Primates and Wildlife Safari, Embark on an unforgettable 10-day adventure through Uganda and Rwanda, two of East Africa’s most captivating destinations. This safari combines thrilling wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and immersive cultural experiences. From tracking endangered mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest to witnessing the tree-climbing lions of Queen Elizabeth National Park and exploring the vibrant city of Kigali, this journey offers a perfect blend of primate trekking, game drives, and scenic beauty.
Designed for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this safari takes you deep into the heart of Africa’s most iconic national parks, providing opportunities to see gorillas, chimpanzees, golden monkeys, and the Big Five. Whether trekking through misty jungles, cruising along the Kazinga Channel, or learning about Rwanda’s poignant history, this 10-day expedition promises an enriching and exhilarating experience.
Trip Highlights for Primates and Wildlife Safari
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- Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – Spend an hour with a habituated mountain gorilla family in Uganda’s lush rainforest.
- Golden Monkey Tracking in Volcanoes National Park – Encounter playful golden monkeys in Rwanda’s volcanic highlands.
- Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest – Observe our closest relatives in their natural habitat.
- Big Five Game Drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park – Spot lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and more.
- Boat Cruise on the Kazinga Channel – Witness hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife along this scenic waterway.
- Cultural Encounters with Local Communities – Engage with the Batwa pygmies and learn about their traditional forest lifestyle.
- Kigali Genocide Memorial Visit – Reflect on Rwanda’s history and remarkable recovery.
- Scenic Landscapes – Marvel at the Virunga Volcanoes, rolling savannahs, and dense jungles.
Detailed Itinerary for Primates and Wildlife Safari
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Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe, Uganda
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Your adventure begins upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, where you’ll be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre (UWEC) or relax by the shores of Lake Victoria.
Accommodation: 2 Friends Beach Hotel / Lake Victoria Serena Hotel
Day 2: Transfer to Kibale National Park – Chimpanzee Trekking
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After breakfast, depart for Kibale Forest National Park, home to the highest concentration of primates in Africa. The journey takes you through lush tea plantations and rural villages.
Upon arrival, embark on an afternoon chimpanzee trekking experience, where you’ll observe these intelligent primates swinging through the trees. The forest is also home to red colobus monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and various bird species.
Accommodation: Turaco Treetops Lodge / Primate Lodge Kibale
Day 3: Bigodi Wetland Walk & Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
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Start your day with a guided Bigodi Wetland Walk, a community-based eco-tourism initiative. This swamp is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 200 species, including the great blue turaco.
After lunch, drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife and scenic beauty. Enjoy an evening game drive, where you may spot elephants, lions, and Uganda kob.
Accommodation: Parkview Safari Lodge / Mweya Safari Lodge
Day 4: Game Drives & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
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Begin with an early morning game drive in the Kasenyi Plains, searching for lions, leopards, buffaloes, and antelopes. Return to the lodge for breakfast before embarking on a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel.
This 2-hour cruise offers close encounters with hippos, Nile crocodiles, and a variety of waterbirds, including African fish eagles and pelicans. In the afternoon, visit the Katwe Salt Lake to learn about traditional salt mining.
Accommodation: Parkview Safari Lodge / Mweya Safari Lodge
Day 5: Ishasha Sector (Tree-Climbing Lions) & Transfer to Bwindi
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Head to the Ishasha Sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions. These unique predators lounge in fig trees, a rare sight in Africa. After game viewing, proceed to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to nearly half of the world’s mountain gorillas.
Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge / Mahogany Springs Lodge
Day 6: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
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The highlight of your safari! After an early briefing, set off on your gorilla trekking adventure. The hike can be strenuous but is incredibly rewarding as you spend an hour observing a gorilla family in their natural habitat.
In the afternoon, visit the Batwa Cultural Village to learn about the indigenous Batwa pygmies and their forest traditions.
Accommodation: Buhoma Lodge / Mahogany Springs Lodge
Day 7: Transfer to Rwanda – Volcanoes National Park
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After breakfast, cross into Rwanda, heading to Volcanoes National Park. The drive offers stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes.
In the afternoon, visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village for traditional dances and storytelling.
Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge / Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge
Day 8: Golden Monkey Trekking & Dian Fossey Tomb Hike
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Today, track the endangered golden monkeys in the bamboo forests. Later, hike to Dian Fossey’s tomb at Karisoke Research Center, learning about her conservation efforts.
Accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge / Le Bambou Gorilla Lodge
Day 9: Transfer to Kigali – City Tour & Genocide Memorial
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Drive to Kigali, Rwanda’s clean and vibrant capital. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, then explore local markets and craft centers.
Accommodation: Heaven Retreat & Hotel / Kigali Serena Hotel
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before transferring to the airport for your onward flight.
This 10-day Uganda Rwanda safari is a once-in-a-lifetime journey, blending wildlife, culture, and adventure. From gorilla encounters to game drives and historical insights, every moment is unforgettable. Whether you’re a primate enthusiast, a wildlife lover, or a cultural explorer, this safari offers an unparalleled African experience.
