$7,535 pp (USD)
2 travelers on Start dateArrival
Arrival
Day 1
Welcome to the Pearl of Africa
Welcome to the Pearl of Africa
Upon arrival at Entebbe International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your professional safari guide who will brief you about the exciting adventure ahead. After a short introduction, you'll be transferred to your hotel in Kampala.
Depending on your arrival time, you may simply relax after your journey or choose to explore some nearby attractions at an additional cost. Your guide will also answer any questions you may have before your safari officially begins.
Settle in, enjoy your first evening in Uganda, and prepare for the adventures ahead.
- Main Destination:
- Kampala (City, Uganda)
- Accommodation:
-
Fairway Hotel & Spa
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 2
Transfer to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Transfer to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
After an early breakfast, begin your journey northwards towards Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in Uganda where wild rhinos roam freely. The drive takes you through bustling towns, roadside markets, and beautiful countryside, offering your first glimpse of rural Uganda. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch before meeting your ranger for an unforgettable guided rhino trekking experience.
Unlike traditional game drives, rhino trekking at Ziwa is done entirely on foot, allowing you to safely approach these magnificent animals under the guidance of experienced rangers. Standing only a few meters away from a fully grown white rhino is both humbling and exhilarating. After the trek, relax at your lodge surrounded by nature.
- Main Destination:
- Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch (Uganda)
- Accommodation:
- Amuka Safari Lodge
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 3
Ziwa to Murchison Falls National Park – Visit the Top of the Falls
Ziwa to Murchison Falls National Park – Visit the Top of the Falls
Following breakfast, continue your journey to Uganda's largest and oldest conservation area, Murchison Falls National Park.
Upon entering the park, proceed directly to one of Uganda's most spectacular natural wonders, the Top of Murchison Falls. Here, the mighty River Nile forces itself through a narrow seven-metre-wide gorge before plunging over 40 metres into the Devil's Cauldron below. Take time to admire the roaring waterfalls, enjoy the refreshing mist, and capture breathtaking photographs from several viewpoints. Later, continue to your lodge where you can relax while soaking in the sights and sounds of the African wilderness.
- Main Destination:
- Murchison Falls National Park (Uganda)
- Accommodation:
- Pakuba Safari Lodge
Wildlife in Murchison Falls NP
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 4
Morning Game Drive & Afternoon Boat Cruise
Morning Game Drive & Afternoon Boat Cruise
Wake before sunrise for your first classic African game drive across the expansive savannah of Murchison Falls National Park. The cool morning hours offer the best opportunity to spot wildlife as animals become active before the heat of the day. Keep your camera ready for elephants, Rothschild's giraffes, buffaloes, lions, hartebeests, Uganda kobs, oribis, warthogs and, with a little luck, elusive leopards.
Return to the lodge for lunch before heading to the Nile for an afternoon boat cruise to the base of Murchison Falls. This leisurely cruise provides outstanding wildlife viewing as elephants and buffaloes gather along the riverbanks while crocodiles bask in the sun and countless hippos lounge in the water. Bird enthusiasts may also spot African fish eagles, kingfishers, bee-eaters and the iconic Goliath heron. The cruise concludes at the foot of the roaring falls, offering a completely different perspective of this incredible natural attraction.
- Main Destination:
- Murchison Falls National Park (Uganda)
- Accommodation:
- Pakuba Safari Lodge
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 5
Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
After breakfast, depart Murchison Falls and travel southwest towards Kibale Forest National Park. Today's drive showcases Uganda's changing landscapes, from open savannah to rolling hills, tea plantations, fertile farmland, and the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains. Along the way, you'll pass vibrant trading centres and rural villages where everyday life unfolds before your eyes. Arrive in Fort Portal later in the day before continuing to your lodge near Kibale Forest, where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- Main Destination:
- Kibale National Park (Chimps)
- Accommodation:
- Isunga Lodge
Wildlife in Kibale NP
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 6
Chimpanzee Trekking & Bigodi Community Experience
Chimpanzee Trekking & Bigodi Community Experience
After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing from Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers before entering Kibale Forest in search of one of our closest relatives. Guided by experienced trackers, you'll walk through the lush tropical rainforest listening for distant calls and rustling leaves until you locate a habituated chimpanzee family.
Watching the chimpanzees feed, groom, communicate, and swing effortlessly through the forest canopy is an unforgettable experience. The forest is also home to twelve other primate species, colourful butterflies, birds, and unique plant life. After lunch, visit the Bigodi Community for a cultural and wetland experience. Meet local residents, learn about traditional livelihoods, and enjoy a guided walk through the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, renowned for its rich birdlife and monkeys.
- Main Destination:
- Kibale National Park (Chimps)
- Accommodation:
- Isunga Lodge
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 7
Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After a leisurely breakfast, bid farewell to Kibale Forest and begin your scenic drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda's most popular savannah park. The journey takes you through the picturesque foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains, often referred to as the "Mountains of the Moon," with beautiful views of rolling hills, tea plantations, crater lakes, and traditional villages along the way.
As you approach the park, keep an eye out for wildlife that may already be grazing near the roadside. Depending on your arrival time, you may enjoy a relaxed evening game drive, offering your first opportunity to spot elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and other wildlife before heading to your lodge. Spend the evening unwinding while enjoying the sights and sounds of the African wilderness.
- Main Destination:
- Queen Elizabeth National Park (Uganda)
- Accommodation:
- Acacia Wilderness Mweya Lodge
Wildlife in Queen Elizabeth NP
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 8
Morning Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
Morning Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
Rise early for an exciting morning game drive through the Kasenyi Plains, one of the park's most rewarding wildlife viewing areas. You'll search for lions returning from their nightly hunt, herds of elephants and buffaloes, Uganda kobs, waterbucks, warthogs, and a variety of birdlife. If you're lucky, you may also spot a leopard resting in the trees. Return to the lodge for breakfast and some relaxation before heading to the Kazinga Channel for one of Uganda's most celebrated boat safaris.
The Kazinga Channel links Lake George and Lake Edward and boasts one of the highest concentrations of hippos in Africa. During the leisurely cruise, you'll encounter enormous pods of hippos, Nile crocodiles basking along the shores, elephants cooling off at the water's edge, buffaloes, and an impressive variety of water birds including African fish eagles, pelicans, kingfishers, and saddle-billed storks. After the cruise, return to your lodge and enjoy a peaceful evening surrounded by nature.
- Main Destination:
- Queen Elizabeth National Park (Uganda)
- Accommodation:
- Acacia Wilderness Mweya Lodge
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 9
Transfer to Ishasha Sector – In Search of the Tree-Climbing Lions
Transfer to Ishasha Sector – In Search of the Tree-Climbing Lions
After breakfast, continue your safari south through Queen Elizabeth National Park towards the remote Ishasha Sector, a region famous for its rare tree-climbing lions. Unlike most lions that spend their days on the ground, the lions of Ishasha are often seen resting high in the branches of giant fig trees, escaping the midday heat while keeping watch over the plains below.
Enjoy a leisurely game drive as you search for these remarkable predators, along with elephants, buffaloes, topis, and numerous antelope species that roam the open grasslands. The quieter atmosphere of Ishasha offers a more intimate safari experience away from the crowds, making it one of Uganda's hidden gems. Later, check into your lodge and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
- Main Destination:
- Ishasha Sector (Queen Elizabeth NP, Uganda)
- Accommodation:
- Ishasha Jungle Lodge
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 10
Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Following breakfast, depart Ishasha and continue your journey to the legendary Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to nearly half of the world's remaining mountain gorillas. The drive is incredibly scenic as you wind through the lush Kigezi Highlands, often called the "Switzerland of Africa" because of their rolling terraced hills, deep valleys, and picturesque countryside. You'll pass vibrant local communities where farmers cultivate tea, bananas, and coffee on the steep hillsides. Arrive at your lodge nestled on the edge of the forest, where the sounds of birds and distant primates create a truly magical atmosphere. Spend the evening relaxing and preparing for tomorrow's unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure.
- Main Destination:
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Gorillas)
- Accommodation:
- Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
Wildlife in Bwindi Impenetrable NP
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 11
Gorilla Trekking & Batwa Cultural Experience
Gorilla Trekking & Batwa Cultural Experience
After an early breakfast, report to the park headquarters for a briefing by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers on the rules and guidelines for gorilla trekking. You'll then be assigned a gorilla family and begin your trek through the dense rainforest. The trek can take anywhere from one to several hours depending on the location of the gorillas, but every step is rewarded by the beauty of Bwindi's ancient forest. You'll spend one precious hour observing them before beginning your return hike.
After lunch and some time to rest, visit the Batwa community. Once the original inhabitants of Bwindi Forest, the Batwa share their rich cultural heritage through traditional songs, dances, storytelling, and demonstrations of their former forest lifestyle, offering valuable insight into their history and traditions. Return to your lodge for a well-deserved evening of relaxation.
