You are currently viewing 10-Day Rwanda and Uganda Combined Safari

10-Day Rwanda and Uganda Combined Safari

10-Day Rwanda and Uganda Combined Safari: Unveiling East Africa’s Wonders

10-Day Rwanda and Uganda Combined Safari

 

Embark on a 10-day Rwanda and Uganda combined safari, a journey that offers an extraordinary blend of gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, and cultural exploration. This itinerary takes you through the best of both countries, including Volcanoes National Park in Rwanda and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda. Expect breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, and unforgettable experiences. 10-Day Rwanda and Uganda Combined Safari

Highlights of the Safari

  • Gorilla Trekking: Meet mountain gorillas in their natural habitat in Bwindi and Volcanoes National Park.
  • Wildlife Viewing: Spot the Big Five in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
  • Golden Monkey Trekking: Witness these playful primates in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park.
  • Boat Safari: Cruise on the Kazinga Channel in Uganda, home to a stunning array of wildlife.
  • Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local traditions and visit community projects.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kigali, Rwanda

  1. Welcome to Rwanda:
    • Arrive at Kigali International Airport, where your guide will meet you.
    • Get a briefing on your safari itinerary and settle into your hotel.
  2. Optional Kigali City Tour:
    • Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial for a sobering yet enlightening historical experience.
    • Explore local craft markets and art galleries.

Accommodation:

  • Luxury: Kigali Serena Hotel.
  • Mid-range: Heaven Boutique Hotel.
  • Budget: Step Town Motel.

Day 2: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

  1. Scenic Drive:
    • Depart for Volcanoes National Park, a 2.5-hour drive from Kigali.
    • Enjoy Rwanda’s stunning landscapes, often called the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
  2. Evening at Leisure:
    • Arrive at your lodge and relax as you prepare for your gorilla trekking adventure.

Accommodation:

  • Luxury: Bisate Lodge.
  • Mid-range: Five Volcanoes Boutique Hotel.
  • Budget: Kinigi Guesthouse.

Day 3: Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

  1. Early Morning Start:
    • After breakfast, head to the park headquarters for a pre-trek briefing.
  2. Gorilla Trekking Adventure:
    • Trek through the dense forest to find a habituated gorilla family.
    • Spend one unforgettable hour observing these majestic creatures.
  3. Return and Relaxation:
    • Receive a certificate of participation and return to your lodge to relax.

Accommodation: Same as Day 2.

Day 4: Golden Monkey Trekking and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda

  1. Golden Monkey Trekking:
    • Start the day with a trek to see the golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park.
    • These playful primates are unique to the Virunga region.
  2. Drive to Bwindi:
    • Cross the border into Uganda and drive to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to more than half of the world’s mountain gorillas.

Accommodation:

  • Luxury: Gorilla Forest Camp.
  • Mid-range: Buhoma Lodge.
  • Budget: Gorilla Mist Camp.

Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

  1. The Gorilla Trek:
    • After a briefing at the park headquarters, begin your trek into the forest.
    • Enjoy the breathtaking views as you navigate the rugged terrain to find the gorillas.
  2. Memorable Gorilla Encounter:
    • Spend an hour watching a gorilla family, observing their social behaviors and interactions.
  3. Evening at the Lodge:
    • Return to your lodge for dinner and relaxation.

Accommodation: Same as Day 4.

Day 6: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

  1. Morning Scenic Drive:
    • Depart Bwindi and drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
    • En route, admire the beautiful countryside and tea plantations.
  2. Evening Game Drive:
    • Upon arrival, enjoy an evening game drive to spot elephants, buffalo, and antelope.

Accommodation:

  • Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge.
  • Mid-range: Enganzi Lodge.
  • Budget: Pumba Safari Cottages.

Day 7: Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Safari

  1. Morning Game Drive:
    • Start the day with a thrilling game drive in the park’s Kasenyi Plains.
    • Look for lions, leopards, elephants, and the elusive Uganda kob.
  2. Afternoon Boat Safari:
    • Cruise along the Kazinga Channel, home to hippos, crocodiles, and diverse bird species.
    • Witness herds of elephants and buffaloes grazing along the shores.

Accommodation: Same as Day 6.

Day 8: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge and Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi

  1. Chimpanzee Trekking:
    • Head to Kyambura Gorge for a guided chimpanzee trek.
    • Discover these energetic primates in their natural environment.
  2. Drive to Lake Bunyonyi:
    • After the trek, transfer to Lake Bunyonyi, one of Uganda’s most beautiful lakes.
    • Check into your lodge and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

Accommodation:

  • Luxury: BirdNest @ Bunyonyi.
  • Mid-range: Arcadia Cottages.
  • Budget: Lake Bunyonyi Eco Resort.

Day 9: Relaxation at Lake Bunyonyi

  1. Activities at Lake Bunyonyi:
    • Spend the day enjoying optional activities such as canoeing, birdwatching, or hiking.
    • Learn about the lake’s history and its “Islands of Punishment.”
  2. Evening at Leisure:
    • Relax by the lake and enjoy a serene sunset.

Accommodation: Same as Day 8.

Day 10: Return to Kigali and Departure

  1. Morning Drive to Kigali:
    • After breakfast, drive back to Kigali, crossing the Uganda-Rwanda border.
  2. Shopping and City Tour:
    • If time allows, explore Kigali’s craft markets for souvenirs.
  3. Departure:
    • Transfer to Kigali International Airport for your onward flight.

Safari Costs

  1. Gorilla Trekking Permits:
    • Rwanda: $1,500 per person.
    • Uganda: $800 per person.
  2. Accommodation:
    • Luxury: $300–$1,000 per night.
    • Mid-range: $150–$300 per night.
    • Budget: $50–$150 per night.
  3. Activities:
    • Golden Monkey Trekking: $100 per person.
    • Chimpanzee Trekking: $50–$150 per person.
    • Kazinga Channel Boat Safari: $30–$50 per person.
  4. Transport:
    • Private 4×4 safari vehicle: $150–$250 per day.

Best Time to Visit

  • Dry Season (June–September, December–February): Ideal for trekking and wildlife viewing.
  • Wet Season (March–May, October–November): Lush scenery and great for birdwatching, but trails may be muddy.

Why Choose the 10-Day Rwanda and Uganda Safari?

This safari combines the best experiences of Rwanda and Uganda, offering a unique chance to encounter mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and the Big Five. Whether you’re trekking through rainforests, cruising on lakes, or exploring the savannah, every moment promises adventure and discovery.

Get ready for the safari of a lifetime!