Safari Overview
This 7-day Uganda and Rwanda Wildlife & Primate Safari is a compact yet rewarding journey that combines East Africa’s most iconic wildlife experiences with breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural encounters. The safari takes you from Rwanda’s volcanic highlands to Uganda’s savannah plains and ancient rainforests, offering unforgettable opportunities to see gorillas, chimpanzees, and a wide variety of wildlife.
You will explore remarkable destinations including Volcanoes National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and Queen Elizabeth National Park. This itinerary is ideal for travellers seeking a shorter safari that still captures the essence of Uganda and Rwanda’s natural beauty and wildlife diversity.
Safari Highlights
- Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
- Day 2: Golden Monkey Tracking and Transfer to Bwindi
- Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
- Day 4: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Day 5: Morning Game Drive and Kazinga Boat Cruise
- Day 6: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge
- Day 7: Return to Entebbe International Airport
Safari Details
Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your professional safari guide. After a short briefing, you will begin the scenic drive north toward Volcanoes National Park, located at the foothills of the Virunga Mountains.
The drive offers beautiful views of Rwanda’s rolling hills and rural landscapes. Upon arrival, you will check into your lodge and relax while preparing for the primate adventure awaiting you the following day.
Day 2: Golden Monkey Tracking and Transfer to Bwindi
After breakfast, you will report to the park headquarters for a briefing before starting golden monkey tracking. These playful and endangered primates inhabit the bamboo forests of the Virunga Mountains and are known for their energetic movements and striking golden fur.
After the trek, you will drive toward Uganda and cross the border into the southwestern region to reach Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The journey offers stunning views of the Virunga volcanoes and terraced hillsides before arriving at your lodge near the forest.
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
Today is the highlight of your safari. After an early breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters for a briefing before entering the forest in search of a habituated mountain gorilla family.
The trek can take several hours depending on the location of the gorillas, but once they are found you will spend one unforgettable hour observing them in their natural habitat. Watching these gentle giants interact within their family groups is one of the most powerful wildlife experiences in the world.
After the trek, return to the lodge for relaxation and reflection on this extraordinary encounter.
Day 4: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After breakfast, you will depart Bwindi and drive toward Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most famous wildlife destinations.
The journey passes through scenic countryside, crater lakes, and rolling hills before reaching the park. Upon arrival, you will check into your lodge and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of this diverse ecosystem.
Day 5: Morning Game Drive and Kazinga Boat Cruise
An early morning game drive in the Kasenyi plains provides excellent opportunities to spot elephants, buffaloes, lions, and various antelope species.
In the afternoon, you will enjoy a relaxing boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway that connects Lake Edward and Lake George. The channel hosts one of the highest concentrations of hippos in Africa, along with crocodiles and numerous bird species.
Day 6: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge
After breakfast, you will head to Kyambura Gorge for chimpanzee trekking. This dramatic forested gorge cuts through the savannah landscape and provides a unique habitat for chimpanzees and other primates.
Guided by experienced trackers, you will walk through the forest searching for chimpanzee groups while learning about the ecosystem and other wildlife that inhabit the gorge.
In the afternoon, return to the lodge to relax and enjoy the scenic surroundings of the park.
Day 7: Return to Entebbe International Airport
After breakfast, you will begin the journey back to Entebbe International Airport. The drive offers final views of Uganda’s countryside, villages, and beautiful landscapes.
You will arrive in time for your departure flight, marking the end of your 7-day Uganda and Rwanda Wildlife & Primate Safari, a journey filled with unforgettable encounters and remarkable natural beauty.