Overview
This extraordinary 8-day safari promises an unforgettable journey through Uganda and Rwanda’s most breathtaking natural landscapes. You’ll track endangered mountain gorillas deep in lush forests, discover vibrant wildlife in renowned national parks, and soak in the charm of local culture and heritage. From the plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park to the misty highlands of Bwindi and Volcanoes National Park, each day reveals a new adventure. Come face-to-face with Africa’s magnificent giants and enjoy scenic boat rides, crater lakes, and thrilling game drives that showcase the incredible biodiversity of this region.
Itinerary
You will be picked up from your accommodation in Kampala and journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Along the way, pause at the Uganda Equator for photographs and a chance to stretch your legs. Arrive in the park in the afternoon and catch your first glimpses of wildlife, including elephants and antelopes, as you make your way to your lodge. If time allows, you may choose to take a leisurely nature walk on the Mweya Peninsula, where the crater lakes shimmer in the afternoon light. Lake Katwe and the flamingo-fringed shores nearby add to the area’s charm. Keep your eyes open for leopards, hippos, buffaloes, and a spectacular array of birds such as the Shoebill Stork and Swallow-tailed Bee-eater. Queen Elizabeth is also home to an array of primates, including chimpanzees and black-and-white colobus monkeys.
Dinner and overnight at Mweya Safari Lodge, Jacana Lodge, or the Institute of Ecology.
Rise early for a morning game drive through the park’s sweeping savannah. With luck, you’ll see lions, elephants, hyenas, forest hogs, and more. Return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast and a bit of relaxation.
In the afternoon, set out on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel. Watch hippos wallow, crocodiles bask, and elephants drink from the banks. The channel is a haven for birdlife, with sightings of fish eagles, pelicans, and even the elusive Shoebill. Return to your lodge for dinner and a peaceful night’s sleep.
After breakfast, continue your journey through the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. This area is known for its rare tree-climbing lions—don’t miss the chance to see them lazing in the branches. Enjoy a picnic lunch amid the wilderness before driving to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.
Dinner and overnight at Buhoma Community Bandas, Gorilla Resort Camp, Buhoma Homestead, or Lake Kitandara Tented Camp.
After an early breakfast, prepare for a life-changing experience: gorilla trekking in Bwindi’s ancient forest. Head to the park headquarters for a briefing before your adventure begins. Equipped with a packed lunch and plenty of drinking water, you’ll set off into the forest to track one of the gorilla families. The trek can take anywhere from two to eight hours, but the hour you spend in the presence of these gentle giants will stay with you forever.
Return to your lodge for dinner and a well-earned rest.
After breakfast, cross the border into Rwanda, taking in the rolling hills and picturesque landscapes along the way. Reach the park headquarters at Kinigi, where you’ll spend the night in anticipation of another gorilla encounter.
Dinner and overnight at Mountain Gorilla Nest Lodge or Kinigi Guest House.
Today, you’ll track mountain gorillas in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. The forested slopes and bamboo thickets make for an enchanting setting. Keep an eye out for the dominant silverback, whose sheer presence commands respect. If time allows, you may also visit Dian Fossey’s Karisoke Research Centre, where the renowned primatologist dedicated her life to protecting these incredible creatures.
Return to your lodge for dinner and overn
After breakfast, journey back across the border to Uganda and continue to Lake Mburo National Park. Arrive in the afternoon and, if time permits, enjoy a boat trip on the tranquil lake, watching hippos and crocodiles from the water’s edge. You may also venture out on an evening game drive in search of elands, zebras, and leopards.
Dinner and overnight at Mantana Luxury Camp, Mihingo Lodge, or Rwonyo Camp.
Rise early for a final game drive in Lake Mburo, where you might spot elands, oribis, and topis as the sun rises. Then, drive onward to Mbarara for a leisurely breakfast. Your journey concludes as you return to Kampala, bringing with you unforgettable memories of Uganda and Rwanda’s spectacular landscapes and wildlife.
Inclusions
Includes
- Gorilla 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
Excludes
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Tips and gratuities
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
FAQs
The dry seasons (June–September and December–February) are ideal, as the weather is more favorable for gorilla trekking and wildlife viewing. However, the trip is available year-round, and each season has its own special charm.
Gorilla trekking can be moderately challenging, with hikes through dense forest and hilly terrain. While the experience can take anywhere from two to eight hours, a moderate level of fitness is usually enough to enjoy the trek.
Yes, a gorilla trekking permit is required for each participant and must be arranged in advance. The permit cost helps protect the gorillas and support local communities.
Essential items include comfortable hiking boots, lightweight clothing, a rain jacket, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a good camera or binoculars. For the gorilla trek, gloves can be helpful for grasping vegetation along the way.
Yes, the minimum age for gorilla trekking in both Uganda and Rwanda is 15 years old.
Absolutely! Throughout the trip, you’ll see a wide range of animals: elephants, lions, hippos, crocodiles, various primates, and an incredible array of birdlife