3-Day Murchison Falls Safari – Student Package

Student Package – Group Safari

Tour Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights

Safari Overview

This 3-day student safari delivers Uganda’s ultimate wildlife adventure rhino tracking on foot, a boat cruise to the base of Africa’s most powerful waterfall, and game drives across the savannah plains of Murchison Falls National Park. Designed specifically for student groups, this package offers an affordable yet unforgettable introduction to Uganda’s northern safari circuit. Begin with an exhilarating walk among endangered white rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, then journey to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and most spectacular protected area. Explore the savannah in search of elephants, lions, giraffes, and buffaloes, then cruise along the Nile to the thunderous base of Murchison Falls. This is Uganda at its wildest big game, big water, and big memories.

Safari Highlights

• Day 1: Transfer to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Rhino tracking then Transfer to Murchison Falls, Evening game drive

• Day 2: Morning game drive then Afternoon Nile boat cruise to the base of Murchison Falls

• Day 3: Visit the Top of Murchison Falls then Return to Kampala

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Transfer to Murchison Falls then Evening Game Drive

Your safari begins with a morning pickup from Kampala, where your professional safari guide will greet you. After a short briefing about the journey ahead, you will begin the drive north towards Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in Uganda where wild rhinos can be seen.

The drive takes approximately 3–4 hours, passing through Uganda’s lush countryside rolling hills, rural villages, and the vast landscapes of the central region. Upon arrival at Ziwa, you will participate in the exciting experience of tracking white rhinos on foot, accompanied by trained rangers. This is not a drive-by safari you walk through the bush, following tracks and signs to locate these prehistoric giants. Standing just metres away from a three-tonne rhino is humbling and unforgettable.

The sanctuary protects over 7,000 hectares of natural habitat and is home not only to rhinos but also to antelopes, warthogs, bushbucks, and over 300 bird species. The rhino population here started with only six animals in 2005 and has now grown to more than 40 individuals. The long-term conservation goal is to eventually reintroduce rhinos into Uganda’s national parks where they once lived.

After the rhino tracking experience and lunch, you will continue your journey to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and most spectacular national park. The park covers over 3,800 square kilometres of savannah, woodland, and riverine forest, hosting 76 mammal species and over 450 bird species. In the evening, you will enjoy a game drive, when many animals are most active. This is an ideal time to observe predators beginning their nightly hunts while herbivores gather in open savannah areas. You may spot elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and antelopes against the stunning backdrop of the setting sun.

After the game drive, you will check in at Heritage Safari Lodge for dinner and overnight.

Activities:

• Transfer from Kampala to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

• Rhino tracking on foot

• Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park

• Evening game drive

Accommodation: Heritage Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 2: Morning Game Drive then Afternoon Nile Boat Cruise

Wake early for a morning game drive, one of the best times to see wildlife. The cool temperatures and soft morning light make this the ideal moment for photography as animals begin their day. This is when the park is most alive predators are still active, and herbivores gather in large herds.

During the drive, you may encounter:

• Elephants

• Giraffes

• Buffaloes

• Lions

• Leopards (if you’re lucky)

• Antelopes (Uganda kobs, waterbucks, bushbucks)

• Various bird species

Your guide will navigate the park’s tracks, adjusting the route based on wildlife movements and recent sightings. The open savannah, framed by the Nile River in the distance, is the perfect backdrop for photography. After returning to the lodge for lunch and relaxation, you will head out for an afternoon boat cruise on the Nile River towards the base of the famous Murchison Falls. This is one of the highlights of the park and one of Uganda’s most iconic experiences. The cruise takes approximately 2–3 hours, gliding along the river as you pass through one of Africa’s most concentrated wildlife areas. Along the riverbanks you may see:

• Large pods of hippos grunting and splashing

• Nile crocodiles basking in the sun

• Elephants and buffaloes coming to drink

• Giraffes grazing along the shore

• Numerous water birds fish eagles, kingfishers, herons, and cormorants

The boat will take you close to the base of the powerful Murchison Falls, where the Nile squeezes through a narrow 7-metre gorge before plunging dramatically 43 metres downstream. The spray rises, the roar echoes, and the power of the water is overwhelming. This is nature at its most dramatic.

After the cruise, you will return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Activities:

• Early morning game drive

• Afternoon Nile boat cruise to the base of Murchison Falls

Accommodation: Heritage Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Visit the Top of the Falls – Return to Kampala

On your final day, you will visit the Top of Murchison Falls, one of the most impressive natural attractions in Uganda.

Here you will witness the Nile River forcefully squeezing through a narrow 7-metre gorge before plunging over 40 metres down the cliffs. The sound of the rushing water, the rising mist, and the sheer force of the river create a spectacular scene. This is an excellent opportunity for photographs and a moment to reflect on the power of nature.

After enjoying this breathtaking view, you will begin the journey back to Kampala, passing through Uganda’s countryside and arriving in the afternoon. Your guide will ensure a comfortable drive with stops along the way if necessary.

Your safari concludes with unforgettable memories of Uganda’s wildlife, landscapes, and adventure.

Activities:

• Visit the Top of Murchison Falls

• Return transfer to Kampala

Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch

Important Information for Students

Rhino Tracking

Rhino tracking at Ziwa is a walking activity. Wear comfortable closed-toe shoes, long pants, and neutral-coloured clothing. Follow the ranger’s instructions at all times and maintain a safe distance from the rhinos.

Boat Cruise

The boat cruise is approximately 2–3 hours. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a camera with a zoom lens. Binoculars are highly recommended for birdwatching and spotting wildlife along the riverbanks.

Game Drives

Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for game viewing. Bring warm layers for the morning drive (temperatures can be cool) and a camera to capture the stunning savannah light.

What to Pack

• Long pants and long-sleeved shirts (neutral colors preferred)

• Sturdy, comfortable walking shoes

• Rain jacket

• Sunscreen and insect repellent

• Hat and sunglasses

• Binoculars and camera

• Bottled water

Health

Consult your doctor about malaria prophylaxis, yellow fever vaccination, and other recommended travel vaccinations before your trip.

Safari Inclusions

• All activities unless stated as optional

• All park entry fees

• Rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

• Boat cruise on the Nile River

• Game drives as mentioned in the itinerary

• Visit to the Top of Murchison Falls

• Professional English-speaking safari guide

• 4×4 safari vehicle and fuel

• All accommodation during the safari

• All meals as specified in the itinerary

• Bottled drinking water during the trip

• All road transport

• Government taxes and park fees

Safari Exclusions

• International flights

• Visa fees

• Travel insurance (mandatory)

• Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, drinks)

• Tips for guides and staff (recommended $10 per person per day)

• Items of a personal nature

• Accommodation in Kampala before and after the safari

 Email: usokeexplorer@gmail.com or visit our Website: usokeexplorers.com and book your student trip with us