EAST AFRICA ITINERARIES
1. Akagera National Park: Savannah Symphony, A Big 5 Adventure!
Experience the wild heart of Rwanda on a thrilling one-day safari in Akagera National Park, a unique Eastern African savannah! Your early morning journey from Kigali leads to an exhilarating game drive as the sun rises, seeking the Big 5 (lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos) amidst graceful giraffes and zebras. The park is home to several lakes including Lake Ihema which reveals colossal hippos, formidable crocodiles, and diverse water birds. You’ll have your hot lunch in the park before concluding with panoramic views from the lake shores before returning to Kigali, your mind filled with unforgettable memories of Rwanda’s only savannah.
2. Volcanoes National Park: Gorilla Majesty; A Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounter!
An early morning pick-up from Kigali takes you to Volcanoes National Park for a briefing and a morning cup of Rwandan coffee/tea, then you’ll embark on a challenging yet rewarding trek through lush forests. For one magical hour, you’ll observe a habituated gorilla family in their natural habitat, witnessing playful juveniles, vigilant mothers, and the powerful silverback, creating a profound and truly unforgettable experience. In the afternoon, before lunching, delve into authentic Rwandan culture at the Iby’Iwacu Cultural Village. You’ll be captivated by lively Intore dance performances and gain insights into traditional life, seamlessly blending cultural discovery with the village’s wildlife guardianship mission before your return to Kigali.
3. Volcanoes National Park: Golden Monkey & Cultural Immersion!
An early morning pick-up from Kigali leads to Volcanoes National Park for a briefing and an exciting golden monkey tracking excursion through bamboo forests, where you’ll observe these vibrant, active primates in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, before lunch, immerse yourself in authentic Rwandan culture at the Iby’Iwacu
Cultural Village (Gorilla Guardians Village), enjoying lively Intore dance performances and learning about traditional life, blending wildlife wonder with profound cultural insight.
4. Mount Bisoke Crater Lake Expedition!
Embark on an early morning drive from Kigali to Volcanoes National Park, immersing yourself in Rwanda’s verdant landscapes. After a briefing by expert park rangers, begin your ascent of Mount Bisoke, trekking through lush forests where you might encounter golden monkeys or even mountain gorillas, culminating in the breathtaking view of its pristine crater lake at the summit. Descend to the trailhead by late afternoon, filled with accomplishment, have lunch before heading back to Kigali, arriving energized by your day’s triumph.
3-Day Uganda Gorilla Experience
Day 1: Kampala/ Entebbe to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Kampala/ Entebbe International Airport to the
enchanting Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The route takes you through the stunning landscapes of southwestern Uganda, with a stop at the equator for a photo opportunity. You will arrive at your lodge in the late afternoon, where you can unwind and prepare for your gorilla trekking adventure.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi After an early breakfast, you will head to the park headquarters for a briefing before the gorilla trekking experience. You will
be guided by an expert ranger into the forest to track a habituated gorilla family. The trek is a challenging but rewarding hike through dense foliage, culminating in
an awe-inspiring hour spent observing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Day 3: Return to Kampala/ Entebbe Today, you will enjoy a final breakfast amidst the tranquility of the forest before beginning your drive back to Entebbe. The return journey allows for a stop for souvenir shopping and a final taste of the local culture. Your driver will ensure a comfortable ride, dropping you off in Kampala
or at Entebbe International Airport in time for your late evening flight, concluding your unforgettable safari.
5-Day Rwanda and Uganda Gorillas Tour
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda
Upon your arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be met by your safari guide. After a
short briefing, you will embark on a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park. The journey takes
you through the beautiful “land of a thousand hills” and terraced farmlands. You will check into
your lodge, with the remainder of the day at leisure to relax and enjoy the stunning views of the
Virunga volcanoes.
Day 2: Golden Monkey Trekking and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda
After an early breakfast, you will go for a briefing on the golden monkey trekking rules and
regulations. This shorter, and less strenuous trek, is a thrilling experience as you encounter the
lively golden monkeys jumping and playing in the bamboo forest. Afterwards, you will start the
scenic drive to Uganda, crossing the border at Cyanika and arriving at your lodge near Bwindi in
the afternoon.
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Today is the highlight of your safari. After an early breakfast, you will be driven to the park
headquarters for a briefing before beginning your gorilla trekking adventure. The trek can be physically demanding, but the reward of spending one hour with the magnificent mountain gorillas is an unparalleled experience. You will return to your lodge in the afternoon to rest and celebrate your achievement.
Day 4: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi and Relaxation After breakfast, you will depart Bwindi for a relaxing drive to Lake Bunyonyi. Known as the “place of many little birds,” this lake is one of Africa’s deepest and most scenic. You will have the opportunity to take a boat ride to some of the 29 islands and enjoy the peaceful and tranquil environment, with the afternoon free for optional activities like swimming or a village visit
.
Day 5: Return to Kigali and Departure On your final day, you will enjoy a leisurely breakfast with stunning views of Lake Bunyonyi. You will then begin the journey back to Kigali, with the drive taking you through the beautiful hills of Rwanda. Depending on your flight schedule, there may be an opportunity for a brief Kigali city tour, including a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial. You will be dropped off at Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.
5-Day Uganda Wildlife Safari
Day 1: Kampala/ Entebbe to Murchison Falls National Park The safari starts with a drive from Kampala/ Entebbe to Murchison Falls National Park. You will
make a stop at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for an unforgettable rhino tracking experience on foot. After lunch, you will continue your journey, arriving at your lodge in the late afternoon, with time to settle in and enjoy the scenic views of the park.
Day 2: Murchison Falls Game Drive and Boat Cruise Wake up to an early morning game drive on the northern bank of the Nile River. This area is home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, giraffes, and elephants. In the afternoon, you will take a boat cruise to the bottom of Murchison Falls, where you will witness the Nile’s spectacular force as it squeezes through a narrow gorge.
Day 3: Top of the Falls and Transfer to Kibale National Park After breakfast, you will hike to the top of Murchison Falls for a panoramic view of the cascading
water. You will then begin a long but scenic drive to Kibale National Park. The route takes you along the Albertine Rift Valley, offering views of tea plantations and a changing landscape as you approach the rainforest.
Day 4: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale and Bigodi Walk Today is an exciting day for primate lovers. After a briefing, you will enter the forest to track
chimpanzees, our closest relatives. The experience of seeing them swinging through the trees is an incredible one. In the afternoon, you will take a guided walk in the Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary, a great opportunity for bird watching and spotting other primates.
Day 5: Return to Kampala/ Entebbe
After a final breakfast at your lodge, you will begin the drive back to Entebbe International Airport. The journey is a good opportunity to reflect on your amazing safari experience and take
in more of Uganda’s beautiful landscapes. You will be dropped off to Kampala or at the airport in
the afternoon for your departure flight.
6-Day Rwanda and Uganda Primates and Cultural Tour
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, your guide will meet you and drive you north to Volcanoes National Park, the home of the mountain gorillas. The scenic 3-hour journey offers a beautiful introduction to Rwanda’s landscape. You will check into your lodge with stunning views of the Virunga Volcanoes, with time to relax and prepare for the next day’s adventure.
Day 2: Golden Monkey
Trekking and Iby’iwacu Cultural Village After an early breakfast, you will go for a shorter but equally engaging golden monkey trekking experience. These playful and energetic primates are a joy to watch as they jump through the trees. In the afternoon, you will visit the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village to learn about the traditional life of the local Rwandan community. The visit includes dancing, music, and demonstrations of ancient crafts.
Day 3: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Uganda Following breakfast, you will depart Volcanoes National Park for the drive to Bwindi via the
Cyanika Border. The journey offers stunning views of the Kigezi highlands. Upon arrival in the afternoon, you will check in to your lodge near the park, with time to settle in and prepare for your gorilla trekking experience the next morning.
Day 4: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park This morning, you will head to the park headquarters for a briefing by the Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. You will then be led into the forest to track one of the habituated gorilla families. Once you find them, you will have a precious hour to observe and photograph them in their natural habitat. Afterwards, you will return to your lodge for a well-deserved rest.
Day 5: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi and Island Exploration After a relaxed breakfast, you will drive to Lake Bunyonyi, a tranquil location that is perfect for unwinding after your trek. The afternoon will be spent on a boat ride to explore some of the lake’s beautiful islands, each with its own unique story. You can also relax on the shore, swim in the bilharzia-free water, or take a short walk to enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
Day 6: Return to Kigali and Departure Enjoy your final breakfast in the African wilderness. You will then begin the journey back to Kigali International Airport, with fond memories of your safari. The drive is a scenic one, offering a final glimpse of the beautiful landscapes of Rwanda and Uganda. You will be dropped off at the airport for your departure flight.
