Tour Overview
This 7-day primate safari offers a thrilling cross-border experience combining Rwanda’s lush Nyungwe Forest and Uganda’s iconic Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. Starting in Kigali, the trip takes you through some of East Africa’s most biodiverse rainforests, offering up-close encounters with chimpanzees, mountain gorillas, and incredible scenery. This tour is perfect for travelers looking to explore both countries in one seamless adventure. 7-Day Uganda & Rwanda Primates Safari
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Pick up from Kigali to the Genocide Memorial and city tour.
Your safari begins in Rwanda’s capital, Kigali. Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport or from your hotel, your guide will meet you for a detailed trip briefing and a Kigali city tour, including a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial, local craft markets, and the historical neighborhoods.
Accommodation: Heaven Boutique Hotel Kigali
Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Transfer to Nyungwe Forest National Park
After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive through Rwanda’s southern rolling hills and tea plantations en route to Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of Africa’s oldest and most diverse tropical rainforests.
En route, stop at Nyanza King’s Palace Museum to learn about Rwanda’s royal history. Arrive at your lodge near the forest and spend the evening at leisure.
Accommodation: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking & Canopy Walk in Nyungwe
Today you’ll rise early for a chimpanzee trekking adventure. Hike through dense forest trails led by experienced rangers to find one of the habituated chimp groups. Once spotted, observe them as they feed, socialize, and swing through the trees.
In the afternoon, embark on a canopy walk an exciting bridge suspended 50 meters above the forest floor, offering panoramic views and a chance to spot monkeys and birds.
Accommodation: Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 4: Cross to Uganda and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
After breakfast, depart Nyungwe and travel north toward the Cyanika or Gatuna border, where you’ll cross into Uganda. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Kigezi Highlands, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Africa,” with terraced hills and misty valleys.
Arrive in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park by late afternoon and relax at your forest lodge.
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
After an early breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a briefing. Today is the highlight of your safari tracking a family of endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat.
The trek may take 2–6 hours depending on the gorillas’ location, but once found, you’ll spend one magical hour watching them interact, feed, and care for their young. Return to the lodge for a well-earned rest.
Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Havens Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 6: Transfer Back to Rwanda – Lake Bunyonyi Scenic Stop
After breakfast, begin your journey back toward Rwanda, but not before making a relaxing stop at Lake Bunyonyi, Uganda’s most scenic and tranquil lake. Take a short boat ride to admire the 29 islands scattered across the calm waters.
Continue to cross the border and drive back to Kigali, arriving in the evening.
Accommodation: Heaven Boutique Hotel Kigali
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7: Optional Kigali Souvenir Shopping – Departure
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast, then depending on your flight schedule, take a short visit to Kigali’s local artisan markets or enjoy a coffee at one of the city’s charming cafés. Your driver will transfer you to Kigali International Airport for your departure, marking the end of a truly unforgettable primate safari.
Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch
Inclusions 7-Day Uganda & Rwanda Primates Safari
- Private 4×4 safari vehicle and English-speaking guide
- Accommodation (6 nights) in well-rated mid-range lodges
- Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Chimpanzee trekking permit (Nyungwe Forest)
- Gorilla trekking permit (Bwindi – $800)
- Kigali city tour
- Canopy walk in Nyungwe
- Park entrance and activity fees
- Cross-border transportation and border assistance
- Drinking water during transfers
Exclusions 7-Day Uganda & Rwanda Primates Safari
- International flights
- Rwanda/Uganda visa (East Africa Tourist Visa recommended)
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses and tips
- Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
What to Pack 7-Day Uganda & Rwanda Primates Safari
- Passport and visa documents
- Face masks (required for primate tracking)
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Long-sleeved clothing (neutral colors)
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Daypack with water bottle and camera
- Sunscreen, insect repellent, and hat
Why Book This Tour?
- Explore two countries in one trip without rushing
- Includes both gorilla and chimpanzee trekking experiences
- Smooth cross-border travel with all logistics handled
- Comfortable lodges with full board meals
- Enriched with cultural, wildlife, and scenic highlights
