3-Day Ultimate Big Five Safari – Murchison Falls & Rhinos
3-Day Ultimate Big Five Safari – Murchison Falls & Rhinos
This 3-day Ultimate Big Five Safari combines Uganda's most iconic wildlife experiences into one unforgettable journey. Designed for travelers seeking both adventure and conservation-focused travel, the tour takes you from on-foot rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to classic game drives and a scenic Nile boat safari in Murchison Falls National Park.
You'll encounter diverse landscapes—from open savannah and riverbanks to thunderous waterfalls—while searching for Africa's Big Five: rhino, lion, elephant, buffalo, and leopard. With expert local guides, comfortable lodges, and carefully paced activities, this safari offers an immersive yet accessible introduction to Uganda's rich wildlife and natural beauty.
Ideal for: First-time safari travelers, wildlife lovers, and photographers.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Entebbe / Kampala → Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary → Murchison Falls
Depart early and travel north through Uganda's scenic countryside toward Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, home to the country's only wild rhino population.
- Guided rhino tracking on foot with experienced rangers
- Learn about Uganda's rhino conservation and reintroduction program
- Lunch en route
Continue to Murchison Falls National Park, entering Uganda's largest protected area in the afternoon.
- Game drive en route to your lodge
- Possible sightings of giraffes, elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and predators
Meals: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Morning Game Drive & Nile Boat Safari
Begin the day with an early game drive on the northern bank of the Nile, the park's prime wildlife viewing area.
- Search for lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, giraffes, and hartebeest
- Excellent birdlife and open savannah scenery
After lunch, enjoy a relaxed boat safari on the Victoria Nile.
- Cruise upstream toward the base of Murchison Falls
- View hippos, Nile crocodiles, elephants, and water birds at close range
- Optional guided hike to the top of the falls for panoramic views
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Top of the Falls → Return to Entebbe / Kampala
After breakfast, visit the Top of Murchison Falls, where the Nile forces itself through a narrow gorge before plunging dramatically downstream.
- Short guided walk with scenic viewpoints
- Final wildlife sightings as you exit the park
Return to Entebbe or Kampala with lunch en route.
Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
End of Tour
✅ Trip Includes:
- Private safari transport in a 4x4 vehicle
- Professional English-speaking safari guide
- Rhino tracking permit at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
- Game drives in Murchison Falls National Park
- Nile boat safari to the base of the falls
- Park entrance fees
- 2 nights accommodation (mid-range / luxury options available)
- All meals as specified in the itinerary
- Bottled drinking water during the safari
❌ Trip Excludes:
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, etc.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Will I really see all of the Big Five on this safari?
This safari offers a strong chance to see all Big Five species, including rhinos at Ziwa Sanctuary. While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, Murchison Falls National Park is one of Uganda's best locations for lions, elephants, and buffaloes.
2. Is rhino tracking safe?
Yes. Rhino tracking at Ziwa is conducted on foot with armed rangers and trained guides who prioritize safety and responsible wildlife viewing.
3. What type of accommodation is used?
Accommodation is typically comfortable mid-range lodges or tented camps. Luxury upgrades are available on request.
4. What should I pack?
We recommend lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, a hat, and a camera with extra batteries.
5. Is this safari suitable for children?
Yes, the safari is suitable for children, though rhino tracking may have age restrictions depending on park regulations. Please inquire in advance.
6. Can this itinerary be customized?
Absolutely. The tour can be customized to include extra nights, different lodges, or alternative routes depending on your interests and travel dates.
7. When is the best time to do this safari?
The safari is available year-round, with dry seasons (June–September and December–February) offering the best wildlife viewing and road conditions.