Tour Overview
Experience the ultimate East African wildlife adventure on this 7-day Rwanda and Uganda safari, combining two unforgettable gorilla trekking experiences with chimpanzee encounters and classic savannah wildlife viewing. Starting and ending in Kigali or Kampala, this action-packed itinerary takes you through some of the region’s most iconic destinations.
The safari begins in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, where you will trek through the misty Virunga forests in search of endangered mountain gorillas. Continue into Uganda for a second gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, one of the world’s most renowned gorilla habitats. The journey also includes chimpanzee trekking and thrilling game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you will search for the Big Five and other wildlife species.
This 7-day Rwanda Uganda safari offers a perfect combination of primate encounters, wildlife adventures, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural experiences, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking an unforgettable East African safari in a short period.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 Kigali to Volcanoes National Park
Upon arrival in Kigali, you will be welcomed by your professional driver-guide who will brief you about your upcoming safari. Begin your adventure with a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, an important historical site that provides insight into Rwanda’s past and its journey toward unity and reconciliation.
After the city visit, depart Kigali and drive approximately 2–3 hours northwest through Rwanda’s beautiful rolling hills, scenic landscapes, and vibrant local communities to Volcanoes National Park. The park is famous for its mountain gorillas and stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and relax as you prepare for the next day’s gorilla trekking experience.
Start Point: Kigali, Rwanda
(Pick-up available from your hotel or preferred location within Kigali and surrounding areas.)
Included Activities:
- Kigali Genocide Memorial visit
- Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After an early breakfast, transfer to the Kinigi Park headquarters for a briefing by park rangers before beginning your mountain gorilla trekking adventure. Trek through the lush rainforest of Volcanoes National Park in search of a habituated gorilla family. The trek may take several hours depending on the location of the gorillas, but the reward is an unforgettable one-hour encounter observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
After the trek, return to the lodge for lunch before crossing into Uganda and continuing to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. Enjoy the scenic journey through the countryside before arriving at your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Included Activities:
- Mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park (permit included)
- Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
- Optional golden monkey trekking experience (depending on preference and availability)
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After an early breakfast, transfer to the park headquarters for a briefing on Uganda gorilla trekking guidelines and safety procedures. Accompanied by an experienced ranger guide, begin your trek through the dense rainforest of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in search of a habituated gorilla family.
The trek may take several hours depending on the location of the gorillas. Once you find them, spend one unforgettable hour observing these gentle giants as they feed, play, groom, and interact within their family group. After the encounter, return to the lodge for relaxation and overnight.
Included Activities:
- Uganda gorilla trekking experience
- Ranger-guided forest hike
Day 4: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park and Afternoon Game Drive
After breakfast, depart Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most diverse wildlife destinations. The journey offers beautiful views of the countryside, crater lakes, and the Rwenzori Mountains.
Upon arrival, enjoy an afternoon game drive through the park in search of Uganda’s iconic wildlife. Keep an eye out for elephants, buffaloes, lions, Uganda kobs, antelopes, warthogs, and other species. You may also explore the famous Ishasha Sector, known for its rare tree-climbing lions.
Included Activities:
- Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Afternoon game drive
Day 5: Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
Begin the day with an early morning game drive across the Kasenyi Plains, one of Queen Elizabeth National Park’s best wildlife viewing areas. The early hours provide excellent opportunities to spot predators and grazing wildlife, including lions, elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, bushbucks, warthogs, and other antelope species.
After lunch, enjoy a scenic boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway connecting Lake Edward and Lake George. The cruise offers close-up views of hippos, Nile crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes, and hundreds of bird species along the shoreline. The afternoon can be spent relaxing at the lodge or enjoying an optional evening wildlife viewing experience.
Included Activities:
- Morning game drive through Kasenyi Plains
- Kazinga Channel boat cruise
- Optional evening game viewing
Day 6: Kyambura Gorge Exploration and Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park
After breakfast, begin your chimpanzee trekking adventure with a transfer to Kyambura Gorge, located within Queen Elizabeth National Park. Known as the “Valley of Apes,” this beautiful underground forest is home to chimpanzees, monkeys, baboons, and a variety of bird species.
Accompanied by an experienced ranger guide, explore the lush gorge trails while searching for chimpanzees and learning about the unique ecosystem. The experience offers a wonderful opportunity to enjoy Uganda’s primate diversity and breathtaking forest scenery.
After the trek, continue your journey to Lake Mburo National Park, enjoying scenic views of Uganda’s countryside, local communities, and farmlands along the way. Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and relax.
Included Activities:
- Chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge
- Transfer to Lake Mburo National Park
Day 7: Walking Safari in Lake Mburo National Park and Transfer to Entebbe
After breakfast, enjoy a guided walking safari in Lake Mburo National Park, offering a unique and peaceful way to experience Uganda’s wildlife on foot. Accompanied by a ranger guide, explore the park’s trails while looking out for zebras, impalas, bushbucks, topis, warthogs, giraffes, and other wildlife. The walking safari also provides excellent opportunities for birdwatching and learning about the park’s ecosystem.
After the experience, depart Lake Mburo and drive to Entebbe, where your safari comes to an end. Your driver-guide will drop you off at your preferred location in Entebbe, including your hotel or Entebbe International Airport for your onward flight.
End Point: Entebbe, Uganda
(Drop-off can be arranged at your hotel or airport depending on your travel schedule.)
Included Activities:
- Guided walking safari in Lake Mburo National Park
- Transfer to Entebbe
End of 7 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari | Gorillas, Chimps & Wildlife