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5 Day Murchison Hot Air Balloon, Boat and Budongo Chimp Safari

Overview

This 5 day Murchison Falls hot air balloon, boat and Budongo chimpanzee safari is designed for those with ample time to fully immerse themselves in the beauty of the Murchison Falls Conservation Area. The safari combines thrilling experiences, including a hot air balloon ride offering a unique aerial view of the park, boat cruises to the base of the falls and chimpanzee trekking in Budongo Forest.

5 Day Murchison Hot Air Balloon, Boat and Budongo Chimp Safari Summary

Day 01: Begin your 5-day adventure
Day 02: Morning hot air balloon safari and afternoon boat cruise to the base of the falls
Day 03: Morning delta cruise and afternoon game drive
Day 04: Drive to Budongo Forest for afternoon chimpanzee trekking
Day 05: Return to Kampala/Entebbe

Tour Highlights

Experience the natural wonders of Uganda
The tour starts and ends in Entebbe
Visit Murchison Falls National Park
Activities include hot air balloon safari, boat cruises and chimpanzee trekking in Budongo Forest
Travel in open-sided and pop-up roof 4×4 vehicles
Airport or hotel transfers are included
Additional accommodation before and after the tour can be arranged at an extra cost

Things to Consider

Accommodation is included
Small group safari: Maximum of 6 people per group
Tours can depart any day and can be customized
Solo travelers are welcome
Age limit: 15 years and above

TRIP ITINERARY

Tour Plan

Day 1

Pickup from the Hotel and Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park

Your adventure begins with a pick-up by our tour guide, who will brief you on the details of your 5-day journey. You will then drive northwards through small towns and the Nakasongola plains. You may choose to visit the Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary to track the remaining rhinos. After lunch en route, you’ll continue to Murchison Falls National Park.

Accommodation: Baker’s Lodge, Paraa Safari Lodge, or Murchison River Lodge
Meals: All meals included

Day 2

Hot Air Balloon Safari and Boat Cruise to the Base of the Falls

Start your day with an early morning hot air balloon safari on the Paraa side of Murchison Falls National Park. If you are staying on the southern bank of the River Nile, you will be transferred by boat at around 5:00 am to join others on the Paraa side. After a short briefing, you’ll board the balloon for a breathtaking aerial experience, soaring above the park’s rivers, wildlife, and landscapes for 45 minutes to an hour. After landing, those who booked the full package will enjoy a bush breakfast. Later, you’ll embark on an afternoon boat cruise to the base of the falls, where the Nile forces its way through a narrow gorge, creating one of the most powerful waterfalls on Earth.

Accommodation: Baker’s Lodge, Paraa Safari Lodge, or Murchison River Lodge
Meals: All meals included

Day 3

Delta Cruise and Game Drive

After breakfast, embark on a boat cruise to the delta area. This cruise offers a unique wildlife viewing experience, distinct from the popular boat cruise to the base of the falls. You’ll likely see animals crossing or swimming in the Nile and have a good chance of spotting the rare shoebill stork. Bird lovers will appreciate the diversity in this area. Following the cruise, you may continue with a game drive on the Paraa side.

Accommodation: Baker’s Lodge, Paraa Safari Lodge, or Murchison River Lodge
Meals: All meals included

Day 4

To Budongo Forest via Top of the Falls

After breakfast, you’ll drive to Budongo Forest, stopping at the top of the falls for a view of the mighty Victoria Falls from above, offering a striking contrast to your experience from the base of the falls. Upon arrival at Budongo Eco Lodge, you’ll check in and proceed to the forest headquarters for a briefing before your chimpanzee trek. As you trek through the forest, you’ll spend an hour observing and photographing the chimpanzees once they are found.

Accommodation: Budongo Eco Lodge
Meals: All meals included

Day 5

Drive Back to Kampala/Entebbe

After breakfast, you will drive back to Kampala or Entebbe at a relaxed pace. Lunch will be served en route, with your arrival in the afternoon.

