8-Day Rwanda and Uganda Safari with Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking

8 Days Round trip from Kigali International Airport Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Explore two countries across Rwanda and Uganda in one safari
  • 02 Track endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
  • 03 Follow wild chimpanzees through the lush Kibale Forest
  • 04 Spot lions, elephants, hippos, and other wildlife on big game safaris
  • 05 Discover Rwanda's savannah landscapes in Akagera National Park
  • 06 Experience the diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife of Queen Elizabeth National Park
  • 07 Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial for a meaningful cultural and historical experience
  • 08 Connect with local communities on the Bigodi Community Walk

This 8-day East Africa journey weaves together two countries, four national parks, and encounters you'll never forget. Track endangered mountain gorillas through the misty slopes of Bwindi and Volcanoes National Parks, follow wild chimpanzees through the canopy of Kibale Forest, and watch lions, elephants, and hippos come alive on game drives across Akagera and Queen Elizabeth. Along the way, moments of reflection and connection at the Kigali Genocide Memorial and on the Bigodi Community Walk add depth and meaning to the adventure.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Kigali, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Kibale National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Volcanoes National Park, Akagera National Park
Languages English, French, German, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Kigali City Visit and Transfer to Akagera National Park

After a relaxed breakfast, your guide-driver collects you from your Kigali lodge for a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a powerful and moving window into Rwanda's history. From there, you'll wander through the lively Kimironko Market, where vendors sell everything from fresh produce to handwoven crafts, giving you a real taste of local life. Afterward, you'll transfer to Akagera National Park, home to elephants, lions, giraffes, and hippos against a backdrop of rolling hills and lakes. Settle in and unwind at your lodge as evening falls.

2
Day 02

Morning Safari in Akagera and Transfer to Lake Mburo

Start the day with an early morning game drive through Akagera National Park, catching wildlife at its most active. Then cross the border into Uganda and head to Lake Mburo National Park, known for its walking safaris, herds of zebra, impala, and rich birdlife. As dusk falls, set out on a night game drive for a rare chance to spot nocturnal creatures like bushbucks, hyenas, and owls.

3
Day 03

Lake Mburo Walking Safari and Scenic Transfer to Kibale

Begin the day with a guided walking safari through Lake Mburo National Park, getting up close to the savannah's wildlife on foot. Afterward, transfer to Kibale National Park, famed for its dense chimpanzee population, taking in the scenic drive through rural Uganda along the way.

4
Day 04

Chimpanzee Trekking, Bigodi Walk, and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth

Set out early for chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park, tracking these fascinating primates through the forest. Afterward, take on the Bigodi Community Walk, exploring wetland ecosystems while learning about local traditions and community life. In the afternoon, transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park, arriving with time to unwind at the lodge.

5
Day 05

Queen Elizabeth Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Cruise

Start the day with a morning game drive through Queen Elizabeth National Park, home to lions, elephants, buffalo, and the park's famous tree-climbing lions. In the afternoon, cruise the Kazinga Channel, where hippos, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species gather along the banks. As the sun sets over the water, you'll have the perfect moment for photos.

6
Day 06

Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After breakfast, you transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, renowned for its population of endangered mountain gorillas. You will enjoy scenic views along the way and a chance to see rural Ugandan life. Prepare for your gorilla trekking adventure the following day. You will spend the evening at leisure in the lodge.

7
Day 07

Gorilla Trekking and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

You will spend the morning trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. This once-in-a-lifetime experience provides unforgettable wildlife encounters. After trekking, you transfer to Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park, home to volcanoes and golden monkeys.

8
Day 08

Optional Golden Monkey Trekking and Departure to Kigali

Begin the day with (Optional*) golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park. Afterward, transfer back to Kigali, where you'll be dropped off at your hotel or the airport for your outbound flight. This marks the end of your safari, closing out an unforgettable journey through the wildlife and culture of East Africa.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Kigali International Airport 7 cities · 8 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Park fees (for non-residents)
  • Gorilla permits (one per person, non-resident)
  • All activities
  • All accommodation (unless listed as an upgrade)
  • A professional driver/guide
  • All transportation
  • All taxes/VAT
  • Meals

What's Not Included

  • International flights (from/to home)
  • Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
  • Tips (tipping guideline: US$10.00 pp per day)
  • Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
  • Government-imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
  • Drinks

Know before you go

  • Golden monkey trekking in Volcanoes National Park is optional.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Kigali International Airport
Tour start
Kigali International Airport
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 8 days finish where they began, in Kigali International Airport.

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