The Big 5 Animals

Safari Details

Embark on an unforgettable 5-day safari that takes you to two of Uganda's most stunning national parks: Kidepo Valley National Park and Murchison Falls National Park. This exclusive adventure is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and those seeking to experience the raw beauty of Uganda's wilderness. From the vast savannahs of Kidepo, home to unique wildlife, to the dramatic landscapes and powerful waterfalls of Murchison, this safari promises an enriching experience filled with breathtaking sights and unforgettable moments.

Safari highlights

Kidepo Valley National Park
Game drives in Kidepo
Cultural encounters with the Karamojong people
Murchison Falls National Park
Top of the Falls experience
Boat cruise to the base of Murchison Falls
Morning and evening game drives

Safari Plans

Day 1 Arrival in Kampala
i. Arrival in Kampala – Anytime Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be welcomed by a professional driver-guide from Hear Nature Safaris. Depending on your arrival time, you can either relax at your hotel or explore the vibrant city of Kampala.
- ii. Overnight in Kampala Check in at your selected hotel in Kampala. Enjoy dinner and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Day 2 Kampala to Kidepo Valley National Park
i. Safari Commencement – 6:00 AM After an early breakfast, depart Kampala and head north towards Kidepo Valley National Park. The journey takes you through scenic landscapes and traditional villages.
- ii. Lunch Stop in Kitgum – 12:00 PM Stop for lunch in Kitgum town, where you can enjoy local cuisine and stretch your legs before continuing your journey.
- iii. Arrival at Kidepo Valley National Park – 3:00 PM (approx.) Arrive at Kidepo Valley National Park, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. Check in at your lodge and relax before your evening activities.
- iv. Evening Game Drive – 4:00 PM Head out for an evening game drive in Kidepo Valley National Park. Look out for elephants, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species as the sun sets over the savannah.
- v. Dinner & Overnight at the Lodge – 7:00 PM Enjoy dinner at the lodge, featuring a mix of local and international dishes. Spend the night surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.
Day 3Kidepo Valley National Park – Game Drives & Cultural Experience
i. Early Breakfast at the Lodge – 6:00 AM Rise early for breakfast before heading out for a full day of exploration.
- ii. Morning Game Drive – 6:30 AM Set out for a morning game drive, where you’ll have the chance to see the park's unique wildlife, including the rare cheetah and the majestic ostrich.
- iii. Cultural Encounter with the Karamojong People – 11:00 AM Visit a local Karamojong village to learn about their culture, traditions, and way of life. Engage with the community and experience their unique customs.
- iv. Lunch at the Lodge – 1:00 PM Return to the lodge for a delicious lunch, enjoying the stunning views of the park.
- v. Afternoon Nature Walk – 3:00 PM Join a guided nature walk to explore the park's flora and fauna up close. This is a great opportunity for birdwatching and spotting smaller wildlife.
- vi. Dinner & Overnight at the Lodge – 7:00 PM After a day filled with adventure, enjoy dinner at the lodge and relax under the stars
Day 4Kidepo to Murchison Falls National Park
i. Early Breakfast at the Lodge – 6:00 AM Enjoy breakfast before departing Kidepo Valley National Park.
- ii. Drive to Murchison Falls National Park – 7:00 AM Begin your journey to Murchison Falls National Park, passing through scenic landscapes and rural communities.
- iii. Lunch Stop in Masindi – 12:00 PM Stop for lunch in Masindi town, where you can enjoy local dishes and refresh before continuing to the park.
- iv. Arrival at Murchison Falls National Park – 3:00 PM (approx.) Arrive at Murchison Falls National Park and check in at your lodge. Take some time to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.
- v. Top of the Falls Hike – 4:00 PM Head to the Top of Murchison Falls for breathtaking views of the Nile River as it crashes down into the gorge below.
- vi. Dinner & Overnight at the Lodge – 7:00 PM Enjoy dinner at the lodge, featuring a variety of local and international cuisine. Spend the night in the heart of the park.
Day 5Murchison Falls National Park – Game Drive & Departure
i. Early Breakfast at the Lodge – 6:00 AM Start your final day with breakfast at the lodge.
- ii. Morning Game Drive – 6:30 AM Set out for a morning game drive, where you’ll have the chance to see more wildlife and capture any missed sightings.
- iii. Boat Cruise to the Base of Murchison Falls – 11:00 AM Enjoy a boat cruise along the Nile River to the base of Murchison Falls. Keep an eye out for hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species.
- iv. Lunch at the Lodge – 1:00 PM Return to the lodge for lunch and some leisure time.
- v. Depart Murchison Falls National Park – 3:00 PM Begin your return journey to Kampala or Entebbe, enjoying the scenic views along the way.
- vi. Arrival in Kampala/Entebbe – 6:00 PM (approx.) Arrive back in Kampala or Entebbe, marking the end of your exclusive 5-day safari experience with Hear Nature Safaris. Reflect on the incredible wildlife encounters and stunning landscapes you’ve experienced.

Safari Package Inclusions

Professional English-speaking driver-guide
Private safari vehicle with pop-up roof
All Park Entry Fees
Morning and evening game drives
Boat cruise to the base of Murchison Falls.
Top of the Falls visit.
All meals as per itinerary (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Round-trip transport from Kampala/Entebbe
Bottled drinking water throughout the trip

Package Exclusions

Tips and gratuities
Personal expenses (souvenirs, drinks at lodges, etc.)
Optional activities not mentioned
Travel insurance
Visa fees (if applicable)
Additional accommodation before or after the safari

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best time of day for wildlife viewing in these parks?

Dawn (6-9AM) and late afternoon (3:30-6:30PM) are peak activity times. Kidepo's Narus Valley is exceptional at sunrise, while Murchison's delta region offers spectacular sunset views with elephants coming to drink.
How do the landscapes differ between Kidepo and Murchison?

Kidepo features rugged mountains with savannah plains, offering dramatic backdrops for photography. Murchison has lush riverine forests along the Nile, open grasslands, and the spectacular Murchison Falls where the Nile forces through a 7m gap.
What special wildlife might we see that's unique to these parks?

Kidepo hosts rare species like cheetahs, bat-eared foxes, and mountain reedbucks. Murchison is renowned for its Rothschild giraffes, chimpanzees (in Budongo Forest), and the highest concentration of Nile crocodiles in Africa.
Are walking safaris available in both parks?

Yes! Kidepo offers exceptional guided bush walks among wildlife with armed rangers. Murchison provides chimpanzee trekking experiences and nature walks along the Nile's banks - though classic walking safaris are restricted to specific zones for safety.
What should we pack specifically for these park visits?

Essentials include: binoculars, neutral-colored clothing (no bright colors/white), sturdy walking shoes, dust masks for dry-season game drives, high-SPF sunscreen, and quality camera equipment with zoom lenses (200mm+ recommended for optimal wildlife shots).