Overview:
This adventure takes you deep into southwestern Uganda’s lush volcanic landscapes to meet two of the region’s rarest primates the majestic mountain gorillas of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and the playful golden monkeys of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Along the way, you’ll enjoy breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and comfortable mid-range lodges. 4 Day Gorillas and Golden Monkey Safari.
Day 1: Transfer from Kigali to Bwindi via the Genocide Memorial
Your journey begins with a morning pick-up from your Kigali hotel. Before leaving the city, you’ll visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial, an important historical and cultural site that offers insight into Rwanda’s past and remarkable recovery.
From Kigali, travel through rolling hills and lush farmlands to cross into Uganda via the Cyanika border. Continue your scenic drive through the Kigezi Highlands — known as the “Switzerland of Africa” — to reach Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to almost half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge
Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi
After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for your pre-trek briefing. Led by experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers, you’ll hike through the dense forest in search of your allocated gorilla family. The trek can take 2–6 hours, depending on the gorillas’ movements, but the moment you find them is unforgettable — one magical hour spent observing these gentle giants.
Return to the lodge for a late lunch and the rest of the day at leisure. You may choose to take a short community walk to learn about the Batwa pygmies’ heritage.
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Golden Monkey Tracking in Mgahinga
Today you’ll drive to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for another rare primate experience — tracking the endangered golden monkeys. These lively, brightly-colored primates are found only in the Virunga Volcanoes region. The trek is gentler than gorilla tracking and offers plenty of chances for photography as the monkeys leap through the bamboo forests.
After your trek, drive to Lake Bunyonyi, a peaceful retreat surrounded by rolling hills and dotted with 29 islands. Spend the evening enjoying the lakeside views.
Accommodation: Bunyonyi Eco Resort
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Lake Bunyonyi Boat Cruise & Return to Kigali
Start your day with breakfast overlooking the lake, then take a guided boat cruise to visit some of its most famous islands, including Punishment Island and Bwama Island, while learning their stories.
Afterward, begin your scenic journey back to Kigali, arriving in the late afternoon — marking the end of your incredible primate adventure.
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch
What’s Included 4 Day Gorillas and Golden Monkey Safari.
- Gorilla trekking permit (Uganda Wildlife Authority)
- Golden monkey tracking permit
- All park entry fees
- All activities mentioned in the itinerary
- Accommodation as listed (full board)
- 4×4 safari vehicle with English-speaking driver/guide
- Bottled drinking water during transfers and activities
What’s Not Included
- International flights
- Rwanda/Uganda visa fees (East Africa Visa recommended)
- Travel insurance
- Tips and personal expenses
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Optional activities not listed
What to Pack
- Valid passport & required visas
- Long-sleeved shirts and trousers (neutral colors)
- Sturdy waterproof hiking boots
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Gardening gloves (for gorilla trekking)
- Daypack for water, snacks, and camera
- Face masks (mandatory for primate encounters)
- Insect repellent
- Hat, sunscreen & sunglasses
- Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
- Personal medication