INCLUDES & EXCLUDES

Includes

Airport transfers on the first and last day
Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
Services of an English-speaking driver/guide
Fuel for the entire trip
Accommodation and meal plan as per the itinerary
All Park entrance fees
Drinking water while in the vehicle

Excludes

Pre and post tour accommodation in Entebbe or Kampala
International airfares
Uganda Visa (USD50.00 which can be paid on arrival at the Airport

TOUR MAP

GENERAL FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the safari package include?

Our safari packages are designed to cover the key services needed for a comfortable and hassle-free trip. Depending on the itinerary, this may include accommodation, transportation, park entrance fees, professional guide services, meals and scheduled activities. A detailed list of inclusions will always be provided before you confirm your booking.

How do I book a safari with Trek Africa Gorillas?

Booking your safari is simple. Contact us with your preferred travel dates, number of travelers and the safari package you are interested in. Once availability is confirmed, we will send you a quotation and payment details. Your booking is secured once the required deposit has been received.

Can I customize my safari itinerary?

Yes. Every traveler has different interests, budgets and travel styles. Whether you would like to upgrade your accommodation, spend additional nights in a destination or add activities such as chimpanzee tracking, cultural visits or wildlife safaris, we can tailor the itinerary to suit your needs.

Are gorilla trekking permits included in the safari price?

Most of our gorilla trekking safaris include the cost of the gorilla permit. The permit is one of the most important parts of your trip and will be clearly listed in your quotation. If a permit is not included, we will explain this before you make your booking.

How far in advance should I book gorilla trekking permits?

We recommend booking gorilla permits at least 3 to 6 months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the peak seasons from June to September or December to February. Permits are limited and can sell out quickly, particularly in popular trekking sectors.

What is the best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking is available throughout the year in Uganda. Many travelers prefer the dry seasons from June to September and December to February because the trails are generally easier to navigate. However, the rainy seasons can also be rewarding, with fewer visitors and lush green scenery in the forest.

How difficult is gorilla trekking?

The difficulty of gorilla trekking varies depending on the location of the gorilla family being visited. Some treks may take less than an hour while others can last several hours through steep and forested terrain. A moderate level of fitness is recommended, but people of different ages and fitness levels successfully complete gorilla treks every day.

What should I pack for gorilla trekking?

For gorilla trekking, we recommend bringing sturdy hiking boots, long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, a lightweight rain jacket, gardening gloves, insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, drinking water and a camera. Comfortable outdoor clothing is highly recommended as conditions in the forest can change quickly.

Do I need a visa to visit Uganda?

Most international travelers require a visa to enter Uganda. Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality, and our team will be happy to provide guidance on the application process and entry requirements before your trip.

What type of accommodation can I expect during my safari?

We offer carefully selected budget, mid-range and luxury accommodation options across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania. Our lodges and camps are chosen for their comfort, quality service, excellent locations and easy access to major safari attractions.

Are airport transfers included in the safari package?

Airport transfers are included in many of our safari packages. If they are not included, we can arrange private transfers for you. We will clearly explain all transportation arrangements before your arrival.

Is travel insurance required for a safari?

While travel insurance is not always mandatory, it is strongly recommended for all travelers. Comprehensive coverage can help protect you against unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, travel delays and lost luggage.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellation terms vary depending on the safari package, accommodation providers and permits involved. If you need to cancel your trip, please contact us as soon as possible and we will explain the options available based on our booking terms and conditions.

Can children join a safari in Uganda?

Many of our wildlife safaris are suitable for families traveling with children. However, some activities have age restrictions. For example, participants must be at least 15 years old to take part in gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda.

Can solo travelers book a safari?

Yes. We welcome solo travelers and can arrange both private and group safari experiences. Whether you are planning a gorilla trekking tour, wildlife safari or multi-country adventure, we can create an itinerary that matches your travel preferences.

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