9-Day Botswana & Uganda Safari

Embark on a transformative Botswana Uganda Safari that seamlessly blends two of Africa’s most iconic landscapes and wildlife experiences. This 9-Day Botswana & Uganda Safari itinerary offers the perfect balance of adventure, wildlife encounters, and cultural immersion, beginning in Botswana’s spectacular Okavango Delta and Chobe National Park and concluding in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience.

Botswana, renowned for its pristine wilderness and water-rich ecosystems, provides a quintessential Botswana Wildlife Safari. Visitors explore the delta’s labyrinthine channels by mokoro, track elephants across floodplains, and witness lions, leopards, and hippos in their natural habitats. Guided walking safaris and game drives offer intimate encounters with Botswana’s biodiversity, while local community engagement highlights sustainable conservation practices and cultural richness, reflecting aspects of a Botswana Cultural Safari.

Uganda complements Botswana’s vast landscapes with lush tropical rainforests. The Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to endangered mountain gorillas. Trekking these magnificent creatures provides a rare and deeply emotional wildlife encounter. Travelers may also engage with local Batwa communities, gaining insight into traditional lifestyles and conservation efforts, providing a holistic 9-Day Botswana & Uganda Safari Holiday experience.

This journey is ideal for travelers seeking a combination of adventure, wildlife, and cultural depth. Each day balances exploration with relaxation, ensuring immersive experiences while allowing time for reflection on Africa’s remarkable ecological and cultural diversity. This itinerary is suitable for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and travelers seeking both the thrill of 9-Day Botswana & Uganda Safari and the intimacy of gorilla encounters.

 

Detailed 9-Day Botswana & Uganda Safari

Day 1: Arrival in Maun, Botswana & Transfer to the Okavango Delta

Your 9-Day Botswana & Uganda Safari journey begins with arrival at Maun International Airport, the gateway to Botswana’s Okavango Delta. Upon landing, you will clear customs and meet your safari guide for a scenic transfer to a lodge nestled amidst the delta’s serene waterways. The drive offers your first taste of Botswana’s varied landscapes, transitioning from dry savannah plains to lush channels fringed by papyrus and acacia trees.

The Okavango Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the most unique ecosystems in Africa. Seasonal flooding creates a mosaic of islands, lagoons, and grasslands, supporting elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and an array of birdlife. The lodge provides a tranquil retreat, with opportunities for short nature walks to observe smaller fauna, such as monitor lizards and colorful birds, in their natural habitat.

As the day turns to evening, the sky lights up in brilliant hues of orange and red. Guests can enjoy an optional sundowner cruise, drifting along calm channels in traditional mokoros (dugout canoes). This peaceful 9-Day Botswana & Uganda Safari journey allows you to observe wildlife up close elephants quenching their thirst at the water’s edge, hippos surfacing, and birds settling for the night. This introduction sets the stage for a true Botswana Wildlife Safari, combining adventure, relaxation, and a profound sense of connection to nature. Dinner at the lodge is served under a blanket of stars, offering an authentic taste of Botswana’s culinary delights while reflecting on the adventure ahead.

  • Main Destination: Okavango Delta, Botswana
  • Accommodation: Delta Eco-Lodge – Mid-range
  • Meals: Dinner included
  • Drinks: Not included

 

Day 2: Game Drives and Sunset Mokoro in the Okavango Delta

Wake to the sounds of the delta’s wildlife as the first rays of sunlight illuminate winding waterways and lush floodplains. Today’s adventures include early morning game drives, allowing close encounters with elephants, giraffes, lechwe, and buffalo. Expert 9-Day Botswana & Uganda Safari guides share insights on tracking, animal behavior, and the ecological significance of Botswana’s wetlands. These experiences highlight the unmatched beauty of a Botswana Wildlife Safari Tour, offering both excitement and education.

In the afternoon, embark on a mokoro excursion through calm delta channels. Moving silently past papyrus reed beds, you experience the delta from an intimate perspective, observing hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitats. The tranquility of this journey provides contrast to the morning’s game drive, emphasizing the diversity of Botswana’s ecosystems and the immersive nature of Botswana Safaris.

As the sun sets, witness the golden hues reflecting off the waterways during an optional sundowner, where guides share stories of wildlife, local traditions, and the intricate balance of life in the delta. Returning to the lodge, guests are treated to a riverside dinner under a starlit African sky. This day’s combination of active wildlife tracking, scenic mokoro excursions, and educational insights ensures that the Botswana Wildlife Safari experience is as profound as it is unforgettable.

