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8 Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari – cross-border gorillas & wildlife
8 Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari Overview
Get rewarded with a thrilling 8 Days Uganda and Rwanda Safari for gorilla trekking and wildlife tours in Volcanoes, Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth National Parks untamed wonders.
This 8 Days Uganda and Rwanda gorilla trekking & wildlife safari is perfectly designed for you to experience lifetime encounters in two of Africa’s gems that brim with biodiversity. You will delve into the raw splendor of the African wilderness to view a diversity of wildlife traversing breathtaking landscape vistas, and the lush and impenetrable forest jungles will yield thrilling encounters with majestic mountain gorillas.
This extraordinary 8 Days Uganda and Rwanda gorilla trekking & wildlife safari seamlessly combines premier safari parks of both countries as you get immersed in the magic of Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and Volcanoes National Park.
Beyond awe-inspiring encounters, this incredible 8 Days Uganda and Rwanda gorilla trekking & wildlife safari odyssey also unveils the vital conservation efforts dedicated to protecting these gentle giants, leaving you inspired by the harmony between man and nature.
Quick Safari Details
Country: Uganda and Rwanda
Departure/End City: Entebbe/Kigali.
Destinations: Entebbe, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Volcanoes National Park.
Group Type: Private.
Number of People: Tailored.
Availability: Year-Round.
Dates: Open.
Duration: 8 Days.
Cancellation Policy: Up to 90 days.
Activities: Shoebill tracking, gorilla trekking, Batwa cultural encounter, game drives boat cruise and Kigali city excursion.
Price: Request a quote.
Safari Highlights
- A Mabamba Wetland expedition unveils a varied range of bird species as you go shoebill tracking. Immerse yourself in this enchanting escapade as you seek the elusive and rare shoebill stork – a true marvel of the avian world.
- You will have excellent wildlife viewing opportunities in the wilderness of Queen Elizabeth National Park, a symphony of nature’s grandeur. Thrill your senses with exciting game drives before embracing the magic of the Kazinga Channel on a boat cruise, where majestic hippos and crocodiles grace the waters, joined by a symphony of vibrant birdlife.
- A gorilla trekking adventure through the mystical impenetrable jungles of Bwindi is the pinnacle of wonder you must brace yourself for. Spend an uninterrupted hour in the presence of these awe-inspiring gentle creatures and awaken a profound connection with these gentle giants.
- Traverse the realms of Uganda as you cross borders to Rwanda, where spectacular landscape vistas paint the backdrop of your odyssey. You will witness conservation in action at the Ellen DeGeneres Gorilla Fund Campus, where a group of researchers are committed to safeguarding the precious gorillas of the Virunga Mountains.
- You will later delve into the soul of the vibrant city of Kigali, the heartbeat of Rwanda. An exciting city excursion will have you visiting some of Rwanda’s significant sites, like the Kigali Genocide Memorial.
Know Before You Go
- The 8 Days Uganda and Rwanda gorilla trekking & wildlife safari will have you hiking moderately steep slopes searching for mountain gorillas at high altitudes between 2400 and 4507 meters, which means fitness is required.
- There are strict guidelines for visiting these places and meeting the gorillas, and you’ll be escorted by a tracker, rangers, and a guide with a group of other seven trekking travelers.
- Note that agility is required to embark and disembark whatever vessel is necessary. Wildlife viewing, quantity, and species of animals seen are dependent upon local conditions, including weather, wind, and seasonal migration patterns. The take-off time and the duration of a flight (if required) or road trip may vary due to weather conditions.
8 Days Uganda and Rwanda gorilla trekking & wildlife safari Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival and Shoebill Tracking in Entebbe
The 8 Days Uganda and Rwanda gorilla trekking & wildlife safari starts with your arrival at Entebbe International Airport, where you are met by our expert guide and taken to your hotel. Brace yourself for an exhilarating afternoon as you set out on a thrilling shoebill tracking expedition in the Mabamba Wetlands.
You, along with your expert guide, will seek the elusive shoebill stork in this hidden bird paradise. The shoebill is a magnificent and rare bird species cherished by most wildlife enthusiasts around the world. Let the magic of this first encounter set the tone for a remarkable safari. You will have an overnight stay in Entebbe, eagerly anticipating what lies ahead.
- Midrange: Papyrus Guesthouse Entebbe/2Friends Beach Hotel.
- Luxury: Entebbe Protea Hotel.
Bed&Breakfast
Day 2: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Wake up to a sumptuous breakfast and embark on a scenic drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, a popular haven of untamed beauty. A stopover en route at the Equator will enable you to capture memorable photos and marvel at the wonders of this unique geographical divide.
The park’s mesmerizing allure welcomes you in the afternoon, and you settle into your lodge upon arrival, surrounded by nature’s majesty. This night, the wilderness whispers its secrets, provoking your spirit.
Accommodation & meals:
- Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge/Katara Lodge.
- Mid-range: Bush Lodge/Enganzi Game Lodge.
- Budget: Bush Lodge in the Tents/Simba Safari Camp.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 3: Game drives and boat cruise
A symphony of sights and sounds unfolds before you on an early morning game drive as the sun rises. Queen Elizabeth National Park unravels its multiple casts of Africa’s big game, such as lions, elephants, buffalos, hyenas, and perhaps the elusive leopard.
