This 7 day Rwanda to Uganda gorilla and wildlife safari starting in Kigali is the ultimate cross-border primate and savannah adventure. Beginning in Kigali, Rwanda, this Rwanda Uganda gorilla safari takes you through the stunning rolling hills of Rwanda into Uganda’s premier wildlife destinations – tracking mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and exploring the savannah wildlife of Queen Elizabeth National Park. This 7 day Rwanda to Uganda gorilla safari is designed for travelers who want to experience the best of both countries in one seamless journey. Afraeka Adventures has crafted this Rwanda Uganda gorilla safari with expert local guides, comfortable accommodation, and seamless cross-border logistics, ensuring you experience the very best of East Africa’s wildlife.
Quick Facts
- Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights
- Start/End Location: Kigali International Airport (KGL), Rwanda.
- Best Time to Go: Dry seasons (June to September & December to February) offer the best trekking and game viewing conditions for this Rwanda Uganda gorilla safari.
- Permits Included: 1 gorilla permit.
- Countries Covered: Rwanda & Uganda.
- Key Experiences: Gorilla trekking, game drives, Kazinga Channel boat safari.
Day 1: Arrival in Kigali & Transfer to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Your 7 day Rwanda to Uganda gorilla and wildlife safari starting in Kigali begins with a warm welcome at Kigali International Airport. Your Afraeka Adventures guide will greet you and begin the scenic 4-5 hour drive north through Rwanda’s beautiful “Land of a Thousand Hills” into Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cross the border at Cyanika or Gatuna and continue to your lodge nestled on the edge of the impenetrable forest. Settle in, enjoy a delicious dinner, and attend a briefing from your guide about the next day’s gorilla trekking adventure. This first day of your Rwanda Uganda gorilla safari sets the stage for an incredible journey.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge near Bwindi.
- Meals: Dinner.
Day 2: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
This is the highlight of your Rwanda Uganda gorilla safari. After an early breakfast, you’ll be driven to the park headquarters for a briefing by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers. You’ll be assigned to a gorilla family group based on fitness levels. Accompanied by expert rangers and trackers, you’ll venture into the dense, misty forest. The trek can last anywhere from 2 to 8 hours. The moment you encounter a family of mountain gorillas, with the dominant silverback leading his troop, is an experience that defies words. You’ll spend a precious hour observing these magnificent creatures. After the trek, return to your lodge for a well-deserved rest.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge near Bwindi.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Activity: 1-hour gorilla trekking experience (permit included).
Day 3: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Your Rwanda Uganda gorilla safari continues with a scenic drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most popular savannah reserve. The drive (approx. 5-6 hours) takes you through the beautiful landscape of western Uganda. Arrive at your lodge overlooking the park, check in, and enjoy a relaxing evening. If time permits, take a short game drive in the park’s northern sector, spotting elephants, buffaloes, and other wildlife.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge in Queen Elizabeth NP.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 4: Game Drive & Boat Safari on Kazinga Channel
Start your day with a morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, tracking elephants, buffaloes, lions, and a variety of antelope. After breakfast, enjoy a unique 2-hour boat safari on the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway connecting Lake George and Lake Edward. This boat cruise offers exceptional wildlife viewing – hippos, crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes, and a spectacular array of waterbirds. Return to the lodge for lunch and relaxation.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge in Queen Elizabeth NP.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Activity: Morning game drive & Kazinga Channel boat safari.
Day 5: Transfer to Ishasha – Tree-Climbing Lions
Today, your Rwanda Uganda gorilla safari heads to the Ishasha sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions. After breakfast, drive south (approx. 2-3 hours) to the Ishasha sector, where you’ll embark on a game drive to spot the elusive tree-climbing lions that rest in the branches of fig trees. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush, surrounded by the sounds of the wild. Return to your lodge for a relaxing evening.
- Accommodation: Mid-range or luxury lodge in Queen Elizabeth NP.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Activity: Game drive in Ishasha for tree-climbing lions.
Day 6: Transfer to Kigali via Lake Mburo
Your Rwanda Uganda gorilla safari continues with a scenic drive back to Kigali (approx. 6-7 hours). En route, enjoy a stop at Lake Mburo National Park for a brief game drive or boat safari, spotting zebras, impalas, and buffaloes. Continue to Kigali, arriving at your hotel in the evening. Settle in and enjoy a relaxing overnight stay.
- Accommodation: Hotel in Kigali.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 7: Departure from Kigali
Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel, reflecting on the incredible journey of your 7 day Rwanda to Uganda gorilla and wildlife safari starting in Kigali. Depending on your flight schedule, you’ll be transferred to Kigali International Airport for your international departure. If time permits, your guide can arrange a visit to the Kigali Genocide Memorial. Your Afraeka Adventures guide will ensure a seamless end to this unforgettable safari.
- Meals: Breakfast.
What’s Included in This Rwanda Uganda Gorilla Safari
Included:
- Gorilla Permit: One guaranteed gorilla trekking permit per person.
- Transport: Private 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof.
- Accommodation: 6 nights’ stay in mid-range or luxury lodges.
- Meals: As specified in the itinerary.
- Guide: Services of an experienced, English-speaking Ugandan guide.
- Park Entry Fees: All national park entrance fees.
- Boat Safari: Kazinga Channel boat trip.
- Game Drives: Multiple game drives as specified.
Excluded:
- International Flights: Airfare to and from Kigali.
- Visas: Entry visas for Rwanda and Uganda. Check Uganda Immigration and Rwanda Immigration for requirements.
- Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel and medical insurance is mandatory.
- Tips & Gratuities: For guides, lodge staff, and porters.
- Personal Expenses: Souvenirs, laundry, phone calls.
- Alcoholic & Soft Drinks: Beverages at lodges.
- Optional Activities: Additional excursions not specified.
Why Choose Afraeka Adventures for Your Rwanda Uganda Gorilla Safari?
Afraeka Adventures is a trusted local safari guide company based in Uganda, specializing in unforgettable Uganda gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, and tailor-made East Africa adventures. Our team, led by Victoria Kayaga, is passionate about creating authentic safari experiences. With transparent pricing, permits assistance, and 24/7 travel support, we ensure your Rwanda Uganda gorilla safari is seamless and stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does this Rwanda Uganda gorilla safari cost?
The cost varies based on accommodation level and season. Contact us for a personalized quote.
What is the best time for this safari?
The best time is during the dry seasons: June to September and December to February.
Do I need visas for both countries?
Yes, you need visas for both Rwanda and Uganda. The East Africa Tourist Visa ($100) allows multiple entries into Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya for 90 days.
How do I book this safari?
Simply click here to request a free quote or contact our team directly.
Book Your Rwanda Uganda Gorilla Safari Today
Ready to experience the best of Rwanda and Uganda? Book your Rwanda Uganda gorilla safari now!
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Need help securing gorilla permits or planning your cross-border safari? Chat directly with our local team or email us at info@afraekaadventures.com.
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About the Author: Victoria Kayaga
Victoria Kayaga is a Ugandan-born safari expert and the founder of Afraeka Adventures. With over 15 years of experience in the East African tourism industry, Victoria is passionate about creating authentic, sustainable, and life-changing safari experiences for travelers from around the world. She specializes in gorilla trekking, wildlife safaris, and multi-country itineraries across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, and Tanzania. Victoria is committed to conservation, community empowerment, and showcasing the beauty of her homeland. When she’s not guiding or planning safaris, she enjoys birdwatching, photography, and spending time with her family in Kampala.
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