Tour Overview

This 9-day Uganda and Rwanda safari offers an incredible blend of primate encounters and classic African wildlife experiences. The journey begins in Rwanda with gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, followed by relaxation at the scenic shores of Lake Kivu. It then continues into Uganda for thrilling game drives in Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks, along with a memorable rhino tracking experience at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. From mountain gorillas and golden monkeys to tree-climbing lions and the powerful Murchison Falls, this safari showcases the very best of East Africa’s natural beauty and biodiversity.

Safari Highlights

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Day 2: Gorilla trekking and cultural village visit
Day 3: Golden monkey tracking and transfer to Lake Kivu
Day 4: Boat cruise, island visits, and coffee and tea tours
Day 5: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park and evening boat cruise
Day 6: Morning game drive and Ishasha tree-climbing lions
Day 7: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
Day 8: Game drive, top of the falls hike, and boat cruise
Day 9: Rhino tracking at Ziwa and transfer to Kampala

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be welcomed by your professional driver-guide. After a short city orientation, you will begin your scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park, passing through Rwanda’s rolling hills and vibrant countryside. The journey takes approximately 2–3 hours. Upon arrival, check into your lodge, relax, and prepare for the next day’s gorilla trekking adventure.

Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner

Day 2: Gorilla Trekking and Cultural Village Visit

After an early breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing before setting off into the forest to track mountain gorillas. The trek can take between one to six hours depending on the gorillas’ location. Once found, you will spend one unforgettable hour observing them in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, visit the Gorilla Guardians Village for a cultural experience where you will learn about traditional Rwandan life, music, and conservation efforts.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 3: Golden Monkey Tracking and Transfer to Lake Kivu

Begin the day with golden monkey tracking in the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park. These lively primates offer a different and exciting experience compared to gorilla trekking. After the trek, transfer to Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s most beautiful freshwater lakes. Spend the evening relaxing by the lakeshore, swimming, or enjoying the peaceful sunset.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 4: Lake Kivu Exploration and Cultural Experiences

Enjoy a full day exploring Lake Kivu with activities such as a boat cruise and island visits. You may visit islands like Napoleon Island, known for its bat colonies, and interact with local fishing communities. Later, take guided tours of nearby coffee and tea plantations to learn about Rwanda’s agricultural practices and sample fresh local products.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 5: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park and Boat Cruise

After breakfast, cross into Uganda and proceed to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Upon arrival, enjoy an evening boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, where you can spot large concentrations of hippos, elephants, buffaloes, and a variety of bird species along the shores. This relaxing cruise offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 6: Morning Game Drive and Ishasha Sector Visit

Start the day with an early morning game drive in the Kasenyi plains, where you may encounter lions, elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and more. Later, head to the Ishasha sector, famous for its rare tree-climbing lions often seen resting in fig trees. You may also explore nearby crater lakes, which offer stunning scenic views and unique landscapes.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 7: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park

After breakfast, embark on a journey to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and most diverse wildlife reserve. The drive offers scenic views of rural Uganda, rolling landscapes, and local communities. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and relax as you prepare for the next day’s activities.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 8: Game Drive, Top of the Falls Hike, and Boat Cruise

Begin your day with an early morning game drive to spot wildlife such as elephants, giraffes, lions, buffaloes, and antelopes. Later, visit the top of Murchison Falls, where the Nile forces its way through a narrow gorge, creating a powerful and dramatic waterfall. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise along the Nile, offering close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, and a wide variety of birdlife.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Day 9: Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and Transfer to Kampala

On your final day, visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for a guided rhino tracking experience on foot. This is the only place in Uganda where you can see rhinos in the wild. After the experience, continue your journey to Kampala, marking the end of your safari.

Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch

End of 9 Days Uganda Wildlife and Rwanda Gorilla Safari

Inclusions

Gorilla trekking permit
Golden monkey trekking permit
All park entrance fees
Boat cruises and activities mentioned in the itinerary
Professional English-speaking driver-guide
Full-board accommodation and meals
Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
Bottled drinking water

Exclusions

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