Tour Overview

This 8-day Uganda and Rwanda safari offers an unforgettable primate and wildlife experience across two of East Africa’s most scenic destinations. The journey combines chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest, classic wildlife encounters in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and two remarkable gorilla trekking experiences in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Volcanoes National Park. Along the way, you will also explore Lake Mutanda, encounter tree-climbing lions in Ishasha, and immerse yourself in local cultures. This safari is ideal for travelers seeking a rich mix of adventure, nature, and cultural discovery.

Tour Highlights

Day 8. Transfer to Kigali and then off the airport.

Day 1. Pick up from the airport to Kampala and then transfer to Kibale national park.

Day 2. Chimpanzee trekking and then transfer to Queen Elizabeth national park.

Day 3. Morning game drive and then evening game drive to trek the tree climbing lions in ishasha sector.

Day 4. Transfer to Bwindi impenetrable national park.

Day 5. Gorilla trekking and then transfer to lake mutanda.

Day 6. Transfer to the volcanoes national park.

Day 7. Second gorilla trekking and then Ibyiwacu cultural center.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Kibale National Park
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport or pickup from Kampala, you will meet your professional driver-guide for a briefing about the safari. You will then begin your journey to Kibale National Park in western Uganda, passing through scenic countryside, tea plantations, and traditional homesteads. En route, you may have stopovers for photography and lunch in Fort Portal town. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge, relax, and enjoy dinner as you prepare for the next day’s chimpanzee adventure.

Accommodation options: Chimpanzee Forest Guest House (Budget), Kibale Forest Camp (Mid-range), Primates Lodge (Luxury)
Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner

Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After an early breakfast, head to Kanyanchu Visitor Center for a briefing on chimpanzee trekking guidelines. You will then enter the forest in search of chimpanzees, along with other primates such as colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and baboons. Once located, you will spend one hour observing them in their natural habitat. After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch and later transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Enjoy scenic views along the way before checking into your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation options: Bush Lodge (Budget), Marafiki Safari Lodge (Mid-range), Mweya Safari Lodge (Luxury)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 3: Morning Game Drive and Ishasha Tree-Climbing Lions
Start your day early with a morning game drive in the Kasenyi plains, where you may spot elephants, lions, buffaloes, antelopes, and various bird species. Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, proceed to the Ishasha sector, famous for its rare tree-climbing lions often seen resting in fig trees. After this unique wildlife experience, return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After breakfast, depart for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas. The drive takes you through the beautiful Kigezi Highlands, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Africa.” Arrive in the afternoon, check in at your lodge, and relax. In the evening, you may take an optional community walk to interact with the Batwa people and learn about their traditional forest lifestyle.

Accommodation options: Broadbill Camp (Budget), Gorilla Mist Camp / Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge (Mid-range), Chameleon Hill Lodge (Luxury)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 5: Gorilla Trekking and Transfer to Lake Mutanda
After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing before beginning your gorilla trekking adventure. Trekking can take several hours depending on the location of the gorillas. Once found, you will spend one magical hour observing and photographing them. After the trek, return for lunch and then transfer to Lake Mutanda. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the lake with scenic views of the Virunga Volcanoes.

Accommodation options: Mutanda Lake Resort, Mutanda Eco Community Centre, Chameleon Hill Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 6: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
After breakfast, cross into Rwanda and proceed to Volcanoes National Park. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and relax. In the afternoon, you may visit the Musanze Caves or take a guided nature walk around the area to experience the local environment and culture.

Accommodation options: Muhabura Hotel (Budget), Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge (Mid-range), Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (Luxury)
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 7: Gorilla Trekking and Iby’Iwacu Cultural Visit
After breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for another gorilla trekking briefing. You will then head into the forest to track a different gorilla family. Once located, enjoy a one-hour encounter with these incredible primates. After returning to the lodge for lunch, visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village in the evening to experience traditional Rwandan dances, local cuisine, and cultural practices. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 8: Transfer to Kigali and Departure
Enjoy breakfast at the lodge before departing for Kigali. Upon arrival, you may have a brief city tour, including visits to craft markets and the Kigali Genocide Memorial. Later, transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your safari.

Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch

End of 8 Days Uganda and Rwanda Gorilla Trekking Safari

Inclusions
Gorilla trekking permits (Uganda and Rwanda)
Chimpanzee trekking permit
All park entrance fees
Accommodation and meals as per itinerary
Professional English-speaking driver-guide
Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
All activities mentioned in the itinerary
Bottled drinking water

Exclusions
International flights
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Personal expenses such as tips, drinks, and souvenirs
Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary