In this 14-day self-drive itinerary, we present some of the highlights of Northern and Eastern Uganda, combining the adventure of Jinja, the scenic beauty of Sipi Falls, the remote wilderness of Kidepo Valley National Park, and the spectacular landscapes and wildlife of Murchison Falls National Park.
The itinerary is designed for travellers who want to experience Uganda beyond the more commonly visited southern circuit. It takes you from the source of the Nile in Jinja, through the coffee-growing slopes of Mount Elgon and the waterfalls of Sipi, northwards to the rugged landscapes and abundant wildlife of Kidepo Valley, before winding back through Murchison Falls National Park and finally returning to Entebbe.
Below is a day-by-day itinerary including what is expected to be experienced and viewed at the different destinations.
Day 1: Arrival and overnight in Entebbe
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport and pick up your self-drive 4×4 vehicle. Depending on your arrival time, you can either relax at your accommodation or take time to explore some of the attractions around Entebbe.
Entebbe offers a number of accommodation choices depending on your budget. You can choose from guest houses, boutique hotels and larger hotels located close to the airport and Lake Victoria.
If time permits, you can visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre, the Botanical Gardens, or take a walk around the shores of Lake Victoria.
Overnight in Entebbe.
Day 2: Entebbe to Jinja – Source of the Nile
After breakfast, depart Entebbe for Jinja. The drive takes approximately 3 to 4 hours depending on traffic and stops along the way.
Jinja is one of Uganda’s most popular adventure destinations and is located on the northern shores of Lake Victoria, close to the source of the River Nile.
Depending on your arrival time, visit the Source of the Nile and enjoy the beautiful views where the Nile begins its long journey northwards.
Jinja also offers a number of optional activities including boat trips, quad biking, horseback riding and white-water rafting.
Overnight in Jinja.
Day 3: Jinja Adventure Day
After breakfast, spend the day exploring Jinja and enjoying some of the activities available in the area.
For adventure seekers, white-water rafting on the Nile provides an opportunity to experience the river up close. Alternatively, you can take a boat trip on the Nile, visit local communities, or explore some of the historical sites around Jinja.
For travellers looking for a more relaxed experience, you can simply enjoy the scenery around the Nile and the laid-back atmosphere of Jinja.
Overnight in Jinja.
Day 4: Jinja to Sipi Falls
After breakfast, depart Jinja and head towards Sipi Falls. The journey takes approximately 4 to 5 hours depending on the route and stops along the way.
Sipi Falls is located on the slopes of Mount Elgon and consists of three impressive waterfalls surrounded by beautiful landscapes, coffee plantations and local communities.
On arrival, check into your accommodation and, depending on your arrival time, take a short walk around the area or simply relax while enjoying the views.
Overnight at Sipi Falls.
Day 5: Sipi Falls Experience
After breakfast, take a guided walk around the Sipi Falls area.
The Sipi Falls walk takes you through local communities, coffee plantations and countryside landscapes before reaching the waterfalls. The three waterfalls provide excellent opportunities for photography and scenic viewing.
You can also take part in a local coffee experience where you learn how coffee is grown, harvested, processed and prepared.
For adventure seekers, abseiling over the waterfalls is another optional activity.
Overnight at Sipi Falls.
Day 6: Sipi Falls to Kidepo Valley National Park
Start the day early after breakfast and begin the long journey northwards towards Kidepo Valley National Park.
This is one of the longer driving days of the itinerary, so it is advisable to carry drinking water, snacks and a packed lunch.
As you travel north, the scenery gradually changes from the green highlands of eastern Uganda to the drier landscapes of Karamoja.
Kidepo Valley National Park is located in the remote north-eastern corner of Uganda and is known for its dramatic landscapes, rugged mountains and wide-open savannah plains.
Arrive at your accommodation, check in and relax after the journey.
Overnight near Kidepo Valley National Park.
Day 7: Morning and Afternoon Game Drives in Kidepo
Wake up early for a morning game drive in Kidepo Valley National Park.
Kidepo is one of Uganda’s most remote wilderness destinations and offers a very different safari experience from the country’s other national parks.
The park is home to elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, Uganda kobs, Jackson’s hartebeest, waterbucks and a variety of antelope species. Lions, leopards and other predators may also be encountered.
The Narus Valley is one of the key areas for wildlife viewing because animals are often attracted to the available water.
Return to your accommodation for lunch and some relaxation before heading out again for an afternoon game drive.
Overnight near Kidepo Valley National Park.
Day 8: Kidepo Wilderness and Cultural Experience
After breakfast, enjoy another game drive or choose to explore some of the less-visited areas of Kidepo.
The park is famous for its spectacular scenery, including the mountains and expansive savannah plains. Depending on the season and location, you may encounter elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, antelopes and predators.
