A close-up of a young gorilla in a green jungle, holding a leaf near its face and gazing thoughtfully.

Guardians of the Wild: Uganda’s Ultimate Conservation Safari

East Africa | 14 Days | From $12,995 $11,995

What’s Included

13 Breakfasts, Lunches & Dinners

All Internal Flights & Transport

All Accommodations

14+ Excursions

Close-up of a leopard lying in tall grass, with detailed spots, looking directly at the camera.

Journey at a Glance

Step into the beating heart of East Africa on Guardians of the Wild: Uganda’s Ultimate Conservation Safari, a purpose-driven luxury journey through Uganda—designed in partnership with an African-owned, locally operated safari team led by a former park ranger.

This is not your average safari. It's an immersive experience that brings you face-to-face with the true stewards of Uganda’s wild places—from the families of fallen rangers, to women-run community projects, to reformed poachers now protecting the very wildlife they once pursued. Alongside thrilling gorilla and chimpanzee treks, boat cruises, and big cat tracking, you’ll engage with the people and projects restoring Uganda’s ecosystems—making this a journey not just of adventure, but of impact. Explore lush forests, golden savannahs, and mist-shrouded mountains—guided by those who know and love this land best.

This is where conservation comes alive. This is Guardians of the Wild.

Map showing a route connecting various locations in Uganda, with markers near Lake Albert, Lake Victoria, and other towns across the country.

Arrive: Entebbe, East Africa

Depart: Entebbe, East Africa

Defining Moments

  • Trek through Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for two unforgettable encounters with endangered mountain gorillas, supporting their protection and the communities who live alongside them.

  • Come face to face with wild chimpanzees in Kibale and meet the Batwa people, one of Africa’s oldest forest-dwelling cultures.

  • Witness the powerful comeback of Uganda’s white rhinos and learn how rewilding is shaping the future of this remarkable country.

  • Glide through Mabamba Swamp in search of the elusive shoebill stork, and cruise the Nile to the thunderous base of Murchison Falls.

  • Explore Savannahs, rainforests, and crater lakes with local guides, hearing firsthand how conservation and community are creating lasting change.

Conservation Spotlights: Protecting Uganda’s Wild Heart

Itinerary

  • Day 1: Welcome to Uganda

    Overnight: The Boma Hotel, Entebbe

    Arrive at Entebbe International Airport, where you’ll be warmly welcomed by your private guide and transferred to The Boma Hotel—Entebbe’s first boutique property set within lush tropical gardens near Lake Victoria. This colonial-style retreat offers a peaceful introduction to Uganda’s warm hospitality and natural charm. In the evening, gather with your guide and fellow travelers for a Welcome Orientation and drinks. You'll preview the days ahead, connect over shared values, and begin the journey with a sense of purpose. This trip is more than travel—it's a commitment to conservation, community, and connection.
    Meals: Light Dinner & Drinks

    Day 2: Shoebills & Sanctuary Island

    Overnight: The Boma Hotel, Entebbe

    Begin your day with a sunrise canoe excursion through Mabamba Swamp, a RAMSAR wetland renowned for its birdlife—especially the rare shoebill stork. Return to Entebbe for lunch, then head by boat to Ngamba Island, home to the Jane Goodall Institute's Chimpanzee Sanctuary. Meet rescued chimps and learn about the sanctuary’s innovative conservation work. Return to the mainland for a relaxed evening and dinner at the hotel.
    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    *Accommodations may vary slightly, but you’ll be updated along the way.

  • Day 3: The Nile Source & Wildwaters Arrival

    Overnight: Wildwaters Lodge, Jinja

    Travel east to Jinja, the legendary Source of the Nile, where this great river begins its 6,650 km journey north. From here, boat to Kalagala Island and check in at Wildwaters Lodge—an exclusive retreat surrounded by jungle and white-water rapids. Spend your afternoon how you choose: raft, kayak, take a nature walk, or simply relax with a spa treatment and river views. Wrap up the day with a candlelit dinner above the churning waters.
    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


    Day 4: Rejuvenation by the River

    Overnight: Wildwaters Lodge, Jinja

    Slow down and soak up the magic of your private island hideaway. Enjoy your morning with Ugandan coffee and misty river views from your deck, or visit the spa for riverside wellness. Optional adventures include rafting, quad biking, horseback rides, or community visits. Whether chasing thrills or finding stillness, today is yours to reconnect—with nature, and with yourself.
    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    *Accommodations may vary slightly, but you’ll be updated along the way.

  • Day 5: Rhinos on Foot, Roaring Falls & A Wilderness Retreat

    Overnight: Pakuba Safari Lodge, Murchison Falls NP

    Head north into Uganda’s wild heart, stopping en route at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to track southern white rhinos on foot—an inspiring conservation comeback story. After lunch, visit the top of Murchison Falls where the Nile surges through a narrow gorge in a thunderous display. Arrive at Pakuba Safari Lodge, a peaceful eco-retreat nestled along the Nile, where wildlife roams freely and sustainability is at the core of every stay.
    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


    Day 6: Dawn on the Savannah & the River of Life

    Overnight: Pakuba Safari Lodge, Murchison Falls NP

    Rise early for a game drive through Murchison’s vast savannahs. Look out for elephants, giraffes, lions, and—if fortune favors—leopards or hyenas in the golden morning light. Midday brings a boat safari up the Nile to the base of the falls, where you’ll spot hippos, crocodiles, and vibrant birdlife. Return to the lodge for a relaxed afternoon and a sundown dinner surrounded by the sounds of the wild.
    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    *Accommodations may vary slightly, but you’ll be updated along the way.

  • Day 7: Journey Across the Pearl

    Overnight: Turaco Treetops Lodge, Kibale NP

    Depart early for a scenic drive southwest to the lush, rainforest-cloaked hills of Kibale. Along the way, watch the terrain shift from savannah to tea plantations and crater lakes. Arrive at Turaco Treetops, a beautiful forest retreat blending modern comfort with nature. Settle in, then explore the grounds or relax as colobus monkeys swing through the treetops around you.
    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


    Day 8: Chimpanzee Trekking & Bigodi Community Experience

    Overnight: Turaco Treetops Lodge, Kibale National Park

    Trek through Kibale National Park to encounter wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat, guided by expert trackers. Afterward, visit the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-run conservation area rich in primates and birdlife. Engage with local artisans at the Bigodi Women’s Group and experience their crafts and stories of empowerment. Return to the lodge for the night, enjoying dinner surrounded by nature.
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    *Accommodations may vary slightly, but you’ll be updated along the way.

  • Day 9: Journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park & Meet Reformed Poachers

    Overnight: Aardvark Safari Lodge, Queen Elizabeth National Park

    Travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park and check into Aardvark Safari Lodge, nestled on the park’s edge. Meet a group of reformed poachers who now dedicate their lives to wildlife conservation and witness their community-driven projects. Reflect on the transformative power of conservation education before enjoying a peaceful evening at the lodge.
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


    Day 10: Experiential Wildlife Research, Kazinga Channel Cruise & Sundowner Magic

    Overnight: Aardvark Safari Lodge, Queen Elizabeth National Park

    Join a local research team for a unique behind-the-scenes experience tracking lions and leopards in the wild. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and elephants. End the day with a sundowner overlooking the stunning African landscape before returning to Aardvark Safari Lodge for the night.
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    *Accommodations may vary slightly, but you’ll be updated along the way.

