13-Day Ultimate Uganda, Rwanda, and D.R. Congo Safari

Embark on 13-day adventure that will take you through Uganda, Rwanda and D.R.Congo. This ultimate safari combines the rich biodiversity, cultural diversity, and natural beauty of Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (D.R. Congo). From tracking gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural habitats to exploring the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures of these countries, this journey offers an unparalleled experience for the intrepid traveler.

Brief Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe, Uganda

• Arrive in Entebbe and transfer to your accommodation
• Rest and prepare for the exciting days ahead

Day 2: Explore Entebbe

• Visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre
• Explore Entebbe Botanical Gardens
• Overnight in Entebbe

Day 3: Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

• Depart for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
• Enjoy the scenic drive through rural Uganda
• Overnight near Bwindi

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

• Embark on a thrilling gorilla trek in the park
• Witness the magnificent mountain gorillas in their habitat
• Overnight near Bwindi

Day 5: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

• Cross the border into Rwanda
• Arrive at Volcanoes National Park
• Overnight near Volcanoes NP

Day 6: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

• Trek to see the mountain gorillas in Rwanda
• Discover the lush forests of Volcanoes NP
• Overnight near Volcanoes NP

Day 7: Visit Lake Kivu

• Explore the stunning Lake Kivu
• Relax by the lakeside and enjoy the scenic beauty
• Overnight near Lake Kivu

Day 8: Transfer to Goma, D.R. Congo

• Cross into the Democratic Republic of Congo
• Arrive in the bustling city of Goma
• Overnight in Goma

Day 9: Virunga National Park

• Explore Virunga National Park
• Visit the Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage
• Overnight in Goma

Day 10: Nyiragongo Volcano Hike

• Hike to the summit of Nyiragongo volcano
• Witness the stunning lava lake at the crater
• Overnight at Nyiragongo summit

Day 11: Descend from Nyiragongo and Transfer to Kigali

• Descend from Nyiragongo volcano
• Transfer to Kigali, Rwanda
• Overnight in Kigali

Day 12: Kigali City Tour

• Explore Kigali, the capital of Rwanda
• Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial
• Enjoy a cultural experience in the city
• Overnight in Kigali

Day 13: Departure

• Transfer to Kigali International Airport
• Departure for your next destination

Detailed Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe, Uganda

Your East African adventure begins as you arrive at Entebbe International Airport, Uganda. You will be met by your local guide and transferred to your accommodation for the night. After a long journey, you can relax, refresh, and prepare for the exciting days ahead.

Day 2: Explore Entebbe

Today, you’ll explore the charming town of Entebbe. Your first stop is the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre, where you can get up close and personal with a variety of Uganda’s native wildlife, including lions, giraffes, and chimpanzees. Next, you’ll visit the beautiful Entebbe Botanical Gardens, a serene place to enjoy the tranquility of nature and exotic bird species.

Day 3: Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

After an early breakfast, you’ll depart for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The journey takes you through the scenic countryside of Uganda, offering picturesque views of lush landscapes, terraced hills, and local villages. Arrive near Bwindi and settle into your accommodation, located on the edge of the national park.

Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi

The highlight of your visit to Uganda awaits today: gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. After a briefing from your ranger guide, you’ll venture into the dense forest in search of the critically endangered mountain gorillas. The experience of encountering these gentle giants in their natural habitat is awe-inspiring and unforgettable. After spending an hour with the gorillas, return to your lodge and savor the memories of this extraordinary encounter.

Day 5: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

Leaving Uganda behind, you’ll cross the border into Rwanda and arrive at Volcanoes National Park. This park is renowned for its mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, as well as its stunning volcanic landscapes. You’ll stay in a lodge near the park, surrounded by lush forests and the imposing volcanoes.

Day 6: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Today, you’ll embark on another gorilla trek, this time in the scenic Volcanoes National Park of Rwanda. The experience is similar to Bwindi, yet each encounter with a different gorilla family is a unique and heartwarming experience. You’ll learn more about the conservation efforts in place to protect these incredible creatures. After the trek, you’ll have the afternoon to relax and take in the natural beauty of Volcanoes National Park.

Day 7: Visit Lake Kivu

Enjoy a change of pace as you visit the beautiful Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes. The day is all about relaxation and taking in the stunning scenery. You can take a boat ride on the lake, visit nearby islands, or simply unwind by the lakeside, taking in the peaceful atmosphere and picturesque landscapes.

Day 8: Transfer to Goma, D.R. Congo

Today, you’ll cross the border into the Democratic Republic of Congo and arrive in the city of Goma, located on the shores of Lake Kivu. Goma has a vibrant atmosphere and is a gateway to the nearby Virunga National Park, famous for its mountain gorillas and other wildlife. You’ll settle into your accommodation in Goma, ready to explore the park in the coming days.

Day 9: Virunga National Park

Spend the day exploring Virunga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its remarkable biodiversity and unique landscapes. One of the highlights of the day is a visit to the Senkwekwe Gorilla Orphanage, which cares for rescued gorillas. This is an opportunity to learn more about the conservation work being done to protect these magnificent creatures.

Day 10: Nyiragongo Volcano Hike

Prepare for a thrilling adventure as you embark on a challenging hike to the summit of Nyiragongo volcano. This active volcano is known for its stunning lava lake at the crater. The hike is demanding but incredibly rewarding, offering panoramic views of the lava lake and the surrounding landscapes. You’ll spend the night in basic huts at the summit, taking in the mesmerizing sight of the lava lake’s glow.

Day 11: Descend from Nyiragongo and Transfer to Kigali

After witnessing the sunrise over the Nyiragongo volcano, you’ll begin the descent, returning to Goma. From there, you’ll cross the border into Rwanda and transfer to the capital, Kigali. Kigali is a vibrant and modern city with a rich cultural scene. You’ll check into your accommodation and have the evening to relax and reflect on your remarkable adventure.

Day 12: Kigali City Tour

Your penultimate day in East Africa begins with a city tour of Kigali. You’ll visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a somber but important place that pays tribute to the victims of the 1994 genocide. The tour will also give you insights into Rwanda’s history and its remarkable journey towards reconciliation and progress. In the afternoon, you can enjoy a cultural experience in the city, perhaps visiting local markets or art galleries to immerse yourself in the vibrant Rwandan culture.

Day 13: Departure

Your unforgettable 13-day safari comes to an end as you are transferred to Kigali International Airport for your onward journey. This journey through Uganda, Rwanda, and the D.R. Congo has offered you a deep connection with nature, a profound understanding of wildlife conservation, and a chance to experience the rich cultures of East Africa.

This ultimate safari will leave you with cherished memories, a greater appreciation for the natural world, and a desire to return to this extraordinary part of the African continent.