7-Day Uganda Primates Expedition
Day 1: Kampala/ Entebbe to Kibale National Park Start your journey with a drive from Kampala/ Entebbe to Kibale National Park, the “Primate Capital of the World.” The drive is long but picturesque, passing through tea plantations and the bustling town of Fort Portal. You will arrive at your lodge in the late afternoon, with time to relax and prepare for the next day’s activities.
Day 2: Chimpanzee Tracking and Bigodi Walk Today, you will embark on a chimpanzee tracking adventure in the lush Kibale forest. Accompanied by experienced guides, you’ll hike through the jungle in search of a habituated chimpanzee community. In the afternoon, take a guided walk in the Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary, which is home to a wide variety of primates, birds, and other wildlife.
Day 3: Kibale to Queen Elizabeth National Park After a relaxed breakfast, you will drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, a short and scenic journey. The drive offers stunning views of the Rwenzori Mountains and the Albertine Rift Valley. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your lodge and head out for an afternoon game drive in the Kasenyi plains, a prime wildlife viewing area.
Day 4: Game Drive and Boat Cruise Begin the day with an early morning game drive on the famous Kasenyi plains. This is the best time to see lions, leopards, and hyenas before they retreat from the heat of the sun. In the afternoon, you will take a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, offering close-up encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and a massive number of birds.
Day 5: Queen Elizabeth to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park After a final morning game drive or a relaxing breakfast, you’ll head south to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, driving through the famous Ishasha sector. This area is known for its unique tree-climbing lions. You will arrive at your lodge in the late afternoon, ready to prepare for the gorilla trekking experience.
Day 6: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Today is the highlight of your safari. After a briefing, you will set off with your guide for the unforgettable gorilla trekking. The hike can be physically demanding, but the moment you come face-to-face with a gorilla family is a magical experience. You will spend a full hour observing
these gentle giants before returning to your lodge.
Day 7: Return to Kampala/ Entebbe After a final delicious breakfast at your lodge, you will begin the drive back to Entebbe International Airport. The journey is an opportunity to reflect on the incredible wildlife and primate encounters you’ve had. You will be dropped off in Kampala or at the airport in the late
afternoon for your flight home.
8-Day Rwanda and Uganda Primates Experience Safari
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda Your safari begins with a pick-up from Kigali International Airport. You will embark on a scenic drive to Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda. The 3-hour journey takes you through thestunning, lush landscape of a thousand hills. You will check into your lodge, with the remainder of the day at leisure to relax before the exciting primate treks to come.
Day 2: Golden Monkey Trekking and Iby’iwacu Cultural Village After an early breakfast, you will go for a briefing on the golden monkey trekking rules and regulations. This shorter, and less strenuous trek, is a thrilling experience as you encounter thelively golden monkeys playing in the bamboo forest. Afterwards, you will visit the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village to learn about the traditional life and culture of the local Rwandan community, with dancing and music.
Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi This is the day for your gorilla trekking adventure. After a briefing, you will enter the dense forest with your expert guides in search of a gorilla family. The trek is challenging but the reward of spending one hour with these magnificent creatures is worth every step. After the trek, you will
return to your lodge to relax.
Day 4: Bwindi to Queen Elizabeth National Park (Ishasha Sector) After a relaxed breakfast, you’ll drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, specifically to the
Ishasha sector. This area is famous for its tree-climbing lions, which you’ll search for during a game drive. The unique sight of these lions resting in fig trees is a great photo opportunity.
Day 5: Queen Elizabeth Game Drive and Boat Cruise Rise early for a classic morning game drive in the Kasenyi plains. This is a great time to spot
lions, elephants, and leopards. In the afternoon, you’ll take a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake Edward and Lake George. The channel is a birdwatcher’s paradise and home to a large number of hippos and crocodiles.
Day 6: Chimpanzee Tracking and Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary Today, you will have an exciting morning of chimpanzee tracking. You will proceed to the park
headquarters for a briefing before entering the forest in search of these primates. The afternoon is dedicated to a guided walk in the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-based project witha rich diversity of birds and other primates.
