8 Day Intensive Herping Safari In Uganda – Rare Snakes, Chameleons & Wildlife Adventure
8 Day Intensive Herping Safari in Uganda – Rare Snakes, Chameleons & Wildlife Adventure
8 Day Intensive Herping Safari in Uganda – Rare Snakes, Chameleons & Wildlife Adventure
For reptile lovers and herpetology enthusiasts, Uganda is one of Africa’s best-kept secrets. Our 8 Day Intensive Herping Safari is a specialized expedition designed for those who want to go beyond ordinary wildlife viewing and dive deep into the world of Uganda’s most fascinating reptiles and amphibians. This is not a typical tourist trip. It is a focused, expert-led herping adventure that takes you into wetlands, forests, and savannahs where rare snakes, chameleons, and lizards live hidden from the crowds.
Whether you are a seasoned herpetologist, a wildlife photographer, or simply someone with a passion for reptiles, this 8-day safari will give you an unforgettable field experience in one of Africa’s most biodiverse countries.
Why Choose Uganda for a Herping Safari?
Uganda is home to an incredible variety of reptiles and amphibians. The country’s diverse habitats from the Mabamba Wetlands to the forests of Kibale and the savannahs of Queen Elizabeth National Park, support species that are difficult to find anywhere else. Studies have recorded 29 amphibian species, 15 lizard species, and 32 snake species in just one forest area alone. Uganda truly is a paradise for herping.
Some of the remarkable species you may encounter include:
- Gaboon Viper – one of Africa’s most stunning and largest vipers
- Black Mamba – the legendary fast-moving snake of the African bush
- Puff Adder – a classic African venomous snake
- Great Lakes Bush Viper – a beautiful and rare forest viper
- Jameson’s Mamba – a vibrant green tree-dwelling snake
- Tolley’s Forest Chameleon – a rare and colorful chameleon
- Johnston’s Three-Horned Chameleon – a spectacular horned species
- Nile Crocodile – the massive reptile of Uganda’s rivers and lakes
- Forest Cobra, Emerald Snake, and Tree Snakes
Your 8 Day Intensive Herping Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Entebbe International Airport
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative from Uganda Wildlife And Herping Safaris. You will be transferred to your hotel in Entebbe where you can freshen up, relax, and enjoy your dinner and overnight stay. Your guide will give you a detailed briefing about the exciting adventure ahead.
Day 2: Mabamba Wetlands Herping Experience
After breakfast, you will be picked up by your expert guide and transferred to the famous Mabamba Wetlands. This vast swamp is best known as a prime habitat for the shoebill stork, but it is also home to some of Africa’s most elusive serpents. Here you will begin your search for the Puff Adder, Gaboon Viper, Black Mamba, Emerald Snake, and Cobra. The adventure continues into the night with nocturnal herping, when many snakes are most active.
Day 3: Full Day Herping in Mabamba
Spend the entire day searching for more reptiles, focusing on species you may have missed. You will explore different areas of the wetlands and surrounding forests, looking for the Great Lakes Bush Viper, Jameson’s Mamba, Eastern Blanding’s Tree Snake, and other rare bush snakes. Your guide knows exactly where and how to find these hidden creatures. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Day 4: Transfer to Mityana – Forest Herping
After breakfast, depart for Mityana, stopping at forest patches along the way to search for reptiles. The forests of Mityana are excellent for finding chameleons, tree snakes, and forest-dwelling lizards. This is a great opportunity to observe species that are rarely seen by casual visitors.
Day 5: Kibale Forest and Crater Lakes Herping
Transfer to the Kibale Forest region, one of Uganda’s most biodiverse areas. The herpetofauna of Kibale includes 29 amphibian species, 15 lizard species, and 32 snake species. You will explore forest trails and crater lake shores, searching for chameleons, frogs, and snakes. Night herping in Kibale is particularly rewarding, as many nocturnal species emerge after dark.
Day 6: Queen Elizabeth National Park Herping and Wildlife
Head to Queen Elizabeth National Park, home to over 95 mammal species and more than 600 bird species. The park’s diverse habitats—including savannah, wetlands, and forest—also support a rich reptile population, including Nile Crocodiles, Monitor Lizards, and various snake species. You will combine herping with game drives to see elephants, lions, buffaloes, and hippos. A boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel offers excellent opportunities to spot crocodiles basking on the banks.
Day 7: Herping in the Rwenzori Region
Journey to the Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the “Mountains of the Moon.” This region is famous for its unique chameleon species, including the rare Tolley’s Forest Chameleon and Johnston’s Three-Horned Chameleon . The cool, misty forests of the Rwenzoris provide a completely different herping experience from the lowland wetlands. Your guide will help you find these spectacular creatures in their natural habitat.
Day 8: Return to Entebbe – Departure
After a final morning of herping (if time allows), you will be transferred back to Entebbe for your departure flight. You will leave Uganda with unforgettable memories of its incredible reptiles and the wild beauty of its national parks.
Meet the Mountain Gorillas – A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
While herping is the main focus of this safari, no trip to Uganda is complete without experiencing its most famous wildlife encounter. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is home to more than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. Trekking through the dense, mist-covered rainforest to find a gorilla family is a deeply humbling and magical experience. You will spend one unforgettable hour watching playful youngsters, protective mothers, and the mighty silverback in their natural habitat.
This safari can be customized to include a gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi, making your Uganda adventure truly complete. Other optional add-ons include chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest and birdwatching for the legendary shoebill stork.
Practical Tips for Your Herping Safari
- Best Time to Visit: The dry seasons (December to February and June to August) offer easier access to trails, but the wet seasons bring out more amphibians and active reptiles.
- What to Bring: Sturdy waterproof boots, long pants, a headlamp for night herping, a camera with a macro lens, and plenty of patience.
- Safety: Your expert guides are trained in safe reptile handling and will ensure you observe all animals from a safe distance.
- Fitness Level: Moderate fitness is recommended, as some herping excursions involve walking through forests and wetlands for several hours.
Start Planning Your Dream Uganda Safari Today
Uganda is waiting for you. Whether you are chasing rare snakes, photographing colorful chameleons, or standing face-to-face with a mountain gorilla, Uganda Wildlife And Herping Safaris is here to make your dream adventure a reality. Our expert guides, deep local knowledge, and passion for Uganda’s wildlife ensure a safe, exciting, and unforgettable journey.
Start planning your dream Uganda safari today and experience the magic of meeting mountain gorillas, exploring beautiful national parks, and discovering the incredible wildlife of Uganda. Plan your dream Uganda safari today. Contact us on WhatsApp at +256-731848494 or email info@ugandawildlifeandherpingsafaris.com and start your adventure with us.
