6-Day Uganda West Nile & Madi Wildlife Reserves Safari
Two little-visited reserves and the quiet landscapes of Uganda's far northwest, for travellers who prefer off-the-map places.
Go beyond the expected.
A remote safari to the West Nile region, following the Nile north from Murchison Falls to Ajai and East Madi wildlife reserves. It suits adventurous travellers with realistic expectations: reserves here are quiet, facilities are simple and the appeal is space, birdlife and meeting communities.
- Cross the Nile and travel through the north bank of Murchison Falls National Park
- Birdwatching and walks in Ajai Wildlife Reserve
- Explore East Madi Wildlife Reserve near the Nile
- Community meetings in the West Nile region
- Wide, uncrowded landscapes
What's included
Included
- All accommodation as specified
- Private 4x4 safari vehicle with driver-guide
- Park and reserve entrance fees for the activities listed
- Guided activities as listed in the day-by-day itinerary
- Meals as specified in the day-by-day itinerary
Not included
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal expenses
- Alcoholic beverages
Confirm current park fees, permit availability, accommodation and pricing before booking, since these can change with season and demand. Access to remote areas should be confirmed before travel.
Day by day
Day 1 Arrival in Entebbe
Entebbe
Arrive and transfer to your accommodation, with time to rest and meet your guide for a briefing on the days ahead.
Day 2 To Murchison
Masindi and Murchison Falls National Park
Drive north to Masindi and on to Murchison Falls National Park, with a game drive in the late afternoon.
Day 3 North across the Nile
Murchison Falls National Park
Cross the Nile by ferry and travel through the park's northern sector, with game viewing en route, before continuing towards the West Nile.
Day 4 Ajai Wildlife Reserve
Ajai Wildlife Reserve
A day in and around Ajai Wildlife Reserve, with guided walks and birdwatching. Facilities are simple, so we confirm access and local guides in advance.
Day 5 East Madi Wildlife Reserve
East Madi Wildlife Reserve
Travel east towards the Nile and East Madi Wildlife Reserve for a walk or drive and time to meet local people, before the long return south.
Day 6 Return and departure
Entebbe
A long drive back to Entebbe for your onward flight, or a charter flight where available.
Ready to plan this Safari?
Start with the places and experiences that matter to you. We will shape the Safari around them.
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Questions about 6-Day Uganda West Nile & Madi Wildlife Reserves Safari
Do I need a visa to visit Uganda?
Most nationalities need a visa for Uganda, commonly available as an e-visa applied for online before travel. Requirements vary by nationality, so check the current official guidance for your passport well ahead of your safari.
How many days do I need in Uganda?
A focused gorilla trekking safari can work in as few as 4–5 days, but 8–12 days lets you combine gorilla trekking with chimpanzee tracking, a savannah park such as Queen Elizabeth or Murchison Falls, and some rest time — we shape the exact length around what you want to include.
How many national parks does Uganda have?
Uganda protects its landscapes and wildlife across ten national parks, ranging from the rainforest of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (home to mountain gorillas) to the savanna of Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls, Uganda’s largest park.
How much does a gorilla trekking permit cost in Uganda?
Uganda gorilla trekking permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and priced separately from your safari cost. Permit prices and availability change periodically, so we confirm the current official rate and secure your permit as part of planning your safari — book several months ahead where possible, since permits for popular dates sell out.
What is the best time to visit Uganda?
Uganda can be visited year-round. The drier months (roughly December–February and June–September) are generally easiest for trekking and game viewing, while the wetter months bring lush scenery, fewer crowds and lower lodge rates. Gorilla trekking is possible in any month, since it happens in rainforest regardless of season.
What wildlife is Uganda known for?
Uganda is best known for mountain gorillas — it holds roughly half of the world’s remaining population — alongside strong chimpanzee tracking in Kibale, tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and over 1,000 recorded bird species, an exceptional figure for a country of its size.