Experience the magic of East Africa on this incredible 8-day journey that showcases the best of Uganda and Rwanda. This adventure combines thrilling wildlife encounters, breathtaking scenery, and vibrant cultural experiences — from the lush rainforests of Uganda to the scenic hills and clean cities of Rwanda.
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Transfer to Kampala
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your professional safari guide who will brief you about the trip ahead. You’ll then drive to Kampala, Uganda’s bustling capital city. Depending on your arrival time, you can enjoy a short city tour visiting local attractions such as the Uganda Museum, Kampala Craft Markets, or the Bahá’í Temple — the only one of its kind in Africa.
In the evening, relax at your hotel and prepare for the next day’s adventure.
Accommodation: Fairway Hotel / Mestil Hotel / Cassia Lodge
Meal Plan: Dinner
Day 2: Drive to Kibale Forest National Park
After an early breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Kibale Forest National Park, known for its large population of chimpanzees and other primates. The journey takes you through tea plantations, rural villages, and the lush hills of western Uganda.
You’ll arrive in Fort Portal, a picturesque town at the base of the Rwenzori Mountains, in time for lunch. Later, check into your lodge near the park and enjoy the serene natural surroundings.
Accommodation: Isunga Lodge / Chimpanzee Forest Lodge / Kibale Forest Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Chimpanzee Tracking and Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After breakfast, head to the Kanyanchu Visitor Center for a briefing before your chimpanzee tracking activity. With a ranger guide, you’ll venture into the tropical forest in search of our closest relatives. Watch the chimps as they play, feed, and communicate — a truly unforgettable experience.
After lunch, continue to Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most popular wildlife destinations, famous for its diverse ecosystems and incredible animal sightings. Arrive in the evening and relax at your lodge with beautiful views over the savanna plains or crater lakes.
Accommodation: Elephant Plains Lodge / Park View Safari Lodge / Buffalo Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Game Drive and Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel
Start your day with an early morning game drive through the Kasenyi plains. You’ll have the chance to spot lions, elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, and warthogs, among others. After the game drive, return to the lodge for breakfast and relaxation.
In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake George and Lake Edward. The cruise offers close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of waterbirds, making it a paradise for photographers and nature lovers.
Accommodation: Elephant Plains Lodge / Park View Safari Lodge / Buffalo Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After breakfast, drive through the scenic highlands of Kigezi to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas. The drive offers stunning views of terraced hills, local farms, and rural villages.
Upon arrival, check into your lodge nestled in the forested hills and spend the evening relaxing in preparation for your gorilla trekking adventure the next day.
Accommodation: Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge / Gorilla Mist Camp / Buhoma Haven Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Gorilla Trekking Experience – Transfer to Rwanda
After an early breakfast, report to the park headquarters for a briefing before setting off for your gorilla trekking expedition. Accompanied by an experienced ranger guide, hike through the dense rainforest in search of a habituated gorilla family. The trek may take several hours, but once you find the gorillas, the experience of observing them up close is beyond words.
After spending an hour with the gorillas, return to the lodge for lunch and then proceed to the Rwanda border (Cyanika or Gatuna). Cross into Rwanda and continue to Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll spend the night surrounded by the scenic Virunga Mountains.
Accommodation: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge / Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge / Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Explore Volcanoes National Park and Cultural Village Visit
After breakfast, visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where you’ll experience Rwanda’s rich cultural heritage. Participate in traditional dances, learn about the country’s pre-colonial lifestyle, and hear fascinating stories about ancient Rwandan kingdoms.
Alternatively, you may choose an optional activity such as hiking to Dian Fossey’s Tomb, visiting the Twin Lakes (Burera and Ruhondo), or taking a short nature walk around Musanze.
In the evening, return to your lodge and enjoy the breathtaking views of the volcanoes as the sun sets.
Accommodation: Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge / Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge / Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Transfer to Kigali and Departure
After breakfast, you’ll drive to Kigali, Rwanda’s clean and vibrant capital city. Enjoy a short Kigali city tour, visiting key attractions such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial, Kimironko Market, and Kigali Convention Center. Depending on your flight schedule, have lunch at a local restaurant before being transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure.
This marks the end of your 8 Days Best of Uganda and Rwanda Safari, filled with unforgettable wildlife encounters, beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural experiences.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch
