5 Days Uganda Rwanda Safari

Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Safari, A 5-day Uganda-Rwanda safari offers an unforgettable adventure through two of East Africa’s most captivating destinations. This short but immersive journey takes you through Uganda’s lush forests, home to endangered mountain gorillas and chimpanzees, before crossing into Rwanda’s scenic landscapes, renowned for its gorilla trekking and rich cultural heritage. This safari is perfect for travelers seeking a blend of wildlife encounters, primate tracking, and cultural experiences. You’ll explore Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, both famous for their mountain gorilla populations. Additionally, you may engage in golden monkey tracking, visit local communities, and enjoy breathtaking views of the Virunga Mountains.

✔ Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Uganda) – Spend an hour with a habituated gorilla family in their natural habitat. ✔ Golden Monkey Tracking in Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda) – Observe these playful and endangered primates in the bamboo forests. ✔ Scenic Drive Through the Virunga Mountains – Enjoy stunning views of Rwanda’s rolling hills and volcanic peaks. ✔ Cultural Encounters – Visit local communities, including the Batwa pygmies in Uganda and the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village in Rwanda. ✔ Wildlife & Bird Watching – Spot various primates, birds, and other forest wildlife during guided nature walks.

• Morning: Arrive at Entebbe International Airport (Uganda) or Kigali International Airport (Rwanda). If arriving in Entebbe, take a connecting flight to Kisoro or Kihihi airstrip near Bwindi. Alternatively, embark on a scenic 8-9 hour drive through southwestern Uganda, passing tea plantations, rural villages, and the beautiful Lake Bunyonyi.
• Afternoon: Arrive at your lodge near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Check-in and relax while enjoying views of the mist-covered forest.
• Evening: Attend a pre-trekking briefing by your guide about the next day’s gorilla trekking experience.
• Accommodation: Luxury – Buhoma Lodge / Mid-range – Gorilla Mist Camp / Budget – Buhoma Community Rest Camp

• Morning: After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) rangers. You’ll be assigned a gorilla family to track based on fitness levels.
• Trekking Experience: The trek can take 2-6 hours, depending on the gorillas' location. Once you find them, spend a magical hour observing their behavior, taking photos, and learning from the guides.
• Afternoon: Return to the lodge for lunch, then begin your journey to Rwanda (approximately 3-4 hours). Cross the border at Cyanika or Gatuna, complete immigration formalities, and proceed to Musanze (Ruhengeri), the base for Volcanoes National Park.
• Evening: Relax at your lodge with views of the Virunga volcanoes.
• Accommodation: Luxury – Bisate Lodge / Mid-range – Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel / Budget – Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge

• Morning: After breakfast, head to Volcanoes National Park for golden monkey tracking. These agile, bright-orange primates are endemic to the Albertine Rift and thrive in the bamboo forests.
• Afternoon: Visit the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village, where you’ll experience traditional Rwandan dances, learn about local farming, and interact with former poachers turned conservationists.
• Optional: If you prefer, take a nature walk to Dian Fossey’s grave or visit the Twin Lakes (Burera & Ruhondo).
• Evening: Return to the lodge for dinner and relaxation.
• Accommodation: Same as previous night.

• Morning: Another early start for gorilla trekking, this time in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. The trek is generally shorter (1-4 hours) compared to Uganda, with well-maintained trails.
• Gorilla Encounter: Spend an unforgettable hour with a gorilla family, watching juveniles play and silverbacks lead the group.
• Afternoon: Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation. Optional activities include a visit to the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund or exploring Musanze town.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner with views of the volcanoes.
• Accommodation: Same as previous nights.

• Morning: After breakfast, drive back to Kigali (2-3 hours).
• City Tour: Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, a moving tribute to Rwanda’s tragic history and remarkable recovery. Explore local markets, craft shops, and a coffee cooperative.
• Afternoon: Transfer to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your 5-day Uganda-Rwanda safari.

This 5-day Uganda-Rwanda safari is a perfect blend of adventure, wildlife, and culture. From the dense jungles of Bwindi to the volcanic slopes of Rwanda, you’ll encounter rare primates, engage with local communities, and witness breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a primate lover, or a cultural explorer, this safari offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the heart of East Africa.

• Dry Seasons (June-September & December-February): Ideal for gorilla trekking as trails are less muddy.
• Wet Seasons (March-May & October-November): Lush greenery, fewer tourists, but trekking can be more challenging.

✔ Waterproof hiking boots ✔ Rain jacket & layered clothing ✔ Insect repellent & sunscreen ✔ Camera with extra batteries ✔ Daypack for trekking essentials Embark on this unforgettable journey and create memories that will last a lifetime!