This 10 Days Rwanda Uganda safari  includes visits to the greatest attractions in Uganda and Rwanda. The journey begins in Rwanda and visits various national parks in both countries. Activities to participate in when visiting the parks include chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest National Park, double gorilla trekking in Bwindi Forest National Park, and Volcanoes National Park. The itinerary also includes wildlife drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, golden monkey tracking, a city tour of Kigali, and cultural interactions with the Iby’iwacu and Batwa pygmies.

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park

Your 10 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari kicks off with your Safari guide meeting you early in the morning, either at the Kigali airport or your hotel in Rwanda. After a thorough briefing about the adventure ahead, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to Uganda, heading towards the Kibale Forest National Park. The journey, which takes approximately six hours, is filled with beautiful landscapes and offers a glimpse into the rural life of the region. Lunch will be enjoyed en route, ensuring you arrive with enough time to relax before your exciting chimpanzee trekking experience the next day.

Accommodation options: Kyaninga Lodge, Primates Lodge (Luxury), or Chimpanzee Guest House (Mid-range and budget).
Meal plan: Lunch and dinner

Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking and Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Your second day on the 10 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari begins with an early start and a quick cup of coffee before heading to the Kibale Forest National Park headquarters. Here, park rangers and guides will brief you on the rules and expectations for chimpanzee trekking. The trek, which lasts between 3 to 5 hours, is an exhilarating journey through the lush forest, where you’ll encounter various primate species. After the trek, you’ll return to your lodge for lunch and some relaxation.

In the afternoon, your guide will drive you to Queen Elizabeth National Park, a journey of about two hours. Upon arrival, you’ll check in to your lodge, where you can unwind after a day full of adventure.

Accommodation options: Mweya Safari Lodge (Luxury), Ihamba Lodge (Mid-range), and Simba Safari Camp (Budget).
Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 3: Morning Game Drive and Afternoon Boat Cruise

On the third day of your 10 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari, you’ll set off early in the morning for a game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park. With a packed breakfast in hand, you’ll venture into the park to witness the early risers and nocturnal animals returning to their resting places. This is the best time to spot predators like lions, hyenas, and leopards. The game drive offers an incredible opportunity to see not only big cats but also buffaloes, hippos, and various bird species.

After lunch and some rest at your lodge, the adventure continues with a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel. This channel is one of the prime wildlife viewing areas in Africa, where you can observe large numbers of animals coming to drink and bathe. It’s also a birdwatcher’s paradise, offering a chance to spot numerous bird species in their natural habitat.

Overnight and dinner: Mweya Safari Lodge (Luxury), Ihamba Lodge (Mid-range), and Simba Safari Camp (Budget).
Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 4: Ishasha Game Drive and Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

As you progress through your 10 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari, Day 4 offers another exciting game drive in the Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions. This unique phenomenon is rarely seen elsewhere, making it a highlight of your safari. As you search for these majestic creatures, you’ll also encounter other wildlife, some of which may have eluded you on previous drives.

After the game drive, the journey continues towards Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This dense forest is home to the endangered mountain gorillas, and your trek through its terrain is one of the most anticipated experiences of the safari. You’ll arrive at your lodge in the evening, ready to rest before the next day’s gorilla trekking.

Accommodation options: Chameleon Hill Lodge (Luxury), Bakiga Lodge (Mid-range), Rushaga Camp (Budget).
Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 5: Gorilla Trekking and Visit to the Batwa Community

Day 5 of the 10 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari begins with an early morning briefing at the Bwindi park headquarters. This session is crucial as it prepares you for the demanding yet rewarding gorilla trekking experience. The trek itself can be challenging, involving navigating through thick jungle, steep hills, and muddy paths. However, the chance to observe mountain gorillas in their natural habitat makes every step worth it.

After spending an hour with the gorillas, you’ll return to your lodge for lunch and relaxation. In the afternoon, a visit to the Batwa pygmy community is planned. The Batwa were the original inhabitants of the Bwindi forest, and this visit provides a unique insight into their culture and the challenges they face today. You’ll be entertained with traditional songs, dances, and stories that reflect their rich heritage.

Accommodation options: Chameleon Hill Lodge (Luxury), Bakiga Lodge (Mid-range), Rushaga Camp (Budget).
Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 6: Transfer to Lake Bunyonyi

The 10 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari continues as you transfer to Lake Bunyonyi after an early breakfast. Lake Bunyonyi, known as one of Uganda’s most beautiful destinations, is surrounded by 29 islands and offers a peaceful retreat after the intense gorilla trekking experience. Upon arrival, you’ll check in and embark on a boat tour of the lake, exploring its islands and enjoying the breathtaking views.

The lake is ideal for swimming, as it is free from bilharzia and crocodiles. Other activities include nature hikes, cultural tours, and simply relaxing by the water. The serene environment of Lake Bunyonyi provides a perfect end to an eventful day.

Accommodation options: Bunyonyi Overland Resort (Budget), Bunyonyi Rock Resort (Mid-range), Bird Nest (Luxury).
Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 7: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

On the seventh day of your 10 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari, you’ll enjoy a leisurely morning by Lake Bunyonyi before heading to Rwanda. The drive to Volcanoes National Park takes about four hours, with lunch provided along the way. As you cross the border, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the landscapes of both Uganda and Rwanda.

This journey offers an opportunity to interact with the local communities and capture memorable moments along the road. Upon arrival at Volcanoes National Park, you’ll check into your lodge and have time to rest before the next day’s activities.

Dinner and accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (Luxury), Da Vinci Lodge (Mid-range), The Garden Place Hotel (Budget).
Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 8: Gorilla Trekking and Iby’iwacu Cultural Village Tour

Day 8 of the 10 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari involves another exhilarating gorilla trekking experience, this time in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park. The day starts with a briefing at the park headquarters, where you’ll be grouped according to your fitness levels and assigned to a gorilla family. The trek is a bit more challenging due to the rocky terrain, but the experience of witnessing these incredible animals in their natural habitat is unparalleled.

After the trek and your return to the lodge for lunch, the afternoon is reserved for a visit to the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village. Also known as the Gorilla Guardians Village, this cultural center offers a deep dive into Rwandan traditions and history, featuring traditional dances, music, and stories. This visit is a perfect way to connect with the local culture and learn more about the lives of the people in this region.

Dinner and accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (Luxury), Da Vinci Lodge (Mid-range), The Garden Place Hotel (Budget).
Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 9 of 10 Days Rwanda Uganda safari: Golden Monkey Tracking and Visit to Lake Burera and Ruhondo

Your 10 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari adventure continues with golden monkey tracking in Volcanoes National Park. These beautiful and rare primates are found in the bamboo forests of the park, and tracking them is a delightful experience. The golden monkeys are active and playful, offering great photo opportunities as they leap through the trees.

After the morning’s tracking, you’ll return to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the twin lakes of Ruhondo and Burera. These lakes are surrounded by steep hills and provide a serene environment, perfect for unwinding after the morning’s activities.

Dinner and accommodation: Mountain Gorilla View Lodge (Luxury), Da Vinci Lodge (Mid-range), The Garden Place Hotel (Budget).
Meal plan: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Day 10: Departure

The final day of your 10 Days Rwanda Uganda Safari is reserved for a relaxed return to Kigali. Depending on your departure time, you may have the opportunity to explore the city, including a visit to the King’s Palace, the Kigali Genocide Memorial, and local artisan shops. This city tour offers a poignant conclusion to your journey, allowing you to reflect on the rich history and culture of Rwanda before heading home.

Meal plan: Breakfast and lunch