Thrilling 9-Days Uganda-Rwanda Safari: Chimps, Gorillas, and Cultural Encounters

Embark on a captivating 9-days Uganda-Rwanda wildlife safari, a journey that promises an array of thrilling encounters and unforgettable experiences. This adventure is a tapestry of nature and culture, woven with highlights such as chimp trekking in the enchanting Kibale Forest National Park, exhilarating game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, a serene boat launch on the Kazinga Channel, the elusive tree-climbing lions of Ishasha, a scenic boat ride and nature walk around the tranquil Lake Bunyonyi, heart-pounding gorilla treks in Bwindi Forest and Volcanoes National Park, golden monkey trekking, and an exploration of the renowned Dian Fossey Memorial, culminating with a visit to the memorial sites in Kigali. This extraordinary journey promises a rich tapestry of wildlife, nature, and history, all waiting to be unraveled.

Brief Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe, Uganda

• Arrive at Entebbe International Airport
• Transfer to your accommodation
• Briefing on the safari

Day 2: Chimp Trek in Kibale Forest National Park

• Morning drive to Kibale Forest National Park
• Chimp trekking experience
• Overnight stay in Kibale

Day 3: Queen Elizabeth National Park – Game Drive and Boat Launch

• Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Afternoon game drive in the park
• Sunset boat launch on the Kazinga Channel
• Overnight stay in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Day 4: Tree-Climbing Lions of Ishasha

• Morning game drive to search for tree-climbing lions in Ishasha
• Drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
• Overnight stay near Bwindi

Day 5: Gorilla Trek in Bwindi Forest

• Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
• Overnight stay near Bwindi

Day 6: Lake Bunyonyi – Boat Ride and Nature Walk

• Drive to Lake Bunyonyi
• Scenic boat ride and nature walk
• Overnight stay at Lake Bunyonyi

Day 7: Transfer to Rwanda – Volcanoes National Park

• Cross the border into Rwanda
• Drive to Volcanoes National Park
• Overnight stay near the park

Day 8: Gorilla Trek in Volcanoes National Park and Golden Monkey Trekking

• Morning gorilla trek in Volcanoes National Park
• Golden monkey trekking in the afternoon
• Overnight stay near the park

Day 9: Dian Fossey Memorial and Kigali Tour

• Visit the Dian Fossey Memorial
• Transfer to Kigali
• Explore Kigali’s memorial sites and the city
• Departure from Kigali International Airport

Detailed Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe, Uganda

Upon your arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be welcomed by your guide who will transfer you to your accommodation. Here, you’ll receive a briefing on the upcoming safari, including important information and safety guidelines. Afterward, you can relax and acclimate to your new surroundings as you prepare for the exciting journey ahead.

Day 2: Chimp Trek in Kibale Forest National Park

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll begin your journey to Kibale Forest National Park. This lush, tropical rainforest is home to a variety of primates, and it’s most renowned for its chimpanzee population. In the afternoon, you’ll embark on a thrilling chimp trekking adventure. The expert guides will lead you through the dense forest, where you’ll have the opportunity to observe these intelligent and playful creatures in their natural habitat. The sounds of the forest, the unique flora, and the chimpanzees themselves make this an unforgettable experience. After the trek, you’ll return to your accommodation in Kibale for a well-deserved rest.

Day 3: Queen Elizabeth National Park – Game Drive and Boat Launch

Leaving Kibale, you’ll journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park, a diverse and breathtaking landscape. The morning is dedicated to a game drive through the park, offering opportunities to spot various wildlife, including elephants, lions, buffalos, and numerous species of antelope. Keep your camera ready for that perfect wildlife shot.

In the afternoon, you’ll experience the Kazinga Channel boat launch. This channel connects Lake Edward and Lake George and is famous for its dense concentration of hippos, crocodiles, and water birds. The boat ride provides a unique perspective of the park’s wildlife, and the golden hour light enhances the beauty of the landscape. You’ll spend the night in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Day 4: Tree-Climbing Lions of Ishasha

The journey continues to the southern part of Queen Elizabeth National Park, known as Ishasha. This region is particularly famous for its tree-climbing lions, a rare behavior seen in few places around the world. Keep a keen eye out for these remarkable creatures as they rest high in the branches of fig trees.

