Churchill Safaris

Churchill Safaris was founded in 2000 by Ether J. Birungi, a certified accountant born and raised in Uganda who recognised the country’s extraordinary potential as an East African safari destination. What started as a passion project has grown into one of Uganda’s most established and reputable tour operators, with over 25 years of experience crafting tailored safaris for individual travellers, families, and small groups.

The company specialises in comprehensive, tailor-made itineraries across Uganda, offering everything from mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park and cultural community visits. Churchill is known for going beyond traditional wildlife viewing — their experiential safaris include cooking lessons with local families, farm visits, nature walks, and traditional craft-making, giving guests a genuine connection to Ugandan culture.

All safaris run exclusively in Churchill’s own fleet of customised 4x4 Toyota Land Cruisers, purpose-built for Uganda’s rugged terrain. The company’s full-time guides each bring over 15 years of professional experience and have worked with Churchill for more than a decade, ensuring every guest receives knowledgeable, attentive service throughout their journey.

Conservation and sustainability are central to Churchill’s operations. The company runs a ‘Pack for a Purpose’ initiative that engages school children and local communities in environmental clean-ups, and promotes zero-carbon alternatives such as guided gorilla walks through the jungle — a unique experience distinct from traditional gorilla tracking.

Churchill selects small, eco-friendly, locally owned lodges that offer guests a personal touch, and also operates three of their own safari cultural lodges. This hands-on approach to accommodation ensures authentic, comfortable stays while directly supporting local economies.