7 days Murchison Falls Big 5 safari & Rubalika community encounter
This seven-day safari adventure in Uganda offers an extraordinary mix of wildlife encounters, cultural experiences, and serene relaxation surrounded by natural beauty and vibrant community encounters.
Your expedition begins with a visit to the historic Lubiri Palace in Mengo, a symbol of the rich heritage and royal legacy of the Buganda Kingdom. The palace’s, intriguing history and cultural significance offer a fascinating glimpse into Uganda’s storied past.
Your journey continues to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where you’ll experience the thrill of tracking the majestic rhinoceros in their natural habitat. This conservation area is the only place in Uganda where you can see these magnificent creatures in the wild, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
Next, you’ll venture to the awe-inspiring Murchison Falls National Park. Here, the mighty Nile River surges through a narrow gorge, creating the spectacular Murchison Falls, one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world. You’ll witness this natural wonder from the top, feeling the raw power and beauty of the falls up close.
The adventure doesn’t stop there. A game drive through the park will bring you face-to-face with a diverse array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and buffaloes, roaming freely across the savannah. Following this, a serene boat cruise along the Nile offers a unique perspective on the park’s inhabitants. As you glide along the river, you’ll have the chance to observe hippos, crocodiles, and an abundance of bird species in their natural environment.
The journey then leads you to Rubalika Safari Lodge and Farm, where you’ll enjoy a memorable stay within the local community. This unique lodge offers an authentic glimpse into rural Ugandan life, with opportunities to engage in agricultural projects, farm activities, and community interactions. Here, you can experience the daily rhythms of life through the eyes of the locals, from tending crops to learning traditional crafts.
Rubalika is not just a place to stay; it’s a haven of tranquillity where you can unwind and relax. Enjoy high tea and sundowners by the riverside, savoring the serene ambiance and breathtaking views. The farm lodge, with its vast landscapes and welcoming atmosphere, provides the perfect setting for reflection and relaxation after days filled with adventure.
This safari experience is crafted to give you lasting memories and a deep appreciation for Uganda’s wonders, warmness, and beauty.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Visit Lubiri Palace, track Rhinos then drive to Murchison Falls National Park
Depart from Entebbe and drive to Kampala to visit the Lubiri Palace where you will get an opportunity to connect with the historical milestones that paved the way for Uganda’s independence, providing a deeper understanding of the nation’s cultural identity and resilience. You will then embark on a scenic journey towards Murchison Falls National Park.
Along the way, stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for an exhilarating white rhino tracking experience. Witness these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat, guided by experienced rangers.
Continue the drive to Murchison Falls National Park where you will arrive at your lodge to check in and have a well-deserved rest.
Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Pakuba Lodge
Day 2: Morning game drive, visit to the top of the Falls and afternoon boat cruise.
Start the day with an early morning game drive, immersing yourself in the diverse landscapes of the park. Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, explore the vast savannahs, searching for the park’s abundant wildlife. Spot majestic elephants, giraffes and herds of buffalos as you search for lions and leopards. Bird enthusiasts will also have the opportunity to observe a wide variety of avian species.
Drive to the top of Murchison Falls and feel splashes of water on your face on a hot day coming from the river as it squeezes through the gorge to form these thunderous waterfalls. Enjoy the views and marvel at the power of nature.
Enjoy your lunch back at the lodge.
In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling boat cruise along the iconic Nile River. Glide through the tranquil waters, passing pods of hippos, basking crocodiles, and a vibrant array of bird life. Marvel at the rich biodiversity that thrives along the riverbanks and capture stunning photographs of the wildlife.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Pakuba Lodge
Day 3: Drive to Rubalika Safari Lodge
Today, you will begin your journey to Rubalika Safari Lodge and Farm. En route, you will stop at a tea estate, where you’ll have the opportunity to interact with farmers as they harvest tea. You can even try your hand at tea picking, gaining a unique insight into the local agricultural practices. Upon arriving at Rubalika Safari Lodge and Farm, you’ll receive a warm welcome, setting the perfect tone for your stay. Start with a delightful ‘High Tea’ by the serene banks of the River Dura, enjoying a selection of teas and pastries.
