Overview
This extraordinary 7-day journey invites you to explore the rich wildlife, primate sanctuaries, and vibrant cultures of Uganda and Rwanda. From the game-filled plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park to the misty jungles of Bwindi and Volcanoes National Parks, you’ll track chimpanzees, trek mountain gorillas twice, and gain insights into the region’s fascinating history. Get ready for close encounters with the great apes and memories that will last a lifetime!
Itinerary
After breakfast, your guide will transfer you from Kampala to Queen Elizabeth National Park, passing through the beautiful Ankole countryside. Keep an eye out for antelopes, elephants, and mongoose as you journey to your accommodation. After checking in, explore the stunning crater lakes region.
Overnight: Jacana Safari Lodge, Mweya Safari Lodge, or Albertine Camp
Early in the morning, set out for chimpanzee tracking in the lush Kyambura Gorge, home to habituated chimpanzees as well as colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and olive baboons. This exhilarating experience lasts 6–8 hours. Return for lunch at the lodge, then enjoy an afternoon boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, where you’ll spot hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birds, including fish eagles and pelicans.
After breakfast, drive through the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions. You’ll enjoy a game drive here and have a picnic lunch along the way. Continue to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, renowned for its mountain gorillas.
Overnight: Buhoma Community Bandas, Gorilla Resort Camp, Buhoma Homestead, or Lake Kitandara Tented Camp
Today is a highlight: the unforgettable gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi’s dense forest. Trekking through steep and rugged terrain, you’ll search for the gorillas before spending an hour observing them. This rare encounter allows you to witness the social interactions of a gorilla family, including the powerful silverback. If time permits, you may also take a short guided walk along the Munyaga River trail to see waterfalls and forest flora.
After breakfast, cross the border into Rwanda, heading for Kinigi. Visit the poignant Genocide Memorial and the Dian Fossey graves to gain insight into Rwanda’s history and conservation efforts.
Overnight: Mount Gorilla Nest Lodge, Kinigi Guest House, or Muhavura Lodge
Today, you’ll have a second chance to track mountain gorillas—this time in Rwanda’s Parc National des Volcans. Trekking through the forested slopes of the Virunga Mountains, you’ll spend an hour with a gorilla family, marveling at their strength and gentleness. Return for a late lunch, then cross back into Uganda for dinner and overnight.
Overnight: Bushara Island Camp, Habuharo Island Camp, or Arcadia Cottages
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and explore the cultural museums in Kabale before heading back to Kampala or directly to Entebbe for your departure flight.
Inclusions
Includes
- Gorilla Permit
- Chimpanzee permit
- Accommodation (budget, mid-range, or luxury options)
- Meals as per itinerary (Full Board)
- Ground transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle
- English-speaking driver/guide
- Park entry fees
- Bottled drinking water during safari
- All government taxes and service charges
Excludes
- International flights
- Uganda visa fees
- Tips and gratuities
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
FAQs
Comfortable hiking boots, lightweight clothing, warm layers for the evenings, rain gear, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a good camera.
Yes vaccinations for yellow fever, hepatitis, and a malaria prophylaxis are highly recommended. Check with your doctor before you travel.
Moderate to good fitness is ideal. Gorilla trekking can be strenuous, involving steep and sometimes muddy trails.
Yes, permits are required and included in your tour package.
It varies depending on where the gorillas are on the day. Expect to trek for 2-6 hours.