The Great North Adventure
7days /6 nights
The Great North Adventure is Northern Uganda like you’ve never seen it before. Over 7 unforgettable days and 6 nights, journey through two breathtaking national parks, explore the hidden oasis of Araa, and immerse yourself in the rich and vibrant Acholi cultural experience. This is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that blends nature, tradition, and discovery.
Transfer To Murchison
Your Great North Adventure will begin with a pick-up from kampala by our experienced chauffeur who will then transfer you on a scenic 330 km (about 6-7 hour) journey to Murchison falls National park, which is not only home to the world’s most powerful waterfall where The Nile River forces its way through a narrow 7-meter gorge and plunges 43 meters below, creating a thunderous roar and mist that can be seen from afar but also home to over 76 species of animals and more than 450 species of birds, including the iconic Big Five, lions, leopards, elephants, as well as giraffes, hartebeests, and much more.We'll make a special stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in Uganda where you can see wild rhinos up close. Here, you’ll enjoy a guided walk through the sanctuary and a delicious lunch surrounded by nature before proceeding to Murchison falls where We’ll arrive in the afternoon, take a drive to the top of the majestic falls, and soak in the views before heading to the lodge for check-in and a relaxing evening as we prepare for the next day's adventure.
Wild Wonders of Murchison
Rise early for breakfast as the savannah awakens around you. Then set off for an exciting morning game drive along the northern banks of the Nile, accompanied by a professional ranger, you will get to see some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for towering Rothschild giraffes, majestic elephants, and Lions. You will also be thrilled by the wide variety of vibrant woodland species that call this ecosystem home.Return to the lodge for a refreshing lunch, then head out for an afternoon boat cruise on the Nile. You’ll see hippos, crocodiles, and elephants up close as they relax along the riverbanks.End the day with dinner and an overnight stay at the Lodge.
Discovering Araa
We’ll depart Murchison Falls before sunrise for a scenic 5-hour drive to Adjumani, heading towards the tranquil beauty of Araa. Along the way, you will enjoy views of lush countryside, rolling hills, and vibrant village life that bring Northern Uganda’s charm to life.Arrive in Araa by early afternoon, just in time for a relaxing lunch and check-in. Later, set off for a guided biking and nature walk through the Otze Forest and Mountain, where you’ll discover rich birdlife and the peaceful rhythm of nature.As the day winds down, enjoy a serene cruise on the White Nile, soaking in a tropical sunset with panoramic views of hills and riverside beauty, a perfect end to a day off the beaten path.Dinner and overnight stay at the cottages or a camp.
Into the Heart of Acholi
Today, the adventure takes us on about a 2-3 hour drive to Gulu, where you'll explore more than just nature.This is your gateway to experience the soul of Acholi culture.After breakfast, we’ll drive to Patiko Village, where life is rooted in tradition. You’ll be welcomed into a community of grass-thatched homes, where communities live like family and take part in preparing a local meal, from gathering ingredients to cooking over open fire and enjoy the flavors of Acholi delicacies. After an Acholi style lunch, we will visit Lukodi, a quiet village that holds deep memories. Here, you’ll walk the LRA war trail and learn about the struggles this community faced during the over 2 decade war.This day is about connection to people, culture, and stories that will stay with you long after the journey ends.Dinner and overnight stay at a hotel.
Acholi Flavours
The day will start early as you embark on about a 2-3 hours journey from Gulu to Lagoro in Kitgum. A short stop over for a hands-on cultural experience. You will Learn how the sacred shea tree plays a role in both Acholi tradition and cuisine as you join the local community in making shea butter the traditional way.After lunch You will then proceed with a long distance drive taking us through stunning landscapes, rolling savannahs, distant mountain ranges, and quiet pastoral villages before the vast plains of Kidepo unfold before your eyes. a pristine haven for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers. Home to over 475 bird species, the second-highest count in Uganda, and unique wildlife not found elsewhere in the country. you will then check in at a Lodge with the stillness of wild North all around you.
Kidepo’s Wild Escape
Wake up to the wild call of Kidepo and fuel up with breakfast before heading out on a morning game drive through the Narus Valley, a wildlife-rich area in search of buffaloes, elephants, giraffes, and antelopes. This is the only place in Uganda where you might spot cheetahs, striped hyenas, and caracals, making every sighting feel like a rare treasure.You might need to Keep your eyes open for some bird species as well like ostriches only found in Kidepo. After enjoying lunch and taking some time to unwind at the hotel, we’ll hit the road once again, this time for a scenic journey across the wild and bumpy terrain of northern Uganda back to Gulu and a stop over at the stunning Aruu Falls in Pader, a perfect chance to stretch your legs, refresh by the cascading waterfalls, and take in the natural beauty of this hidden gem.Arrival in the evening and an overnight stay and dinner at a designated Hotel.
Adiós to The Great North
With hearts full of memories and minds enriched by the beauty and culture of The Great Northern, we begin our 8 hour journey from Gulu to Kampala after breakfast. The road takes us through vibrant towns and ever-changing landscapes, offering one final glimpse of the Pearl of Africa. Don’t forget to look out for the iconic twin trees as you leave Gulu and the breathtaking Karuma Falls along the way. Thank you for letting us be part of your Great North adventure , it’s been a pleasure journeying with you.
INCLUDED IN THIS PACKAGE
- Transport
- English speaking community guides
- Accommodation on full board basis
- All Acholi Experiences & activities
mentioned in the itinerary - Hiking
- Local Souvenirs
EXCLUDED IN THIS PACKAGE
- Airfare to and from Uganda
- Visa’s
- Travel Insurance
- All beverages except tea, coffee or juice taken at breakfast where breakfast is
included. - Tips, gratuities and items of a personal nature
- Any activity, meal or accommodation
NOT mentioned in the itinerary.
WHAT TO BRING?
- There is no power supply in the village so please charge you cameras and phones to the brim before departure.
- Comfortable walking and hiking shoes.
- Sunglasses, hats and sunscreens.
Spending money for additional activities, there are no banks where we are going. - Beddings and toiletries for personal use during the trip.
- Additionally, carry a torch or a solar-powered light for nighttime, as there is no power supply in the area.
- Camping tents and sleeping bags. (Optional)
BASIC TERMS
This is a conscious tourism experience that will have your perspectives challenged and broadened as you experience a new culture and hopefully gain fresh insights. Here are a few things you should know;
- We do our absolute best to keep to the Programme and timings but sometimes the weather/animals/roads/slow rhythm of village life gets the better of us!
- Respect of the community and local culture is paramount. We recommend modest clothes that covers the knees for the ladies to avoid discomfort for the locals and some very long uncomfortable stares.
- Taking of photos with consent from parties involved is also to be observed. We do not recommend taking photos of children during the experience
- Hill trail can be rough and the rock is pretty sun exposed during dry seasons, we recommend wearing long sleeve shirts and pants
- In the rural area , only pit latrines (hole in the ground) are available.
