Introduction
This 15-day journey through Uganda and Rwanda is a comprehensive safari experience that combines primate encounters, classic wildlife viewing, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural exploration. From tracking mountain gorillas and chimpanzees to exploring savannah parks and vibrant cities, this itinerary showcases the very best of both countries in one unforgettable adventure.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali
Upon arrival in Kigali, you will be welcomed and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, enjoy a relaxed evening or a short introduction to the city, known for its cleanliness and scenic hills.
Day 2: Kigali City Tour & Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Start the day with a guided city tour, including the Kigali Genocide Memorial and local markets. Later, transfer to Volcanoes National Park, enjoying the beautiful countryside of Rwanda’s rolling hills along the way.
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park
After an early briefing, head into the forest for gorilla trekking. This once-in-a-lifetime experience allows you to spend one hour observing a habituated gorilla family in their natural habitat.
Day 4: Golden Monkey Tracking & Cultural Visit
Begin with golden monkey tracking in the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park. In the afternoon, visit a cultural village to learn about traditional Rwandan heritage, music, and dance.
Day 5: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Cross into Uganda and travel to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. The scenic drive offers stunning views of the Virunga ranges and rural countryside before arriving at your lodge for relaxation.
Day 6: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest
Embark on another gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi. The forest is dense and biodiverse, providing a unique trekking experience and the opportunity to encounter a different gorilla family.
Day 7: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
After breakfast, transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, one of the most scenic lakes in East Africa. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the lakeshore or enjoy optional canoeing and birding activities.
Day 8: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Depart Lake Bunyonyi and drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Arrive in time for an evening game drive, where you may spot elephants, buffalo, and other wildlife.
Day 9: Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
Enjoy an early morning game drive followed by an afternoon boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, known for its high concentration of hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife.
Day 10: Transfer to Kibale National Park
Travel to Kibale Forest National Park, passing through scenic landscapes and tea plantations. Arrive in the afternoon and prepare for chimpanzee tracking the next day.
Day 11: Chimpanzee Tracking & Bigodi Wetland Walk
Track chimpanzees in Kibale Forest, observing their behaviors in the wild. Later, visit Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for a guided walk rich in birdlife and other primates.
Day 12: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
Begin your journey northwards to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest national park. Enjoy scenic views and optional stops along the way before arriving in the evening.
Day 13: Game Drive & Nile Boat Cruise
Start with a morning game drive in search of lions, giraffes, elephants, and more. In the afternoon, take a boat cruise on the Nile River towards the base of the powerful falls, a highlight of the park.
Day 14: Top of the Falls – Transfer to Kampala
Visit the top of Murchison Falls for breathtaking views of the Nile squeezing through a narrow gorge. Afterward, begin your return journey to Kampala, with scenic stops along the way.
Day 15: Transfer to Entebbe – Departure
After breakfast, transfer to Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight. Depending on your schedule, you may have time for a brief city visit or shopping before check-in.