Overview
Embark on a 14-day adventure through Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, exploring diverse landscapes, rich wildlife, and vibrant cultures. Encounter chimpanzees in Kibale Forest NP, trek for gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable NP, and delve into Rwanda’s Volcanoes NP for more unforgettable encounters.
Enjoy thrilling game drives in Queen Elizabeth NP and Akagera NP, and immerse yourself in local culture at the Iby’iwachu Cultural Village. Complete your journey with gorilla treks and nature walks in Virunga NP before bidding farewell in Kigali. This condensed itinerary promises an unforgettable journey through East Africa’s iconic destinations.
Detailed safari plan
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe
Upon arriving at Entebbe Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your guide who will accompany you throughout your journey. After a smooth transfer to your accommodation in Kampala, take a moment to unwind and soak in the atmosphere of Uganda’s bustling capital city. Whether it’s exploring local markets, sampling delicious Ugandan cuisine, or simply relaxing at your hotel, this first day sets the tone for your exciting adventure ahead.
Day 2: Transfer to Kibale Forest NP
After a hearty breakfast, embark on a picturesque drive to Kibale Forest NP. As you journey through Uganda’s scenic countryside, you’ll witness the country’s vibrant landscapes and rural life.
Upon reaching Kibale, settle into your accommodation nestled amidst the lush forest. Take advantage of the serene surroundings to relax and recharge, or you can opt for an optional nature walk to get a taste of the incredible biodiversity that awaits you in the days ahead.
Dinner and Overnight at the lodge.
Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking & Isunga Cultural Community Walk
Rise early for an exhilarating chimp trekking adventure in Kibale Forest NP. Led by experienced guides, venture into the forest in search of these charismatic primates, listening to the echoes of their calls as you navigate the dense vegetation.
After an awe-inspiring encounter with the chimps, immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Isunga community with a guided cultural walk.
Explore the picturesque crater lakes, learn about traditional customs, and interact with local residents, gaining a deeper understanding of the symbiotic relationship between people and nature in this unique corner of Uganda.
Dinner and Overnight at the lodge.
Day 4: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Bid farewell to Kibale as you embark on a scenic drive to Queen Elizabeth NP. En route, marvel at the changing landscapes, from rolling hills to vast savannas, and keep an eye out for wildlife sightings along the way. Upon reaching the park, check into your accommodation and take some time to relax amidst the tranquillity of the wilderness.
With anticipation building for the adventures ahead, spend the evening reflecting on the natural wonders you’ve encountered so far and preparing for the excitement of Queen Elizabeth NP. Have an option of visiting Katwe Salt Lake, the local market, or a community visit. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.
Day 5: Game Drive and Boat Cruise
Begin your day with the thrill of a morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth NP, known for its diverse wildlife including lions, elephants, buffalo, and more. Traverse the savannah plains in search of these magnificent creatures, accompanied by the knowledgeable guidance of your safari ranger.
Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation.
In the afternoon, embark on a leisurely boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, where you will witness an abundance of hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and numerous bird species congregating along the shores. As the sun sets over the horizon, savor the magical moments of your wildlife encounters before returning to your lodge for dinner and a restful evening.
Day 6: Game Drive in Ishasha Sector and Transfer to Bwindi NP
Set out on an early morning game drive in the Ishasha Sector, renowned for its unique population of tree-climbing lions.
Traverse the open plains and dense woodlands in search of these elusive predators, as well as other wildlife species that call this area home.
After a rewarding game drive, journey onwards to Bwindi Impenetrable NP, where you’ll be greeted by the mist-covered hills and lush vegetation of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Check into your accommodation and unwind amidst the serene beauty of the forest, preparing for the highlight of your journey – gorilla trekking.
Dinner and overnight at the lodge.
Day 7: Gorilla Trekking Adventure
Today marks the pinnacle of your adventure as you embark on a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience in Bwindi Impenetrable NP.
Accompanied by experienced trackers and guides, venture deep into the heart of the forest in search of a habituated gorilla family. As you trek through the dense undergrowth, listen to the sounds of the forest and keep your senses alert for signs of the gentle giants.
On encountering the gorillas, observe their natural behaviors up close, capturing memories that will last a lifetime. After an unforgettable hour in the presence of these magnificent creatures, trek back to base camp and spend the evening reminiscing about your extraordinary encounter with the mountain gorillas.
