This segment of your self-driving north eastern Uganda safari circuit takes you deep into the remote and culturally rich Karamoja region, offering a blend of rugged adventure, wildlife encounters, and authentic cultural experiences. From the dramatic landscapes of Kidepo Valley and close-up wildlife viewing to immersive visits with the Karamojong and the elusive Ik people, each day reveals a new layer of Uganda’s northeastern charm. The journey continues south with scenic stops at Aruu Falls and thrilling safaris in Murchison Falls National Park, before culminating in a rare rhino tracking experience at Ziwa Sanctuary and a smooth return to Entebbe for departure.

Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe Airport and drive to Jinja (source of the Nile) – (Approx 130 Km, 3 Hours)

Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will pick up your 4×4 rental vehicle, stocked and ready for your adventure. After a brief orientation, you will head eastward towards Jinja, the adventure capital of Uganda. Upon arrival, you’ll visit the Source of the Nile, where Lake Victoria spills into the Nile River. You’ll take a guided boat ride to the actual spot John Speke identified in 1858. Later in the evening, you will enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise along the Nile, surrounded by birds and scenic riverbanks. Overnight will be spent at a riverside lodge.

Day 2: Full-Day White Water Rafting on the Nile

Today will be packed with adrenaline as you participate in a full-day white-water rafting expedition. Trained guides will take you down Grade 4 and 5 rapids along one of the world’s most iconic rafting rivers. A delicious lunch on the riverbanks will be included, and you’ll return to your lodge in the late afternoon to relax and share stories with fellow travelers around the campfire.

Day 3: Jinja to Sipi Falls – Sunset Walk (Approx. 200 km,  4 hours)

You’ll continue your journey northeast towards Kapchorwa, arriving in the Sipi Falls area in the foothills of Mount Elgon by afternoon. After checking into a lodge with panoramic views, you will take a short guided walk to the sunset viewpoint, where the golden light washes over the Karamoja plains far below. This tranquil moment will prepare you for the hiking adventures of the following day.

Day 4: Sipi Falls Hike and Coffee Experience

You will spend the morning hiking through lush farmlands and waterfalls, guided by a local expert who will lead you to all three waterfalls that make up the Sipi Falls chain. The hike will take around 3–4 hours depending on pace, including several steep but manageable sections. In the afternoon, you’ll visit a local coffee farm to see the full Arabica coffee production process—from bean to cup—and roast your own. Overnight will again be at Sipi.

Day 5: Sipi to Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve – Game Viewing Drive (Approx. 130 km, 3–4 hours)

Leaving Sipi, you’ll head north to Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve, Uganda’s second-largest protected area. This semi-arid savannah lies between Mount Elgon and the Karamoja plains. Upon arrival, you’ll take a guided game drive with a ranger. Expect to see Uganda’s only population of cheetahs, along with elands, hartebeests, ostriches, and possibly leopards. The remote nature of Pian Upe offers a raw and off-the-grid wilderness experience. Overnight will be at the reserve’s basic guest accommodation or campsite.

Day 6: Pian Upe to Kidepo Valley National Park – Through Karamoja’s Wild Heart (Approx. 320 km, 8–9 hours)

Today you’ll undertake a rugged but scenic drive through the heart of Karamoja, passing through towns like Moroto and Kaabong. This route gives you a raw look at traditional Karamojong communities and vast untamed landscapes. Arriving in Kidepo by evening, you’ll check into a lodge inside or near the park and rest under star-lit skies.

Day 7: Full-Day Wildlife Safari and Manyatta Visit

You’ll rise early for a morning game drive in the Narus Valley, the heart of wildlife activity in Kidepo. You’ll likely encounter lions lounging on rocks, large herds of buffalo, giraffes, and perhaps the elusive cheetah. In the afternoon, you’ll visit an authentic Karamojong Manyatta—a traditional homestead—where you’ll learn about their nomadic pastoralist culture, songs, and dances. Your second night will be spent in this wild frontier.

Day 8: Guided Walk and Visit to the Ik People

This morning you’ll embark on a guided nature walk for a more intimate experience with the park’s flora and fauna. Afterwards, you’ll set off on a cultural trek to visit the Ik people who live in the Morungole Mountains. This will be a full-day activity, requiring some hiking, but the cultural reward will be immense. You’ll learn about their unique language, lifestyle, and spiritual beliefs that have endured despite centuries of isolation.