Day 7: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi After breakfast, you will begin your drive to Lake Bunyonyi, one of the deepest lakes in Africa. The lake is a stunning sight, dotted with 29 small islands. You will have an opportunity to take a boat ride on the lake and enjoy the peaceful, scenic environment. It’s a great place to relax and unwind before returning to Kigali.
Day 8: Return to Kigali and Departure Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your lodge with views of Lake Bunyonyi. You will then begin the scenic drive back to Kigali. The journey will take you through beautiful landscapes of southwestern Uganda and northern Rwanda. You will be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your departure flight.
10-Day Best Of Uganda Safari
Day 1: Kampala/ Entebbe to Murchison Falls National Park Your adventure starts with a drive from Kampala/ Entebbe to the north, heading to Murchison
Falls National Park. Along the way, you’ll visit the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for an exhilarating on-foot rhino tracking experience. Upon arrival at the park, you wilcheck into your lodge and settle in for the night.
Day 2: Game Drive and Boat Cruise on the Nile You’ll start your day with an early morning game drive on the northern bank of the Nile. This area is home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, elephants, and Rothschild’s giraffes. In the afternoon, you will embark on a boat cruise to the bottom of Murchison Falls, where you can see hippos and crocodiles.
Day 3: Top of the Falls and Transfer to Kibale National Park After breakfast, you will hike to the top of Murchison Falls to witness the incredible force of the Nile River. You will then begin a full-day drive to Kibale National Park. The route is scenic, offering views of the Albertine Rift Valley and lush tea plantations.
Day 4: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale and Bigodi Walk Today you will enter the lush Kibale forest for a chimpanzee tracking experience. Accompanied by experienced guides, you’ll hike through the jungle, listening for the distinct calls of the chimpanzees. In the afternoon, a guided walk in the Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary will offer a chance to see more primates and a huge variety of birdlife.
Day 5: Kibale to Queen Elizabeth National Park After a relaxed breakfast, you will drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, a short and scenic journey. The drive offers stunning views of the Rwenzori Mountains and the Albertine Rift Valley. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your lodge and head out for an afternoon game drive in the Kasenyi plains.
Day 6: Queen Elizabeth Game Drive and Boat Cruise Start your day with an early morning game drive on the famous Kasenyi plains. This is the best time to see lions, leopards, and hyenas before they retreat from the heat of the sun. In thafternoon, you will embark on a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, offering close-up encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and a massive number of birds.
Day 7: Queen Elizabeth to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park After a final morning game drive or a relaxing breakfast, you’ll head south to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, driving through the famous Ishasha sector. This area is known for its unique tree-climbing lions. You will arrive at your lodge in the late afternoon, ready to preparefor the gorilla trekking experience.
Day 8: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Today is the ultimate highlight of your safari. After a briefing, you will set off with your guide for the unforgettable gorilla trekking. The hike can be physically demanding, but the moment you come face-to-face with a gorilla family is a magical experience. You will spend a full hour
observing these gentle giants before returning to your lodge.
Day 9: Bwindi to Lake Mburo National Park After a relaxed breakfast, you will drive to Lake Mburo National Park. The journey is scenic, passing through the highlands and savannas. Upon arrival, you can choose to take a late afternoon game drive or a boat trip on the lake to see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birds.
Day 10: Lake Mburo to Kampala/ Entebbe On your final day, you’ll start with a morning game walk or horseback ride. After breakfast, you will begin your final journey back to Kampala/ Entebbe International Airport. You will make a stop at the equator to take photos and buy souvenirs before being dropped off at the airport for your departure.
10-Day Rwanda and Uganda Familiarization Safari
chimpanzee tracking, and extensive wildlife viewing.
experience. In the afternoon, you will visit the Gorilla Guardians Village (formerly Iby’iwacu Cultural Village) for a deep dive into the local culture, including traditional dances and community performances. This visit offers a great opportunity to interact with the local community.
park headquarters for a briefing, then venture into the forest to find the gorillas. The experience of seeing these gentle giants up close is truly life-changing. You will return to your lodge in the afternoon for a well-deserved rest.
journey takes you through the Ishasha sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions. You will have a game drive in this area in search of these unique lions and other wildlife. You will then proceed to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
headquarters for a briefing before entering the forest in search of these primates. The afternoon is dedicated to a guided walk in the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-based project with a rich diversity of birds and other primates.
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