Best Of Uganda Rwanda Safari – This trips offers an iconic and lifetime experience where you will be able to encounter the best of East Africa.
Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe, Uganda
Upon your arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by a representative from Kenlink Tours, your trusted travel partner for this safari adventure. You’ll be escorted to your accommodation where you can relax after your journey and prepare for the exciting days ahead. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to explore Entebbe, a vibrant town nestled along the shores of Lake Victoria.
Day 2: Entebbe – Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park
After breakfast, your journey begins as you head north to Murchison Falls National Park, one of Uganda’s largest and most diverse protected areas. The drive will take you through scenic landscapes, passing small towns and villages along the way. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your lodge situated amidst the wilderness, offering stunning views of the park. Spend the evening relaxing and immersing yourself in the tranquility of the African bush.
Day 3: Murchison Falls National Park – Game Drive and Boat Safari
Today, you’ll wake up to the sounds of the African wilderness and embark on an early morning game drive. Accompanied by experienced guides, you’ll have the opportunity to spot a wide variety of wildlife including elephants, giraffes, lions, and numerous antelope species.
After lunch, experience the thrill of a boat safari along the Nile River, where you’ll cruise past hippos, crocodiles, and an abundance of birdlife. The highlight of the boat safari is witnessing the breathtaking Murchison Falls, where the Nile River plunges through a narrow gorge.
Day 4: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
Leaving Murchison Falls behind, you’ll journey southwards towards Kibale Forest National Park, known for its remarkable population of chimpanzees and diverse tropical rainforest ecosystems. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation nestled on the fringes of the forest. In the afternoon, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the nearby Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, home to a plethora of bird species and other wildlife.
Day 5: Chimpanzee Tracking and Swamp Walk
Today, prepare for an unforgettable adventure as you embark on a thrilling chimpanzee tracking expedition in Kibale Forest. Accompanied by knowledgeable ranger guides, trek through the dense forest in search of these fascinating primates, observing their behavior in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely walk through the swampy terrain of Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, where you’ll have the chance to spot various bird species and other wildlife.
Day 6: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After breakfast, your journey continues as you head to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most popular savannah reserve. En route, soak in the stunning scenery of the Rwenzori Mountains and the vast plains of Queen Elizabeth. Upon arrival, check into your lodge overlooking the park, where you can unwind and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Day 7: Game Drive and Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel
Begin your day with an early morning game drive through the rolling plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park, known for its diverse wildlife including elephants, buffalo, lions, and elusive leopards.
After lunch, embark on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway that connects Lake Edward and Lake George. Marvel at the abundance of hippos, crocodiles, and water birds that inhabit the shores, making for excellent photographic opportunities.
Day 8: Ishasha Sector – Tree Climbing Lions
On this day, venture into the southern sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park known as Ishasha, famous for its unique population of tree-climbing lions. Enjoy a game drive through the acacia-dotted plains, keeping an eye out for these elusive felines lounging in the branches of fig trees. After an exciting day of wildlife viewing, return to your lodge for a relaxing evening.
Day 9: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Bid farewell to Queen Elizabeth National Park as you journey towards the mist-shrouded forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its population of endangered mountain gorillas. The scenic drive will take you through rural villages and verdant countryside, offering glimpses of rural life in Uganda. Upon arrival, settle into your lodge nestled on the edge of the forest.
Day 10: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
This day marks the highlight of your safari adventure as you embark on a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience in the depths of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Accompanied by experienced guides and trackers, trek through the dense foliage in search of a habituated gorilla family. Upon encountering these magnificent creatures, spend an awe-inspiring hour observing their behavior up close, a truly humbling and unforgettable experience.
Day 11: Optional Activities in Bwindi
After yesterday’s exhilarating gorilla trekking experience, today is yours to relax and explore at your own pace. You may choose to participate in optional activities such as a guided nature walk through the forest, bird watching, or visiting a local community to learn about their traditional way of life. Alternatively, you can simply unwind at your lodge, soaking in the tranquil surroundings and reflecting on your incredible encounter with the mountain gorillas.
Day 12: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Leaving Uganda behind, you’ll cross the border into Rwanda and journey to Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas made famous by Dian Fossey. The scenic drive will take you through rolling hills and lush countryside, offering stunning views of the Virunga Mountains. Upon arrival, check into your lodge nestled at the foothills of the volcanoes, where you can relax and enjoy the breathtaking surroundings.
Day 13: Golden Monkey Tracking
Today, embark on an exhilarating golden monkey tracking adventure in Volcanoes National Park. Accompanied by knowledgeable guides, trek through the bamboo forests in search of these playful primates, known for their distinctive golden coats. As you hike, immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of the forest, keeping an eye out for other wildlife species such as birds and duikers. After an unforgettable encounter with the golden monkeys, return to your lodge for a relaxing evening.
Day 14: Dian Fossey Hike and Cultural Experience
Begin your day with a hike to the final resting place of renowned primatologist Dian Fossey, whose pioneering work with mountain gorillas helped to shed light on their conservation plight. Trek through the forest to the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International’s research center, where you’ll learn about her groundbreaking research and legacy. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Rwandan culture with a visit to a local village, where you’ll interact with community members and learn about their traditions and way of life.
Day 15: Transfer to Nyungwe National Park
After breakfast, embark on a scenic journey to Nyungwe National Park, a lush rainforest located in the southwestern part of Rwanda. The drive will take you through picturesque landscapes, passing by rolling hills, tea plantations, and small villages along the way. Upon arrival at Nyungwe, check into your accommodation nestled amidst the forest, where you can unwind and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, perhaps taking a nature walk around the lodge or simply enjoying the sights and sounds of the rainforest.
Day 16: Canopy Walk and Chimpanzee Tracking
Prepare for an exhilarating day of adventure in Nyungwe National Park, starting with a thrilling canopy walk. Rise early to embark on this unique experience, walking along suspended bridges high above the forest canopy. Marvel at the breathtaking views of the treetops and the abundant birdlife that call the canopy home. Afterward, embark on a chimpanzee tracking expedition, accompanied by experienced guides. Trek through the dense forest in search of these fascinating primates, observing their behavior in their natural habitat. As you explore, keep an eye out for other wildlife species such as colobus monkeys, birds, and butterflies. After an exciting day of exploration, return to your lodge for a relaxing evening.
Day 17: Transfer To Kigali and Cultural Tour
Bid farewell to Nyungwe National Park as you journey back to Kigali, the vibrant capital city of Rwanda. The drive will take you through scenic landscapes, offering glimpses of rural life in Rwanda along the way. Upon arrival in Kigali, embark on a cultural tour of the city, visiting key landmarks and attractions that showcase Rwanda’s rich history and culture. Explore the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a poignant tribute to the victims of the 1994 genocide, and learn about Rwanda’s journey of reconciliation and healing. Visit local markets, art galleries, and craft centers, where you can interact with artisans and purchase unique souvenirs. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Rwandan dinner accompanied by vibrant music and dance performances, immersing yourself in the lively culture of Rwanda.
Day 18: Departure
Sadly, today marks the end of your unforgettable Rwanda adventure. After breakfast, depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time to explore Kigali further or indulge in some last-minute souvenir shopping. At the appropriate time, you’ll be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your onward journey, bidding farewell to the beautiful landscapes and warm hospitality of Rwanda. As you board your flight home, carry with you cherished memories and unforgettable experiences from your time in Rwanda, knowing that you’ve experienced the best that this remarkable country has to offer.
