This 4-day safari is designed for travelers who wish to experience the thrill of mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and encounter the playful golden monkeys in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. It is a short yet highly rewarding journey that allows you to witness two of East Africa’s most iconic primate adventures, while also enjoying scenic landscapes, cultural encounters, and cross-border travel between Uganda and Rwanda.
Safari Inclusions & Exclusions
Inclusions
- Accommodation as per itinerary (lodges & hotels)
- Meals as indicated in the tour plan
- All ground transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle with English-speaking guide
- One Gorilla Trekking Permit per person (Bwindi)
- One Golden Monkey Tracking Permit per person (Mgahinga)
- All park entrance fees and conservation fees
- Nature walks and community visits as mentioned in the itinerary
- Airport transfers (Arrival & Departure)
- Bottled drinking water while on safari
Exclusions
- International flights
- Uganda visa fees
- Travel & medical insurance
- Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, souvenirs)
- Alcoholic drinks & beverages not included in the itinerary
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Tips & gratuities for guides, drivers, and lodge staff
- Costs of photography permits where applicable
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali – Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be welcomed by your safari guide and begin a scenic drive towards Uganda. The journey takes you through Rwanda’s rolling hills and across the Cyanika or Katuna border into Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Virunga Volcanoes and local countryside.
Overnight in Bwindi.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest
After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking. Accompanied by experienced rangers, you’ll venture deep into the misty forest in search of a habituated gorilla family. The trek can take between 2–6 hours depending on the gorillas’ location, but the reward is unforgettable—spending one full hour observing the gorillas as they feed, play, and interact. Later, return to your lodge to relax, or enjoy an optional evening cultural visit to the Batwa community.
Overnight in Bwindi.
Day 3: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park – Rwanda
After breakfast, cross back into Rwanda and drive to Volcanoes National Park in Musanze. This scenic journey offers views of terraced farmlands, lakes, and the Virunga ranges. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and relax. In the afternoon, you may opt for a cultural experience at the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where you will learn about traditional Rwandan culture, dance, and history.
Overnight near Volcanoes National Park.
Day 4: Golden Monkey Tracking – Departure from Kigali
Start your day with golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park. These endangered primates live in the bamboo forests at the base of the Virunga volcanoes. The experience is light and fun compared to gorilla trekking, as golden monkeys are playful, fast-moving, and often leap between trees. After the trek, return to Kigali for a city tour if time allows (including the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local markets, and art galleries). Later, transfer to Kigali International Airport for your onward flight.