12 Days Best of Uganda Rwanda Safari

Embark on an unforgettable 12-day safari through the heart of East Africa, exploring the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Uganda and Rwanda. This immersive journey takes you from the powerful waterfalls and vast savannahs of Murchison Falls National Park to the misty jungles of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and the scenic volcanic ranges of Volcanoes National Park. Experience up-close encounters with iconic African wildlife during game drives, boat cruises, and guided treks—highlighted by the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to track endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. From the vibrant culture of Kampala and Kigali to the peaceful beauty of crater lakes and lush forests, this safari is crafted for adventurers seeking both wild encounters and meaningful cultural connections. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this Best of Uganda & Rwanda Safari promises deep immersion breathtaking experiences, and memories to last a lifetime.

Safari Highlights

• Gorilla trekking in Bwindi (Uganda)
• Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale
• Game drives in Murchison Falls & Queen Elizabeth NP
• Boat cruises (Murchison Falls & Kazinga Channel)
• Tree-climbing lions in Ishasha
• Golden monkey tracking (Rwanda)
• Cultural visits and scenic landscapes

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Uganda

Meet and greet at Entebbe International Airport.

Transfer to your hotel.

Overnight in Entebbe.

Day 2: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park

Drive via Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary for rhino tracking.

Lunch en route.

Visit the top of Murchison Falls.

Overnight in Murchison Falls National Park.

Day 3: Game Drive and Boat Cruise

Morning game drive on the northern bank – look for lions, giraffes, elephants, and more.

Afternoon boat cruise to the bottom of the falls.

Optional hike to the top of the falls.

Overnight in the park.

Day 4: Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park

Long but scenic drive through rural Uganda.

Enjoy views of tea plantations and crater lakes.

Overnight near Kibale Forest.

Day 5: Chimpanzee Tracking & Bigodi Wetland Walk

Morning chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest.

Afternoon guided nature walk in Bigodi Wetlands for birding and cultural encounters.

Overnight in Kibale area.

Day 6: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park via Rwenzori mountain views.

Game drive en route.

Afternoon boat cruise on Kazinga Channel – famous for hippos, buffaloes, elephants, and birds.

Overnight in the park.

Day 7: Morning Game Drive & Transfer to Bwindi via Ishasha

Morning game drive in Kasenyi Plains.

Transfer via Ishasha sector – chance to see tree-climbing lions.

Continue to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Overnight near Bwindi.

Day 8: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest

Early morning briefing and gorilla trekking experience (1–6 hours depending on the group location).

Spend 1 hour with mountain gorillas.

Optional community walk in the evening.

Overnight in Bwindi.

Day 9: Transfer to Volcanoes National Park – Rwanda

Cross the border into Rwanda via Cyanika or Gatuna border post.

Enjoy views of the Virunga Volcanoes.

Overnight near Volcanoes National Park.

Day 10: Golden Monkey Tracking or Dian Fossey Hike

Optional activity: Track golden monkeys, hike to Dian Fossey tomb, or visit the Iby’iwacu Cultural Village.

Afternoon at leisure.

Overnight near Volcanoes National Park.

Day 11: Transfer to Kigali – City Tour

Drive to Kigali.

Visit Kigali Genocide Memorial and local markets.

Optional visit to craft shops or art centers.

Overnight in Kigali.

Day 12: Departure

Depending on your flight time, transfer to Kigali International Airport for departure.