The afternoon escapade unveils a waterborne spectacle as you embark on a thrilling boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel. You will sight a host of waterborne giants—hippos and crocodiles—alongside a dazzling array of birds. Nature’s harmony will resonate within your soul in this kingdom of life.
Day 4: Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Today, venture deeper into Uganda’s heart as you journey to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, popular for hosting the endangered mountain gorillas of Africa. Breathtaking landscapes along the way will leave you in awe, while a visit to local markets will connect you to the vibrant culture of this lively region. You will rest in your reserved lodge amid nature’s embrace upon arrival, knowing that a life-changing experience the next day awaits.
Accommodation & meals:
- Luxury: Mountain Gorilla Lodge/Nkuringo Bwindi Gorilla Lodge/Buhoma Lodge.
- Mid-range: Engagi Lodge/ Silverback Gorilla Lodge.
- Budget: Gorilla Valley Lodge/Bwindi Forest Lodge/Nshongi Camp.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 5: Gorilla trekking in Bwindi
The long-awaited day is before you; your heart beats in the rhythm of the forest as you venture on a gorilla trekking excursion. After a hefty breakfast, you will be led by experienced guides, navigating the dense foliage and seeking the majestic mountain gorillas. The moment of your face-to-face encounter will leave you spellbound.
An hour in their presence, witnessing their gentle nature yet powerful existence, is an unforgettable memory. The cherished moments of trekking these gentle apes in the impenetrable jungles of Bwindi become a part of your essence, transforming you forever. You will relish the night in Bwindi, knowing you’ve touched the depths of the wild.
Day 6: Cross border drive to Ruhengeri
At daybreak, you will have your breakfast before crossing the border to Rwanda. Take a scenic drive through Rwanda’s breath-taking landscape vistas that will inspire wonder and arrive at Ruhengeri, Rwanda’s gorilla town and the gateway to Volcanoes National Park. You will settle at your reserved lodge, where the anticipation builds for the next chapter of your African odyssey.
Accommodation & meals:
- Luxury: Singita Kwitonda Lodge/Mountain Gorilla View Lodge.
- Mid-range: Gorillas Volcanoes Hotel
- Budget: Da Vinci Gorilla Lodge.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 7: Ellen DeGeneres Gorilla Fund Campus
Today, you will venture into the realm of conservation champions at the Ellen DeGeneres Gorilla Fund Campus, where you will witness their tireless efforts to safeguard the endangered apes of the Virunga Mountains and the harmony between humans and primates.
Meet the group of dedicated researchers and be inspired by their commitment to preserving these awe-inspiring creatures. You will rest in Ruhengeri at the end of your day’s excursion, knowing that you, too, are now a guardian of this pristine wilderness.
Day 8: Transfer to Kigali
A bittersweet farewell beckons on this day, but before, you will explore the captivating city of Kigali, where you will visit the poignant Kigali Genocide Memorial, a testament to Rwanda’s strength and unity. As the day unfolds, you will transfer to Kigali International Airport, carrying the transformative memories of your Uganda-Rwanda Gorilla Trekking and Wildlife Safari, knowing that nature’s magic will forever reside within you.
- No accommodation
- Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
End of the 8 Days Uganda and Rwanda gorilla trekking & wildlife safari.
Safari Includes
- Transfers in 4WD
- Accommodation and meals as per the itinerary
- Local guide
- Bottled drinking water.
- Activities indicated in the itinerary.
- One gorilla permit per person
- English speaking guide/driver
Safari Excludes
- Visa & Travel insurance
- Emergency medical bills
- Trip cancellation insurance
- Porter fee while trekking
- Drinks
- Laundry services
- Gratuities/tips to local guides
- Excursion to Lake Victoria and Mabamba Swamps on Day 1 ($120)
Start planning a dream safari with us. You can book this safari itinerary, create one from scratch with the help of an African safari expert, or customize one of our suggested tours to suit your travel preferences.
Important Notes for the 8 Days Uganda and Rwanda gorilla trekking & wildlife safari
- The 8 Days Uganda and Rwanda gorilla trekking & wildlife safari is limited to a maximum of six travelers per vehicle, and a 30% deposit is due upon confirmation.
- Travelers with special needs may be required to pay an extra fee for trekking facilitations.
- The minimum age for gorilla and chimp trekking is 15 years old.
- Porters are available for hire at a cost of about $20. The porters can be got during the briefing or at the starting point of the trek.
- Dinner and accommodation before and after the trip are not included in the overall tour cost.
- This 8 Days Uganda and Rwanda gorilla trekking & wildlife safari is tailor-made and can be customized to your own style of travel. You can set your own dates (subject to availability) and choose your accommodation facilities with our guidance. The accommodations selected here are what we think will suit this kind of trip and are where we have the best rates for you.
- Due to the uncertainty of travel during these times, you can postpone your trip up to 12 months ahead (considering accommodation availability) and have a minimum of 30 days to cancel.
Tips for the 8 Days Uganda and Rwanda gorilla trekking & wildlife safari
Gorilla trekking is an amazing activity, but for the best experience, you will need:
- Do not forget your closed or waterproof hiking shoes or closed shoes.
- Poncho, or raincoat, during the rainy season
- Camera with an additional battery and charger.
- Binoculars for birders
- Sun hat
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
