This once-in-a-lifetime tour is perfect for travelers seeking a deep connection with Africa’s primates, wildlife, and authentic cultural experiences—all in one epic itinerary.
Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 8-day gorilla safari through Uganda and Rwanda.
This cross-border adventure offers a rare opportunity to trek mountain gorillas in both Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Volcanoes National Park.
Explore pristine rainforests, witness chimpanzees up close, track the elusive tree-climbing lions of Ishasha, and experience the vibrant cultures of the Batwa and Rwandan communities.
Tour Highlights
- Day 1: Arrival & Transfer to Kibale National Park
- Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking & Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Day 3: Game Drives & Tree-Climbing Lions in Ishasha
- Day 4: Transfer to Bwindi & Batwa Cultural Visit
- Day 5: Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi & Transfer to Lake Mutanda
- Day 6: Cross Border to Volcanoes National Park + Musanze Caves
- Day 7: Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda & Ibyiwacu Cultural Village
- Day 8: Transfer to Kigali for Departure
Itinerary
After breakfast, begin your journey southwest through Uganda’s lush countryside. Pause at the Equator for photos and continue through Mbarara, where you’ll stop for lunch.
The scenic drive winds through rolling hills and terraced farmlands as you approach Bwindi Impenetrable Forest—home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.
Arrive by evening for check-in, dinner, and a relaxing night at your lodge.
Accommodation Options:
- Silver: Broadbill Forest Camp
- Gold: Gorilla Mist Camp / Ichumbi Gorilla Lodge
- Platinum: Chameleon Hill Lodge
Rise early for breakfast and head to the park headquarters for a briefing.
Equipped with your packed lunch and drinking water, you'll join expert trackers as you hike into the dense forest in search of a habituated gorilla family.
The trek can take several hours, but the magical moment of standing face-to-face with these gentle giants is well worth the effort.
Spend up to one hour with the gorillas, then return to your lodge for dinner and overnight rest.
After breakfast, set off for Queen Elizabeth National Park. En route, pass through the Ishasha sector—famous for its tree-climbing lions lounging in fig trees.
Keep your camera ready as you journey toward the northern sector of the park.
Arrive at your lodge in time for dinner and an overnight stay.
Accommodation Options:
- Silver: Bush Lodge
- Gold: Marafiki Safari Lodge
- Platinum: Mweya Safari Lodge
Begin your day with an early morning game drive in the Kasenyi plains. Look out for elephants, lions, Uganda kobs, buffaloes, hyenas, warthogs, and—if lucky—a leopard.
Return to the lodge for breakfast and lunch, followed by a relaxing afternoon boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel. This water safari offers a close-up view of hippos, crocodiles, and a dazzling variety of birds.
Enjoy dinner back at the lodge.
After breakfast, depart for Kibale Forest National Park.
Stop for lunch in the charming town of Fort Portal before visiting the Toro Kingdom palace for a glimpse into Uganda’s cultural heritage. Along the way, marvel at the region’s stunning crater lakes.
Arrive at your forest lodge by evening for dinner and an overnight stay.
Accommodation Options:
- Silver: Chimpanzee Forest Guest House
- Gold: Kibale Forest Camp
- Platinum: Primate Lodge Kibale
Enjoy a hearty breakfast before heading to the park headquarters for a chimpanzee trekking briefing.
Accompanied by rangers, venture into the forest to observe man's closest relatives in their natural habitat.
Along the way, encounter other primates like red colobus monkeys, mangabeys, and l’hoest monkeys, as well as rich birdlife and butterflies.
In the afternoon, opt for a guided walk through Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for more primate and bird sightings.
After breakfast, check out and begin the scenic drive back to Kampala or Entebbe. Enjoy a relaxed lunch en route. Arrive by late afternoon in time for your evening flight or onward travel arrangements.
Includes/Excludes
What's Included
- Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking permits (Uganda & Rwanda)
- Park entry fees and guided activities
- All accommodations and meals
- Ground transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle
- Bottled water during safari
- Services of an English-speaking professional guide
What's Excluded
- International flights
- Visa fees (Uganda & Rwanda)
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses (alcohol, laundry, souvenirs, etc.)
- Tips and gratuities
Getting There
FAQs About 7 Days Uganda Wildlife Safari
The tour includes accommodation, meals, all ground transportation, park entrance fees, gorilla and chimpanzee permits, guided game drives, and cultural visits. International flights and visas are not included.
Essential items include sturdy hiking boots, long-sleeved shirts, insect repellent, a rain jacket, sunscreen, a hat, reusable water bottle, and a camera (no flash photography allowed near gorillas).
Yes. Uganda and Rwanda are safe tourist destinations with well-protected national parks. Your safety is a top priority for tour operators and rangers.
The dry seasons (June to September and December to February) are the best times for trekking and wildlife viewing. However, gorilla trekking is possible year-round.
Yes. The tour can be tailored to match your interests, budget, and travel schedule upon request.
