Rwanda, Uganda · Primate Tours

7-Day Rwanda and Uganda Safari with Gorillas, Chimps and Big Game

7 Days Round trip from Kigali Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Trek endangered golden monkeys in Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park
  • 02 Experience a life-changing gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
  • 03 Spot rare tree-climbing lions during a game drive in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park
  • 04 Enjoy a classic savannah safari in the Kasenyi plains with chances to see lions, elephants, and buffaloes
  • 05 Cruise along the Kazinga Channel and observe hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife up close
  • 06 Track chimpanzees and encounter primates and birds in the dramatic Kyambura Gorge
  • 07 Walk among zebras, giraffes, and antelopes on a guided safari in Lake Mburo National Park

Embark on a thrilling 7-day cross-border safari through Rwanda and Uganda, designed for nature and primate lovers. Begin with golden monkey trekking in Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park before crossing into Uganda for an unforgettable gorilla trekking experience in the dense jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Explore the remote Ishasha sector for rare sightings of tree-climbing lions, enjoy classic game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, cruise along the wildlife-rich Kazinga Channel, and track chimpanzees in the dramatic Kyambura Gorge.

Spend one hour with the mountain gorillas once they are located.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Moderate
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Entebbe, Kigali, Mbarara, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Lake Mburo National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Volcanoes National Park
Languages English, French, German

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

  • Arrive at Kigali International Airport before 14:00 hrs.
  • Complete immigration procedures and meet your professional tour driver-guide.

  • Depart for Volcanoes National Park, located in northwestern Rwanda near the borders of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda.

  • Arrive at your accommodation near Volcanoes National Park and check in.

  • Spend the evening at leisure.

Optional at extra cost: Visit the Iby'Iwacu Cultural Village or take a Twin Lakes excursion if you arrive early.

2
Day 02

Golden Monkey Trekking and Transfer to Bwindi

  • Have an early breakfast and proceed to the RDB headquarters for a briefing on golden monkey trekking.
  • Trek the endangered golden monkeys through the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park.

  • Return to the lodge for lunch and a brief rest.

  • Depart for Cyanika Border Post to cross into Uganda.

  • Meet your Uganda-based tour driver-guide and proceed to your accommodation near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

  • Arrive and relax in preparation for the next day's gorilla trek.

3
Day 03

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

  • Have breakfast and transfer to the ranger station for a gorilla trekking briefing.
  • Enter the dense rainforest of Bwindi for the trekking experience in search of a habituated gorilla group.

  • Spend one hour with the mountain gorillas once they are located.

  • Return to the lodge and rest after the trek.

Optional at extra cost: If you return early and feel energetic, request your guide to arrange an additional activity.

4
Day 04

Ishasha Game Viewing and Transfer to North Queen Elizabeth

  • Have breakfast and transfer to the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
  • Enjoy a game drive in search of the rare tree-climbing lions and other wildlife such as elephants and Uganda kobs.

  • Exit Ishasha and continue north to your accommodation in the northern sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park.

  • Check in and relax.

Optional: Consider an evening game drive in the Kasenyi plains.

5
Day 05

Kasenyi Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Safari

  • Enjoy an early breakfast and set out for a morning game drive in the Kasenyi plains.
  • Look out for wildlife including elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, and various antelope species.

  • Return to the lodge for lunch and rest.

  • In the afternoon, take a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel connecting Lakes George and Edward.

  • View hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and an abundance of birdlife.

Optional: After the cruise, you may opt for a short evening game drive before returning to the lodge.

6
Day 06

Chimpanzee Tracking in Kyambura Gorge and Transfer to Lake Mburo

  • After breakfast, head to Kyambura Gorge for chimpanzee tracking.
  • Track habituated chimpanzees and encounter other primates and birds.

  • After the tracking activity, drive through Mbarara City and continue to Lake Mburo National Park.

  • Upon arrival, check in to your lodge.

  • Choose to either relax or go for a game drive.

Optional at extra cost: Consider a night game drive to see nocturnal wildlife.

7
Day 07

Lake Mburo Walking Safari and Departure Transfer to Entebbe

  • Begin the day with an early breakfast.
  • Proceed for a guided walking safari led by an armed Uganda Wildlife Authority ranger.

  • Encounter zebras, giraffes, elands, topis, buffaloes, and other wildlife at close range.

  • Return to the lodge for check-out.

  • Drive to Entebbe with a stop at the Equator crossing in Kayabwe for photos and souvenir shopping.

  • Arrive at Entebbe International Airport in time for your departure flight at 18:00 hrs or later.

Volcanoes National Park bamboo forests, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest gorilla habitat, Ishasha sector tree-climbing lions, Kazinga Channel wildlife cruise

Where this trip takes you

Volcanoes National Park bamboo forests, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest gorilla habitat, Ishasha sector tree-climbing lions, Kazinga Channel wildlife cruise

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Kigali 7 cities · 7 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Gorilla permits (one per person, non-resident)
  • Chimp permits (one per person, non-resident)
  • All accommodation (unless listed as an upgrade)
  • All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
  • Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
  • All activities (unless labeled as optional)
  • Park fees (for non-residents)
  • Drinking water (on all days)
  • A professional driver/guide
  • Roundtrip airport transfer
  • All taxes/VAT

What's Not Included

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

What to bring

  • Neutral-colored attire such as khaki, beige, or olive helps you blend with the environment and avoid attracting insects.

  • Long-sleeved shirts and trousers offer protection against sunburn and insect bites.

  • Lightweight, moisture-wicking layers are ideal for daytime, with a fleece or jacket for cooler evenings.

  • A waterproof jacket or poncho is essential during the rainy seasons from March to May and October to November.

  • Swimwear is useful if your lodge has a pool.

  • Modest clothing is recommended to respect local customs, especially in public spaces.

  • Sturdy hiking boots are best for treks and uneven terrain.

  • Comfortable walking shoes are suitable for game drives and casual walks.

  • Sandals or flip-flops are good for relaxing at your accommodation.

  • Insect repellent with DEET helps protect against mosquitoes and other insects.

  • High-SPF sunscreen and lip balm are necessary for sun protection.

  • Personal medications should be brought in an adequate supply.

  • A basic first aid kit, including plasters, antiseptic, and pain relievers, is helpful.

  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes help maintain hygiene during excursions.

  • A small daypack is useful for carrying daily essentials.

  • Binoculars enhance your wildlife and birdwatching experience.

  • A camera with spare batteries or a power bank ensures you capture every moment.

  • A reusable water bottle helps you stay hydrated.

  • A flashlight or headlamp is practical in low-light areas.

  • A travel adapter for UK-style plugs (Type G) is needed in Uganda.

  • Your passport and visa should be valid and meet entry requirements.

  • A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry into Uganda.

  • Travel insurance documents should be carried both digitally and physically.

  • Printed and digital copies of your safari itinerary and booking confirmations are essential.

  • Avoid wearing camouflage clothing, as it is prohibited in many African countries.

  • Pack light, since laundry is available at most lodges.

  • Always respect wildlife by keeping a safe distance and following your guide's instructions.

Know before you go

  • Clothing: Wear lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and trousers in neutral colors. Avoid bright colors and camouflage patterns.

  • Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are recommended for treks.

  • Accessories: Bring a wide-brimmed hat, gloves, and a rain jacket.

  • Equipment: Carry a good-quality camera, binoculars, and a flashlight.

  • Health essentials: Pack insect repellent, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.

  • Vaccinations: Ensure you have the necessary vaccinations, including yellow fever.

  • Malaria prevention: Consult your doctor about anti-malarial medication.

  • Disease transmission: To protect primates from human diseases, maintain a safe distance, wear masks if required, and follow all guidelines provided by your guides.

  • Safari budget: The cost of an 8-day safari in Uganda typically ranges from $3,400 to $3,800 per person for a mid-range private tour. This usually includes permits, accommodation, meals, and transportation.

  • Best time to visit: The dry seasons from June to September and December to February offer the best trekking and wildlife viewing conditions. Trails are drier and animal sightings are more common, but these months are also peak tourist times. Booking in advance is recommended.

  • Embarking on a safari in Uganda offers an unforgettable chance to experience its remarkable biodiversity.

  • Proper preparation and planning contribute to a safe, rewarding, and memorable journey.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Kigali, Rwanda
Tour start
Kigali, Rwanda
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 7 days finish where they began, in Kigali.

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USD 3,047 /person
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