In the afternoon, you can take part in a cultural experience with the local Karamojong communities.
The experience provides an opportunity to learn about traditional lifestyles, homesteads, livestock keeping, cultural practices and the history of the people of Karamoja.
Overnight near Kidepo Valley National Park.
Day 9: Kidepo Valley to Gulu
After breakfast, begin the journey out of Kidepo and head towards Gulu.
This is another relatively long driving day, giving you an opportunity to experience the changing landscapes of northern Uganda.
The journey takes you away from the remote wilderness of Kidepo towards the more populated areas of northern Uganda.
Arrive in Gulu in the afternoon, check into your accommodation and relax.
Depending on your arrival time, you can explore some of the town or simply enjoy a relaxed evening.
Overnight in Gulu.
Day 10: Gulu to Murchison Falls National Park
After breakfast, depart Gulu for Murchison Falls National Park.
The journey takes approximately 3 to 4 hours depending on your route and stops.
Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest national park and is dissected by the River Nile, creating northern and southern sections of the park.
On arrival, enter the park and continue towards your accommodation.
Depending on your arrival time, you may have an opportunity for a short afternoon game drive.
Overnight in or near Murchison Falls National Park.
Day 11: Morning Game Drive and Afternoon Boat Trip
Wake up early for a morning game drive in the northern part of Murchison Falls National Park.
The northern sector provides some of the best opportunities for viewing wildlife in the park. Animals you may encounter include lions, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, Jackson’s hartebeest, Uganda kobs and other antelope species. Leopards are also occasionally seen.
After lunch, head for the afternoon boat trip towards the bottom of Murchison Falls.
The boat trip takes approximately three hours and provides an opportunity to view hippos, crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes and a variety of water birds along the River Nile.
The boat continues towards the base of the mighty Murchison Falls, where the Nile forces its way through a narrow gorge before continuing northwards.
Return to your accommodation for dinner and overnight.
Day 12: Murchison Falls and Top of the Falls
After breakfast, head out for a game drive or enjoy a relaxed morning depending on your preference.
Later, visit the Top of the Falls where you can experience the power of the Nile as it squeezes through the narrow gorge.
The viewpoint provides an impressive perspective of the falls and is one of the highlights of a visit to Murchison Falls National Park.
Depending on your interests, you can spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing at your lodge or take another short game drive.
Overnight in Murchison Falls National Park.
Day 13: Murchison Falls to Entebbe
After breakfast, start your journey back towards Entebbe.
The drive takes approximately 5 to 6 hours depending on the route and traffic.
You can choose to stop along the way for lunch or make a short stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary if your itinerary and timing allow.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary provides an opportunity to track rhinos on foot in a semi-wild environment.
Continue towards Entebbe and check into your accommodation.
Overnight in Entebbe.
Day 14: Departure from Entebbe
After breakfast, depending on your flight time, you may have an opportunity to enjoy one of the attractions around Entebbe or simply relax before heading to the airport.
If your flight is later in the day, you can take a short walk around the area, visit the Botanical Gardens or spend some time relaxing before returning your self-drive vehicle.
Transfer to Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight.
What to Pack on your 14 Days tour
Pack lightweight, comfortable clothing suitable for warm days, cool mornings, and outdoor activities, together with sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots. Carry a light rain jacket, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, reusable water bottle, binoculars, camera, and personal toiletries. For Kidepo, Sipi Falls and the national parks, neutral-coloured clothing and a small daypack are particularly useful for game drives, nature walks and hiking. Note that there is a complexion of slightly cool weather in Eastern Uganda, where as the Northern part of the country is relatively hotter.
Where to Pick up and drop off your rental car from
Your rental car can conveniently be picked up from Entebbe International Airport, your hotel, or another agreed location depending on your travel arrangements. For the return, you can drop off the vehicle at Entebbe Airport or another agreed location at the end of your self-drive adventure. Our flexible pick-up and drop-off arrangements make it easier to begin and conclude your 14-day Uganda road trip according to your flight schedule.
Driving times while on your 14 days self drive tour
Driving times vary depending on the route, road conditions, traffic, weather and stops made along the way. The Northern Circuit involves some longer driving days, particularly when travelling between Sipi Falls, Kidepo Valley National Park and Murchison Falls National Park. It is therefore advisable to allow sufficient time for each journey, take regular breaks, and avoid rushing so you can enjoy Uganda’s changing landscapes along the way. Note that we do recommend driving when it is day light that is between 6am and 7pm.
Is roadside assistance included in the self drive rental?
Yes, roadside assistance is available on a 24/7 basis as part of the self-drive rental support throughout your journey. In case of a vehicle-related challenge, you can contact us for guidance and assistance while traveling in Uganda.