- Main Destination:
- Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (Gorillas)
- Accommodation:
- Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 12
Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi
After breakfast, leave the rainforest behind and make your way to the breathtaking Lake Bunyonyi, one of Africa's deepest and most beautiful lakes. Surrounded by terraced hills and dotted with 29 scenic islands, Lake Bunyonyi offers a peaceful contrast to the excitement of your wildlife adventures.
Upon arrival, check into your lodge overlooking the lake and spend the afternoon at leisure. You may choose to relax on your balcony, enjoy a swim in the bilharzia-free waters, take a canoe ride, or simply soak in the spectacular scenery. As the sun sets over the lake, you'll understand why Bunyonyi is considered one of Uganda's most tranquil destinations.
- Main Destination:
- Lake Bunyonyi (Uganda)
- Accommodation:
- Arcadia Lodge Lake Bunyonyi
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 13
Explore Lake Bunyonyi
Explore Lake Bunyonyi
Enjoy a slow and relaxing morning surrounded by the serene beauty of Lake Bunyonyi. Later, set out on a guided boat excursion to explore some of the lake's fascinating islands. Your guide will share the history and local legends associated with the islands, including Punishment Island, while introducing you to the local communities that call this beautiful region home.
The calm waters and dramatic landscapes make this one of the most scenic locations in East Africa and an ideal place to unwind after your gorilla trekking adventure. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, perhaps with a good book, a nature walk, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings.
- Main Destination:
- Lake Bunyonyi (Uganda)
- Accommodation:
- Arcadia Lodge Lake Bunyonyi
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 14
Transfer to Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda)
Transfer to Volcanoes National Park (Rwanda)
After breakfast, depart Lake Bunyonyi and journey towards the Cyanika Border, where you'll complete immigration formalities before entering Rwanda, famously known as the "Land of a Thousand Hills." The drive through northern Rwanda is incredibly scenic, with rolling green hills, neatly terraced farms, and welcoming rural communities continue to Volcanoes National Park, home to the majestic Virunga Mountain range and one of Africa's premier primate destinations. Upon arrival at your lodge, spend the remainder of the afternoon relaxing while taking in the breathtaking mountain views.
- Main Destination:
- Volcanoes National Park (Gorillas)
- Accommodation:
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
Wildlife in Volcanoes NP
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 15
Golden Monkey Trekking
Golden Monkey Trekking
Following breakfast, report to the park headquarters for a briefing before setting off into the bamboo forests of Volcanoes National Park in search of the endangered golden monkeys. Known for their playful personalities and striking golden-orange coats, these energetic primates move gracefully through the bamboo, offering excellent photographic opportunities as they leap between branches and forage on the forest floor. The trek is generally less strenuous than gorilla trekking, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty of the surrounding forest and volcanic landscapes. After your trek, return to the lodge for lunch and spend the afternoon relaxing or enjoying the lodge's facilities.
- Main Destination:
- Volcanoes National Park (Gorillas)
- Accommodation:
- Mountain Gorilla View Lodge
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 16
Transfer to Kigali & City Tour
Transfer to Kigali & City Tour
After breakfast, depart for Kigali, one of Africa's cleanest and most vibrant cities. Upon arrival, embark on a guided city tour beginning with a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where you'll gain a deeper understanding of Rwanda's history and remarkable journey of healing and reconciliation. Continue to local craft markets where you can browse handmade souvenirs, artwork, woven baskets, and jewellery before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant (optional). Depending on time, you may also visit cultural landmarks and modern neighbourhoods that showcase Kigali's impressive transformation into one of Africa's most progressive capitals. Later, check into your hotel for the evening.
- Main Destination:
- Kigali (Rwanda)
- Accommodation:
- Kigali Serena Hotel
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 17
Leisure in Kigali
Leisure in Kigali
Today is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Relax at your hotel, visit one of Kigali's cafés, indulge in some last-minute shopping, or revisit any attractions you may have missed during yesterday's city tour. This free day provides the perfect opportunity to unwind before your journey home while reflecting on the incredible experiences you've enjoyed throughout Uganda and Rwanda.
- Main Destination:
- Kigali (Rwanda)
- Accommodation:
- Kigali Serena Hotel
- Meals & Drinks:
Day 18
Departure
Departure
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before checking out of your hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, your guide will transfer you to Kigali International Airport in time for your departure. As your journey comes to an end, you'll leave with unforgettable memories of close encounters with mountain gorillas and chimpanzees, thrilling game drives across Uganda's savannahs, scenic boat cruises, breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and the warm hospitality of both Uganda and Rwanda.
- Main Destination:
- Kigali International Airport (Kigali, Rwanda)
- Accommodation:
- No accommodation (End of tour)
- Meals & Drinks:
