Walton Family Safari

Uganda – The Pearl of Africa
Rwanda – Land of 1000 Hills

12 Days / 11 Nights

Sentema, Kampala,
Queen Elizabeth National Park,
Kalinzu Forest, Lake Mutanda,
Volcanoes National Park, Kihihi & Entebbe

February 2027

Itinerary Overview

Day 1 - Monday, February 15th
Entebbe – Sentema, Sentema Farm Lodge D
Arrival, Relax, or Optional Activities

Day 2 - Tuesday, February 16th
Sentema – Kampala – Sentema, Sentema Farm Lodge B/L/D
Kampala City Tour (Martrys Shrine)

Day 3 - Wednesday, February 17th
Sentema – Queen Elizabeth National Park (NP), Katara Lodge B/L/D
Transfer, Game Drive or Relax

Day 4 - Thursday, February 18th
Queen Elizabeth NP, Katara Lodge B/L/D
Game Drive, Boat Cruise Kazinga Channel

Day 5 - Friday, February 19th
Queen Elizabeth NP, Katara Lodge B/L/D
Game Drives

Day 6 - Saturday, February 20th
Queen Elizabeth NP – Kalinzu Forest, Kalinzu Eco Lodge B/L/D
Chimpanzee Tracking, Transfer, Relax

Day 7 - Sunday, February 21st
Kalinzu Forest – Lake Mutanda, Chameleon Hill Lodge B/L/D
Transfer, Relax

Day 8 - Monday, February 22nd
Lake Mutanda – Volcanoes National Park, Sambora Lodge B/L/D
Transfer, Relax, Optional Activities

Day 9 - Tuesday, February 23rd
Volcanoes NP, Sambora Lodge B/L/D
Gorilla Trekking

Day 10 - Wednesday, February 24th
Volcanoes NP, Sambora Lodge B/L/D
Relax, Optional Activities

Day 11 - Thursday, February 25th
Volcanoes NP – Kihihi – Entebbe Boma Guesthouse B/L/D
Transfer to Kihihi, Return Mariah to continue her heroic work of Saving Wildlife Uganda, Rebecca, Theresa & Steve Flight to Entebbe, Evening to Relax

Day 12 - Friday, February 26th
Entebbe - B
Airport Transfer, Departure

B = Breakfast L = Lunch D = Dinner

Day 1

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by Mariah and your Tour Guide for a Meet-&-Greet and a Short Briefing. From the airport, enjoy a smooth transfer to Sentema, a peaceful rural area perfect for a soft landing in Uganda.

After settling into your Lodge, spend the remainder of the day at leisure or choose an optional activity.

Optional activities:

• Local Cooking Experience

Join local Women to prepare traditional Ugandan dishes using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Learn about cooking techniques and enjoy the meal together.

• Community & Farm Walk

Guided Walk through nearby Villages and Farms, offering insight into Daily Life, Agriculture, and Local Traditions.

• Pottery Experience

Participate in a hands-on session creating Traditional Pottery with Local Artisans.

• Cycling Tour

Explore the surrounding countryside by Bicycle, passing Farms, Villages, and scenic rural Landscapes.

Please find Rates Sheet here. 2027 Rates remain the same. Prior notification is requested.

Sentema

Sentema is a tranquil rural community on the outskirts of Kampala, known for its lush Green Landscapes, Small Farms, and authentic Cultural Experiences. It offers an ideal introduction to Ugandan Village Life, with warm hospitality and community-led activities that provide meaningful interaction with Local Traditions.

Accommodation: Sentema Farm Lodge, Garden Room
Meal Plan: Dinner, Drinks not included
Driving Time: Approx. 1–1.5 hours (h)

Day 2

Sentema – Kampala – Sentema

Today, your will explore Kampala, Uganda’s vibrant capital. Enjoy a city exploration, offering insight into the cultural and historical heart of the country. Depending on time and interest, visits may include viewpoints across the city’s famous hills, local markets, and cultural landmarks.

Sights that can be visited include: Uganda Martyrs Shrine in Namugongo - Kasubi Tombs – burial ground of the Kabaka’s (the Kings of Buganda Kingdom) - The Buganda King’s Palace in Mengo - Gaddafi Mosque - Bahai Temple, etc.

In the afternoon, return to Sentema to relax for the rest of the day.

Kampala

Kampala, the capital of Uganda, is a vibrant city built across several hills near the shores of Lake Victoria. It is the country’s cultural, political, and economic center, known for its lively Markets, diverse Neighborhoods, and important Landmarks. The city offers a dynamic introduction to Ugandan Culture and daily Life.

Accommodation: Sentema Farm Lodge, Garden Room
Meal Plan: Breakfast / Lunch (during City Tour) / Dinner, Drinks not included
Driving Time: approx. 1h to / from Kampala

Day 3

Sentema – Queen Elizabeth National Park

After hearty African Breakfast, depart Sentema Farm Lodge. Enjoy a scenic drive South to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s popular and diverse Safari Destination. The journey takes you through rolling Hills, fertile Farmlands, and traditional Villages, before the wide Savannah Plains of the National Park open before you.

Arriving at Queen Elizabeth NP, you will check into the Lodge and set out on a Game Drive across the Park’s open Savannah later in the day. This is an excellent opportunity to spot Elephants, Buffalo, Uganda Kob, and perhaps Lions or Leopards as they begin to stir at dusk. The warm evening light paints the landscape in gold, creating perfect conditions for photography before heading to your lodge for Dinner and Relaxation.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Stretching from the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains to Lake Edward, Queen Elizabeth NP is home to over 600 Bird Species and 95 Mammal Species, including Tree-Climbing Lions in the Ishasha Sector. Its mix of Savannah, Wetlands, and Forest makes it one of East Africa’s most Biodiverse Reserves.

A Queen Elizabeth National Park Bird List may be found here.

Accommodation: Katara Lodge, Cottage
Meal Plan: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Driving Time: approx. 7-8h

Day 4

Queen Elizabeth National Park
This Morning, set out for an early Game Drive across the Savannah landscapes of Queen Elizabeth NP. The cool hours of the Morning are the best time to spot predators such as Lions and Leopards on the move, as well as large herds of Elephants, Buffalo, and Uganda Kob grazing on the Plains. The Park’s varied habitats — open Grasslands and Riverine Woodland — provide incredible diversity.

In the afternoon, enjoy a Boat Cruise on Kaziga Channel. As you glide along the water, watch Hippos wallowing, Crocodiles basking on the riverbanks, and abundant Birdlife including Kingfishers, Fish Eagles, and more!

Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and relaxation.

Accommodation: Katara Lodge, Cottage
Meal Plan: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner, Drinks not included

Day 5

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Enjoy another day exploring the rich Wildlife and scenic Landscapes of Queen Elizabeth NP. Head out early for a morning Game Drive, the best time to spot animals such as Elephants, Buffaloes, Antelope, and—with some luck—Lions or Leopards.

Return to the Lodge for Breakfast and some time to relax, taking in the views over the Park. In the Afternoon, you may choose to go for another Game Drive in a different area or simply unwind at the Lodge and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Accommodation: Katara Lodge, Cottage
Meal Plan: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner, Drinks not included

Day 6

Queen Elizabeth NP – Kalinzu Forest

After an early breakfast, depart for a short transfer to Kalinzu Forest Reserve, located just outside the southern boundary of Queen Elizabeth National Park, for your Chimpanzee Tracking Experience. The drive takes you through scenic Countryside and rural Communities, offering a glimpse into local life. The landscape gradually transitions from open Savannah to lush Tropical Forest.

Upon arrival, go straight to the Visitor Centre for Briefing and Registration. Accompanied by expert Guides, enter the Tropical Rainforest in search of one of our closest relatives. The trek can vary from 2–5 hours depending on the Chimpanzees’ location. Once found, spend time observing them feeding, grooming, playing, and moving actively through the Forest Canopy—a fascinating and energetic wildlife encounter.

