UGANDA EXPERIENCE PHOTO SAFARI | UGANDA
On this immersive Uganda experience, your adventure begins at the tranquil Mabamba Swamp, where you’ll embark on full-day photography sessions guided by CNP Safaris. The swamp, a Ramsar site of international importance, is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to the iconic Shoebill Stork, African Spoonbills, and a host of other avian wonders. The African Shoebill is a rare and enigmatic bird, easily recognized by its large, shoe-shaped bill and towering stature. Found primarily in the wetlands of Uganda, this prehistoric-looking bird is a highly sought-after sighting for birdwatchers and photographers, adding an air of mystery and excitement to any wildlife adventure.
After soaking in the rich biodiversity of Mabamba, the journey takes you to Entebbe Palm Hotel before transferring to the vibrant Fort Portal, where you’ll explore the cultural site of Amabere Ga Nyina Mwiru and the Tooro Royal Palace, soaking in the local heritage and stunning landscapes.
Continue your adventure with game drives and a boat cruise in Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you’ll encounter diverse wildlife, including the rare tree-climbing lions and numerous bird species. The Kazinga Channel offers up-close views of hippos, elephants, and crocodiles, making it a highlight of the safari. End your journey with an unforgettable stay at Elephant Hab Hotel, nestled within the park, before returning to Entebbe with memories of Uganda’s unparalleled natural wonders.
Fort Motel, a boutique hotel established in 2006 in Fort Portal, offers luxurious accommodation with views of the Rwenzori Mountains from most rooms. Located in a prime residential area, the hotel caters to both business and leisure travelers with 16 plush rooms, a bar, and a restaurant overlooking the garden and swimming pool, ideal for open-air dining.
Blending world-class service with local hospitality, Fort Motel is built around a refurbished colonial house and features amenities like a spa, steam bath, and a menu crafted from fresh local ingredients. The hotel’s soul is in the quiet moments on the porch, watching the distant mountains, and enjoying the attentive care of highly trained staff.
The lodge provides a choice of dining experiences, whether in the elegant indoor dining room, poolside, or on the veranda of your cottage, all with breathtaking views of the park. The kitchen staff serves a mouth-watering menu of local and international specialities, with special barbecues prepared on the final evening to make your stay memorable. The cottages are designed in an indigenous African style, featuring king-size beds, luxurious decor, and private decks, ensuring guests experience both comfort and the beauty of the wild.
Mabamba Swamp: Spot the elusive Shoebill Stork and photograph a rich variety of bird species (300+), including four threatened species (Papyrus gonolek, Blue swallow, Pallid Harrier,White-winged Warbler), among the swamp’s lush vegetation.
Queen Elizabeth National Park: Capture iconic wildlife like tree-climbing lions, large herds of elephants, and over 95 species of mammals, alongside 600+ bird species, in one of Uganda’s most diverse ecosystems.
Diverse Wildlife: Uganda boasts a vast array of mammals and birds, making it a prime destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts seeking to capture the country’s extraordinary biodiversity.
Photography Focus: Daily guided sessions offer unparalleled opportunities to photograph Uganda’s stunning wildlife in their natural habitats, ensuring a rich and rewarding experience for all.
Day 1
- 03:10 Flight from O.R. Tambo to Kigal | Rwandair Express WB103 *recommended flight to book
- 07:00 Arrival at Kigali
- 08:40 Flight from Kigali to Entebbe | Rwandair Express WB434 *recommended flight to book
- 10:40 Arrival in Entebbe | Tour starts with CNP Safaris
- Road transfer to Mabamba Swamp for an afternoon photography session
- Transfer to Entebbe Palm Hotel
- Dinner at Entebbe Palm Hotel
- x1 night at Entebbe Palm Hotel
Day 2
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Full-day Mabamba Swamp (morning and afternoon photography sessions)
- Daily guidance from CNP Tour Leader
- x1 night at Entebbe Palm Hotel
Day 3
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Full-day Mabamba Swamp (morning and afternoon photography sessions)
- Daily guidance from CNP Tour Leader
- x1 night at Entebbe Palm HotelÂ
Day 4
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Road transfer from Entebbe to Fort Portal
- Photography stopovers during the transfer
- Daily guidance from CNP Tour Leader
- x1 night at Fort Motel
Day 5
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Morning Mabere Ga Nyina Mwiru, Fort PortalÂ
- Afternoon Tooro Royal Palace, Fort Portal
- Late afternoon transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Night Drive Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Daily guidance from CNP Tour Leader
- x1 night at Elephant Hab Hotel
Day 6
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Early morning game drive Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Afternoon boat cruise on Kazinga Channel
- Night game drive Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Daily guidance from CNP Tour Leader
- x1 night at Elephant Hab Hotel
Day 7
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Early morning game drive Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Night game drive Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Daily guidance from CNP Tour Leader
- x1 night at Elephant Hab Hotel
Day 8
- Breakfast
- Road from Queen Elizabeth National Park to Entebbe National Airport
- 21:30 from Entebbe to Kigali | Rwadair Express WB423 *recommended flight to book | Tour ends with CNP Safaris
- 21:25 Arrival in Kigali
- 22:30 Flight from Kigali to O.R. Tambo International Airport | Rwadair Express WB102 *recommended flight to book
- 02:20 Arrival at O.R. Tambo International Airport
Includes:
- All activities are included in the itinerary.
- All transportation is as per the itinerary.
- English-speaking tour guide.
- Accommodation as per itinerary.
- Entrance and Government Fees
- Vehicle hire, fuel and service charges
- Drinking water.
- Meals as per itinerary, including local beers and wines.
- Daily guidance from CNP Tour Leader
Excludes:
- Flights to Uganda *recommended flight listed in itinerary
- Uganda Visa Fee ($50.00)
- Expenses of a personal nature (incl. telephone calls and laundry).
- Staff gratuities.
- Drinks at the lodge.
- Visa applications and fees *if applicable.
- Medical Insurance and Travel Insurance.