  • Main Destination: Okavango Delta, Botswana
  • Accommodation: Delta Eco-Lodge – Mid-range
  • Meals: Breakfast & Dinner included
  • Drinks: Not included

 

Day 3: Moremi Game Reserve and Adventure in the Untamed Botswana Wilderness

Today, travel deeper into the Okavango Delta to the renowned Moremi Game Reserve, a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts seeking encounters with predators and plains game alike. The reserve is home to lions, leopards, cheetahs, and African wild dogs, as well as elephants, giraffes, and buffalo. Early morning game drives across floodplains and mopane woodlands reveal the unique interactions of this diverse ecosystem.

Moremi’s mosaic of lagoons, palm islands, and dense woodlands supports both rare and common species. Guests may witness a lion pride resting under a shady tree or elephants moving in family groups along water channels. Walking safaris provide an alternative experience, allowing travelers to explore the reserve’s flora, track smaller animals, and observe the ecological balance up close. Knowledgeable guides explain behavioral patterns, survival strategies, and conservation challenges, reflecting the philosophy behind 9-Day Botswana & Uganda Safari.

Afternoon leisure time allows reflection, photography, and relaxation. Sunset game drives present opportunities to observe animals congregating near waterholes, creating vivid wildlife encounters. Dinner at the lodge is often served under open skies, accompanied by the sounds of the wild. The day culminates in a profound appreciation for Botswana’s untamed wilderness and its role as a global wildlife haven, marking Moremi Game Reserve as a highlight of your 9-Day Botswana & Uganda Safari journey.

  • Main Destination: Moremi Game Reserve, Okavango Delta
  • Accommodation: Moremi Safari Camp – Mid-range
  • Meals: Breakfast & Dinner included
  • Drinks: Not included

 

Day 4: Khwai Community Area – Walking Safaris and Local Engagement

Depart Moremi to explore the Khwai Community Area, a region celebrated for its community-led conservation initiatives and intimate wildlife experiences. Walking safaris here provide unparalleled encounters with elephants, buffalo, and lions, as expert 9-Day Botswana & Uganda Safari guides track wildlife across savannahs and riverine forests. The proximity to nature allows guests to observe subtle behaviors and interactions, highlighting the delicate balance of this ecosystem within a Botswana Wildlife Tour framework.

Beyond wildlife, Khwai is culturally significant. The community engages visitors in traditional practices, crafts, and storytelling, offering insights into the ways humans coexist with wildlife. These experiences reflect Botswana Cultural Safaris, blending conservation with cultural understanding. Villagers may demonstrate basket weaving, traditional dances, or explain how seasonal changes impact both human and animal life.

Afternoon game drives or mokoro trips ensure that each visitor experiences Botswana’s wilderness from multiple perspectives. Sunset photography sessions provide dramatic visuals of elephants silhouetted against fiery skies. Dinner at the lodge combines regional flavors with storytelling, immersing guests in both natural and cultural landscapes. The day concludes with a profound sense of connection to wildlife, local communities, and the vast wilderness that defines Botswana Safaris.

  • Main Destination: Khwai Community Area, Okavango Delta
  • Accommodation: Khwai River Lodge – Mid-range
  • Meals: Breakfast & Dinner included
  • Drinks: Not included

 

Day 5: Chobe National Park – Elephants and River Safaris

Travel to Chobe National Park, renowned for its dense elephant population and diverse ecosystems. The park’s varied habitats from dense riverine forests to open floodplains support lions, leopards, hippos, and numerous antelope species. Begin with a river safari along the Chobe River, observing elephants drinking and bathing, crocodiles sunning themselves, and colorful birdlife including African fish eagles and herons.

Land-based game drives complement the river safari, revealing predator-prey dynamics and unique wildlife behaviors. Guides share ecological insights, emphasizing Botswana’s conservation ethos and sustainable tourism practices. Photographers will find ample opportunities to capture dramatic interactions, reflections on water, and vibrant sunsets over savannahs.

Evening at your lodge provides a relaxing finale to Botswana’s adventures, preparing you for the onward journey to Uganda. Dinner features local cuisine, combining flavors and aromas of the region, while lodge staff share stories of wildlife, culture, and conservation efforts. This day encapsulates the diversity of 9-Day Botswana & Uganda Safari, combining river and land experiences with cultural awareness, ensuring lasting memories.

