5 Days Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Safari
This 5 days Uganda Rwanda gorilla safari takes you on an adventurous experience to two of East Africa’s top great Ape and primate destinations. During this safari, you will be trekking with mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and golden monkey trekking in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. Don’t miss out on this great experience during your visit to Uganda and Rwanda.
Highlights for 5 Days Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Safari
Day 1: Pickup from Entebbe and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest and Transfer to Rwanda- Volcanoes National Park
Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking and Cultural Experience
Day 4: Transfer to Lake Kivu for leisure
Day 5: Return to Kigali and Departure
Detailed Itinerary for 5 Days Uganda Rwanda Gorilla Safari
Day 1: Pickup from Entebbe and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Pickup from Entebbe in Uganda, where you will be met by your safari guide. After a short briefing, begin your journey in southwestern Uganda. Depending on your preference, you can either take a domestic flight to Kihihi or enjoy a scenic road transfer, which is approximately an 8-10-hour drive, passing through rolling hills, tea plantations, and rural villages.
Along the way, stop at the equator monuments in Kayabwe for photos and a quick lunch. Continue toward Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dense vegetation and mountain gorillas. Arrive at your lodge in the afternoon, settle in, and enjoy dinner while listening to the sounds of the forest.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest and Transfer to Rwanda- Volcanoes National Park
After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing on gorilla trekking etiquette and safety. You will be assigned a gorilla family and guided into the forest by experienced trackers. The trek can take anywhere from 1 to 6 hours, depending on the gorillas’ location, but the reward is extraordinary. You will be spending an hour with these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
After the gorilla trek, return to your lodge for lunch and some rest. In the afternoon, begin your cross-border journey into Rwanda via the Cyanika border. The drive offers breathtaking views of the Virunga Mountains. Arrive in Ruhengeri, the gateway to Volcanoes National Park, and check into your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 3: Golden Monkey Trekking and Cultural Experience
Start your day with breakfast before heading to Volcanoes National Park for golden monkey trekking. These lively and endangered primates are a delight to watch as they leap through bamboo forests. The trek is generally less strenuous than gorilla trekking and lasts about 2-4 hours.
In the afternoon, visit the Ibyi’wacu cultural village for an immersive experience into Rwanda traditions. Engage with local communities, watch traditional dances, learn about ancient hunting techniques, and gain insight into rural life in Rwanda.
Return to your lodge in the evening for relaxation, dinner, and overnight.
Day 4: Transfer to Lake Kivu for leisure
After breakfast, depart for Lake Kivu, one of Africa’s Great Lakes, located about 1-2 hours away. The drive offers scenic views of Rwanda’s “Land of a Thousand Hills.” Upon arrival in Gisenyi or Kibuye, check into your lakeside resort. Spend the afternoon at leisure, where you can choose to do any optional activities, such as relax on the beach, take a boat ride to nearby islands, or enjoy kayaking on the calm waters. You may also explore local fishing villages or enjoy a guided nature walk along the shoreline.
Dinner will be served at your lodge, with views of the lake and surrounding hills.
Day 5: Return to Kigali and Departure
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast by the lake before beginning your journey to Kigali, approximately a 3-4 hours’ drive. Upon your arrival, embark on a brief city tour if time permits. Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial for a moving and educational experience or explore local markets for souvenirs and crafts. You may also stop at a café or local restaurant for lunch.
Finally, transfer to Kigali international airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your unforgettable Uganda Rwanda safari experience.