  • Day 11: Journey to Bwindi & Batwa Cultural Encounter

    Overnight: Ride 4 a Woman, Bwindi

    Drive through picturesque southwestern Uganda to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and settle in at Ride 4 a Woman Lodge, a community-based initiative empowering local women. Meet the Batwa people, one of Africa’s oldest tribes, and learn about their unique cultural practices, including traditional songs, dances, and rituals tied to the forest.
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Day 12: First Gorilla Trekking Experience & Restful Afternoon

    Overnight: Ride 4 a Woman, Bwindi

    Embark on your first gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi, where you’ll spend an hour observing mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Afterward, return to Ride 4 a Woman for a relaxing afternoon, enjoying the tranquil surroundings or exploring local crafts. Reflect on the profound experience of connecting with these endangered creatures.
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Day 13: Second Gorilla Trek – A Deeper Encounter

    Overnight: Ride 4 a Woman, Bwindi

    Your second gorilla trek offers a deeper understanding of these majestic animals, with the opportunity to visit a different gorilla family. Observe the varied dynamics within the group and appreciate the unique behaviors of these great apes. After the trek, unwind at Ride 4 a Woman and celebrate this extraordinary journey over dinner.
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    *Accommodations may vary slightly, but you’ll be updated along the way.

  • Day 14: Scenic Flight from Kihihi to Entebbe & Farewell

    Take a scenic flight from Kihihi to Entebbe, offering a final aerial view of Uganda’s stunning landscapes. Upon arrival, enjoy a farewell lunch while reflecting on your transformative journey through Uganda’s diverse ecosystems, wildlife, and conservation efforts.
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

    *Accommodations may vary slightly, but you’ll be updated along the way.

Dates & Pricing

The price of this journey is $12,995 per person. This includes the required non-refundable deposit of $2,100 USD. This deposit secures your space on the itinerary and covers the cost of non-refundable, non-transferable permits for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking—an extraordinary privilege that is limited and highly sought-after. If you would like to travel as a single, in a your own room, there is an additional single supplement fee of $3295. If you are a solo traveler and would like to share a room this option is also available at the double price.

Upcoming Journeys

Dates

Status

Pricing


February 15 - 28, 2026

December 20, 2026 - January 2, 2027

10 Available Spots

10 Available Spots

$12,995 per person

$12,995 per person

Dates & Pricing

The price of this journey is $12,995 per person. This includes the required non-refundable deposit of $2,100 USD. This deposit secures your space on the itinerary and covers the cost of non-refundable, non-transferable permits for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking—an extraordinary privilege that is limited and highly sought-after. If you would like to travel as a single, in a your own room, there is an additional single supplement fee of $3295. If you are a solo traveler and would like to share a room this option is also available at the double price.

2026 Dates

Dates

Pricing


February 15 - 28, 2026

December 20, 2026 - January 2, 2027

$12,995
per person

$12,995
per person

Wild Places, World-Class Accommodations

Your Environmental Stewards

Black and white portrait of a man in a collared shirt holding binoculars.

Ben Ejadu | Uganda Guide & Conservationist
With nearly two decades of experience across Uganda’s most vital ecosystems, Ben’s journey began as a wildlife ranger—braving rain-soaked nights and walking alongside endangered species long before safari became his craft. Trained in natural resource management at the Southern African Wildlife College, Ben is both a protector and a storyteller. His guiding philosophy is rooted in humility and purpose, believing that every guest should leave not just inspired, but called to action. Whether advising travelers to plant a tree or sharing stories of sacrifice and stewardship, Ben embodies conservation in its truest form: lived, felt, and passed on.

A smiling man sitting outdoors, wearing sunglasses, a cap, and a casual shirt with binoculars hanging around his neck.

Brian Batsurana | Nature Interpreter & Community Connector
Raised on the edge of Queen Elizabeth National Park, Brian grew up watching elephants wander past his window and hippos emerge at dusk. Though he once dreamed of becoming a TV presenter, his path led him instead to the wildlife college in his home village—a return to what he had loved all along. Now with nearly a decade of guiding behind him, Brian sees his role as a bridge between guests and the living pulse of the land. His experiences—like witnessing a crocodile hunt on a river safari—bring the raw beauty of nature to life. With every story he tells and every trail he leads, Brian invites travelers to fall not just in love with Africa, but into deeper alignment with its rhythms and people.

FAQS

  • The Guardians of the Wild journey in Uganda is limited to just 10 travelers. This small group size ensures an intimate, low-impact experience—allowing deeper connection with conservationists, fellow explorers, and the extraordinary wildlife of Uganda.