  • Main Destination: Chobe National Park, Botswana
  • Accommodation: Chobe River Lodge – Mid-range
  • Meals: Breakfast & Dinner included
  • Drinks: Not included

 

Day 6: Afternoon Chobe River Safari and Flight to Uganda

Today marks a memorable finale to your 9-Day Botswana & Uganda Safari adventure and the exciting transition to Uganda. The morning is at leisure, allowing guests to reflect on the wildlife encounters and landscapes witnessed over the past days. After breakfast, prepare for an afternoon boat safari along the majestic Chobe River, a lifeline for one of Africa’s most abundant elephant populations.

The river is teeming with life. Elephants traverse its banks in slow, deliberate marches, using their trunks to scoop water and mud to cool themselves. Herds of impala, kudu, and buffalo occasionally venture to the water’s edge. The river itself is home to pods of hippos, crocodiles, and an astonishing variety of waterfowl, including African fish eagles, kingfishers, and ibises. This cruise offers a rare chance to witness predator-prey interactions, as lions may lurk in the riverine forests while prey grazes nearby, providing a dynamic and educational Botswana Wildlife Safari experience.

As the sun begins its descent, the golden glow on the Chobe River enhances photographic opportunities, capturing silhouettes of elephants and the reflective waters. Guests enjoy light refreshments and snacks while marveling at this natural spectacle. The serenity of the river contrasts with the thrilling game drives of the previous days, providing a reflective, peaceful end to Botswana’s wilderness adventures.

Following the river safari, you will be transferred to Kasane Airport for your onward flight to Uganda, typically via a short connection in Johannesburg or Kigali. Upon arrival in Uganda, you will be met by your 9-Day Botswana & Uganda Safari guide and transferred to your lodge near Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The evening offers time to settle in, enjoy a hearty dinner, and rest for the adventures of gorilla trekking that lie ahead.

  • Main Destination: Chobe River, Botswana & Arrival in Uganda
  • Accommodation: Bwindi Lodge – Mid-range
  • Meals: Breakfast & Dinner included
  • Drinks: Not included

 

Day 7: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda

After breakfast, embark on a scenic road transfer to the world-renowned Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to over half of the planet’s remaining mountain gorilla population. The journey takes you through Uganda’s rolling hills, terraced farms, and traditional villages, providing a vivid introduction to the country’s cultural and natural diversity.

Along the way, your guide will share stories of Uganda’s biodiversity, from the endemic bird species to primates such as red-tailed monkeys and blue monkeys spotted in forest edges. The landscapes shift gradually from open farmland to dense rainforest as you approach Bwindi. Towering trees, intertwined vines, and thick undergrowth create a lush, almost otherworldly environment that underscores why Bwindi is considered one of the most important biodiversity hotspots in Africa.

Upon arrival, check in at your eco-lodge situated near the park’s entrance. The lodge blends seamlessly with its surroundings, offering comfortable accommodation while minimizing ecological impact a hallmark of responsible 9-Day Botswana & Uganda Safari. The afternoon provides an opportunity to explore nearby trails or relax in your private veranda, listening to the forest’s chorus of birdcalls and insects.

Dinner at the lodge features locally sourced ingredients, offering flavors unique to southwestern Uganda. Guides provide a briefing for the next day’s gorilla trekking expedition, covering safety, conservation guidelines, and tips for respectful observation. The evening’s calm is the perfect moment to reflect on the contrast between Botswana’s floodplains and Uganda’s misty rainforests, a reminder of the incredible ecological diversity experienced on this 9-Day Botswana & Uganda Safari.

  • Main Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda
  • Accommodation: Bwindi Lodge – Mid-range
  • Meals: Breakfast & Dinner included
  • Drinks: Not included

 

Day 8: Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi & Batwa Cultural Experience

This day represents the pinnacle of the 9-Day Botswana & Uganda Safari Holiday Mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. After an early breakfast, you will meet your expert forest guides who will lead you through dense tropical rainforest trails in search of one of Bwindi’s habituated gorilla families.

The trek varies in difficulty, ranging from one to several hours depending on the gorilla family’s location. Along the way, 9-Day Botswana & Uganda Safari guides point out forest flora, medicinal plants, and other wildlife such as duikers, bushbucks, and the extraordinary variety of bird species. The anticipation builds with each step, as the calls of gorillas echo through the misty forest. Then, finally, the gorillas appear adults lounging, juveniles playing, and the silverback commanding respect and admiration. Observing these majestic creatures up close is both humbling and exhilarating, creating lifelong memories and a deep appreciation for conservation.