Thereafter, check in at your Lodge nestled near the Forest edge. The remainder of the day is at leisure, allowing you time to unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Kalinzu Forest

Kalinzu Forest is managed as a Central Forest Reserve and plays an important role in Conservation and Eco-Tourism. Around 400 Chimpanzees, with habituated groups open to visitors and other Primates include Baboons, Vervet Monkeys, and Colobus Monkeys, alongside a wide array of Birds, Butterflies, and rare Plant Species.

Accommodation: Kalinzu Eco Lodge, Cottage
Meal Plan: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner, Drinks not included
Driving Time: approx. 1h

Day 7

Kalinzu Forest – Lake Mutanda

After Breakfast, continue your journey south into the scenic Highlands of Southwestern Uganda. Along the way, the landscape gradually transforms from open Savannah into lush, Rolling Hills, terraced Farmland, and dense Tropical Forest.

Arrive at Lake Mutanda, located just south of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and surrounded by the dramatic Virunga Volcanoes. This area serves as a stopover on your way to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda, and offers a peaceful contrast to the previous Safari Days.

The rest of the day is at leisure to relax and take in the stunning surroundings. Enjoy panoramic views over the Lake and its small Islands and the majestic Virunga Volcanoes in the backdrop, unwind at the Lodge, or take a gentle Walk nearby.

Lake Mutanda

Lake Mutanda is a tranquil freshwater Lake nestled in the foothills of the Virunga Volcanoes. Known for its crystal-clear Waters, idyllic Islands, and dramatic Mountain backdrops, it is one of Uganda’s most picturesque Lakes. The surrounding region offers excellent opportunities for Hiking, Canoeing, Birdwatching, and Cultural Encounters.

Accommodation: Chameleon Hill Lodge, Standard Chalet
Meal Plan: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner, Including House Wine, Local Beers & Soft Drinks
Driving Time: approx. 5-6 hrs

Day 8

Lake Mutanda – Volcanoes National Park

After Breakfast, your Guide accompanies you across the nearby Uganda–Rwanda border into Volcanoes National Park. The journey offers spectacular Mountain Views, Terraced Hillsides, and vibrant Agricultural Landscapes. Upon arrival at your Lodge, enjoy the fantastic views of the Volcanoes Mountains and Crater Lakes around you. You may engage in available Lodge Activities.

Volcanoes National Park

Located in northern Rwanda, Volcanoes NP is famed as the epicenter of Mountain Gorilla Conservation and Dr. Dian Fossey’s groundbreaking Research. The landscape features mist-covered Volcanoes, emerald Forests, and rich Biodiversity — an iconic setting for Gorilla Encounters.

Accommodation: Sambora Lodge, Junior Suite*

*Please note - In 2027 the Signature Room will be referred to as a Junior Suite.

Meal plan: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner, Including House Wines, Local Beers, & Soft Drinks, Snacks, In-Room Refreshments & Snacks,
1x 45-minute welcome Massage per Person per Stay
Daily 6pm G&Ts before Dinner
1 Complimentary Lodge Activity per Person per Day
Driving Time: approx. 3h

Sambora Lodge’s 1 Complimentary Lodge Activity per Person per Day Include:

• Handspun Hope

A visit to a wonderful Local Community Project. Supporting Women affected by Domestic Violence and the Genocide, the Community make and dye their own Wools, using them to create high-quality Garments and felt Toys.

• Red Rocks Cultural Conservation

A visit to Red Rocks Cultural Conservation Centre. Choose from an extensive list of Cultural Activities including Basket Seaving, Banana Beer Making and more.

• Canoeing

A guided canoeing trip on one of the local Rivers or twin Lakes, depending on your available time and preferences.

• Musanze Food Market

A lively, bustling visit to the Musanze Food Market, where traders sell all kinds of interesting produce, all grown in the Local Area.

