Kampala in 10 Days for Friends - Sunset boat ride on the River Nile (Jinja)
In Collaboration with VERDORO SAFARIS. Updated on February 18, 2026.
A 10-day, budget-focused road safari through Uganda visiting Jinja, Sipi Falls, Kidepo Valley, Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth National Park. Meet your guide in Kampala, transfer to Jinja for a Nile sundowner and continue with village, coffee and waterfall experiences before extended wildlife safaris in Kidepo, Murchison and Queen Elizabeth. Meals and basic accommodations are included.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with VERDORO SAFARIS, inspired by the tour 10-Day low Budget Uganda Safari. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Sunset boat ride on the River Nile (Jinja)
- Coffee farm tour and hiking at Sipi Falls
- Two full days of game drives in Kidepo Valley National Park
- Hike to the top of Murchison Falls + Nile boat cruise
- Game drive and Kazinga Channel boat cruise in Queen Elizabeth NP
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Kampala and transfer to Jinja; evening sundowner on the Nile.
Pickup in Kampala and road transfer to Jinja
Meet your guide in Kampala in the morning. Load luggage and drive east to Jinja. Check in to your chosen budget lodge in Jinja and rest before the evening activity.
Tips from local experts:
- Pack a small daypack with documents, medications and a change of clothes — luggage will stay in the vehicle during short stops.
- Carry some local cash (UGX) for market purchases; ATMs are available in Jinja town but not at all lodges.
- Expect a 2.5–3.5 hour drive from Kampala to Jinja depending on traffic; charge devices before departure.
Evening sundowner boat ride on the River Nile
Late-afternoon boat ride on the Nile near the Source area for sunset views (short cruise; casual sundowner).
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a light jacket as it can be breezy on the river near sunset.
- Keep cameras and phones in a dry bag or zipped pocket — splashes are possible on small boats.
- Confirm pickup time with your guide the same morning; boat rides are weather dependent.
Day 2
Jinja town experience: local museum, market and nearby falls visit.
Morning visit: Jinja railway/heritage and town market
Short guided walk to the town's railway/heritage area and a visit to Jinja Main Market to experience daily life and local crafts.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven surfaces at market stalls and around the railway area.
- Carry small notes for street purchases; vendors may not accept cards.
- Ask your guide before photographing people — it’s polite to request permission first.
Afternoon visit to nearby falls and riverside areas
Drive to a nearby waterfall or riverside viewpoint around the Jinja area for short walks and photo opportunities. Timing depends on local conditions.
Tips from local experts:
- Trails near waterfalls can be slippery — bring closed-toe shoes with good grip.
- If you plan to swim, check with the guide about safety and currents before entering the water.
- Bring insect repellent for shaded, riverside areas in the afternoon.
Day 3
Transfer to Sipi Falls with a coffee plantation tour and lodge check-in.
Drive from Jinja to Sipi Falls and lodge check-in
Early departure for the drive northeast to the Sipi Falls area (Kapchorwa district). Arrive at your lodge, settle in and prepare for afternoon activities.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect a long drive with rough sections; bring motion-sickness remedies if needed.
- Carry a refillable water bottle and snacks; some stretches have limited services.
- Keep a paper copy of your accommodation name and contact; mobile signal can be intermittent.
Coffee plantation tour (bean-to-cup)
Guided visit to a local coffee cooperative or smallholder farm to learn the coffee process from harvesting to roasting and sample freshly brewed local coffee.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear closed-toe shoes for farm walks and bring a hat — sun can be strong at higher elevations.
- If you have a coffee preference or allergy (e.g., nut-flavored samples), inform the guide beforehand.
- Bring small change if you wish to buy roasted beans or souvenirs directly from farmers.
Day 4
Full-day exploration of Sipi Falls: hikes to the three falls and a local cultural visit.
Hike to the three Sipi waterfalls
Guided hike visiting the series of waterfalls, with viewpoint stops and photo opportunities. Pace adapted for a mixed-activity group.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring sturdy walking shoes and a light rain layer; trails include steps and uneven terrain.
- Start early to avoid mid-afternoon clouds and to enjoy cooler temperatures on the trails.
- Carry at least 1–2 liters of water and sunscreen; there are limited facilities on the trails.
Afternoon cultural visit with local community
Meet community members for a short cultural exchange and learn about local traditions and crafts in the Sipi area.
Tips from local experts:
- Respect local customs: ask before photographing people and follow guide advice on greetings.
- Bring small tokens for children (pencils, notebooks) rather than sweets, unless advised otherwise.
- If visiting homes, remove shoes if hosts request it and follow any instructions on social etiquette.
Day 5
Long transfer from Sipi Falls to Kidepo Valley National Park with scenic stops; afternoon game drive.
Early departure: Drive from Sipi Falls to Kidepo Valley National Park
Full-day road transfer north toward Kidepo. Expect long driving hours with periodic rest and lunch stops. Arrival late afternoon and lodge check-in.
Tips from local experts:
- Prepare for a long travel day (potentially 8+ hours); bring entertainment and prescription medicines within reach.
- Plan for limited services on remote stretches; charge devices and carry spare power bank.
- Vehicle may be dusty — pack a light scarf or bandana and protect camera gear with zip bags.
Late-afternoon game drive in Kidepo
Short afternoon/evening game drive focused on wildlife sightings near the lodge area. Timing depends on arrival time and daylight.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep noise low and windows closed when near wildlife; follow guide instructions for safety.
- Bring binoculars and a telephoto-capable camera lens for best wildlife views.
- Dress in neutral-colored layers — mornings/evenings can be cool, afternoons warm.
Day 6
Full day in Kidepo Valley National Park: early game drive, cultural visit and short hike.
Early morning game drive in Kidepo
Start before sunrise for the best wildlife activity. Focus on plains species and predators active in the early hours.
Tips from local experts:
- Wake-up is early (pre-dawn); bring a warm layer and a hot drink if available at the lodge.
- Keep camera batteries warm and ready — cold mornings drain battery life faster.
- Follow the guide’s distance rules around predators and avoid standing on seats during drives.
Daytime cultural visit & Morungole area short hike
Visit a Karamojong community for cultural insight followed by a manageable hike in nearby highlands (short sections; panoramic viewpoints).
Tips from local experts:
- Respect local customs and clothing norms; follow the guide’s lead at cultural sites.
- Hike duration and difficulty can be adjusted — inform your guide of any mobility concerns.
- Carry sun protection and water; there are limited services during the hike.
Day 7
Transfer from Kidepo Valley to Murchison Falls National Park, with hike to the top of Murchison Falls.
Drive from Kidepo to Murchison Falls National Park and lodge check-in
Early departure for the long road transfer southwest to Murchison Falls area. Arrive in the late afternoon, check in and rest before the evening.
Tips from local experts:
- Another long drive day — plan for rest stops and bring snacks and water in the vehicle.
- Road conditions vary; luggage should be secure and easy to access for rest-stop items.
- Confirm the lodge’s arrival time for dinner service if arriving late.
Hike to the top of Murchison Falls (short walk to viewpoint)
Walk to the viewpoint above the narrow gorge to observe where the Nile forces through the falls. Timing depends on arrival and daylight.
Tips from local experts:
- Paths can be steep and uneven — wear sturdy footwear and use sun protection.
- The viewpoint can be windy and spray is common; bring a waterproof layer if you plan to get close.
- Follow park rules and the guide’s directions to stay within safe viewing areas.
Day 8
Full day in Murchison Falls: early game drive and Nile boat cruise.
Early morning game drive in Murchison Falls National Park
Begin before sunrise to seek early predators and a range of savanna species in different habitats within the park.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a warm layer for pre-dawn starts and binoculars for wildlife viewing.
- Keep personal items secure in the vehicle; avoid sudden movements around wildlife.
- Carry bottled water and a small snack for longer drives between sightings.
Boat cruise on the Nile downstream of Murchison Falls
Midday or afternoon boat cruise along the Nile to view hippos, crocodiles and riverside wildlife, with views toward the falls.
Tips from local experts:
- Carry sun protection and a hat; boat cruises expose you to direct sun for extended periods.
- Keep cameras secure and use a strap; sudden movements can cause splashes on smaller boats.
- Listen to the crew for safe boarding and disembarking instructions — boats can be low to the waterline.
Day 9
Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park with Kazinga Channel cruise and evening at the lodge.
Drive from Murchison Falls to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Early departure for the transfer southwest to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Arrive in the afternoon and prepare for the Kazinga Channel cruise.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect several hours of driving with scenic stops; pack motion-sickness remedies if needed.
- Fuel and food stops are available in major towns along the route — bring small change.
- Confirm lodge check-in and lunch timings with your guide to coordinate the cruise schedule.
Kazinga Channel boat cruise
Afternoon boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel to view concentrations of hippos, crocodiles and waterbird life between Lake George and Lake Edward.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring binoculars for bird and wildlife spotting along the channel.
- Wear a light windproof top and sun protection; boat decks can be exposed.
- Confirm cruise start time with your guide — timing often targets late afternoon lighting.
Day 10
Early morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth NP then transfer to Entebbe for departure.
Early morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Final early-morning game drive to search for lions, elephants and other species before departing the park.
Tips from local experts:
- Early start (pre-dawn) — bring a warm layer and a torch for boarding the vehicle.
- Pack essentials for the road trip to Entebbe in an accessible bag — luggage may be loaded into the vehicle.
- Inform the guide of your flight time to ensure timely arrival at Entebbe.
Transfer to Entebbe International Airport
Drive from Queen Elizabeth area to Entebbe (Kampala Road / Entebbe International Airport) for departure. Timing based on flight schedule; allow buffer for traffic.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow 4–6 hours driving time to Entebbe from Queen Elizabeth depending on route and stops; confirm flight check-in time with your guide.
- Keep passports and flight documents accessible during the transfer for immigration or airline checks if required.
- Expect heavier traffic approaching Kampala and Entebbe; plan extra time for arrival at the airport.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 10 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 6 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 14 |
| Total Places | 20 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Experience, Culture, Attraction, Outdoor |
