All self-drive safaris start with determining the type of car you will use, depending on the destinations you plan to visit. This is because some safari destinations require a 4×4 vehicle, while others can be accessed with a simple 2×4 vehicle. So it’s better to know the road conditions of the destinations you’re planning to visit before settling on which vehicle to use on your self-drive safari.

This 10-day safari will take you to different safari destinations in Uganda, and it will start from Entebbe, travel to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Murchison Falls National Park, then travel to Kidepo Valley National Park and others. And since the safari involves visiting National parks, a 4×4 safari vehicle is a must.

The safari will start with hiring a safari vehicle and have a confirmation email the booking is reserved and on the day of your arrival at the airport, you will find when the driver from the company already waiting for you to brief you about the car and doing some simple paper work and then later you will be set to start your self-drive adventure in Uganda.

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe International Airport

Upon your arrival at the airport, you will be welcomed by a driver from your rental company. They will assist you with your luggage and accompany you to the car. After inspecting the vehicle and completing the necessary paperwork, you’ll be ready to begin your safari adventure.

Your safari will start with driving to the north part of Kampala, Uganda’s capital, to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for Rhino Trekking, where you will enter the territory of the southern white rhinos on foot, accompanied by a trained ranger who will guide you through the trekking process.

This experience offers a rare chance to observe these majestic and endangered animals in their natural environment. At Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the rhinos roam freely across 27 square miles. As a result, visitors often need to drive to the rhinos’ current location before proceeding with the trek on foot. Then, after visiting these amazing animals, you will transfer to Masindi Town, where you will have dinner and overnight.

Day 2: Continue to Murchison Falls National Park

Your second day will start with an early morning breakfast and then continue to enter Murchison Falls National Park and begin your day safari with a sunrise game drive across the northern savannah, where giraffes, elephants, and lions roam freely. Mid-morning, a boat cruise along the Nile up to the bottom of the Murchison Falls offers close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and vibrant birdlife. After lunch, a hike to the top of the falls rewards you with panoramic views and the roar of cascading water. As the sun sets, the park’s golden light casts a magical glow over an unforgettable wilderness experience. This amazing experience in the park, you will return to the lodge in the park for dinner and overnight.

Day 3: Transfer to Kidepo Valley National Park

Today, you’ll begin with an early morning breakfast and prepare to leave Murchison Falls National Park for your transfer to Kidepo Valley National Park, located in the northeastern corner of the country. The park is approximately 320 km from Murchison Falls, and the drive typically takes around 7 hours.

To make the most of the journey, it’s advisable to set off early—around 09:00—to reach Kitgum town by lunchtime and enjoy an en-route meal before continuing to the park. You’ll arrive in the evening and check into your lodge for relaxation, dinner, and an overnight stay.

Day 4: Into the Heart of the Savannah

The morning will start with breakfast and an exciting game drive across the wide-open plains. Watch lions, cheetahs, elephants, and giraffes roam freely through the golden grass. The wild beauty of Africa surrounds you. Afternoon, you will return to the lodge for lunch and later hike to the highest viewpoint in Kidepo for sweeping views of the park. Spot the Narus River winding through the landscape, bringing life to the animals and plants below. In the evening, you will enjoy a peaceful sunset as the sky glows with orange and purple. Dine under the stars, listening to the sounds of the wild.

Day 5: Discovering the Narus Valley and Culture

The day will start with a morning breakfast at the lodge, and then get ready for a walk through the Narus Valley, full of birds and wildlife. Watch colorful birds fly and other wildlife in the area. Take in the sights and sounds of this lively area. After you return to the lodge for lunch as you get ready for an afternoon visit to the nearby Karamajong village to learn about local traditions and daily life. Meet the people and discover their deep connection with the land.

In the evening, you will relax and think back on your journey. The beauty and spirit of Kidepo will stay with you long after you leave.

Day 6: Transfer to Sipi Falls

The day will start with an early morning breakfast at the lodge, and then get ready to transfer from Kidepo Valley National Park to Sipi Falls. The journey offers a scenic adventure through Uganda’s remote northeast to the lush slopes of Mount Elgon. The journey covers approximately 330 kilometers and typically takes 7 to 8 hours. The route winds through Kaabong, Kotido, Moroto, and Nakapiripirit, offering glimpses of the rugged Karamoja landscape and the Pian Upe Game Reserve.

For a relaxing break, Moroto town is a great spot for an en-route lunch. You’ll find local restaurants and lodges like Mount Moroto Hotel or Karamoja Safari Camp, which offer hearty meals and a chance to stretch your legs.

You will reach Sipi in late evening, and you’ll have several charming options for an overnight stay. Highly rated lodges include:
– Rafiki Lodge Sipi – known for its panoramic views and cozy waterfall cottages
– Sipi River Lodge – nestled near the falls with a tranquil garden setting
– Sipi Heritage Lodge – a mid-range option with a warm, rustic feel.

Day 7: Explore Sipi Falls

The day will start with breakfast at the lodge, followed by an exploration of this amazing place. Sipi Falls is a breathtaking trio of waterfalls nestled in the foothills of Mount Elgon, in Kapchorwa District.

You will start with a hike to the Three Falls: Each waterfall has its charm, ranging from 65m to 100m high. The hike takes about 3 hours and winds through coffee farms and local villages.

Cultural Encounters: Meet the Sabiny and Bagisu communities and explore their traditions.
After this amazing experience, you will return to the lodge for dinner and overnight

Day 8: Transfer to Jinja

After breakfast at the lodge, you will get ready and a relaxed drive from Sipi Falls to Jinja takes about 3 hours, covering roughly 197 kilometers via the Jinja–Mbale Road. The route winds through lush countryside, passing towns like Mbale and Iganga. Expect scenic views of Mount Elgon’s foothills, roadside markets, and sugarcane plantations. It’s a smooth journey on mostly paved roads, with opportunities to stop for snacks or photos along the way. You will reach Jinja at around midday for lunch at any restaurant in the town, as you get ready for a simple Jinja city tour and a relaxed evening at your lodge.

Day 9: Explore Jinja Town and Its Attractions

The day will start with breakfast at the lodge, and get ready for a busy day, Jinja tour early at 7:00 AM by going on the source of the Nile Boat Cruise. Begin with a serene ride to the source of the Nile. It’s peaceful, photogenic, and a great way to kick off your day.

After enjoying a boat cruise to the source of the Nile, you will later embark on white Water Rafting or Tubing. If you’re up for adrenaline, go rafting on the Nile. For a gentler thrill, tubing is a fun alternative.

After this amazing experience, you will return to Jinja town for lunch at The Haven or Jinja Nile Resort. Enjoy riverside dining with stunning views.

After lunch, you can choose to go for a horseback ride or Quad Biking: Explore the lush countryside and local villages with a guided ride.
Then, after you visit the Itanda Falls or Busowoko Falls, these powerful waterfalls are perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

In the evening, you will have dinner at 2Friends Restaurant or The Bourbon: Great food, cozy ambiance, and a chance to unwind before the night begins.

In the evening, you can choose to have a few hours and enjoy Jinja nightlife by visiting Digbick for a lively spot with music, drinks, and a vibrant crowd. Perfect for dancing or socializing. Or you can visit the Atmosphere Lounge: For a more relaxed vibe, this lounge offers cocktails and chill music in a stylish setting.

Day 10: Return to Kampala

On the last day, since you got a very busy and long 9th day, today you will wake up a bit late at around 10 AM and have breakfast at the lodge before you get ready to transfer back to Kampala with an en-route lunch in Kampala before you continue to Entebbe for dinner and overnight or to the airport to catch your flight back home.