16 Day Rwanda and Uganda’s Gorilla Trekking and Big Five

Upon arrival at Kigali International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by a Kaije Safaris representative who will transfer you to your hotel in Kigali. Settle into your accommodation and relax after your flight. Depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to explore the vibrant city of Kigali.

In the morning, visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial and Museum to learn about Rwanda’s poignant history. This visit provides a deep and moving insight into the country’s past and its remarkable recovery. Afterward, embark on a scenic drive to Nyungwe Forest National Park, known for its rich biodiversity. Check into Nyungwe House, a luxurious lodge nestled within the lush forest.

Start the day with an exciting chimpanzee trekking adventure in Nyungwe Forest. Accompanied by experienced guides, trek through the dense forest to locate and observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, enjoy a thrilling canopy walk, offering stunning views of the forest from above. Return to Nyungwe House for the evening.

After breakfast, transfer to Volcanoes National Park, home to the endangered mountain gorillas. En route, enjoy the scenic landscapes of Rwanda’s countryside. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and later in the afternoon, participate in the Ibyiwacu Cultural Tour, where you will experience traditional Rwandan culture, dance, and music. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Today, embark on a challenging but rewarding hike up Mount Bisoke, an extinct volcano with a beautiful crater lake at the summit. The trek offers breathtaking views and the chance to see a variety of wildlife and vegetation. After the hike, return to your lodge to rest and recuperate.

Leave Volcanoes National Park and cross the border into Uganda, heading towards Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. This journey takes you through stunning landscapes and local villages. Arrive at Buhoma Lodge in Bwindi, offering comfortable accommodations and excellent views of the forest. Spend the evening preparing for the next day’s gorilla trekking adventure.

The highlight of your safari awaits as you embark on a gorilla trekking adventure in Bwindi. After a briefing by park rangers, trek through the dense forest to locate a gorilla family. Spend an hour observing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is both humbling and exhilarating. Return to Buhoma Lodge to relax and reflect on the day’s adventure.

After breakfast, depart Bwindi and travel to the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, famous for its tree-climbing lions. Upon arrival, check into Ishasha Wilderness Camp. In the afternoon, take a game drive to spot these unique lions lounging in the fig trees. Enjoy dinner and overnight at the camp.

Start the day with a morning game drive in Ishasha, where you might see not only the tree-climbing lions but also elephants, buffaloes, and various antelopes. Later, transfer to Kyambura Gorge Lodge, located near Queen Elizabeth National Park. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure or explore the lodge’s surroundings.

Begin the day with a game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, known for its diverse wildlife. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, where you can see hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. Return to Kyambura Gorge Lodge for a relaxing evening.

Depart Queen Elizabeth National Park and head to Kibale National Park. Upon arrival, check into Primate Lodge Kibale. In the afternoon, take a guided walk in the Bigodi Swamp Sanctuary, known for its rich biodiversity, including numerous bird species and other primates. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Today, embark on a thrilling chimpanzee tracking adventure in Kibale Forest. With the help of experienced guides, track and observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat. Spend the rest of the day relaxing at Primate Lodge, taking in the tranquil forest surroundings.

After breakfast, leave Kibale and travel to Murchison Falls National Park. Upon arrival, visit the top of Murchison Falls, where the Nile River crashes through a narrow gorge, creating a spectacular waterfall. Check into Paraa Safari Lodge, located on the northern bank of the Nile River.

Start the day with an early morning game drive in Murchison Falls National Park, looking for lions, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and various antelopes. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat cruise to the base of Murchison Falls, where you can see hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. Return to Paraa Safari Lodge for a relaxing evening.

After breakfast, depart Murchison Falls and head to Kampala. En route, stop at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for a guided walk to see rhinos in their natural habitat. Continue to Kampala and check into your hotel. Spend the evening exploring Uganda’s bustling capital city.

On your final day, enjoy a city tour of Kampala, visiting key attractions such as the Uganda Museum, the Bahai Temple, and the local markets. In the afternoon, transfer to Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your 16-day adventure with Kaije Safaris.