Last updated on: May 6, 2026
5 Days Uganda Big 5 Safari (Ziwa & Murchison Falls)
Experience the ultimate wildlife encounter on this 5-day expedition dedicated to finding Africa’s “Big Five.” This journey takes you to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for on-foot rhino tracking before heading into the heart of Murchison Falls National Park. Enjoy extensive game drives across the savannah and a scenic boat cruise along the Victoria Nile to the base of the world’s most powerful waterfall.
Day 1: Transfer to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Depart from Kampala and head north through the Luwero Triangle. Your first destination is the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only home to wild rhinos in Uganda. Spend the afternoon tracking these majestic giants on foot with experienced rangers. This visit directly supports the national effort to reintroduce rhinos into Uganda’s major national parks.
Day 2: Murchison Falls & Top of the Falls Hike
After breakfast, continue your journey to Murchison Falls National Park. Upon entry, drive to the “Top of the Falls,” where the mighty Nile is squeezed through a 7-meter gorge. Feel the thunderous vibrations of the water before transferring to your lodge for an evening of relaxation.
Day 3: Savannah Game Drive & Nile Boat Cruise
Embark on an early morning game drive in the northern sector of the park. Keep your eyes peeled for lions, leopards, elephants, and Cape buffaloes. In the afternoon, take a 3-hour boat cruise to the bottom of the falls. You will encounter pods of hippos, massive Nile crocodiles, and diverse birdlife along the riverbanks.
Day 4: Delta Boat Safari & Evening Game Drive
Explore the tranquil Albert Delta, a world-class birding site and a prime location for spotting the elusive Shoebill Stork. The slow-moving water here attracts high concentrations of wildlife. In the late afternoon, head out for another game drive to find any Big Five members you may have missed.
Day 5: Final Game Drive and Return to Kampala
Enjoy a final sunrise game drive to catch the predators while they are still active. Afterward, begin the scenic drive back to Kampala or Entebbe, stopping for a traditional African lunch en route.
Why Book This Safari?
- Complete Big Five Experience: By combining Ziwa and Murchison Falls, you maximize your chances of seeing all five iconic species in a single trip.
- Conservation Impact: Your visit to Ziwa funds the 24-hour security teams required to protect Uganda’s rhino population from poaching.
- Expert Guiding: Our professional guides specialize in tracking and wildlife behavior, ensuring you get the best photographic opportunities.
Safari Inclusions, Tourist Activities & Exclusions
To ensure a seamless experience, here is a breakdown of what is covered in your 5-day expedition and what you should plan for independently.
What is Excluded:
- Flights: International airfare to and from Entebbe International Airport.
- Visas: Uganda tourist visa fees (must be applied for online in advance).
- Personal Expenses: Laundry services, telephone calls, and alcoholic beverages or sodas.
- Gratuities: Tips for your safari guide, site rangers, and lodge staff.
- Travel Insurance: Medical and personal travel insurance.
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Key Tourist Activities on This Trip
This itinerary is packed with diverse experiences that showcase the best of Uganda’s natural beauty:
- On-Foot Rhino Tracking: A rare opportunity at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to walk within meters of Southern White Rhinos while accompanied by expert rangers.
- The “Power of Nature” Hike: A walk to the narrow gorge at the Top of Murchison Falls to witness the Nile River drop 43 meters into the “Devil’s Cauldron.”
- Classic Savannah Game Drives: Exploring the Buligi tracks in Murchison Falls to spot lions, leopards, Rothschild giraffes, and elephants.
- Launch Cruise on the Victoria Nile: A boat safari offering incredible sightings of hippos, Nile crocodiles, and thirsty elephants coming to the riverbanks to drink.
- Albert Delta Birding: A boat excursion toward Lake Albert, perfect for spotting the prehistoric-looking Shoebill Stork and various kingfishers.
- Nocturnal Wildlife Spotting: Optional evening game drives (upon request) to find elusive nocturnal species like hyenas and nightjars.
Client Testimonials From TripAdvisor
1. Excellent – Many thanks to Billy and also our guide Moses
We were only two girls traveling and felt very safe.
A great company for car rental or for guided holidays around Uganda.
Wonderful company -Fantastic vacation!
Sherry P
First let me say that Maggie was wonderful to work with during the planning stages. The our guide Jackson was fantastic. He went above and beyond and truly made our vacation more than I could have asked for! We saw the Golden moneys and then Gorilla trekking and spend a wonderful day with the Batwa people. At Maggie’s suggestion we went to the Genocide museum and I am so glad we did. We never could have understood these wonderful people without understanding what happened in this country.
Thank you Active African vacations, Maggie, and especially Jackson for a great trip!
Secure Your Big Five Adventure Today
Don’t miss the chance to witness Uganda’s most iconic wildlife in their natural habitat. With limited permits for rhino tracking and high demand for Murchison Falls accommodations, we recommend booking your spot early to ensure a seamless and unforgettable journey.
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