3 Days, Murchison Falls & Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary Big 5 Safari

Big 5 Safari in Uganda

Experience Uganda’s captivating wilderness on this compact yet thrilling 3-day adventure. From the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where you’ll track endangered rhinos, to the majestic Murchison Falls National Park, this safari offers a glimpse of the Big Five, vibrant birdlife, and the unmatched beauty of the Nile. This journey is perfect for those seeking a quick yet enriching escape into Uganda’s pristine landscapes.

Highlights

• Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: Track the endangered southern white rhinos on foot in their natural habitat.
• Murchison Falls National Park: Explore Uganda’s largest national park, home to a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, lions, and elephants.
• Boat Safari on the Nile: Witness crocodiles, hippos, and aquatic birds along the Nile, and marvel at the breathtaking “Devil’s Cauldron” at the base of Murchison Falls.
• Top of Murchison Falls: Experience the awe-inspiring power of the falls, where the Nile plunges through a narrow gorge.

Itinerary Description

Day 1: Travel from Kampala to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary & Murchison Falls

Your journey begins early morning as you depart Kampala, heading northwest via the scenic Northern Bypass and Masindi Road. After a 2.5-hour drive (approximately 145 km), arrive at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Nakitoma, Nakasongola District.

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary spans 70 square kilometers and is the only place in Uganda where southern white rhinos can be found in the wild. It is home to 32 rhinos, along with abundant birdlife and other wildlife. Guided rhino trekking offers an up-close encounter with these majestic creatures.

After the trek, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, savoring delicious local or international dishes. Proceed to Murchison Falls National Park, approximately a 3-hour drive. Along the way, look out for playful baboons and other primates lining the road.

Arrive at your lodge in the evening, where you’ll check in, have dinner, and relax, preparing for the adventures ahead.

Accommodation: Tangi Safari Lodge (or similar)
Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Game Drive and Boat Safari

Wake up early for breakfast and head out for a morning game drive in Murchison Falls National Park. This is Uganda’s largest park, featuring expansive savannahs, woodlands, and wetlands. Explore designated game tracks with your experienced guide, who will help you spot the park’s diverse wildlife, including:

• Towering giraffes gracefully moving through the grasslands
• Herds of elephants and buffaloes grazing peacefully
• Lions lounging or stalking prey
• Jackson’s hartebeests, waterbucks, and Uganda kobs

Capture these unforgettable moments and take in the stunning views of the park’s varied landscapes.

Return to the lodge for lunch, then embark on an afternoon boat safari on the Nile. This 2-hour cruise offers a unique perspective on the park’s wildlife. Spot hippos bobbing in the water, crocodiles sunning on the riverbanks, and elephants drinking along the shores. The highlight of the cruise is reaching the base of Murchison Falls, famously referred to as the “Devil’s Cauldron,” where the Nile crashes through a narrow gorge with immense force.

After the boat safari, return to your lodge for dinner and relaxation.

Accommodation: Tangi Safari Lodge (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Top of Murchison Falls & Return to Kampala

After an early breakfast, drive to the top of Murchison Falls, one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world. Witness the Nile being forced through a narrow 7-meter gap before plunging into a thunderous cascade below. Admire the stunning views and the ever-present rainbow created by the crashing waters.

Take your time soaking in the beauty of this natural wonder before beginning your journey back to Kampala. Along the way, enjoy scenic views and, if time allows, stop for souvenirs or a refreshing snack.

Arrive in Kampala in the late afternoon, marking the end of your memorable 3-day safari.

Meals: Breakfast

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