  • We pour our hearts into crafting meaningful, conservation-driven journeys—and we know that travel plans are a significant investment of both time and intention. While we hope you’ll be able to join us, we understand that circumstances can change. Please review the following policy carefully before booking.

    Standard Cancellation Terms

    • 121+ days (4+ months) prior to departure: A $200 cancellation fee per person will apply.

    • 61–120 days (2–4 months) prior to departure: 50% of the total trip cost, including internal flights, pre/post extensions, and added services (e.g. additional hotel nights), will be non-refundable.

    • 60 days or fewer prior to departure: Unfortunately, we are unable to offer any refunds at this stage due to our financial commitments to local partners and accommodations.

    Deposit Policy

    • All trip deposits and payments are non-refundable.

    • For fully private bookings (e.g., you reserve an entire departure), deposits are double the standard rate and remain non-refundable.

    Special Note on Deposits & Cancellation Policy

    This journey requires a non-refundable deposit of $2,100 USD per person, in addition to the total trip cost. This deposit secures your space on the itinerary and covers the cost of non-refundable, non-transferable permits for gorilla and chimpanzee trekking. Please note that this policy differs from our standard terms, due to the unique nature of the experiences and conservation access included in this itinerary.

  • Yes. Because our trips venture into remote, wild, and weather-sensitive areas, comprehensive travel insurance is required for all travelers. This must include coverage for trip cancellation, interruption, emergency medical needs, and evacuation.

    We recommend purchasing travel insurance at the time of booking to maximize your coverage window.

    If you have any questions about this policy, we’re happy to assist.

  • • Laundry services
    • Items of a personal nature
    • Tips and gratuities
    • Alcoholic beverages
    • Travel insurance
    • Visas and international airfare

  • Uganda is generally safe for tourists, especially when traveling with reputable tour operators. As with any destination, staying informed, following local guidance, and taking standard precautions is recommended.

  • The best times to visit are during the dry seasons: December–February and June–September. These months offer the most pleasant weather, with plenty of sunshine and lower chances of heavy rain — ideal for wildlife viewing and trekking. Daytime temperatures typically range from 24–28°C (75–82°F), while nights can be cooler, especially in higher-altitude areas like Bwindi.  

  • Most travelers need a visa to enter Uganda. An eVisa can be applied for online before arrival. Some visitors may also qualify for the East Africa Tourist Visa, which covers Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda. Please be sure to check your regulations.

  • A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate is required for entry. Other recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, and routine immunizations. Malaria prophylaxis is strongly advised. Please consult your physician well in advance of your trip. 

  • Gorilla trekking involves guided hikes in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable or Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks to observe wild mountain gorillas. Permits fund conservation efforts and benefit local communities, making trekking an important contributor to gorilla protection.

  • Gorilla trekking is challenging, with hikes lasting 2–8 hours over steep, muddy, and uneven terrain in hot, humid, or rainy conditions at high elevations. Good physical fitness is essential. Regular cardio and leg-strengthening exercises are recommended. Travelers with significant mobility limitations or serious health conditions should consult their doctor before booking, as the trek can be strenuous.  

  • During gorilla trekking, you’ll typically get as close as 7 meters to a habituated gorilla family, allowing for incredible, respectful observation. Park rangers and expert guides ensure safety by monitoring the gorillas’ behavior and enforcing rules designed to protect both visitors and the animals. As long as you follow your guide’s instructions, gorilla trekking is a safe and unforgettable experience.  

  • Uganda offers a range of accommodations from luxurious safari lodges and eco-lodges to community-run guesthouses. We carefully select stays in all of these categories that align with our values and well-appointed guest experience.

  • Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, a rain jacket, hiking boots, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a good pair of binoculars are recommended. For gorilla trekking, gloves and gaiters can also be useful. You will receive a full packing list in your pre-journey information. 

  • English is the official language, and Swahili is also widely used. Additionally, Uganda has over 40 local languages spoken across different regions.

