Kigali

Entebbe

INCLUSIONS

Meals, Accomodation, Overland Travel

COUNTRIES

Uganda, Rwanda

DURATION

9 Days

DESTINATIONS

Entebbe ,Queen Elizabeth , Murchison Falls National Park , Kigali, Kibale national Park

Overview

A complete East African journey combining gorilla trekking, chimpanzees, Big Five wildlife, and iconic landscapes—starting in Rwanda and exiting Uganda.

Highlights

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park
Game drives & Kazinga Channel boat safari
Murchison Falls experience
Rhino tracking at Ziwa Sanctuary
Kigali city tour + seamless cross-border safari

Itinerary

Itinerary

Arrive at Kigali International Airport and transfer to your hotel.
Relax and recover from travel
Overnight in Kigali

Breakfast

Explore Kigali before heading to Uganda.
Kigali city tour (Genocide Memorial, local markets, city views)
Scenic drive to Cyanika border
Cross into Uganda and continue to Bwindi
Overnight in Bwindi (luxury lodge)

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The highlight of your safari.
Morning briefing and guided gorilla trek
1-hour encounter with mountain gorillas
Afternoon relaxation

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Optional Ishasha sector (tree-climbing lions)
Evening game drive

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Full safari experience.
Morning game drive
Afternoon boat cruise on Kazinga Channel
Wildlife: elephants, buffaloes, hippos, birds

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Transfer to Kibale.
Scenic drive through crater lakes region
Optional Bigodi Wetland walk

Track chimpanzees in Kibale forest.
Guided chimp tracking (2–5 hours)
1-hour close encounter
Afternoon at leisure

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Transfer to Kigali International Airport (KGL)
International flight home

FAQS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How difficult is gorilla trekking in Bwindi?

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park can range from moderate to challenging. Treks may last 1–6 hours, depending on where the gorilla family is located. Rangers pace the hike according to the group’s fitness level, and porters are available to assist.

What is included in the gorilla permit?

The $800 permit includes
Park entry for the day
Professional ranger guides
1 full hour with the gorilla family
Conservation contribution

Permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and must be booked in advance

When is the best time to travel?

Uganda is a year-round destination. The driest months (June–September and December–February) are ideal for trekking and wildlife viewing.
However, gorilla sightings are excellent all year.

Will I see the Big Five?

In Queen Elizabeth National Park you commonly see lions, elephants, buffalo, and leopards.
Rhinos are not found in this park (they are located at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary). So this itinerary offers four of the Big Five.

What wildlife will I see on the Kazinga Channel boat safari?

The boat safari on the Kazinga Channel is one of East Africa’s best water-based wildlife experiences. Expect:
Large pods of hippos
Elephants along the shoreline
Crocodiles
Rich birdlife

Can I do a second gorilla trek?

Yes;Day 6 is flexible and can include:
A second gorilla trek
Gorilla habituation (longer 4-hour experience)
Cultural or nature experiences

Advance booking is strongly recommended.

Do I need a visa for Uganda and Rwanda?

Most travelers require visas for both countries.
Many nationalities qualify for the East Africa Tourist Visa, which covers Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya under one application.
Always check your nationality requirements before travel

s the border crossing complicated?

No. The drive from southern Bwindi to Kigali via Cyanika or Katuna takes about 4–5 hours total including border formalities.
Your guide assists throughout the process

What fitness level is required?

A reasonable level of mobility is recommended for gorilla trekking. If needed:
Request an easier gorilla family
Hire a porter
Use a sedan chair service (available at extra cost)

Is this safari suitable for photographers?

Absolutely. This itinerary combines:
Savannah wildlife in open plains
Boat-based wildlife photography
Intimate rainforest gorilla encounters

Professional cameras are allowed. Flash photography is not permitted during gorilla visits.

How far in advance should I book?

We recommend booking 3–6 months in advance, especially during peak seasons, due to limited gorilla permits and high-quality lodge availability.

Cost Includes

  • Gorilla & chimpanzee permits
  • Accommodation (luxury or mid-range)
  • Private 4x4 safari vehicle
  • Professional guide
  • Park fees & activities
  • Meals during safari

Cost Excludes

  • International flights to/from Kigali and Entebbe
  • Visa fees (Rwanda & Uganda visas or East Africa Tourist Visa)
  • Travel insurance (highly recommended)
  • Tips & gratuities for guides, drivers, and lodge staff
  • Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs, phone calls, minibar, etc.)
  • Alcoholic & premium beverages (unless specified by lodge)
  • Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
  • (e.g., chimpanzee habituation, extra game drives, cultural visits)
  • Additional accommodation before/after the itinerary (unless requested)
  • Porter fees during gorilla trekking (optional but recommended)
  • Medical expenses and vaccinations

Payment Terms

Cancellation Policy

Why This Safari Stands Out