12 Days Rwanda and Uganda Safari: A Journey of Wildlife, Culture, and Nature

Touch down at Kigali International Airport, where a warm welcome awaits. Your guide will greet you and take you on a smooth transfer to your hotel. Over a refreshing cup of coffee, you’ll be briefed on the journey ahead. After settling in, enjoy a city tour where you’ll visit the Genocide Memorial, a powerful testament to Rwanda’s history, and explore Kigali’s bustling streets. From the Gisenyi Genocide Museum to the vibrant local markets, you’ll get a taste of Rwanda’s rich culture and history, all before enjoying a delightful dinner at one of Kigali’s finest restaurants.

Start your day with breakfast overlooking the rolling hills of Kigali. After a final visit to the city center, it’s time to head to Akagera National Park. As you drive toward the park, soak in the beautiful views that mark the transition to Rwanda’s wilderness. Check into your camp at Ruzizi, then set off on your first game drive. As the sun begins to set, the park comes to life with nocturnal wildlife emerging from their dens. Fall asleep to the sounds of the wild surrounding you.

Rise early for an exciting game drive through the savanna and woodlands of Akagera. From lions and leopards to elephants and giraffes, the park offers a spectacular array of wildlife. After a hearty lunch, embark on a relaxing boat cruise on Lake Ihema, where you’ll witness the serenity of the water and enjoy close-up views of hippos and crocodiles. The cool lake breeze and stunning surroundings will leave you feeling rejuvenated as you end the day.

After an early breakfast, enjoy one last game drive through Akagera before checking out. Your safari guide will take you through the park once more, ensuring you don’t miss any wildlife encounters. In the afternoon, you’ll head back to Kigali, where you’ll arrive in time for lunch. Relax and take in the last moments of your Rwanda safari.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before setting off on a scenic drive to Nyungwe Forest, one of Africa’s largest montane rainforests. Along the way, stop at the National Museum and the King’s Palace at Nyanza to learn about Rwanda’s royal history. After a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, continue your journey to Nyungwe, where you’ll check into your lodge in the heart of the forest, surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful sounds.

Today, venture into Nyungwe’s enchanting forest for a memorable chimpanzee tracking experience. After an early breakfast, your guide will take you deep into the forest in search of these fascinating primates. Once you’ve encountered them, return to the lodge for a relaxing lunch. In the afternoon, head out for a canopy walk that offers panoramic views of the forest and the wildlife within. The bird’s-eye view of Nyungwe’s dense vegetation is sure to leave you in awe.

After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive to Kibuye, a serene lakeside town on the shores of Lake Kivu. The gentle breezes and calm waters make this place a perfect retreat. You’ll have time to explore the lakeside, interact with local communities, and perhaps even join a guided walk through the area to learn about daily life in this tranquil setting.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast with the peaceful sounds of Lake Kivu in the background. Today, you’ll take a boat cruise across the lake, passing by its floating islands and small fishing villages. After lunch, enjoy a peaceful walk along the shores or simply relax by the water, soaking in the natural beauty around you. In the late afternoon, you’ll continue your journey to Volcanoes National Park, where you’ll check into your lodge at the park’s edge.

Today is the highlight of your journey—gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park. After an early breakfast and briefing, you’ll head into the forest to search for one of the park’s resident gorilla families. The trek can be challenging, but the reward of spending time with these magnificent creatures is beyond worth it. After your hour-long encounter with the gorillas, head back to your lodge. In the afternoon, enjoy a cultural visit to Iby’Iwacu, where you can interact with local communities and learn about their traditions and customs.

After breakfast, you’ll travel across the border to Uganda and make your way to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, home to more mountain gorillas. Arriving in the afternoon, you’ll have time to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of this lush forest region before heading to your accommodation.

Another thrilling day of gorilla trekking awaits! After breakfast, you’ll set off for the forest, where your guide will take you to track your designated gorilla family. The hike through the dense forest is both challenging and exhilarating. Once you find the gorillas, you’ll spend an hour observing them as they interact with each other in their natural habitat. Afterward, return to your lodge to rest and enjoy the stunning views of the Virunga Mountains.

On your final day, you’ll leave Bwindi and head back to Kigali. Depending on your flight time, you may have the opportunity to visit the Genocide Memorial or take a short city tour before your departure. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences you’ve had and the amazing wildlife you’ve encountered during your journey.