falls or do a community visit. Relax at the lodge or enjoy a river-side picnic. Overnight near Murchison area.

Day 6: Murchison Falls → Kibale Forest

Distance: 370 km | Drive Time: ~7–8 hours

Long scenic drive south through Hoima and Fort Portal. Evening: cultural walk in Fort Portal town or visit crater lakes. Overnight near Kibale at Turaco Treetops, Isunga Lodge, or Primate Lodge Kibale.

Day 7: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest

Morning chimp trek guided by park rangers. Afternoon: Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary walk or bicycle tour through local villages. Overnight at the same lodge.

Day 8: Kibale → Queen Elizabeth National Park

Distance: 160 km | Drive Time: ~3–4 hours

Drive south to Queen Elizabeth NP. Afternoon game drive in Kasenyi plains. Optional: evening sunset boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel. Overnight at Marafiki Safari Lodge, Buffalo Safari Lodge, or Mweya Safari Lodge.

Day 9: Queen Elizabeth National Park

Full-day safari: morning game drive, Kazinga Channel boat safari, crater lake drive, and Kyambura Gorge walk to spot chimpanzees. Overnight at the same lodge.

Day 10: Queen Elizabeth → Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Distance: 190 km | Drive Time: ~5–6 hours

Drive through Ishasha for tree-climbing lions. Optional: short hike to local community villages en route. Overnight at Bwindi lodges such as Buhoma Haven, Mahogany Springs, or Gorilla Mist Camp.

Day 11: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

After ranger briefing, trek to see mountain gorillas (2–6 hours). Optional: evening community walk or Batwa Pygmy cultural experience. Overnight in Bwindi.

Day 12: Bwindi → Lake Bunyonyi

Distance: 40 km | Drive Time: ~1–1.5 hours

Drive to the serene Lake Bunyonyi, perfect for kayaking, boat rides, or swimming. Spend a relaxing afternoon exploring the lake islands and local villages. Overnight at Bunyonyi Overland Resort or similar.

Day 13: Lake Bunyonyi → Lake Mburo National Park

Distance: 230 km | Drive Time: ~5–6 hours

Drive east to Lake Mburo NP. Afternoon game drive or guided walking safari. Optional: cycling safari through the park. Overnight at Rwakobo Rock, Mihingo Lodge, or Eagles’ Nest.

Day 14: Lake Mburo → Entebbe

Distance: 260 km | Drive Time: ~5–6 hours

Morning walking or horseback safari. Drive back to Entebbe, stopping at the Equator in Kayabwe for photos and craft shopping. Evening: relax by Lake Victoria or enjoy a farewell dinner. Overnight in Entebbe.

Day 15: Departure from Entebbe

Leisurely breakfast and final souvenir shopping before airport transfer. Return your Safari Drive Uganda

Day

Route

Distance (km)

Approx. Drive Time

1

Entebbe

–

–

2

Entebbe → Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary

130 km

3 hrs

3

Zziwa → Murchison Falls NP

220 km

5–6 hrs

4

Murchison Falls NP

–

–

5

Murchison Falls → Kabalega Falls / Optional Local Safari

80–100 km

2–3 hrs

6

Murchison Falls → Kibale Forest

370 km

7–8 hrs

7

Kibale Forest

–

–

8

Kibale → Queen Elizabeth NP

160 km

3–4 hrs

9

Queen Elizabeth NP

–

–

10

Queen Elizabeth → Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

190 km

5–6 hrs

11

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

–

–

12

Bwindi → Lake Bunyonyi

40 km

1–1.5 hrs

13

Lake Bunyonyi → Lake Mburo NP

230 km

5–6 hrs

14

Lake Mburo → Entebbe

260 km

5–6 hrs

15

Entebbe

–

–

 

Vehicle Choice: A 4x4 safari vehicle is recommended, especially for Murchison Falls, Bwindi, and dirt-road sections.

Navigation: Use offline maps like Maps.me or Google Maps. Mobile coverage is good in towns but may be patchy in parks.

Fuel: Fill up in major towns; fuel stations are scarce near remote parks.

Park Access: Check park gates and opening hours. Some lodges can guide you on the fastest route in.

Road Conditions: Expect a mix of paved, gravel, and dirt roads. Drive cautiously, especially during rainy seasons.

Local Driving Rules: Drive on the left. Be aware of speed limits and livestock on rural roads.

Safety: Avoid driving at night outside towns. Carry a first-aid kit, extra water, and snacks.