The 5 Days Uganda Gorilla with Rwanda Culture Tour combines the thrill of gorilla trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park with a rich cultural immersion in Rwanda. This safari is perfect for travelers who want to experience wildlife and culture in one seamless journey, starting in Kigali and blending the best of both worlds.
Safari Highlights
Scenic drive from Kigali to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Gorilla trekking adventure in Uganda.
Cultural interaction with the Batwa pygmies in Uganda.
Visit to Rwanda’s Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village.
Kigali city tour including the Genocide Memorial and craft markets.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your safari guide. Depending on your arrival time, you may go for a Kigali city tour, visiting landmarks such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local craft markets, and art galleries.
Later, transfer to your hotel in Kigali for relaxation and overnight.
Accommodation: Luxury – Kigali Serena Hotel; Midrange – Hotel des Mille Collines; Budget – Step Town Hotel.
Day 2: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – Uganda
After breakfast, you will drive through Rwanda’s rolling hills and cross into Uganda via Cyanika or Katuna border. The scenic drive takes about 4–5 hours, with views of terraced hillsides and rural communities.
On arrival in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, check into your lodge and relax in preparation for gorilla trekking.
Accommodation: Luxury – Buhoma Lodge / Clouds Lodge; Midrange – Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge; Budget – Buhoma Community Rest Camp.
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
This is the highlight of your safari. After an early breakfast, report to the park headquarters for a briefing from the rangers. You will then be assigned a gorilla family and set off for your gorilla trekking adventure.
The trek may take 2–7 hours, depending on where the gorillas are found. Once you locate them, spend one magical hour observing these endangered giants as they interact, feed, and play.
In the afternoon, you may relax at your lodge or take part in an optional cultural walk to visit the Batwa pygmies and learn about their traditions.
Day 4: Return to Rwanda – Cultural Experience at Iby’Iwacu Village
After breakfast, drive back into Rwanda and proceed to Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village near Volcanoes National Park. Here, you will experience Rwanda’s vibrant culture through traditional dances, drumming, storytelling, and local cuisine. You will also learn about Rwanda’s heritage, history, and community projects.
This cultural visit is highly interactive and offers an authentic experience of Rwanda’s traditions. Overnight in Musanze or Kigali.
Accommodation: Luxury – Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel; Midrange – Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge; Budget – Muhabura Hotel.
Day 5: Kigali City Tour & Departure
After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed Kigali city tour, visiting sites you may have missed earlier, including Kimironko Market and local art galleries. Depending on your flight schedule, you will then be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure, marking the end of your 5 Days Uganda Gorilla with Rwanda Culture Tour.