Day 8: Transfer to Volcanoes NP in Rwanda
Bid farewell to Uganda as you cross the border into Rwanda and make your way to Volcanoes NP, home to the endangered mountain gorillas. As you journey through the picturesque Rwandan countryside, take in the breathtaking views of the Virunga Mountains and the surrounding volcanic landscape.
Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation near the park and spend the evening at leisure, reflecting on the incredible experiences of your journey so far and eagerly anticipating the adventures that await you in Rwanda.
Day 9: Gorilla Trekking and Visiting Iby’iwachu Cultural Village
Wake up early for another exhilarating gorilla trekking expedition in Volcanoes NP. Embark on a trek through the dense bamboo forests and volcanic slopes, guided by expert trackers who will lead you to the whereabouts of a habituated gorilla family.
Upon finding the gorillas, marvel at their sheer size and gentle demeanor as you observe them in their natural habitat, surrounded by the mist-shrouded peaks of the Virunga Mountains.
After an unforgettable encounter with these majestic creatures, return to your lodge for a well-deserved rest before embarking on a cultural excursion to the nearby Ibyiwachu Cultural Village. Immerse yourself in Rwandan culture as you learn about traditional customs, participate in local activities, and interact with community members, gaining insight into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Dinner and overnight at the lodge.
Day 10: Transfer to Akagera NP and Boat Cruise
Depart Volcanoes NP and journey south to Akagera NP, Rwanda’s premier safari destination. As you traverse the scenic countryside, marvel at the changing landscapes and vibrant villages that dot the landscape. Upon reaching Akagera, check into your lodge and enjoy a leisurely afternoon at the edge of Lake Ihema.
Later, embark on a sunset boat cruise along the tranquil waters of the lake, where you’ll have the opportunity to spot hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife as the sun dips below the horizon. After an enchanting cruise, return to your lodge for dinner and relaxation amidst the sounds of the African wilderness.
Day 11: Full-Day Game Drives in Akagera NP
Rise early for a full day of game drives in Akagera NP, exploring the park’s diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife. Traverse open savannah plains, woodlands, and marshlands in search of the Big Five and other iconic African species, including elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and antelopes.
With the guidance of your experienced safari guide, navigate the park’s network of tracks and trails, pausing to observe and photograph the incredible wildlife encounters along the way. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the picturesque scenery before continuing your adventure into the afternoon, keeping your eyes peeled for elusive predators such as lions, leopards, and hyenas. As the sun begins to set, return to your lodge with memories of a day filled with unforgettable wildlife sightings and breathtaking landscapes.
Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.
Day 12: Cross to DR Congo in Virunga National Park
Today, cross the border into the Democratic Republic of Congo and journey to Virunga National Park, Africa’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you drive through the lush countryside, admire the stunning vistas of volcanic peaks, dense forests, and shimmering lakes that characterize this remarkable region.
On arrival in Virunga, check into your lodge and spend the afternoon at leisure, soaking in the natural beauty and tranquility of the park. Depending on your preferences, you may choose to relax at your lodge or embark on optional activities such as guided nature walks, birdwatching excursions, or cultural visits to local communities.
Dinner and overnight at the lodge.
Day 13: Gorilla Trekking and Leisure
Prepare for the adventure of a lifetime as you embark on another thrilling gorilla trekking expedition in Virunga National Park. Accompanied by expert trackers and armed rangers, journey deep into the mist-shrouded forests of the park in search of a habituated gorilla family. As you trek through the dense vegetation, listen to the sounds of the forest and keep your senses alert for signs of the gentle giants.
Upon encountering the gorillas, marvel at their sheer size and tranquil demeanor as you observe them in their natural habitat, surrounded by the lush greenery of the forest. Spend an unforgettable hour in the presence of these magnificent creatures, capturing memories that will last a lifetime. After bidding farewell to the gorillas, trek back to base camp and spend the remainder of the day at leisure, reflecting on your extraordinary encounter and enjoying the natural beauty of Virunga National Park.
Day 14: Return to Kigali and Departure Flight
After breakfast, bid farewell to Virunga National Park as you embark on the journey back to Kigali, the vibrant capital city of Rwanda. As you drive through the scenic countryside, take in the breathtaking views of the rolling hills and terraced landscapes that characterize the Rwandan countryside.
Upon reaching Kigali, you may have the opportunity to explore the city and visit cultural attractions such as the Kigali Genocide Memorial Centre or local markets, depending on your flight schedule. Later, transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your unforgettable journey through Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Depart with cherished memories of incredible wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural experiences that will stay with you forever.
