Tour Overview
A one-of-a-kind, specialized herpetology expedition through the Albertine Rift, one of Africa's richest biodiversity hotspots. Accompanied by experienced herpetologists and certified wildlife spotters, explore montane cloud forests, lowland rainforests, and swamp biomes in search of rare, endemic reptiles and amphibians.
Highlights include searching for the iconic Rwenzori three-horned chameleon (Trioceros johnstoni), the vibrant Great Lakes bush viper (Atheris nitschei), the stealthy Gaboon viper, rhinoceros viper, Jameson's mamba, and an astounding array of endemic hyperoliid reed frogs and torrent frogs. With dedicated nocturnal spotlight walks, controlled field photography setups, and strict ethical handling protocols, this tour delivers an unforgettable adventure for naturalists, biologists, and wildlife photographers.
Tour Highlights
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Day 1: Entebbe Arrival & Herping Briefing
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport, meet your private herpetologist guide, and transfer to your boutique hotel. Evening briefing on East African herpetofauna, safety protocols, and field gear inspection.
Day 2: Day 2-3: Semuliki National Park – Central African Lowland Forest
Drive through Fort Portal to Semuliki National Park, East Africa's only lowland tropical rainforest. Undertake daytime and nocturnal search walks around the Sempaya hot springs and forest trails targeting the Great Lakes bush viper, forest cobras, and forest chameleons.
Day 3: Day 4-5: Kibale National Park – Primate & Amphibian Haven
Transfer to Kibale Forest. Conduct evening stream surveys along forest tributaries for endemic hyperoliid reed frogs, clawed frogs, and tree frogs. Daytime chimp trekking and reptile canopy viewing.
Day 4: Day 6-7: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – Albertine Montane Endemics
Ascend into the misty montane forests of Bwindi. Search the highland bamboo and moss zones for the Rwenzori three-horned chameleon, Montane viper, and rare skinks.
Day 5: Day 8: Lake Mburo Micro-habitats & Savannah Herping
Head east to Lake Mburo National Park. Explore rocky kopjes, acacia woodlands, and shoreline marshes for Nile monitors, puff adders, and leopard tortoises.
Day 6: Day 9: Return to Entebbe & Departure
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and return transfer to Entebbe International Airport with stops at the Equator for photography. Depart with incredible memories and photographs.
What's Included & Excluded
What's Included
- All national park and reserve entry permits
- Certified professional herpetologist and naturalist guides
- Nocturnal spotlighting equipment and safety field gear
- Full-board boutique eco-lodge accommodations
- Private 4x4 safari vehicle with unlimited mileage and fuel
- Airport transfers to and from Entebbe
What's Excluded
- International flight tickets
- Entry visa fees for Uganda
- Personal travel and medical insurance
- Tips and gratuities for driver/guides
- Personal alcoholic beverages and laundry
Accommodation & Destination Info
Lodging Standard
Handpicked luxury eco-lodges featuring private en-suite cottages, fine dining, and tranquil riverfront or forest views.
Route & Transport
Travel in customized 4x4 Safari Land Cruisers with charging ports, fridge, wide windows, and pop-up roof for optimal 360-degree game viewing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Our tours are led by licensed herpetologists trained in snake handling and venomous reptile safety. Guests observe from safe distances and touch only non-venomous specimens under strict guidance.
A macro lens (90mm-105mm) with external flash/diffuser is ideal for chameleons and frogs, alongside a versatile 70-200mm zoom lens for daytime field sightings.