  • Uganda’s official currency is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). Credit cards are accepted at some hotels and lodges in major towns, but cash is often needed for tips, local markets, or rural areas. US dollars are widely accepted for larger payments like park fees, but notes should be clean, unmarked, and printed after 2009. ATMs are available in cities, but it’s best to carry some local currency for day-to-day expenses.  

  • Yes! We’re happy to customize this itinerary as a private journey for groups of up to 10 people. A private departure lets you travel exclusively with your chosen companions and enjoy a more personalized experience. Please reach out to discuss your group’s preferences, and we’ll provide details on customized pricing, as well as specific deposit and cancellation terms for private bookings.  

  • For this itinerary, all travelers must be 18 or older due to age restrictions at the lodges we’ve selected. However, if you’re interested in experiencing Uganda with children, we’d be delighted to customize a private itinerary tailored to your family’s needs, with accommodations and activities suitable for younger travelers.  

  • All tipping for lodge staff, park rangers, and local guides is included in your TerraFauna Journeys package. The only gratuity not included is for your dedicated TerraFauna guide, who will accompany you throughout your journey. While tipping is optional and based on your satisfaction, we recommend $10–$20 USD per person, per day, as a guideline. Your generosity directly supports your guide and their family.  

  • Each journey directly supports local conservation projects and communities. We partner with organizations that protect wildlife and habitats, and a portion of our revenue is donated to conservation initiatives. You can read more about this by scrolling to the conservation spotlights section.

  • Absolutely! If you’d like to arrive before your journey begins or extend your stay afterward, we’re happy to assist with booking additional hotel nights. Let us know your plans, and we’ll help arrange accommodations so you can relax and make the most of your time in Uganda.  

  • Booking as “willing to share” means you’ll reserve your spot at the double occupancy rate, agreeing to share a room with another traveler of the same gender whom you don’t know. If we’re unable to match you with a roommate by 120 days before departure (when final payment is due), you’ll be charged the single supplement of $3,295. Choosing this option is a great way to save on costs and meet like-minded travelers.

Testimonials

  • A Milestone Celebration Made Magical

    “Ami was absolutely instrumental in planning a group trip for a 40th birthday. She booked beautiful accommodations that worked for everyone's budget, coordinated with local restaurants to plan prix fixe meals for our group that accommodated all dietary restrictions, and put together truly unforgettable day-trips to visit local artisans and learn more about the beautiful people and cultures in the region. Her thoughtfulness, attention to detail, and passion for travel made it one of the most wonderful trips I've ever taken.”

    - Megan R., Nashville, TN


  • An Unforgettable Journey: Immersing in the Heart of Oaxaca

    “My journey to Oaxaca with Terra Fauna Journeys was truly transformative. Every moment felt deeply connected to the art, hospitality, and ancestral traditions of the region. The trip was impeccably organized, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the culture and experience everything I had hoped for with my group and more. From the vibrant artistry to the warm community, it was an unforgettable experience that left a lasting impression.”

    - Vince M. , Atlanta, GA, USA


  • Life-Changing Travel: Ami’s Expert Guidance Made Our Trip Unforgettable

    “My wife and I love to travel, but when it comes to planning, we’re hopeless—until we met Ami. With her thoughtful guidance, we experienced the most fulfilling, inspiring trip we’ve ever taken. Ami has a rare gift: she doesn’t just plan travel, she crafts deeply meaningful experiences, weaving together culture, heritage, and local connections with meticulous attention to detail. Every step—from meals and artisan visits to logistics—was seamless, allowing us to truly immerse ourselves in the journey. If you want a stress-free adventure that’s rich in heart and purpose, book with Ami.”

    - Jason, Boulder, CO, USA


Book Your Journey Today


Our journeys are personal—and so is our approach.
If you're curious, have questions, or just want to talk it through, we're here. Every trip is intentionally crafted, and we're happy to help you find the one that resonates most. Reach out when you're ready—we'd be honored to guide you.