• Virunga Mountain Spirits Distillery

A short drive to the fabulous new Distillery for a Tour and Cocktail Tasting — a fun afternoon, if so inclined.

• Dian Fossey Campus

Just 300 meters from Sambora — a great opportunity to learn about the Conservation efforts made over the last fifty years in saving the Mountain Gorilla.

• Bird Watching

Sambora’s resident Birding Guide will help you get the most out of your time with a Guided Birding Walk in and around the property. Birding trips to the Twin Lakes can be arranged with advance notice.

Day 9 - Gorilla Trekking!!!

Volcanoes National Park

After an early breakfast, you will transfer to the Park Headquarters in Kinigi for your Gorilla Trekking Experience. Upon arrival (typically around 7:00 AM), you will be welcomed by Park Rangers and attend a detailed Briefing, starting at approximately 7:30 AM. You will be assigned to a specific Gorilla Family.

Following the Briefing, you will drive to the starting point of your Trek, located on the slopes of the Virunga Volcanoes. Accompanied by experienced Trackers and Guides, here you will receive important information about Gorilla Behavior, Safety Guidelines, and Trekking Procedures.

Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure begins through Rainforest, Bamboo Zones, and Mountainous Terrain. The Trek can take approximately 2–8 hours, depending on the location and movement of your Gorilla Family. The Hike will most likely involve Uphill Climbs, Uneven Ground, and Humid Conditions, making it both a Rewarding and Physically Engaging Experience.

Once the Gorillas are located, you will spend one unforgettable hour in their presence, observing their natural behavior at close range. Watch as the dominant Silverback oversees the group, Mothers care for their young, and Juveniles play energetically.

Your encounter is unique, offering fascinating insights into Gorilla Social Structures, Communication, and Daily Life - maybe you’ll see aspects of yourself in their behavior!

This marks a rare and meaningful part of your Safari Adventure, spending time with the remarkable, Endangered Mountain Gorillas.

Please Note: Volcanoes National Park is located on the slopes of volcanoes, meaning hikes are uphill. Depending on the location of your Gorillas, trekking can be physically demanding. It is important to wear appropriate Walking Boots or Shoes, bring Rain Gear, and bring a Plastic Bag to protect your Camera. Volcanoes National Park is at a High Elevation. Please and carry enough Drinking Water, along with Hydration Tablets. It is imperative you eat a large Breakfast. As well as eat your packed Lunch following your Trek. Hydration and Nutrition are key to avoiding Altitude Sickness.

After the Trek, return to the Lodge for a well-deserved and relaxed Afternoon. Take in the stunning views of the surrounding Volcanoes Mountain and nearby Lakes, enjoy the Lodge’s facilities, or unwind with optional Spa Treatments.

The remainder of the day is at Leisure—an ideal time to reflect on your extraordinary Gorilla encounter and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this unique region.

Accommodation: Sambora Lodge, Junior Suite

Meal plan: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner, Including House Wines, Local Beers, & Soft Drinks, Snacks, In-Room Refreshments & Snacks,
1x 45-minute welcome Massage per Person per Stay
Daily 6pm G&Ts before Dinner
1 Complimentary Lodge Activity per Person per Day

Day 10

Volcanoes National Park

A flexible day. You may choose one of the Complimentary Lodge Activitities. Or choose to book (in advance) the following options:

• Golden Monkey Tracking

• Hike to Dian Fossey’s Grave at Karisoke Research Center

• Hiking one of the Virunga volcanoes

• Cycling Experience in Kinigi

• Visit to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus
(minimum donation of $20)

Or simply unwind and enjoy Family Time, the Mountain Views, and Serenity.