Day 9: Kidepo to Aruu Falls – Scenic Detour (Approx. 200 km, 6–7 hours)

After breakfast, you’ll drive southwards toward the spectacular Aruu Falls near Pader. You’ll arrive in the afternoon and take a short hike to the cascading multi-tiered falls. The thunderous roar and scenic surroundings offer a perfect stopover and a refreshing swim if water levels permit. You’ll spend the night nearby in a modest lodge or campsite surrounded by rural tranquility.

Day 10: Aruu Falls to Murchison Falls National Park (Approx. 230 km, 6 hours)

Today you’ll proceed to Murchison Falls National Park via Gulu. Upon arrival in the northern sector of the park, you will check into a lodge close to the Nile River. As time allows, you may do a short evening game drive in the delta area to spot elephants, giraffes, hartebeest, and perhaps leopards.

Day 11: Morning Game Drive and Afternoon Boat Cruise to the Base of the Falls

Your day begins with a sunrise game drive on the Buligi Peninsula, where you’ll encounter lions, hyenas, and the Uganda kob. After lunch, you’ll embark on a boat cruise up the Nile to the base of Murchison Falls. Along the way, you’ll see hippos, Nile crocodiles, elephants along the riverbanks, and a wide variety of water birds, including African fish eagles and shoebill storks if you’re lucky. The cruise culminates in a thunderous view of the falls squeezing through the 7-meter gorge.

Day 12: Top of Murchison Falls and Drive to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary (Approx. 130 km, 3–4 hours)

After breakfast, you’ll drive to the top of Murchison Falls for a breathtaking overhead view of the mighty cascade. You’ll feel the ground shake beneath your feet as the Nile surges through the narrow cleft. From here, you’ll exit the park and proceed to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where you’ll take an afternoon guided walking safari to track the southern white rhinos—Uganda’s only wild rhinos, reintroduced as part of conservation efforts. Overnight will be at the sanctuary’s lodge or nearby.

Day 13: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to Entebbe and Departure (Approx. 180 km, 4–5 hours)

On your final day, you’ll enjoy a leisurely breakfast before setting out for the drive back to Entebbe. You may make a few scenic or cultural stops along the way, depending on your flight time. Once back in Entebbe, you’ll return your vehicle and be transferred to the airport for your departure, closing an unforgettable 14-day journey across Uganda’s wild northeastern frontier.

Self-Driving Tips for Your Northeastern Uganda Safari

As you prepare for your adventure across Uganda’s wild northeastern frontier—including Karamoja, Kidepo Valley, Aruu Falls, and Murchison Falls—please review the following essential self-driving tips to ensure a safe and rewarding journey:

Vehicle Choice

We recommend a reliable 4×4 vehicle, such as a Land Cruiser or Hilux, ideally equipped with a snorkel and high ground clearance. These rugged areas often have rough, dusty, or muddy tracks that require off-road capability.

• Fuel and Distance Planning
• Fuel stations are limited in this region. Be sure to:
• Top up in major towns like Soroti, Moroto, Kotido, and Gulu.
  Carry extra fuel in a jerrycan, especially before entering Kidepo or remote sections of Murchison Falls.

Navigation

• Use offline GPS apps like Maps.me or Gaia GPS.
• Mobile networks (MTN or Airtel) are patchy in Karamoja and Kidepo. We recommend downloading all maps in advance and keeping a power bank or vehicle charger.

Road Conditions and Driving

• Drive cautiously; roads can be bumpy, dusty, or muddy, especially during the rainy seasons (April–May and Oct–Nov).
• Avoid night driving—wildlife, livestock, and poor visibility can increase the risk of accidents.

Wildlife and Local Communities

• Drive slowly in and near national parks. Wildlife and livestock may cross unexpectedly.
• Respect local communities—especially in Karamojong and Ik areas. Please ask permission before taking photos and consider hiring a local guide where appropriate.

Park Entry & Documentation

• Entry to Kidepo and Murchison requires valid Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) permits. We advise purchasing these in advance or at the park gates.
• Always carry your passport, driver’s license, and rental agreement—you may be asked at police or UWA checkpoints.

Safety & Vehicle Preparedness

Your vehicle comes with a spare tire, jack, tool kit, and basic recovery gear. However, we also recommend carrying:

• A first aid kit
• Extra drinking water and snacks
• Local currency in cash, as many places don’t accept cards or mobile money

Accommodation & Access

• Confirm all lodge or campsite bookings in advance.
• Some remote lodges (especially in Kidepo or Aruu) may be difficult to access without 4WD; feel free to contact us for guidance on road conditions.

Emergency Assistance

• Should you need help during your trip:
• Contact our 24/7 roadside assistance team (number provided in your rental pack).
• For serious issues, head to the nearest major town (Gulu or Soroti) or notify park rangers at UWA stations.