10-Day Summer School Uganda Safari
Overview
This 10-day Summer School Safari is designed to give students a holistic experience of Uganda—The Pearl of Africa. It blends wildlife safaris, cultural immersion, environmental learning, and academic engagement, ensuring that students not only enjoy an adventure but also gain knowledge and skills for the future. From game drives in world-famous national parks, trekking primates in lush forests, and studying conservation in real environments, to cultural exchanges with local communities, this safari nurtures curiosity, builds confidence, and creates lasting intercultural friendships.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Welcome to Uganda
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport where your trip facilitator and guides will meet you. After briefing, transfer to your hotel for relaxation. If time allows, visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre to get a first-hand introduction to Uganda’s biodiversity. Overnight in Entebbe.
Day 2: Entebbe – Jinja (Source of the Nile)
Drive to Jinja, the adventure capital of East Africa. Students will visit the Source of the Nile River, where they learn about its geographical and historical significance. Afternoon boat ride on the Nile followed by a group reflection session on water resources and sustainable use. Overnight in Jinja.
Day 3: Budongo Forest – Chimpanzee Tracking & Environmental Studies
Head north to Budongo Forest. Students take part in a guided trek to observe chimpanzees while learning about primate behavior and rainforest ecology. Afternoon lecture/discussion on sustainable resource management and conservation challenges in tropical forests. Overnight near Budongo.
Day 4: Murchison Falls National Park – Wildlife & The Nile
Enter Uganda’s largest park for a game drive across savannah plains. Expect sightings of elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and if lucky, lions and leopards. Afternoon boat cruise on the Nile up to the base of Murchison Falls, where the river explodes through a narrow gorge. Evening debrief session on wildlife management and ecosystems. Overnight in Murchison Falls NP.
Day 5: Kibale Forest – Primate Capital of the World
Travel to Kibale, home to the highest density of primates in Africa. Evening orientation session introducing students to biodiversity hotspots and ecological research methods. Overnight near Kibale.
Day 6: Kibale Forest – Chimpanzee Tracking & Bigodi Community Visit
Morning chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest. Students participate in field-based observations of primate behavior. In the afternoon, visit Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary and interact with the local community, learning about eco-tourism and conservation-led livelihoods. Overnight in Kibale.
Day 7: Queen Elizabeth National Park – Game Drives & Kazinga Channel
Drive to Queen Elizabeth NP. Morning game drive in Kasenyi plains to spot antelopes, elephants, and predators. Afternoon boat safari on the Kazinga Channel, offering close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife. Evening reflection on climate change impacts on savannah ecosystems. Overnight in Queen Elizabeth NP.
Day 8: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – Gorilla Trekking
Travel to Bwindi. After a briefing, embark on the once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking adventure. Students experience conservation in action while learning about endangered species protection and community-based tourism. Overnight near Bwindi.
Day 9: Bwindi Community Engagement & Lake Bunyonyi
Morning community visits: meet the Batwa pygmies, tour a local school, and engage in discussions on health, education, and cultural preservation. Afternoon transfer to Lake Bunyonyi for relaxation and canoe rides across its scenic islands. Overnight at Lake Bunyonyi.
Day 10: Return to Entebbe – Departure
After breakfast, depart for Entebbe. Depending on flight schedules, stop at the Equator line for photos and a group reflection session on the safari. Evening departure back home.
Learning Outcomes for Students
Ecological Understanding – from savannah to tropical rainforests, students grasp flora, fauna, and ecosystem dynamics.
Research Skills – practical participation in field activities sparks interest in scientific research.
Confidence Building – students step out of their comfort zones, growing independence and self-awareness.
Classroom-to-Field Application – real-world exposure reinforces classroom learning.
Intercultural Connection – meeting Ugandan students and communities fosters global friendships and cross-cultural appreciation.
Inclusions
- Airport transfers
- Full-board accommodation throughout safari
- Private transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle with English-speaking guide
- Chimpanzee & gorilla trekking permits (per student)
- All park entry fees
- Game drives & boat cruises as per itinerary
- Educational sessions & community visits
- Bottled drinking water on safari
Exclusions
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Tips and gratuities
- Alcoholic drinks and soft drinks
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Why Choose This Safari?
The 10-Day Summer School Safari is not just a trip—it’s a journey of discovery, learning, and personal growth. It allows students to connect with nature, cultures, and communities while reinforcing classroom knowledge through practical field experiences. With a perfect mix of education, adventure, and cultural immersion, this safari creates memories and lessons that last a lifetime.
