15 Days Rwanda and Uganda Safari

Explore the best of East Africa with a 15-day Rwanda and Uganda safari that takes you deep into the heart of two of the continent’s most captivating countries. This tour combines thrilling wildlife encounters, including gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, with rich cultural experiences and stunning landscapes. From the serene lakes of Rwanda to the diverse national parks of Uganda, this safari offers a comprehensive and immersive adventure that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

Day 1-3: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Your journey begins in Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital. After a warm welcome by your guide, you’ll embark on a city tour that includes a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, which provides a poignant insight into Rwanda’s past and its remarkable recovery. You’ll also explore local markets and art galleries, getting a taste of the city’s culture and crafts.

On the second day, you’ll travel to Volcanoes National Park, home to the famous mountain gorillas. This journey takes you through Rwanda’s scenic countryside, with its rolling hills and terraced farms. The next day, you’ll embark on a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trekking experience. Trekking through the dense forest, you’ll come face-to-face with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, observing their behavior and interactions. This encounter is both awe-inspiring and humbling, making it one of the highlights of your safari.

Day 4-5: Lake Kivu – Relaxation and Adventure

After the exhilaration of gorilla trekking, you’ll head to Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes, situated on the border between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Lake Kivu is a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature. You can relax on the lakeshore, take a boat ride to explore the small islands, or visit nearby coffee plantations to learn about Rwanda’s coffee production.

For those seeking adventure, water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are available. The sunsets over Lake Kivu are nothing short of magical, offering a peaceful and picturesque end to your days here.

Day 6-7: Bwindi Impenetrable Forest – Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Your safari continues as you cross the border into Uganda, heading towards Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its population of mountain gorillas. Like Volcanoes National Park, Bwindi offers an extraordinary gorilla trekking experience, but with its own unique landscapes and atmosphere.

The trek through Bwindi’s dense and misty forest can be challenging, but the reward of spending time with a gorilla family is incomparable. Watching these gentle giants as they interact with each other, care for their young, and forage for food in their natural habitat is a deeply moving experience that you will cherish forever.

Day 8-10: Queen Elizabeth National Park – Wildlife Safari and Boat Cruise

Next, you’ll travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most popular and diverse wildlife reserves. This park is known for its varied ecosystems, including savannah, wetlands, and forests, which are home to a wide range of wildlife.

You’ll embark on game drives in the Kasenyi Plains, where you might spot lions, elephants, buffalo, and the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha. A highlight of your time here will be the boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake Edward and Lake George. This cruise offers close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species, making it a perfect opportunity for wildlife photography.

Day 11-12: Kibale National Park – Chimpanzee Trekking

Your journey then takes you to Kibale National Park, often referred to as the primate capital of the world. Kibale is home to 13 species of primates, including chimpanzees, which are the main attraction here. Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale offers an exhilarating experience as you track these intelligent and social animals through the forest.

In addition to chimpanzees, you’ll have the chance to see other primates like red-tailed monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and grey-cheeked mangabeys. The forest is also rich in birdlife, with over 300 species recorded. Evenings will be spent at a comfortable lodge where you can relax and enjoy the sounds of the forest.

Day 13-14: Murchison Falls National Park – Nile River Safari

Your penultimate destination is Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area. The park is bisected by the Nile River, which creates the dramatic Murchison Falls, where the river forces its way through a narrow gorge and plunges down with tremendous power.

During your stay, you’ll enjoy game drives on the northern bank of the Nile, where you can spot giraffes, elephants, lions, and a variety of antelope species. A boat cruise to the base of Murchison Falls is another highlight, offering the chance to see hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife up close. The sight and sound of the falls are truly awe-inspiring, and the surrounding landscapes are equally breathtaking.

Day 15: Return to Entebbe and Departure

On the final day of your safari, you’ll travel back to Entebbe. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time to visit the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre or do some last-minute shopping in the local markets. Your guide will ensure you reach the airport in time for your departure, bringing your 15-day adventure to a close.

This 15-day Rwanda and Uganda safari is a carefully crafted itinerary that showcases the very best of East Africa’s natural beauty, wildlife, and culture. From the rare opportunity to trek with mountain gorillas in both Rwanda and Uganda to the thrilling game drives and boat safaris in Uganda’s premier national parks, this tour offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Every day brings new discoveries and incredible memories, making this safari an extraordinary journey into the heart of Africa.