At 20:00, indulge in a sumptuous three-course dinner featuring the rich flavours of Ugandan cuisine. End your evening around a campfire under the stars, where local artists will captivate you with traditional music, dance, and drama, creating unforgettable memories of your time at Rubalika.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Rubalika Safari Lodge and Farm
Day 4: Rubalika Farm Tour
Begin your day at Rubalika Safari Lodge with a hearty buffet breakfast, preparing you for a day filled with exploration and relaxation. Embark on a guided nature walk and farm tour where you’ll delve into the intricacies of farming crops such as vanilla, avocado, cocoa, matoke and the other farm’s agricultural activities.
Explore the lodge’s botanical garden to learn about traditional and medicinal plants indigenous to Uganda. Experience the fascinating process of making banana juice and Uganda’s renowned Waragi Gin (‘War Gin’) with an opportunity to sample these local delicacies.
As the day winds down, unwind and soak in the tranquillity of the lodge’s grounds, perhaps indulging in a soothing massage by the banks of the River Dura. In the evening, gather around a campfire for lively conversations before enjoying a sumptuous three-course dinner, ending the day with a well-deserved rest at Rubalika Safari Lodge.
After an enriching day of activities, unwind in the tranquil ambience of the lodge grounds. Relax by the River Dura, perhaps indulging in a rejuvenating massage. Later, gather around a campfire for a cozy evening, enjoying a delicious three-course dinner under the starry sky. Reflect on the day’s adventures before retiring for a well-deserved rest at Rubalika Safari Lodge.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Rubalika Safari Lodge and Farm
Day 5: Local Living Experience
Start your day early with a Jungle/Buffet breakfast at Rubalika Safari Lodge, setting the tone for an immersive African food experience. Today, you will have the opportunity to engage with a local women’s group in the preparation of their traditional lunch, witnessing and participating in every step from harvest to cooking.
You will also delve into a series of local community experiences. Visit and be warmly hosted by a Ugandan rural family to gain insights into their daily life. Explore local trades, including visits to grocery shops and witnessing the preparation of Uganda’s famous Rolex at Rolex hubs. Take leisurely village walks to soak in the rural atmosphere and visit places of spiritual significance, such as traditional healers and churches.
Depending on timing and availability, engage in community activities like visiting local schools (during term times) and reading storybooks to pupils and young adults. Experience traditional fishing using ancient methods and hooks, connecting with local fishing traditions and techniques, or participate in farm work alongside farm workers which may involve caring for animals, digging, weeding, harvesting, and even pollinating vanilla plants. These enriching activities are all conveniently located within a 2km radius of Rubalika Safari Lodge, ensuring a culturally immersive and memorable experience during your stay.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Rubalika Safari Lodge and Farm
Day 6: Crater Lakes and Cultural Exploration in Fort Portal
Start your day at the Lodge with a hearty breakfast, fueling you for the day’s adventures. Explore the diverse local landscapes and geography, including visits to Mwita and Mungu villages renowned for their twin craters and a valley of magnetic fields, often referred to as our local ‘Bermuda Triangle’.
Continue your journey with a visit to Mahoma Falls, where you can enjoy a rejuvenating natural bath beneath the cascading waters. Afterwards, embark on a tour of Fort Portal, Uganda’s ‘Tourism Capital City’, visiting iconic sites such as the King of Toro’s Palace, the mystical Amabere Ga Nyina Mwriru Caves, the waterfall, and nearby explosion craters.
If time allows, enjoy a scenic hike around Lake Kigere or visit the therapeutic Sempaya hot springs.
Return to Rubalika Safari Lodge later in the day for a well-deserved rest, reflecting on the day’s exploration and relaxation amidst the lodge’s serene surroundings.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Rubalika Safari Lodge and Farm
Day 7: Drive back from Rubalika Village to Entebbe
After a leisurely breakfast by the riverside, at the lodge, bid farewell to Rubalika Village as you begin your return journey to Entebbe.
Arrive in Entebbe, concluding your unforgettable 7-day safari. Cherish the memories of wildlife encounters, natural wonders, and the beauty of Uganda’s wilderness and the welcoming people. The driver will drop you off at the airport for your flight out of Uganda.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: None