Meal plan: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner, Including House Wines, Local Beers, & Soft Drinks, Snacks, In-Room Refreshments & Snacks,
1x 45-minute welcome Massage per Person per Stay
Daily 6pm G&Ts before Dinner
1 Complimentary Lodge Activity per Person per Day

Day 11

Volcanoes NP – Kihihi – Entebbe

After an early breakfast, depart for your scenic Cross-Border Transfer from Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda to Kihihi Airstrip in Southwestern Uganda. The Drive takes you through the beautiful Virunga Highlands, with views of Volcanic Peaks, Terraced Hills, and Rural Communities along the way. Border formalities are completed en route before continuing toward Kihihi.

Upon arrival at Kihihi Airstrip, you will check in for your scheduled Domestic Flight (typically around Midday or Early Afternoon) back to Entebbe. The flight offers a spectacular Aerial Perspective over Uganda’s diverse Landscapes—rolling Hills, Forests, and Lakes—providing a unique and comfortable alternative to a long Overland Journey.

After seeing off her Sister, Mother, and Father, Mariah will return to Kihihi to continue her vital work to saving the rare Climbing Lions of Uganda.

After landing at Entebbe International Airport, you will be met and Transferred via Airport Shuttle to your Guesthouse. The remainder of the Afternoon is at leisure—relax at the Lodge, enjoy the Tropical surroundings near Lake Victoria, or unwind after your Journey.

Please note: Luggage allowance for Domestic Flights within Uganda is limited to 15 kg per person including hand luggage in soft bags. For any additional kg a surcharge of US$ 5 will be charged and is subject to availability.

Entebbe

Set on the shores of Lake Victoria, Entebbe is a small and leafy Town known for its relaxed Atmosphere, Botanical Gardens, and Lakeside setting. It serves as Uganda’s main International Gateway while offering a pleasant environment to unwind, with Birdlife, Waterfront Views, and a slower pace compared to the capital Kampala.

Accommodation: Boma Guesthouse, Room
Meal Plan: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner, no drinks included
Driving Time: approx. 5-6 hrs (Volcanoes to Kihihi) + Flight ~1–1.5 hrs + Transfer ~15 min

Day 12

Entebbe

After Breakfast you will be dropped off by the Airport Shuttle at Entebbe International Airport in time for your Departure Flight, marking the end of your unforgettable Uganda & Rwanda Walton Family Safari Adventure.

Meal Plan: B
Driving Time: approx. 15 min

Safe Travels Home!
We look farward to your next
Safari Adventure!

Price:

Mariah: $9,320 USD, 2 People Sharing

Rebecca, Theresa, and Steve: $9,770 USD Per Person, 2 People Sharing

Includes:

Transport in Safari-Customized Land Cruiser with a Popup Roof for Game Viewing

English Speaking, Ugandan Driver-Guide

Petrol & all applicable Costs for the Vehicle & Driver-Guide

Accommodation & Meals as described in Itinerary

Accommodation, Lake View Room, and Breakfast at 2 Friends Beach Hotel Entebbe on Sunday, February 14th, Mariah to Meet Family

Activities & Park Entrance Fees as described

1x Chimpanzee Permit Per Person (Uganda)

1x Gorilla Permit Per Person (Rwanda)

Domestic Flight from Kihihi to Entebbe X 3

Drinking Water in the Vehicle

Excludes:

International flights

Entry Visas

Meals which are not listed in the Itinerary

Optional Activities

Premium Brand Drinks

Personal Medical & Travel Insurance

Tips and Gratuities to Rangers, Driver-Guide, Trekking Porters, Hotel Staff, etc.

All expenses of Personal Nature (Drinks, Laundry, Souvenirs, etc.)

Anything not mentioned as included – please ask if anything is unclear

*Please note, proof of Travel Insurance is required upon booking confirmation deposit.*

Booking & Payment:

To secure the Booking, a Written Confirmation and 30% Non-Refundable Booking Deposit within fourteen (14) Days of Receipt of E-Itinerary is Required.

Remaining 70% due nine (9) weeks before Arrival.

Cancellation Policy:

30% Non-Refundable Booking Fee, Cancellation less than nine (9) Weeks prior to Arrival, Full Forfeiture.