In the afternoon, you’ll make your way to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most biologically diverse areas on Earth. The forest is renowned for its gorilla population and is a sanctuary for numerous other primate species, as well as an array of birds and butterflies. You’ll stay overnight in a lodge near Bwindi, where the sounds of the forest will serenade you to sleep.

Day 5: Gorilla Trek in Bwindi Forest

Today is the highlight of your safari, as you embark on a gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. After a hearty breakfast, you’ll head to the park headquarters, where you’ll receive a briefing on gorilla trekking rules and safety guidelines. You’ll then be assigned to a gorilla family group, and your guide will lead you into the forest to search for these magnificent creatures.

The trek can vary in duration, from a few hours to a full day, depending on the location of the gorillas. Once you find them, you’ll have an unforgettable hour to observe their behavior, take photographs, and simply marvel at their presence. The experience of being in such close proximity to these gentle giants is truly awe-inspiring.

After the trek, you’ll return to your lodge, where you can share stories of your encounter with fellow travelers and reflect on this extraordinary experience.

Day 6: Lake Bunyonyi – Boat Ride and Nature Walk

Leaving Bwindi behind, you’ll head to the serene Lake Bunyonyi, known as the “Switzerland of Africa” due to its stunning landscapes and cool climate. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to relax and unwind after the gorilla trek.

In the afternoon, you’ll enjoy a tranquil boat ride on Lake Bunyonyi, surrounded by lush hills and small islands. You can visit some of the islands and experience the unique culture of the local people.

Additionally, you can take a nature walk around the lake to discover the abundant birdlife and explore the scenic countryside. Lake Bunyonyi offers a perfect setting for reflection and relaxation. You’ll spend the night by the lakeside, taking in the serene atmosphere.

Day 7: Transfer to Rwanda – Volcanoes National Park

Today, you’ll cross the border into Rwanda and head to Volcanoes National Park. The drive offers breathtaking views of the Rwandan countryside, and you’ll arrive at the park in the evening. Volcanoes National Park is famous for its mountain gorillas and golden monkeys, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and conservationists.

You’ll spend the night in a lodge near the park, with the cool mountain air and the sounds of the forest providing a restful ambiance.

Day 8: Gorilla Trek in Volcanoes National Park and Golden Monkey Trekking

In the morning, you’ll embark on another thrilling gorilla trek, this time in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda. Just like in Bwindi, you’ll go through a pre-trek briefing at the park headquarters, be assigned to a gorilla group, and follow experienced guides into the forest.

Your encounter with the mountain gorillas in Rwanda will be no less spectacular, as each family has its own unique dynamics and individuals. The hour spent with these gentle giants is sure to leave an indelible mark on your heart.

After the gorilla trek, you’ll return to your lodge for lunch and a brief rest. In the afternoon, you’ll have the opportunity to go golden monkey trekking. The park is home to a separate population of these playful and colorful primates, providing you with a different wildlife experience.

Day 9: Dian Fossey Memorial and Kigali Tour

This day is dedicated to paying tribute to the legendary Dian Fossey, who dedicated her life to the study and conservation of mountain gorillas. You’ll visit the Dian Fossey Memorial and Karisoke Research Center, gaining insights into her pioneering work.

Afterward, you’ll make your way to Kigali, the capital city of Rwanda. Here, you’ll explore the city’s memorial sites, which commemorate the tragic events of the Rwandan Genocide. The Kigali Genocide Memorial and other locations offer an opportunity to reflect on the nation’s history and the resilience of its people.

Your safari adventure concludes in Kigali, where you’ll have the option to explore the city further, do some last-minute souvenir shopping, or relax before your departure. Your guide will transfer you to Kigali International Airport for your onward journey, marking the end of an unforgettable 9-days Uganda-Rwanda gorilla and wildlife safari. This experience, filled with remarkable wildlife encounters and cultural discoveries, will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the beauty and diversity of East Africa.