After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch and a brief rest. In the afternoon, visit a local Batwa community to learn about their culture, traditions, and forest-based lifestyle. The Batwa, often referred to as “forest people,” share stories of their history, traditional music, dance, and crafts. This cultural immersion complements the wildlife experience, highlighting the interconnectedness of people and nature.

As the day ends, enjoy a reflective dinner at the lodge. Trekking gorillas and engaging with local communities provide an unparalleled blend of adventure, education, and cultural insight, defining the true essence of a 9-Day Botswana & Uganda Safari.

  • Main Destination: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda
  • Accommodation: Bwindi Lodge – Mid-range
  • Meals: Breakfast & Dinner included
  • Drinks: Not included

 

Day 9: Transfer to Entebbe & Departure from Uganda

On your final day, enjoy an early breakfast at the lodge before departing Bwindi for Entebbe International Airport. The road journey traverses scenic Ugandan landscapes: verdant hills, coffee plantations, banana groves, and small villages where children wave enthusiastically at passing vehicles. Your guide will share insights about local life, wildlife conservation, and Uganda’s natural history, rounding off your 9-Day Botswana & Uganda Safari experience.

The transfer provides time for reflection on the journey, revisiting images of Botswana’s delta, elephants, and Chobe River wildlife, alongside Uganda’s gorillas, forest birds, and cultural interactions. The blend of arid floodplains and lush rainforests showcases the remarkable biodiversity and environmental contrasts that make a Botswana Uganda Safari truly unforgettable.

Upon arrival at Entebbe, drop off your guide and proceed to check-in for your flight home. This is the conclusion of a journey that combined thrilling wildlife encounters, immersive cultural experiences, and intimate moments with some of Africa’s most iconic species. Travelers depart with memories of elephants in Botswana’s wetlands, gorillas in Uganda’s misty forests, and the warm smiles of local communities encountered along the way.

  • Main Destination: Entebbe, Uganda
  • Accommodation: None (End of tour)
  • Meals: Breakfast included
  • Drinks: Not included

 

Optional Gorilla Trekking Safari Extension: Rwanda Volcanoes National Park

For travelers wishing to extend their 9-Day Botswana & Uganda Safari with an even more exclusive experience, we recommend a Gorilla Trekking Safari in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. This extension takes you to Rwanda’s Virunga Mountains, home to habituated mountain gorilla families.

Starting in Kigali, you will transfer to Volcanoes National Park, passing through scenic hilly landscapes dotted with tea plantations, traditional villages, and misty valleys. Upon arrival, check into a luxury lodge with panoramic views of the volcanic peaks. The following day, embark on a guided trek to encounter gorillas in their natural habitat. The trek offers opportunities to observe family interactions, juvenile play, and the commanding presence of silverbacks, all under the guidance of experienced rangers.

This extension also allows visits to local communities, conservation education programs, and the opportunity to learn about Rwanda’s incredible wildlife recovery efforts. Optional activities include golden monkey trekking, hiking to Dian Fossey’s grave, or exploring the park’s rich biodiversity.

Adding Rwanda provides travelers with a comparative perspective on gorilla conservation and enriches the safari itinerary by combining Botswana’s arid plains with Uganda and Rwanda’s lush forests, creating the ultimate Botswana Uganda Safari Holiday.

 

9-Day Botswana & Uganda Safari Inclusions and Exclusions

Safari Inclusions

  • All park fees (Botswana & Uganda, non-residents)
  • Guided game drives, walking safaris, and boat safaris as per itinerary
  • Gorilla trekking permits in Bwindi (or Rwanda Volcanoes National Park optional extension)
  • All accommodations as specified (mid-range lodges and safari camps)
  • All internal transfers and charter flights in Botswana
  • Professional English-speaking guides
  • Meals as specified in the day-by-day itinerary
  • Bottled water during activities and transfers
  • Taxes & VAT

 

Safari Exclusions

  • International flights to/from home
  • Visa fees (Uganda and Botswana)
  • Travel insurance and personal items
  • Alcoholic drinks, gratuities, and optional activities not included in itinerary
  • Government-imposed increases in park fees or taxes
  • Some meals not specified in the itinerary